Activities: Visit and Hiking around Karakul Lake and Baisha Lake
Details:We set out along the legendary Sino-Pakistan Karakoram Highway, with our first stop at Opal Village, a charming Silk Road settlement just outside Kashgar. Here, you can experience authentic traditional rural life, watch local bakers prepare fresh nan bread straight from a tandoor oven, and pick up supplies for the journey ahead.
Continuing onward, we make a brief stop at the striking Oytagh Colorful Mountains, where the vibrant mineral-streaked hills offer a stunning preview of the dramatic landscapes to come. As we ascend onto the Pamir Plateau—often called the “Roof of the World”—the scenery becomes increasingly breathtaking.
After a few hours of driving, we arrive at Baisha Lake, a mesmerizing turquoise lake framed by vast, pure white sand dunes. We’ll explore the quieter, non-touristic northern shore before continuing to Karakul Lake (3,600m above sea level). Nestled at the foot of the iconic Muztagh Ata (7,546m) and Gongur (7,719m) mountains, Karakul Lake offers one of the most spectacular settings in the Pamirs. Muztagh Ata, meaning “Father of the Ice Mountain,” is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful and mysterious peaks.
The Karakul Lake area provides excellent opportunities for hiking, allowing you to experience the incredible scenery from multiple perspectives and truly immerse yourself in this high-altitude wonderland. After exploring the area around Karakul Lake, we’ll drive back to Baisha Lake for an overnight stay. 
Activities: Keep driving along the Karakoram Highway, visit Muztagh Ata Glacier Park, Stone fort and Golden Grassland
Details:Enjoy a peaceful morning near Baisha Lake before continuing along the KKH. Your first stop is Subash Pass (4,100m), followed by an extended visit to Muztagh Ata Glacier Park. Here, you’ll have the chance to trek near the base of the mighty Muztagh Ata, with panoramic views of its glaciers, Gonger Mountain, and the surrounding Subash Valley.
After approximately three hours of exploration, resume your drive to Tashkurgan, a historic Silk Road town near the borders of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Upon arrival, visit the 2,200-year-old Stone Fort, stroll through local Tajik neighborhoods, and enjoy a visit with a Tajik family.
Overnight in Tashkurgan. 
Activities: Drive through Panlong Dragon Road, stop at Bandier Blue Lake and return to Kashgar
Details:After breakfast, head to the Panlong Ancient Road, a dramatic winding route just 30 km from Tashkurgan. Known for its more than 600 S-shaped turns, this scenic drive offers stunning high-altitude views. Continue to the serene Bandir Blue Lake before stopping for lunch. Afterward, begin the scenic drive back to Kashgar, taking time to reflect on the extraordinary landscapes and cultural encounters of the past few days.
Arrive in Kashgar in the evening and check into your hotel. 
A travel permit is required for this trip. The permit is free of charge, but must be obtained in person at the permit office. Please review the details below to ensure a smooth process.
Working Hours
Location
Kashgar Financial Service Center
(Chinese address for taxi drivers: 喀什市金融服务中心)
The office is approximately 15 kilometers from downtown Kashgar, near Kashgar Airport. If you are arriving by flight and have time before your tour, you may go directly to the permit office from the airport—it is only about a 10-minute drive away.
The tour area is at high altitude. This trip may not be suitable for individuals with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or other serious health concerns. Please ensure you are comfortable with high-altitude travel. For your safety, an oxygen tank will be available in the vehicle.
