Introduction Tashkurgan (塔什库尔干县), the "Stone City," sits at 3,200 meters in the remote Pamir Mountains near the Pakistan border. This Tajik autonomous county offers some of China's most dramatic high-altitude scenery, including the serpentine Panlong Ancient Road and the glacial paradise of Muztagh Ata Ice Park.
Must-Visit Attractions
Panlong Ancient Road (盘龙古道)
This 74-curve mountain road resembles a dragon's spine winding up 4,100 meters. Each switchback reveals increasingly spectacular Pamir panoramas—one of the world's most scenic drives.
Bandir Blue Lake (班迪尔蓝湖)
Hidden in the Pamir foothills, this pristine alpine lake reflects surrounding peaks in impossibly blue waters. The unmarked trail requires local guides but rewards adventurers with untouched beauty.
Muztagh Ata Glacier Park (慕士塔格冰川公园)
Dominated by 7,546-meter Muztagh Ata ("Father of Ice Mountains"), this park offers glacier trekking, base camp visits, and interactions with Kyrgyz herders. The access road reaches 4,500 meters.
Tashkurgan Stone Fortress (塔什库尔干石头城)
These 2,000-year-old ruins overlook the Tashkurgan River valley and served as a crucial Silk Road fortress. Sunset views from the ramparts are unforgettable.
Local Flavors & Culture
- Tajik Culture: Experience eagle hunting traditions and traditional handicrafts from this Persian-descended ethnic group.
- Accommodation: High-altitude guesthouses offer basic but warm hospitality in extreme conditions.
Critical High-Altitude Health Guidelines
At 3,200-4,500 meters (10,500-14,760 ft):
- Severe altitude risk—acclimatize in Kashgar first
- Professional guides mandatory for glacier activities
- Emergency evacuation plans essential
- Oxygen supplements recommended above 4,000m