Practical Travel Guide to Southern Xinjiang Pamir Plateau | June–August Complete Guide

June–August: Snow-Capped Peaks, Crystal Lakes, and the Roof of the World

If you ask me when is the best time to visit the Southern Xinjiang Pamir Plateau, the answer is clear: June to August.

During this period, nearly all the highlights—snow mountains, turquoise lakes—are accessible. Temperatures range from 10–25°C, the G314 National Highway is fully passable, and the plateau is at its most hospitable.

But the Pamir Plateau is not a casual destination. Its beauty is effortless, but it will also challenge your body, judgment, and preparation in equal measure.

Pamir Plateau

1. Essential Preparations Before Departure

1️⃣ Documents: Border Permit

Key areas in Southern Xinjiang—Tashkurgan County, Muji Township, Hongqilafu Pass—are all border-controlled.

Where to apply: local household registration police station, or Kashgar city
Notes: clearly indicate “Tashkurgan + Muji Township”
A valid ID or passport is required; usually issued the same day

Without a border permit, you cannot access Baisha Lake, Muji Township, or Hongqilafu Pass—you’ll be turned back at checkpoints.

2️⃣ Transportation: Prepare for Distances and Sparse Fuel

Distances on the Pamir Plateau are deceptive: what seems close can take hours.

Vehicle: 4WD SUV or off-road capable car recommended
Fuel: Keep your tank at least half full; fuel stations are extremely limited after Tashkurgan
The roads are mostly good, but any breakdown or delay carries high risk

3️⃣ Clothing and Gear: Survival, Not Fashion

Even in July–August, the high plateau has its own rules.

Essential items:

Windproof jacket (softshell or hardshell)
Light down or warm inner layer (cold mornings/evenings)
High SPF sunscreen (strong UV)
Sunglasses (prevent snow blindness)
Glacier or high-altitude hiking boots if you plan to go on Mustagh Glacier

High winds can cause headaches, so a sturdy hat is critical. Gloves and earmuffs recommended for the sensitive.

Pamir Plateau

2. Altitude Sickness: Expect It, Plan for It

The Pamir Plateau averages over 3,000 meters:

Tashkurgan: ~3,150 m
Muji Township: ~3,500 m
Hongqilafu Pass: ~4,733 m

Almost everyone experiences some degree of altitude sickness.

Practical Advice:

Start acclimatization on day one
Avoid running or strenuous uphill hikes
Limit showering or hair washing initially
Bring portable oxygen, glucose, and chocolate for energy

Severe symptoms? Retreating is smart, not embarrassing.

3. Baisha Lake: First Stunning Stop

📍 Navigation: Baisha Lake North Shore
✔ Free entry
✔ Parking available
✔ Wide, open views

Altitude: ~3,500 m. Winds can be severe, but on a sunny day, the lake appears an unreal shade of blue.

Photo Tips & Timing:

Best: 2 PM – 6 PM
After 6 PM: great for sunset shots
Always check weather in advance

Shooting Spots:

For ice details: park ~1.3 km from navigation point on unpaved road; 10-minute walk to lake
For convenience: shoot directly from the north shore; good for portraits and panoramic shots
South Shore, Platform 2: Sand dunes + snow mountains + lake in one frame (access restricted by barriers, do not enter lake area)

⚠️ Important Reminder: Weather is critical. Clear skies needed. Even under good weather, strong winds can trigger altitude sickness; always carry oxygen and monitor symptoms.