1. Route
A common Southern Xinjiang route: Urumqi — Korla — Kuqa — Aksu — Kashgar, then using Kashgar as a base to visit the Pamir Plateau (Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Muztagh Ata) and Tashkurgan. If time permits, you can continue toward Hotan and Qiemo.
2. Altitude on the Pamir Plateau
Kashgar is at about 1,300 m. Heading toward Tashkurgan along the China–Pakistan Highway (G314), the altitude rises quickly, with several viewpoints at 3,000–4,000 m; Tashkurgan town is at about 3,200 m, and the direction of the Khunjerab Pass is higher still. Get a good night's sleep and avoid alcohol the night before going up to the plateau, and don't pack the itinerary too tightly; if you experience obvious headache, nausea or chest tightness, descend to a lower altitude and seek medical care.
3. Border Permits and Formalities
Travel to border administration areas such as Tashkurgan usually requires a border administration area pass (border permit). It can be obtained at your place of household registration or locally in Kashgar, and requires an ID card; overseas visitors must also provide a passport and other materials according to the rules in effect at the time. Policies change, so confirm the latest requirements with the local police or a travel agency before traveling.
4. Vehicle Recommendations
Long-distance travel in Southern Xinjiang is mainly on national roads, and road conditions are generally good, but gas stations are far apart in desert sections, so be sure to fill up before entering the plateau. The Pamir route is high in altitude with changeable weather; we recommend a well-maintained SUV and a chauffeur-driven charter, with a driver familiar with plateau road conditions for greater safety.
5. Time Difference and Daily Schedule
Kashgar runs about 2–3 hours behind the rest of the country in daily schedule; in summer it is still light after 22:00, and dinner is generally later. Take this into account when planning your itinerary so you don't finish early by inland time.