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Pakistan to Kashgar along the Karakoram Highway

 
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 Carrie
(@carrie)
Estimable Member
Joined: 3 months ago
Posts: 69
Topic starter 29/04/2025 9:56 am  

Good morning I am Rocco, from Italy I would like to ask if it is possible to make a trip, for 2 people, from the border with Pakistan to Kashgar along the karakorum Higway and to the border with Kyrgyzstan. Car and driver, The month of August. Thanks regards.


   
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 Ruqin China Travel
(@howvisitchina)
Member Admin
Joined: 2 years ago
Posts: 74
29/04/2025 10:13 am  
Hi Rocco,
 
Thank you very much for your inquiry and for considering Ruqin China Travel for your travel information needs.
 
Please kindly note that Ruqin China Travel is not a tour operator. However, we are happy to provide you with detailed travel information regarding the journey from the Pakistan-China border (Khunjerab Pass 红其拉甫口岸) along the Karakoram Highway to Kashgar (喀什), and onward to the Irkeshtam Pass (伊尔克什坦口岸) at the China–Kyrgyzstan border.
 
Here is a suggested itinerary for your reference, which we recommend completing over 5–7 days:
 
Day 1: Khunjerab Pass → Tashkurgan (approx. 130 km, 3 hours)
 
  • Depart from Khunjerab Pass (elevation 4,733m), traveling on the legendary Karakoram Highway through the breathtaking landscapes of the Pamir Plateau.
     
  • Stop briefly at Dabudar Township to photograph beautiful highland pastures.
     
  • Arrive in Tashkurgan County; visit the historic Stone Fortress ruins and explore the scenic Golden Grassland.
     
  • Overnight stay in Tashkurgan (local guesthouses or hotels are recommended).
     
Day 2: Tashkurgan → Karakul Lake → Kashgar (approx. 300 km, 6–7 hours)
 
  • Continue your journey along the Karakoram Highway toward Muztagh Ata (7,546m), known as the Father of Ice Mountains.
     
  • Visit the stunning Karakul Lake, famous for its changing colors and reflections of the surrounding peaks.
     
  • Explore Baisha Lake (White Sand Lake) with its unique desert-lake landscape.
     
  • Arrive in Kashgar by evening; free time after hotel check-in.
     
  • Recommended: Visit Kashgar Night Market to sample delicious local specialties.
     
Day 3: Kashgar City Tour
 
  • Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Xinjiang.
     
  • Stroll through Kashgar Old Town to experience traditional Uyghur architecture and culture.
     
  • Shop at the famous Kashgar Grand Bazaar, one of Central Asia's largest markets.
     
  • Visit the Tomb of Xiangfei (Fragrant Concubine) and discover its rich history.
     
  • Overnight stay in Kashgar (recommended: boutique guesthouses or star hotels).
     
Day 4: Kashgar → Oytak Red Mountain → Irkeshtam Pass (approx. 350 km, 7–8 hours)
 
  • Depart from Kashgar via the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway (G314), continuing the scenic drive that extends the historic Karakoram Highway.
     
  • Pass by the dramatic red sandstone landscapes of Oytak Red Mountain, ideal for photography.
     
  • Continue towards Irkeshtam Pass, enjoying stunning views along the southern Tianshan Mountains.
     
  • Complete border crossing procedures at Irkeshtam (please ensure that visas and vehicle permits are arranged in advance).
     
  • Depending on your schedule, either stay near the border or return to Kashgar.
     
Important Notes:
 
  • Altitude: Khunjerab Pass and Tashkurgan are located at high elevations; we recommend preparing for altitude sickness and avoiding strenuous activities.
     
  • Border Permits: Travel to Khunjerab Pass and Tashkurgan requires a border permit, which must be obtained in Kashgar in advance.
     
  • Road Conditions: Parts of the route, especially on the Pamir Plateau, may experience landslides or snow; a 4WD vehicle and an experienced driver are strongly recommended.
     
  • Weather: In August, daytime temperatures are warm but nights are cool at high elevations. Please bring suitable clothing, including a windproof jacket.
     
For travel along this section of the Karakoram Highway within China, you will need the assistance of a local travel agency to arrange permits, transportation, and a skilled driver.

We recommend contacting:
Asia Odyssey Travel Service
Website:  https://www.asiaodysseytravel.com/
 
Kind reminder: Ruqin China Travel is not affiliated with Asia Odyssey Travel Service. This recommendation is provided for your reference only.
 
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any further information. We wish you a wonderful and unforgettable journey along the Karakoram Highway and through the beautiful region of Xinjiang!
 
Warm regards,
Ruqin China Travel Team

   
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