KashgarOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Millennial crossroads of the Silk Road
What to do in Kashgar? Dive into the heart of the ancient Silk Road, where cultures have met for millennia. Kashgar is a vibrant city, rich in fascinating history and a unique atmosphere, especially in its labyrinthine Old City. Between the majestic Id Kah Mosque, the famous Sunday Grand Bazaar, and the lively alleys, every street corner tells a story. For an unusual activity in Kashgar, our outdoor escape games invite you to explore the city in an interactive and fun way. Transform your stroll into a captivating scavenger hunt, a true urban treasure hunt that will reveal the hidden secrets of this ancient city. Ideal for a family outing or with friends, our trails guide you through iconic neighborhoods. Discover our city-wide treasure hunts in Kashgar below…
Kashgar Old Town — Silent Minarets' Hymn
Uncover the fragments of a forbidden Uyghur hymn hidden in Kashgar's silent minarets. Solve the ancient code before its melody vanishes forever in this outdoor escape quest.
Kashgar — Forgotten Caravans' Secret
Uncover the conspiracy behind the vanished Silk Road caravans of Kashgar. Decode ancient merchant codes hidden in the Old Town to expose the betrayal that buried their fortunes forever.
Landmarks of Kashgar
Monuments and sites covered by our escape games across the city.
Unusual things to do in Kashgar
For an unusual activity in Kashgar, our outdoor escape games offer a unique perspective on the Old City. Far from classic tours, you are invited to decipher riddles hidden in the architectural details of traditional houses or the inscriptions of ancient caravanserais. It's an original outing that leads you through secret passages and unexpected courtyards, revealing the rich Uyghur culture. The trails above transform the discovery of the Grand Bazaar into an exciting quest, where every stall and every face can hide a clue. A deep and fun immersion for those looking to experience Kashgar differently.
Things to do in Kashgar with kids
What to do with the family in Kashgar? Our outdoor escape games are an excellent option, suitable from age 8. The trails above transform the visit into a stimulating activity for kids and teens, where everyone has a role to play. Younger children love searching for visual clues in the colorful alleys of the Old City, while teens are passionate about solving the puzzles. It's an ideal outing to discover Kashgar's heritage interactively and safely thanks to GPS guidance. An activity that brings the whole family together for a shared adventure, away from screens and in the heart of history.
Kashgar for couples
For a couples outing or a romantic getaway in Kashgar, our outdoor escape games offer a unique experience. Stroll hand-in-hand through the secret alleys of the Old City, sharing the excitement of each solved riddle. It's an unexpected romantic activity, where the discovery of heritage and local legends blends with intimacy. The trails presented above invite you to explore intimate places and picturesque views over the city's rooftops, creating precious memories. An original way to strengthen your bond while immersing yourselves in Kashgar's enchanting atmosphere.
What to do in Kashgar when it rains
What to do in Kashgar when it rains? Although our escape games are outdoor, Kashgar's Old City offers many covered passages, arcades, and traditional bazaars where you can shelter. If the weather is uncertain, the trails above can be adapted by exploring the galleries of the Grand Bazaar or the entrances of traditional houses. The experience remains immersive, even in light rain, as the city then reveals a more intimate and mysterious atmosphere. A wet-weather activity that allows you to continue your exploration without being completely exposed.
Where is Kashgar, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Kashgar
- Old City Entrance Gate (reconstructed)
- Old Public Well in the Old City
- Historic building with calligraphy (e.g., former madrasa or bookstore)
- Weavers' Street or artisan market
- Old Fortifications of Gaotai Ancient City
- Public garden with steles or statues
- Old Tea House (facade)
- Historic wall or commemorative square
- Id Kah Mosque
- Abakh Khoja Mausoleum
- Kashgar Grand Bazaar
- Kashgar Old City (Tuman Daban Quarter)
- People's Park (formerly Tuman Gardens)
- Tuman River bank (near the historic bridge)
- Old City Walls (Eastern Ramparts)
- National Unity Square (or similar public square)
The history of Kashgar
A Crossroads on the Silk Road
Kashgar's history dates to the first millennium BC, when nomadic tribes established settlements that grew into cities along the Silk Road. The city's location, where the Tian Shan and Kunlun Mountains meet, allowed it to control ancient caravan routes. Chinese Han dynasty envoys first mentioned Kashgar in the 1st century BCE, when the Chinese conquered the Xiongnu and other states in the Tarim Basin. For centuries, Kashgar was a meeting point for Chinese, Indian, and Persian merchants.
