A Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary for Kashi in December 2023

1. Day 1: Id Kah Mosque
   15 minutes (3.5km) from Kashi airport

   In the morning, visit the largest mosque in China with intricate Islamic architecture. Take a stroll in the afternoon to the nearby streets to find some souvenirs or local snacks. In the evening, try out some Uyghur cuisine.

2. Day 2: Abakh Khoja Tomb
   25 minutes (6.7km) from Id Kah Mosque

   Explore the tomb complex that dates back to the 17th century. In the afternoon, you can take a scenic drive to the Karakul Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. In the evening, head back to Kashi and take a walk around the People's Park.

3. Day 3: Kashi Ancient City
   15 minutes (4.5km) from People's Park

   Visit the historical site known for its narrow alleys, traditional houses and numerous minarets. In the afternoon, check out the exhibitions in the Kashi Museum. In the evening, take a stroll around the Apak Hoja Tomb and nearby bazaar.

4. Day 4: Kashgar Grand Bazaar
   10 minutes (2.7km) from Kashi Ancient City

   Get ready for some shopping and bargaining in the largest bazaar in Central Asia. In the afternoon, enjoy a camel ride and watch the sunset at the sand dunes. In the evening, watch a local dance performance at the Id Kah Square.

5. Day 5: Hotan Jade Market
   4 hours (257km) from Kashgar Grand Bazaar

   Take a day trip to the famous jade market and learn about the jade carving industry. In the afternoon, visit the Hotan Museum to see the treasures of the Silk Road. In the evening, try out some local dishes like roast lamb and pilaf.

6. Day 6: Shipton's Arch
   7 hours (423km) from Hotan Jade Market

   Get ready for some adventure and hiking to see the highest stone arch in the world. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tashkurgan town to learn about the Tajik culture. In the evening, enjoy the view of the Karakoram Highway.

7. Day 7: Apo Yeken Celestial Lake
   6 hours (370km) from Shipton's Arch

   End your trip with a visit to the picturesque lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tajik village and meet the friendly locals. In the evening, head back to Kashi and enjoy a farewell dinner with Uyghur cuisine.

Recommendations:

Don't miss out on the Karez Irrigation System, Jiaohe Ruins, and the Sunday Livestock Market. For side trips, consider visiting the Tianshan Mountains, Kuqa Ancient City, or the Kanas Lake. To maximize your fun, try out some local activities like Uyghur dance, musical performances, and calligraphy workshops. Lastly, don't forget to haggle when shopping at the bazaars!

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Id Kah Mosque (1-2 hours, free)
• Abakh Khoja Tomb (2-3 hours, CNY 30)
• Karakul Lake (6-8 hours, CNY 400/person for a private tour)
• Kashi Ancient City (2-3 hours, CNY 20)
• Kashgar Grand Bazaar (3-4 hours, free)
• Camel ride (2 hours, CNY 150/person)
• Hotan Jade Market (8-10 hours, CNY 400/person for a private tour)
• Shipton's Arch (6-9 hours, CNY 600/person for a private tour)
• Apo Yeken Celestial Lake (8-10 hours, CNY 100/person for a private tour)
• Total Estimated Costs (per person): CNY 1550

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.