"Kashgar" Top 5 Page for this destination Kashgar by SallyM

Kashgar is the largest oasis city in Chinese Central Asia and has long been important for its strategic location, commanding the passes that led travellers along the silk routes to India, Persia and Central Asia.

During the 19th century it was important during the 'Great Game', with the rival English and Russian consuls watching each other warily.

Uighur barber in action at the Sunday bazaar

Kashgar is particularly well-known by travellers today for the Sunday bazaar. The animal market is a little way out of the town centre, and provides a fascinating glimpse of central Asian life (though don't go expecting that you will be the only tourist!)

Lake Karakul

Other attractions for travellers include driving up the Karakorum Highway to Karakul lake, or taking the Torugart Pass into Kyrgyzstan.

• Pros:Good base for trips into the mountains
• Cons:The main bazaar is a bit disappointing
• In a nutshell:Interesting melting pot