Kashgar’s 11 Best Tours & Experiences

Kashgar is a city that feels like stepping into a living museum. Its bustling bazaars, ancient mosques, and rugged landscapes make it an ideal place for immersive tours and experiences. Whether you’re eager to explore the Silk Road, marvel at high-altitude lakes, or experience local culture firsthand, Kashgar offers a diverse selection. We’re particularly fond of the 2 Days Tashkurgan Private Tour for its combination of stunning scenery and cultural insight—plus, the included accommodation makes it a hassle-free choice.

If a full day trip suits your schedule better, the Day Trip to Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake impresses with its flexibility and focus on natural beauty. For those craving a more in-depth exploration of Kashgar and the Silk Road, the Best of Kashgar tour with Karakoram Highway is a five-day adventure packed with local markets and historic sites. For a truly adventurous spirit, the Muztagh Ata Climbing Expedition offers a 22-day mountaineering challenge for serious climbers. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you find your perfect fit.

1. 2 Days Tashkurgan Private Tour from Kashgar with Accommodation

This 2-day private journey is a highlight for travelers craving a blend of natural scenery and cultural sites. Starting from Kashgar, you’ll drive along the China-Pakistan highway, enjoying views of the Pamirs and the Karakoram mountains. The tour includes a visit to Karakul Lake, where Muztagh Ata and Gongur mountains serve as a spectacular backdrop. You’ll also explore the Stone Fortress of Taxkorgan, one of the most historically significant stone cities, surrounded by grasslands, snow peaks, and rivers.

The tour features private transportation with good AC, a professional English-speaking guide, and one night in a 4-star hotel in Taxkorgan. The itinerary balances scenic drives with cultural discovery, including walking tours and visits to local landmarks. Reviewers have rated this experience perfectly (5.0/5) based on three reviews, praising the comfortable logistics and engaging guide.

Bottom line: This tour offers a seamless way to see some of the most striking landscapes and historic sites between Kashgar and Pakistan, perfect for travelers wanting a comfortable, well-organized adventure.

2. Day Trip to Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake with Private Car

Ideal for those short on time but eager to see the best lakes in the region, this day trip combines visits to Baisha (White Sand) Lake and Karakul Lake. Starting from Kashgar, your licensed driver will take you along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, stopping at Upal Village for snacks and local market browsing. You’ll enjoy photos at Oytagh Red Mountain and then continue to Baisha Lake, known for its clear blue waters and sand dunes.

The highlight is the visit to Karakul Lake, sitting at 3,600 meters above sea level at the foot of Muztagh Ata, with its striking reflection of snow-capped peaks. The tour emphasizes flexibility, with no forced shop visits or tight schedules. It’s perfect for nature lovers and travelers wanting a relaxed day immersed in breathtaking mountain scenery.

Reviewers give this tour a 5-star rating, appreciating the safety of the drivers and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Bottom line: For a full immersion into the region’s glacial lakes and mountain vistas, this private day trip offers excellent value and flexibility, ideal for travelers short on time but seeking memorable scenery.

3. Best of Kashgar tour with Karakoram Highway

Spanning about five days, this tour is for travelers who want an in-depth exploration of Kashgar and the legendary Karakoram Highway. It begins with a culture in Kashgar’s bustling markets, historic sites like the Id Kah Mosque, and the Old City. Then, the journey takes you along the Karakoram Highway, often called the “world’s highest paved international road,” which cuts through glaciers and peaks like Muztagh Ata.

The tour includes visits to the Kashgar livestock market—a lively scene of Uyghur farmers—and the Abakh Hoja Tomb, known for its distinctive architecture. The itinerary also covers scenic drives and cultural stops, providing a comprehensive look at this region’s mix of history, culture, and stunning mountain landscapes. The reviews (4.5/5) highlight the richness of the experience and the smooth organization.

Bottom line: This multi-day tour is perfect for those wanting a thorough introduction to Kashgar’s Silk Road heritage, combined with spectacular mountain scenery. It’s best suited for travelers with some time to spare and an interest in history and culture.

4. Xinjiang Best Classic Silk Road Tour with Locals

Stretching over 11 days, this private guided tour is a comprehensive Silk Road experience. It covers key sites from Kashgar to Urumqi, including the Taklimakan Desert, Karakoram Highway, Thousand Buddha Caves, and Heavenly Lake. The itinerary includes comfortable hotels, all permits and entrance fees, and a multi-lingual guide to bridge language gaps.

Starting in Kashgar, you’ll visit the Livestock Market, Id Kah Mosque, and the Old City, then travel through diverse landscapes like Hotan, Turpan, and Jiaohe ruins. Noteworthy is the chance to learn about local Uyghur culture, see ancient Karez Wells, and enjoy traditional meals with local families.

With a high rating (4.5/5), this tour is ideal for travelers seeking an immersive, stress-free journey with expert guidance and all logistics handled. The price reflects its comprehensive nature, but many find it well worth the experience.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a deep dive into Xinjiang’s history and culture over an extended period, this tour offers rich experiences with expert guidance.

5. From Kashgar: Karakul & White Sand Lake Private Tour

This private 8-hour tour takes you to two of the most beautiful lakes in the region: Karakul and White Sand Lake. Starting from Kashgar, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Pamir Plateau, stopping at White Sand Lake to marvel at its pristine waters and white sand dunes. The highlight is the Karakul Lake, with its mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding snow peaks.

This tour is excellent for travelers interested in photography, nature, and peaceful landscapes. The flexibility to stop for photos or short hikes makes this experience particularly appealing. It’s geared toward those who want a relaxed day with stunning scenery, without the need for an overnight stay.

