5 Days Pakistan-China-Xinjiang-Kyrgyzstan Motorbike Tour from Konjerab to Irkeshtam

Distance: Approx. 280 km

Route Overview:

Start Point: Taxkorgan. The road from Taxkorgan to Karakuli Lake is initially paved, but becomes gravel as you approach the lake.

Road Conditions:

• Gravel roads near Karakuli Lake, with some sharp turns around Mustagh-Ata Mountain.
• The road conditions improve closer to Kashgar, where you rejoin paved highways. However, there are high-altitude passes where the roads might be narrow.

Activities & Attractions:

Stone City Ruins (Taxkorgan):

• Located in Taxkorgan, the Stone City is an ancient ruin site that was a Silk Road caravanserai. Wander around the stone structures, imagining the bustling activity from centuries ago.

Karakuli Lake:

• A stunning high-altitude lake, situated at the foot of Mustagh-Ata Mountain (7,546 meters/24,757 feet). The clear blue waters are a perfect reflection of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
• Stop for a peaceful lunch by the lake or just enjoy the quiet landscape and perfect photography opportunities.

Kashgar:

• Head towards Kashgar, an ancient Silk Road city.
• After a long ride, enjoy the local Uyghur cuisine and unwind for the evening.

Accommodation:

Hotel: Stay at Barony Hotel, Kashgar (4-star). A comfortable hotel offering modern amenities for relaxation after the ride.

No Riding | Rest & Administrative Activities

Activities & Attractions:

Motorbike Inspection & Licensing:

• Spend the day at the motorbike check center in Kashgar to ensure your vehicle is up to Chinese standards.
• You will receive your temporary license plate and driving license required for the remainder of the trip within China. This may take a couple of hours.

Kashgar Old City:

• Explore the Old City, filled with mudbrick houses and ancient bazaars.
• Walk around the Uyghur Bazaar, one of the oldest in China. Shop for spices, textiles, carpets, and handicrafts.

Id Kah Mosque:

• Visit Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, built in the 15th century.
• Photography is permitted, so take the time to admire the intricate architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Tomb of Abakh Hoja:

• Pay a visit to the tomb of Abakh Hoja, a significant site for the Uyghur Muslim community.
• The tomb's architecture reflects the Central Asian style, with intricate designs and carved tombstones.

Accommodation:

Hotel: Second night at Barony Hotel, Kashgar (4-star).

Distance: Approx. 70 km (Local City Riding)

Route Overview:

Road Conditions:

• Easy city riding within Kashgar, primarily on paved roads. Expect light to moderate traffic during peak hours.

Activities & Attractions:

Kashgar Bazaar:

• Spend the morning exploring the vibrant local market, where you’ll find a mix of local products from textiles to saffron, pistachios, and carpets.
• Visit the handicraft shops and enjoy bargaining for local goods.

Kashgar Old Town:

• Discover the old quarters with their narrow alleys, mud brick homes, and lively markets.
• Learn about Uyghur culture and history in the old city.

The Grand Bazaar:

• Visit one of the largest bazaars in the world where you can shop for spices, dry fruits, and traditional Uyghur snacks.

Id Kah Mosque and Abakh Hoja Tomb:

• Revisit the Id Kah Mosque and explore its surrounding gardens.
• Visit the Abakh Hoja Tomb and delve deeper into Uyghur culture.

Accommodation:

Hotel: Third night at Barony Hotel, Kashgar (4-star).

Distance: 234 km | Duration: Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes

Route Overview:

Start Point: Depart early from Kashgar, heading toward Irkeshtam at the China-Kyrgyzstan border.

Road Conditions:

• The first part of the road is paved with wide highways.
• As you near the Irkeshtam Border, the roads become narrow and winding, with some gravel sections. Expect sharp curves and steep ascents before the border.
• The border area has high-altitude conditions, and sharp curves near the mountain passes.

Activities & Attractions:

Scenic Views:

• The route to Irkeshtam offers dramatic mountain views of the Tian Shan range. The road will take you through rugged terrain, with snow-capped peaks and vast plains in the distance.
• Stop along the way to capture the majestic scenery of Central Asia’s mountains.

Irkeshtam Border Crossing:

• The Irkeshtam border marks the end of your China leg and the beginning of your entry into Kyrgyzstan.
• Complete customs procedures at the border to enter Kyrgyzstan.
• Enjoy a final view of China’s mountains before crossing into Kyrgyzstan.

End of Service:

Tour Conclusion: The motorbike tour ends at Irkeshtam Border. You have successfully completed the tour from Pakistan to China and now enter Kyrgyzstan.