Baisha Lake Travel Guide | Complete Practical Guide from Kashgar (Including Border Permit for Foreigners)

Everything You Need to Know for Your First Visit to the Pamir Plateau

Driving west from Kashgar along the G314 National Highway, the city gradually fades behind you, replaced by deserts, snow-capped peaks, and vast open land. Just when you start feeling a bit fatigued, a patch of deep blue appears ahead—Baisha Lake.

The first time I saw Baisha Lake, I was genuinely stunned.
The water is unbelievably blue, the White Sand Mountains are quietly mirrored on the lake’s surface, and distant snow peaks stand like a carefully placed backdrop. Even the wind seems to tiptoe.

But to be honest, Baisha Lake is not exactly a “relaxing” tourist spot.
It’s windy, at a high altitude, facilities are basic, and there aren’t many activities. Without preparation, the trip can quickly shift from “stunning” to “struggling.”

Bai Sha Lake

1. Where is Baisha Lake, and is it worth visiting?

Baisha Lake, officially Bulunkule White Sand Lake, is located in the Kizilsu Prefecture of Xinjiang, on the eastern edge of the Pamir Plateau. It is a must-see stop on the route from Kashgar to Mustagh Peak and Tashkurgan County.

If you are already traveling along:
Kashgar → Baisha Lake → Mustagh Peak → Tashkurgan
Baisha Lake is an essential and unavoidable stop.
If you only have a short stay in Kashgar and are making a special trip to Baisha Lake, it can be a long drive. But as long as the weather is good, most travelers return saying:
“Totally worth it.”

Because this place doesn’t need filters to look stunning.

2. How to get to Baisha Lake from Kashgar

🚗 Driving (Highly Recommended)

Route: Kashgar → G314 National Highway (China-Pakistan Friendship Highway)
Distance: ~160 km
Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours, recommend reserving 4 hours for stops and photos
Road Condition: Fully paved, generally good, but watch for speed limits and speed traps

📍 Navigation Points

North Shore: “Baisha Lake North Shore”
South Shore: “Baisha Lake Viewing Platform” or “Baisha Lake Aike Lamb Soup Restaurant”

SUV is optional but a higher clearance makes driving more comfortable. You’ll see plenty of Tank 300 SUVs on the road—mostly psychological reassurance.

3. How Foreigners Can Apply for a Border Permit

👉 Please read this carefully.

Baisha Lake, Mustagh Peak, and Tashkurgan County are in border control zones.
Foreign travelers must have a border pass (Border Travel Permit) to enter.

✅ Can foreigners get it on their own?

No. Unlike Chinese citizens, foreigners cannot obtain it directly from local police stations.

✅ Correct Procedure

Foreign travelers must go through a licensed travel agency that can handle foreign visitors.

The travel agency submits the application on your behalf according to your itinerary.

📝 Required Documents for Foreigners

Original passport
Valid Chinese visa
Entry stamp pages
Detailed itinerary (places and dates)
Hosting travel agency information

⏱️ Processing Time

Usually 3–7 working days
During peak season or holidays, it may take longer
👉 Apply well in advance to avoid last-minute problems.

⚠️ Key Point

Without a valid border permit, you will be turned back at checkpoints—regardless of whether you are driving, in a taxi, or on a private tour.

Bai Sha Lake

4. Exploring Baisha Lake: South Shore vs. North Shore

Baisha Lake has two main areas: South Shore (paid) and North Shore (free), each with its own style.

🌊 North Shore (Free, More Natural)

More pristine and natural scenery
Often deeper and bluer water
Great for lake view photography
Local operators offer yak photo sessions (for a fee)

North Shore is sometimes described as “quiet,” but during peak season, it’s still moderately busy. There’s a local unofficial parking area—free and accessible.

🌊 South Shore (Ticket ~40 RMB)

Includes Viewing Platforms 1 & 2
Platform 2 is highly recommended
- Panoramic views: White Sand Mountains + snow peaks + lake
- Most complete perspective for photography

If time is limited, visiting the South Shore alone is sufficient.
If you have more time: start at North Shore, then go to South Shore, which is convenient and avoids backtracking.

5. Real Travel Experience: What to Expect

① The Wind is Strong

Not just “a little windy”—your hat can blow away if not secured.
Skirts are not recommended; the wind will make its point.

② High Altitude

Baisha Lake is at ~3300 meters (10,800 ft).
Breathing may be difficult, so take it slow and avoid running or strenuous activity.

③ Basic Toilet Facilities

There are toilets, but don’t expect much. Drink moderately before entering.

6. Photography Tips

Best Time: 3 PM onwards
Clothing: Bright colors stand out (red, yellow, blue)
Composition: No need to obsess over angles; almost every shot looks like a painting
Fun Tip: Local yak handlers may use a small mirror to create “sky mirror” photos

I didn’t see wild yaks,
but spotted a chubby marmot peeking at me from behind a rock while I ate my flatbread—cute little bonus!