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Where to Stay in Kashgar

Where to Stay in Kashgar

Kashgar Xinjiang, China Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options

  • Hostels/Guesthouses

    Budget-friendly, often offering dormitory beds or basic private rooms. Many incorporate traditional Uyghur architectural style, providing a culturally themed experience.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, and amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. A good balance between comfort and value.

  • High-end/Luxury Hotels

    Kashgar has a limited number. The Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar is a prominent example, with more amenities, superior service, and modern facilities.

  • Uyghur Homestays

    While once common, actual homestays with local families are rare and restricted for foreign visitors. Some guesthouses in the Old City offer a traditional design.

Specific Lodging Details

  • Vacation Rentals

    Short-term vacation rentals or apartments for foreigners through international platforms are very limited, due to local regulations and official registration preferences.

  • Community Tourism

    True homestays for foreigners are highly restricted. Opportunities for deep, unstructured immersion in local family settings or formal community-based tourism initiatives are limited.

  • Camping & Outdoor Stays

    Independent camping is not generally permitted for foreign tourists in Xinjiang due to security regulations. Organized tours may feature approved camping spots like yurts near Karakul Lake.

  • Local Character

    Many guesthouses in the Old City, while renovated, capture the traditional Uyghur architectural style with courtyards and decor, offering an unique local feel.

Neighborhood Guide

Kashgar’s neighborhoods each hold a distinct character and appeal, shaping your accommodation choice and daily experience. Consider proximity to attractions, ambiance, and amenities.

Old City

Benefits
  • Offers an immersive cultural experience and atmospheric stay.
  • Directly amidst traditional Uyghur life.
  • Walking distance from Id Kah Mosque and other historic sites.
  • Visually unique, with endless photo opportunities.
Considerations
  • Access may involve security checkpoints; areas are monitored.
  • Ongoing reconstruction can mean noise or disrupted pathways.
  • Western amenities are limited.
  • Hotels/guesthouses may offer simpler facilities.

New City

Benefits
  • Features modern comforts, including reliable Wi-Fi.
  • Better insulation and wider array of facilities.
  • Larger supermarkets and diverse dining options.
  • Good transportation links to airport and train station.
Considerations
  • Lacks the historical character of the Old City.
  • Can feel generic compared to traditional areas.
  • Major sites are a short taxi ride away, not immediately accessible on foot.
  • Busy with traffic noise during the day.

Grand Bazaar Area

Benefits
  • Exciting and handy for shopping and dining.
  • Great if you enjoy market environments.
  • Diverse range of food options.
  • Dynamic atmosphere with constant activity.
Considerations
  • Can be overwhelming and very crowded, especially on Sundays.
  • Noise levels are higher.
  • May not offer the quiet relaxation some travelers seek.
  • Less historical charm compared to the Old City.

Area-Specific Details

Safety Considerations

Security presence is common in all areas of Kashgar. The Old City is notably monitored, with checkpoints at various entry points. This reflects a common aspect of travel in Xinjiang and does not indicate a high crime rate.

Proximity, Noise & Ambiance

Old City: Ideal for walking to Id Kah Mosque and the Old City itself, short taxi rides to the Grand Bazaar. Generally quieter, especially at night, with narrow alleys limiting traffic noise.

New City: Good access to public buses and taxis, making travel to the airport, train station, and other city parts easy. Can be busy with traffic noise, but modern hotels typically have good insulation.

Grand Bazaar: Central for market activities, with good bus connections. Very noisy and bustling during market hours, especially on Sunday, with sounds of vendors, crowds, and animals.

Booking Strategies

Planning ahead for accommodation can make your Kashgar visit smoother.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (May-June, September-October): Book 1-3 months ahead; popular places fill quickly, prices higher.
  • Shoulder Season (April, July-August): Booking 2-4 weeks ahead is generally fine, but securing your preferred choice is wise.
  • Low Season (November-March): Book a few days to a week ahead, or try walk-in options, as tourist numbers are lower.
  • Chinese Holidays: Book several months ahead for major Chinese public holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, Labor Day, National Day). Prices surge, availability drops.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International Platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Agoda, and Trip.com often list Kashgar hotels.
  • Trip.com (Ctrip): China's largest online travel agency, often with the most comprehensive listings for hotels across China.
  • Direct Booking: For smaller establishments or guesthouses, contacting them directly via email or phone might be possible.
  • Availability: Some smaller local guesthouses may have limited availability on international platforms.

Important Booking Information

Negotiation Customs for Walk-in Rates
  • Generally, negotiation for hotel room rates is not customary at larger, established hotels; their prices are usually fixed.
  • For small, independent guesthouses, especially during the low season or for extended stays, a slight discount might be negotiable for walk-in rates.
  • This practice is not widespread and should be approached politely.
  • Pre-booking usually secures your preferred choice and sometimes better online rates.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Accommodation prices are highest during the high season and major Chinese public holidays.
  • Prices drop significantly in the low season (winter) when demand is low.
  • Adjust your budget and booking strategy to align with these seasonal changes.