Reviewers note its affordability and the chance to enjoy pristine lakes with personalized attention.

Bottom line: A great choice for nature lovers and photographers, this private tour offers a manageable way to explore two iconic lakes.

6. Kashgar Private Tour: Mosque, Concubine’s Garden & Old City

This private half-day tour combines the city’s most iconic sites. It starts with the Id Kah Mosque, one of the largest in China, then moves to the Fragrant Concubine’s Garden, a historic site with stories from Uyghur history. The tour continues through the Old City, where narrow lanes and traditional architecture give a real sense of Kashgar’s past.

The private guide and driver make logistics simple, allowing you to focus on the sights and stories. The tour is well-suited for travelers with limited time who want an immersive city experience with fewer crowds. Although no reviews are provided, the focus on key cultural sites makes it a solid option for first-time visitors.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a focused, cultural intro to Kashgar, this tour hits the highlights efficiently.

7. Kashgar Xinjiang: Old City, Livestock Market, Food & Culture

This approximately 9-hour private tour offers a deep dive into Kashgar’s vibrant Old City, livestock market, and street food scene. You’ll wander the labyrinth of ancient lanes, witness the livestock market in action, and visit the Id Kah Mosque. The guide provides vivid explanations of local customs and daily life.

A highlight is sampling local Uyghur cuisine and experiencing the lively market atmosphere. The tour is customizable in pacing, making it suitable for adventurous foodies and culture enthusiasts. With no price listed, it offers good value for a comprehensive city experience.

Bottom line: For travelers eager to experience Kashgar’s street life and culinary culture, this tour offers an engaging, personalized day.

8. 2 Day Tour to Tashkorgan with Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake

This two-day private tour is perfect for travelers with time to spare. It features visits to Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, and Tashkorgan, with flexible schedules and no forced stops. Starting with a scenic drive along the Karakoram Highway, you’ll enjoy the views of White Sand Lake and the mountain scenery around Muztagh Ata.

Day 2 includes a visit to the Stone Fortress of Tashkorgan, a site that has stood for over 2200 years. The tour emphasizes personalized pacing and the freedom to explore at your leisure, with safety and comfort assured by experienced drivers.

Reviewers praise the flexibility and scenic highlights, offering an excellent choice for independent-minded travelers.

Bottom line: This tour suits those wanting a customized experience with opportunities to explore remote sites at their own pace.

9. Muztagh Ata Climbing Expedition 2026

For serious mountaineers, this 22-day expedition is the ultimate challenge. Led by experienced professionals since 1980, the trip includes all logistics, permits, and expert support needed to climb Muztagh Ata (7546m). Starting from Kashgar, you’ll travel to Subash and then to Base Camp, with stops at Kala Kule Lake and other scenic points.

The expedition is designed for experienced climbers prepared for high-altitude altitudes and challenging conditions. The team offers logistics, medical support, and culinary services throughout the climb. While it’s expensive at $4,200 per person, it promises a professional, safe, and rewarding ascent.

Bottom line: For skilled climbers looking for a well-supported ascent of Muztagh Ata, this expedition offers a rare opportunity to conquer one of the world’s highest peaks with expert assistance.

10. Private Full-Day Tour to Dawakun Desert from Kashgar

If deserts fascinate you, this full-day private tour takes you to Dawakun Desert, just 130 km from Kashgar. The trip includes a drive through sand dunes and old trees, with optional stops at a nearby lake. You’ll see impressive sand dunes that stretch endlessly, with photos of camels and desert landscapes.

The tour emphasizes a personalized experience with flexible timing, so you can take your time photographing or walking around this unique environment. The cost ($219) includes admission tickets, making it a good value for a day of desert exploration.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a desert adventure, this experience provides a chance to see the beauty of Xinjiang’s sands without leaving Kashgar.

11. From Kashgar: 5-Day Silk Road Adventure with Accommodation

This extensive 5-day tour offers a rich overview of Kashgar and surrounding sites, including Karakul and Baisha lakes, Pamir Scenic Area, and historic stone city ruins. Travelers stay comfortably in hotels and enjoy all entrance fees and permits included.

Highlights include visiting the largest mosque in Xinjiang, admiring the Islamic architecture of the Uyghur poet’s tomb, and enjoying a Uyghur family meal in the old town. It’s an ideal choice for those who want an immersive, multi-day journey with comfortable accommodations and detailed cultural insights.

Rated 4.8/5, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness.

Bottom line: Suited for travelers seeking an extended, comfortable Silk Road experience, this tour covers a broad spectrum of sites and cultures.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Kashgar

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interest in specific sights. For a quick taste, the Day Trip to Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake offers stunning scenery without overcommitting. For a deep cultural experience, the 11-day Silk Road tour provides extensive insight and comfort.

If hiking and mountain climbing are your goals, the Muztagh Ata Climbing Expedition is unmatched but requires experience. Budget travelers might prefer the Karakul & White Sand Lake private tour, which offers excellent scenery at a reasonable price.

Booking early is wise, especially for the more elaborate and popular trips. Consider the best time to visit, typically in late spring or early autumn, to avoid extreme heat or cold.

Kashgar offers a fascinating mix of landscapes, culture, and history. From scenic lakes and desert landscapes to legendary Silk Road sites, there’s an experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a quick scenic drive or a multi-week adventure, these tours help you make the most of your time in this captivating city. For the best trip, pick one that matches your pace and interests—and don’t forget to book early to secure your spot.