克孜勒苏柯尔克孜自治州

Why this place

Kizilsu is a Kyrgyz autonomous prefecture in the far west of Xinjiang, on the borders of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and it is high mountain country — the Pamir and the Kunlun foothills. It is one of the most remote and least-visited parts of China.

What to see

• The Pamir mountain scenery toward the Taxkorgan Tajik county
• The Kizil Su river valley and the red sandstone country
• The Kyrgyz and Tajik villages of the high valleys

What to eat

• Kyrgyz and Tajik food: lamb, dairy, naan and milk tea
• Kizilsu is known for its 'plate' lamb and its apricots

Best time

June–September

Practical tips

• This is border country at high altitude — check current permit rules before planning