Where to Stay in Kashgar
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Our pick for backpackers
Stay in Western Residential Area
Find more affordable accommodation and food options while still being connected to the city.
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Kashgar
Western Residential Area
BudgetA more modern and residential district offering a glimpse into contemporary Kashgar life.
- +More affordable accommodation and food options
- +Quieter and less touristy
- +Access to local transport hubs
- -Further from major tourist attractions
- -Less charming than the Old City
Old City
Mid-rangeA labyrinth of ancient Uyghur alleyways, bustling with traditional life and artisan workshops.
- +Immersive cultural experience
- +Authentic local atmosphere
- +Charming traditional architecture
- -Can be disorienting due to maze-like streets
- -Limited modern amenities within the core old city
Id Kah Square Area
Mid-rangeThe vibrant heart of Kashgar, a bustling public space surrounded by shops, eateries, and historical sites.
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Abundant dining and shopping options
- +Lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings
- -Can be very crowded, especially during peak hours
- -More tourist-oriented than the deep Old City
Daily Budget (Budget)
CNY 250/day
Hidden Gems in Kashgar
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Kashgar Old City
FREEBeyond the main tourist sections, wander deeper into the labyrinthine alleys of the Old City to discover quiet courtyards, traditional homes, and glimpses of daily Uyghur life that feel untouched by time.
Kashgar Sunday Livestock Market
FREEWhile the main market is known, the true spectacle is the sprawling livestock market where farmers and traders from across the region gather to buy and sell sheep, goats, and camels in a vibrant, chaotic, and authentic scene.
Kashgar Grand Bazaar (afternoon)
FREEWhile bustling in the morning, return in the late afternoon as vendors pack up and locals do their final shopping, offering a more relaxed atmosphere to observe daily commerce and find unique crafts.
Local Uyghur Restaurants in the Old City
Skip the tourist traps and seek out small, unassuming eateries tucked away in the Old City for incredibly authentic nang (bread), laghman (noodles), and polo (rice dishes) prepared with generations of expertise.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Kashgar