Shifting Control and Enduring Culture
Kashgar has been under the rule of various empires, including Chinese, Turkic, Mongol, and Tibetan. In the 9th century, Uyghur ancestors, originally Buddhists, settled in the oasis towns around the desert and began converting to Islam about 300 years later. Marco Polo reportedly passed through Kashgar around 1273, describing it as the "largest and most important" city in a province with many towns and castles. The city was sacked by Timur (Tamerlane) in the late 14th century and reoccupied by the Qing dynasty in 1755. Between 1862 and 1875, Kashgar became the capital of the Muslim general Yakub Beg. Despite periods of conflict and changing rule, Kashgar's identity as a trading hub with a Uyghur culture has endured.
What to see in Kashgar
- Kashgar Old City — Walk through the alleys of traditional mud-brick houses. Observe local life, find artisan workshops, and sample Uyghur snacks.
- Id Kah Mosque — This is one of China's largest mosques, built in 1442. It accommodates up to 20,000 worshippers. Its yellow facade is a landmark.
- Abakh Khoja Mausoleum — Also known as the Apak Hoja Mausoleum, this 17th-century complex is one of Kashgar's Islamic sites. It is the family tomb of Abakh Khoja, a Sufi master, and holds the graves of five generations of his descendants.
- Kashgar Grand Bazaar — This market has been a trading hub for over 2,000 years. It operates daily, but Sundays are the busiest, with goods from carpets and spices to local foods.
- Sunday Livestock Market — Separate from the Grand Bazaar, this market is held only on Sunday mornings. Farmers and herders from the region gather to buy and sell sheep, cattle, camels, and donkeys.
- Gaotai Ancient City (Gaotai Minju) — Explore the cliffside dwellings of Gaotai, which offer architectural insight into Kashgar's past.
When to visit Kashgar
The best times to visit Kashgar are during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). The weather is comfortable, with mild temperatures and low rainfall, suitable for outdoor activities. August and September are good for fruit and melon harvests. Temperatures in April range from 9°C to 24°C, while September sees averages between 14°C and 29°C. Avoid summer (June to August) if you prefer fewer crowds, as it is peak tourist season, leading to more traffic and higher accommodation prices. Winters (December to February) are cold, with January averaging 1°C.
Getting around Kashgar
Kashgar Airport (Kashgar Laining International Airport, KHG) is about 10 kilometers north of the city center. A taxi from the airport to the Old City costs ¥25–¥35 and takes 15-25 minutes. Airport shuttle buses are available for ¥10. Kashgar Railway Station is on the eastern side of the city, about 6-7 kilometers from the city center. Taxis to the Old City cost ¥15-25 and take 15-25 minutes. Public buses, such as route #28, connect the station with central Kashgar and the Id Kah area.
Most attractions in the Old City are within walking distance. Public buses cover most of the city for ¥1–¥2 per ride, accepting cash and WeChat Pay. Didi (China's ride-hailing app) works reliably, with most rides within the city costing under ¥15. Taxis are available, with a starting price of around ¥5. The Kashgar Grand Bazaar is open daily, but the Livestock Market operates only on Sundays, usually from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Things you probably do not know about Kashgar
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Id Kah Mosque
- Why does the Id Kah Mosque, one of China's largest, have such a distinctive yellow exterior? The mosque's yellow facade is not just for aesthetics; yellow is a color associated with royalty and respect in Central Asian Islamic architecture, signifying its importance as a place of worship and learning.
- Kashgar Old City
- The traditional mud-brick houses in Kashgar's Old City were once designed with a peculiar feature to withstand a specific natural disaster. What was it? Many of the Old City's traditional mud-brick homes were built with specific architectural considerations to be more resilient to earthquakes, a recurring concern in this seismic region.
- Abakh Khoja Mausoleum
- Beyond its religious significance, the Abakh Khoja Mausoleum is sometimes referred to by another, more romantic name. What is it, and why? The Abakh Khoja Mausoleum is also known as the 'Tomb of the Fragrant Concubine' (Xiangfei Tomb), a romanticized legend about a Uyghur concubine of the Qianlong Emperor who was said to have a natural fragrance.
- Kashgar Grand Bazaar
- Before 1992, the Kashgar Grand Bazaar had a different operating schedule. What was it, and what changed? Prior to 1992, the Kashgar Grand Bazaar, including its famous livestock section, was held exclusively on Sundays. Now, the main bazaar operates daily, but the livestock market remains a Sunday-only event.