Considerations

Deposit & Cancellation

Policies vary by hotel and booking platform. Always review specific deposit requirements and cancellation policies before confirming your reservation. Understand the deadline for free cancellation to avoid penalties.

Local Regulations

Be aware of potential local regulations that may impact foreign guest stays. Always carry your passport for hotel check-ins and security checks.

Travel Visas

A valid Chinese visa is a prerequisite for entry and accommodation booking. Confirm your visa status well in advance of your trip to Kashgar.

Accommodation Recommendations

Choosing accommodation tailored to your budget and travel style makes your Kashgar stay more enjoyable. Here are some recommendations, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly, including those with cultural character.

Featured Accommodations

Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar

A modern, international standard hotel located in the New City. It offers comfortable rooms and diverse dining options.

  • Luxury Level (¥600 - ¥1200+ CNY/night).
  • Features a fitness center and sometimes a pool.
  • Good for business travelers or those seeking familiar comforts and services.
  • Close to modern amenities in the New City.
Kashgar Old City Youth Hostel

This hostel sits within the reconstructed Old City. It features traditional Uyghur courtyard architecture.

  • Budget Level (¥80 - ¥200 CNY/night).
  • Offers basic private rooms and dormitory beds.
  • A popular choice for backpackers and solo travelers seeking cultural immersion.
  • Fosters social opportunities at a low cost.

More Recommended Stays

Qiniwak Hotel

A well-established local hotel, centrally located near People's Square in the New City.

  • Mid-range Level (¥300 - ¥600 CNY/night).
  • Provides good facilities and comfortable rooms.
  • Some rooms feature traditional decor elements.
  • Balances local character with modern convenience.
Kashgar Old Town Dabang Guesthouse

A charming guesthouse located within the Old City, featuring traditional Uyghur architecture.

  • Mid-range Level (¥250 - ¥500 CNY/night).
  • Features a quiet courtyard and friendly atmosphere.
  • A good option for a more intimate and culturally themed stay.
  • Close to the heart of the old town.

Top Picks by Budget Level

  • Budget Travelers

    Kashgar Old City Youth Hostel stands out for its culturally immersive, budget-friendly stay right within the Old City's atmosphere. It fosters a social environment among travelers.

  • Mid-Range Options

    The Qiniwak Hotel offers a fine balance of central location, reliable amenities, and comfort. Alternatively, Kashgar Old Town Dabang Guesthouse features a more traditional atmosphere within the Old City.

  • Luxury Experience

    The Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar serves as the premier option for international standards, modern comfort, and a wide array of services.

  • Value for Money

    For a blend of cultural charm and reasonable pricing, consider guesthouses in the Old City that have been renovated to modern standards.

Traveler-Specific Advice

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Mid-range to luxury hotels like the Radisson Blu or Qiniwak Hotel often include larger rooms, connecting rooms, and amenities suitable for families. Confirm bed configurations and crib availability upon booking.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    Kashgar Old City Youth Hostel offers a perfect fit for solo travelers seeking social interaction and a budget-friendly base. Common areas present opportunities to meet other travelers.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Dedicated long-stay apartments for foreigners are not common. For extended stays, contact hotels directly to inquire about discounted rates. Long-term stays for tourists are unusual and subject to scrutiny.

  • Cultural Significance

    Many guesthouses and hotels within the reconstructed Old City attempt to preserve or emulate traditional Uyghur architecture, providing a visually and atmospherically rich experience.

Booking Pointers

Choosing Your Stay

Proximity to your main areas of interest can also sway your choice.

  • Think about your preferred ambiance: quiet historical or lively modern.
  • Evaluate walking access to attractions or rely on taxis/buses.
  • Read recent guest reviews to gather current perspectives.
Policies for Booking

Before finalizing your booking, always review the specific deposit policies and cancellation rules to avoid unexpected fees.

  • Check deposit requirements: some hotels require full payment upon arrival.
  • Confirm cancellation deadlines to avoid penalties.
  • Note that prices fluctuate significantly with seasons and holidays.
  • Understand that local regulations may influence foreign guest registrations.

Unique Cultural Stays

Traditional Guesthouses

Many properties within the reconstructed Old City try to emulate traditional Uyghur architecture, offering a visually and atmospherically rich experience with unique design elements and courtyard layouts.

Local Homestay Experience

While true homestays with local families are highly restricted for foreign visitors, some guesthouses offer a cultural experience within renovated traditional Uyghur houses.

Modern Comforts

For those seeking familiar Western standards, modern hotels in the New City offer amenities like international dining options, swimming pools, and fitness centers.