Pamirs Plateau Travel Guide
How to go to the Pamirs: key points along the minibus route departing from Kashgar, highlights of Basha Lake, Karakul Lake, and Muztagh, border permits for Tashkurgan County and high-altitude adaptation, and the apricot blossom window in March.
Scenic Spots Along the Route
From Kashgar to Tashkurgan County is about 300 kilometers, and the entire journey is like a postcard: the silver sand dunes of Basha Lake, the reflection of Muztagh in Karakul Lake, and the Taharman Wetlands. Every spot is worth stopping at, so don’t rush.
Tashkurgan County and Altitude
Tashkurgan sits at an altitude of about 3,100 meters: on the day of arrival, avoid strenuous activities, drink plenty of water, and don’t bathe for too long. Stone City and Jincao Beach are on the edge of the county, most beautiful at dusk; the Panlong Ancient Trail has over six hundred turns, so those prone to motion sickness should bring medication.
Apricot Blossom Window
From late March to early April, apricot blossoms along the river valleys of Tashkurgan bloom in succession. The window lasts only about ten days and is the most sought-after period of the year.
Documents and Borders
Tashkurgan falls under border control management. Chinese citizens need a border pass, and foreign travelers must obtain approval according to the host party; the Hongqilapu direction depends on the same-day opening policy.