Yarkand Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Yarkand with our complete travel guide. Explore the vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine of this beautiful city in Northwest China.


Yarkand Travel Guide: A Complete Tourist Handbook

Located in Tarim, in Xinjiang, in Northwest China, Yarkand is a fascinating city with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This comprehensive travel guide will take you on a journey through Yarkand, including the must-visit places, best hiking and biking routes, top activities and tours, and local cuisine.

Introduction to Yarkand

Yarkand is a city in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. The city offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Yarkand is known for its historical significance and renowned for its local food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Yarkand

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Yarkand Museum: The museum offers a unique insight into the area’s history, culture, and art.
  • Golden Mosque: This stunning religious mosque dates back to the medieval era and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic culture.
  • Concubine Lane: This landmark reflects ancient Chinese culture and is steeped in folklore and legend.

Natural Attractions of Yarkand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Taleshikol Lake: A stunning natural wonder located in the Tarim basin. The lake offers beautiful scenery and opportunities for water sports.
  • Tiger Mountain Forest Park: Perfect for nature lovers, this park offers serene landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yarkand

  • Karakoram Highway: A popular hiking and biking route that offers scenic views of the Himalayan range.
  • Kanas Lake: This picturesque lake offers a range of hiking and biking trails of different difficulty levels.

Best Things to Do in Yarkand: Activities and Tours

  • Exploring the Local Bazaars: Yarkand is famous for its bustling bazaars such as the Yarkand Bazaar and the Tezer Bazaar.
  • Local Cuisine Tour: From roasted lamb to handmade noodles, Yarkand offers a variety of local delicacies that foodies will enjoy.
  • Visit the Ancient Sites: Yarkand has a rich history and culture, and visitors can explore ancient sites such as the Tomb of Ammanisahan and the Shambles School.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yarkand

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Yarkand, visit the Golden Mosque and the Yarkand Museum
Day 2 Trek or bike along the Karakoram Highway
Day 3 Visit Kanas Lake and go boating
Day 4 Spend the day in Tiger Mountain Forest Park
Day 5 Explore local bazaars and try local cuisine
Day 6 Take a guided tour of the Shambles School and the Tomb of Ammanisahan
Day 7 Depart from Yarkand

Food and Drink Scene of Yarkand

Must-Try Dishes

  • Roasted Lamb: Yarkand is famous for its roasted lamb, which is seasoned with a unique blend of local spices.
  • Noodle Soup: This hearty soup is made with handmade wheat noodles, local vegetables, and meat.
  • Dapenji: A chicken dish cooked in a traditional iron pan, served with potatoes, peppers, and other vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Naren: This fermented mare’s milk is a popular local beverage.
  • Black Tea: Xinjiang is famous for its black tea, which is served with roasted almonds and nuts.

Where to Stay in Yarkand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Yarkand Hotel: A popular hotel with comfortable rooms, great service, and excellent breakfast options.
  • Tezer Guesthouse: A budget option offering basic amenities and a friendly staff.

What to Buy in Yarkand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Jade: Yarkand is known for its jade jewelry and handicrafts.
  • Carpets: The city produces unique, handmade carpets that are a great souvenir.
  • Camel Hair Blankets: The local camel hair blankets are warm and make a great addition to any home decor.

Local Culture and Customs of Yarkand

Yarkand has a rich culture and customs that locals take pride in. Respect for elders, hospitality, and strong family values are important in Yarkand’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Yarkand

The best time to visit Yarkand is from April through October, as the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yarkand

Do:

  • Dress conservatively while visiting religious landmarks
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Ask before taking photos of locals.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public
  • Use offensive language or behavior
  • Leave litter in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yarkand

Yarkand is relatively safe, but it’s advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Yarkand

Visitors should take precautions against altitude sickness when traveling to Yarkand as some areas are above sea level.

Getting to Yarkand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yarkand

Kashgar Airport is the closest airport to Yarkand, with flights from major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Bus Stations Near Yarkand

Yarkand Bus Station is the main transportation hub of the city, with frequent buses from Kashgar and neighboring areas.

Other Options

Train services connect Yarkand to other major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

How to Get Around in Yarkand

Yarkand is a small city, and visitors can easily get around by foot or bicycle. Taxis and buses are also available.

Where to Go Next from Yarkand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kashgar: A bustling city with a rich history and culture, located just an hour’s drive from Yarkand.
  • Tashkurgan: A small town that is the gateway to the Karakoram Highway and offers stunning views of the Pamir Mountains.

Conclusion

With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, Yarkand is a city that offers visitors a unique and exciting experience. From exploring the local bazaars and ancient sites to hiking through the Karakoram Highway and trying local delicacies, Yarkand offers something for everyone.