- Gaotai Ancient City
- The ancient dwellings of Gaotai are built on a high loess cliff. What unique challenge did this pose for the residents over centuries? The precarious location of Gaotai's ancient homes on a loess cliff meant residents had to continuously adapt their architecture to the eroding soil, often building new layers on top of older, crumbling structures, creating a vertical maze.
- Old Public Well in the Old City
- In a city surrounded by desert, access to water was always crucial. What was special about the old public wells in Kashgar's Old City? The old public wells in Kashgar's Old City were not just sources of water; they often served as social hubs where daily life unfolded, and news and gossip were exchanged among residents.
Questions about visiting Kashgar
How many days should I spend in Kashgar?
Plan at least 2 days to explore Kashgar itself, covering the Old City, Id Kah Mosque, and the bazaars. If you wish to include a day trip to Karakul Lake or Tashkurgan, extend your stay to 3-4 days.
What are the best ways to get around Kashgar?
Kashgar is compact enough that many central attractions, especially within the Old City, are easily walkable. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and affordable (around ¥10-30 within the city), and ride-hailing apps like Didi also operate. Public buses are an economical option but may require some familiarity with local routes.
Which neighborhoods should I visit in Kashgar?
The Kashgar Old City is a must-visit for its traditional Uyghur architecture and street life. The area around Id Kah Mosque is central to the Old City's charm. For a different experience, consider venturing to the Tuman Daban Quarter.
What is the typical budget for a trip to Kashgar?
Kashgar can be relatively affordable. Public transport is very cheap (¥1-2 for buses, ¥10-30 for taxis within the city). Food from local eateries and markets is also budget-friendly. Accommodation prices vary, but hostels and guesthouses offer economical options.
Is Kashgar suitable for travelers with children?
Kashgar offers a cultural experience that can be engaging for children, especially the markets and the architecture of the Old City. The Sunday Livestock Market provides an interactive and memorable experience with animals.
What are the local customs and etiquette I should be aware of?
When visiting mosques like Id Kah, dress modestly. When photographing people, especially at markets, it is polite to ask for permission first. Bargaining is common in the bazaars. Be aware of the significant day-night temperature differences and carry water, as the air is dry.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in Kashgar cost?
Our outdoor escape games in Kashgar start at €12 per team (1 phone). For larger groups, budget €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. As Kashgar offers 2 games, the Kashgar City Pass is an excellent option to enjoy both trails with a significant discount, making the adventure even more affordable.
Are the Kashgar escape games suitable for children?
Yes, most of our trails in Kashgar are suitable from age 8. The puzzles are designed for group solving, encouraging collaboration: children are excellent at spotting visual clues in the unique settings of the Old City, while teenagers and adults focus on the logic of the codes. The GPS guidance system ensures a safe walk, allowing everyone to enjoy the exploration stress-free.
How long does an outdoor escape game in Kashgar last?
Expect to spend between 1h30 and 2h30 to complete an outdoor escape game in Kashgar, depending on the chosen trail and your team's pace. Our games are fully self-guided, meaning you can start whenever you want and take your time to solve the puzzles and admire the sights. This is ideal for fitting into your schedule, whether for a morning, an afternoon, or a break between visits.
Do I need to book in advance?
Online booking is not strictly mandatory, but it is highly recommended, especially if you plan to play during weekends or peak tourist seasons. After purchase, you instantly receive an activation code via email, usable at your convenience, with no expiration date. This offers you complete flexibility to start your adventure whenever you wish.
What is Kashgar known for? / What to visit in Kashgar?
Kashgar is globally renowned as a historic crossroads of the Silk Road, famous for its vibrant Uyghur culture. Must-sees include the fascinating Old City, a labyrinth of alleys and traditional houses, the majestic Id Kah Mosque, one of China's largest, and the legendary Sunday Grand Bazaar, a bustling market where you can find everything. Our escape game trails incorporate these iconic locations, allowing you to explore them interactively.
When is the best time to visit Kashgar?
The best season to visit Kashgar and fully enjoy our outdoor escape games is spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). Temperatures are pleasant, ideal for walking, and the sky is often clear. Summer can be very hot, and winter cold, but the city retains its charm. The advantage of our games is that they can be adapted to conditions, with shaded or covered passages available.
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