Opened in October 2009, the Gallery Cafe is the newest foreign-run cafe in Kashgar. We would like to extend a very warm welcome to travelers of every kind. Since we ourselves have come to Kashgar to explore and soak in an authentic Central Asian experience, we are happy to help you do the same. We offer home style food and drinks and a comfortable atmosphere for you to rest while you plan your next adventure. We also provide reliable tourist information and can book tours and tickets with experienced local guides and travel agencies. Last but not least, our gallery is here to showcase the talent of a variety of artists, which we welcome you to enjoy. Feel free to contact us with any inquiries about Kashgar (map) or the surrounding area. Soon after we opened we enjoyed the visit of CBS news correspondent Terry McCarthy. Here is his report on the silk road.
Karakul Lake - Recommended!!!!!
What meets your eye is absolutely stunning. The immense mountain ranges are snow-capped and are reflected majestically by the lake. The bright array of colours that meets you suddenly is breath-taking. We are looking at Karakul Lake. Sitting along the road to Tashkorgan from Kashgar is the highest lake in the Pamir mountains.
Karakul Lake sits at an altitude of 11 810ft (3600m) and the car ride up is worth it. If you are tight on time, from Kashgar the trip can be done in a day. A private car ride takes 4 hours. If you leave early you can make it back before it gets dark. It helps that the sun in Kashgar sets around 11pm Beijing time in the summer. For those who like a more relaxed journey, they opt for staying in Khyrgiz yurts that sit quietly by the lake. Or others drive on to the little town of Tashkorgan, where they meet with even more stunning views of the mountains.
For those who like to buy from straight from the craftmen, Tashkorgan is perfect place to get Khyrgiz crafts. Though these items can also be bought in Kashgar, Khyrgiz yurts are set up on the lake, where Khyrgiz woman proudly display their collection of felt carpet, hats, purses all made from camel hair. They are warm and welcoming to all guests.
The Gallery Cafe can hook you up with a driver if you want to spend a day or two in Karakul Lake or Tashkorgan. Please contact us if you have any questions!