The road from Kashgar to Tashkurgan is one of the great drives in Asia: the Karakoram, the Pamir, and the white pyramid of Muztagh Ata.
This 4-day loop covers Kashgar to Tashkurgan and back, about 600 km in total. The sweet spot is June to September.
Why drive this route
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Four days is enough to reach the borderlands and return without rushing the high passes. If you are shaping the bigger trip, our Kashgar old town guide covers the wider picture.
The route day by day
Day 1: Kashgar to Kashgar (20 km, ~1 h)
Day 1 leaves Kashgar and reaches Kashgar, roughly 20 km and about 1 hours behind the wheel. You will sleep in Kashgar. On the way: old town; sort the border permit. Permit day.
Day 2: Kashgar to Tashkurgan (300 km, ~5 h)
Day 2 leaves Kashgar and reaches Tashkurgan, roughly 300 km and about 5 hours behind the wheel. You will sleep in Tashkurgan. On the way: Karakoram ascent; Karakul Lake viewpoint. High, stunning.
Day 3: Tashkurgan to Tashkurgan (60 km, ~2 h)
Day 3 leaves Tashkurgan and reaches Tashkurgan, roughly 60 km and about 2 hours behind the wheel. You will sleep in Tashkurgan. On the way: Muztagh Ata views; border marker. Easy local.
Day 4: Tashkurgan to Kashgar (300 km, ~5 h)
Day 4 leaves Tashkurgan and reaches Kashgar, roughly 300 km and about 5 hours behind the wheel. You will sleep in . On the way: return; fly out. Back to town.
Where to sleep
- Kashgar (1)
- Tashkurgan (2)
Best time to drive
June to September is the safe window; the Pamir is cold and snow-bound much of the year, and the border area needs a permit.
Most mountain roads, the Duku, the Ili branch routes and Pamir access, close from late October to early June under snow. Plan around the warm window. For the detail you will actually need on the ground, see our Tashkurgan town guide.
Practical tips
- Get the border permit in Kashgar before you leave.
- The Pamir is high and cold; pack warm layers even in summer.
- Fuel is limited up high, fill in Kashgar.
- Never let the tank drop below half on remote roads. Fuel stations thin out sharply once you leave the main G30 corridor, and a few only take cash or UnionPay.
- Carry your passport or Chinese ID at all times. Police checkpoints are routine on regional roads and you will be asked to scan or show documents several times a day. Before you commit, read our cross-border self-drive Xinjiang guide so nothing catches you out.
FAQ
Do I need a permit for Tashkurgan? Yes, a border defense permit; apply in Kashgar with your passport.
How long is the Kashgar to Tashkurgan drive? About 300 km and 5 hours on the Karakoram Highway.
Is the Pamir worth it? For mountain drivers, yes, the Karakoram and Muztagh Ata are spectacular.
When can I go? June to September; the rest of the year is cold and often closed.
Final word
Xinjiang rewards drivers who plan, then stay flexible. Build a loose route, book the key overnight towns, and leave room for the unplanned stop that turns out to be the best part of the trip.
Written by Karl Huang, a Xinjiang-based travel writer. The Pamir border area requires a permit and has shifting rules, so confirm the current process with the local PSB before you set out.