Kashi Group Tour How to Get to Muji Volcanic Crater Geological Wonders Itinerary Cost Recommended Routes Prices
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation
Symphony of Volcanoes and Snow-Capped Peaks:Exploring the Geological Poem of Muji Volcanic Craters from Kashgar
[Geological Wonder:The Fantastical World of Volcano Clusters and Cold Springs]
Located deep within the Pamir Plateau, the Muji Volcanic Craters, dubbed as ‘calcareous sinter-type cold volcanoes’ by geologists, defy conventional perceptions of traditional volcanoes. Recent research in 2025 by a team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals that the Muji volcano cluster consists of 46 well-preserved volcanic cones, formed between 6,300 and 2,700 years ago. Its unique calcium carbonate sinter deposition structure holds significant value in global volcanic geology research.
The ‘Eye of Pamir’ in the core area of the volcano cluster is a must-visit for geology enthusiasts. Within this volcanic crater, approximately 300 meters in diameter, cold springs interact with minerals to form blue-green water bodies, creating a stark contrast with the surrounding grayish-white calcareous deposits. Even more astonishing is the distribution of 12 cold spring vents around the crater, continuously emitting gases with a methane content as high as 85%. Visitors often witness the spectacular sight of bubbles bursting on the water’s surface.
Geology experts recommend visiting the volcanic craters in the early morning or late afternoon when the oblique sunlight enhances the clarity of the calcareous deposit textures. Paired with the perpetually snow-capped Eighteen Arhats Peaks in the distance, it creates a breathtaking scene of ‘The Song of Ice and Fire.’ Recent observations in 2026 indicate that eight high-quality protected bird species, including black-necked cranes and bar-headed geese, inhabit the wetlands surrounding the volcanic craters.
[Five-Day In-Depth Itinerary:Geological Exploration and Plateau Culture]
Day 1:Initial Exploration of Kashgar’s Urban Culture
Morning:Attend the opening ceremony of Kashgar’s ancient city and experience the tea culture of various ethnic groups at a century-old teahouse
Afternoon:Visit Xiangfeiyuan to learn about the history of ethnic integration and appreciate the architectural art of the Id Kah Mosque
Symphony of Volcanoes and Snow-Capped Peaks: Exploring the Geological Poem of Muji Volcanic Craters from KashgarEvening:Savor roasted pigeon, pot meat, and other specialties at the Wusitangboyi Road night market
Day 2:Permit Processing and the Secret Realm of Baisha Lake
Morning:Bring valid identification to the designated location to process the permit (must specify access to ‘Muji Township, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture’)
Afternoon:Drive south along National Highway G314 and stop at the Baisha Lake North Shore Viewing Platform for 1.5 hours to capture different angles of the sand dunes reflecting on the lake
Accommodation:Baisha Lake Resort Hotel (newly renovated in 2026, equipped with oxygen supply)
Day 3:Geological Exploration of Muji Volcanoes
07:00 Depart and drive along the Muji Border Defense Highway, passing by wetland birdwatching spots
10:30 Arrive at the scenic area’s visitor center and transfer to a shuttle bus to the starting point of the boardwalk
11:00-13:00 Hike to explore Volcanic Craters No. 1-3, interpreting calcareous deposit features under the guidance of a professional guide
13:30 Experience horseback riding to the ‘Eye of Pamir’ (30-minute one-way trip, round-trip fee included in the itinerary)
[Geological Wonder: The Fantastical World of Volcano Clusters and Cold Springs]16:00 Return to the visitor center, capturing the autumn wetland scenery along the way (limited to September-October)
Accommodation:Four-diamond hotel in Taxkorgan (equipped with underfloor heating)
Day 4:Plateau Ecology and Folk Customs Experience
Morning:Visit the Muztagh Ata Glacier Park and capture panoramic views of the glacier from the 4,680-meter observation deck
Afternoon:Explore villages of various ethnic groups, watch eagle dance performances, and participate in making nang (traditional bread)
Evening:Enjoy a plateau hot pot at the Karakul Lake campsite and photograph the starry sky (new addition of astronomical telescope experience in 2026)
Day 5:Panlong Ancient Road and Return Journey
09:00 Traverse the Panlong Ancient Road with 64 hairpin turns and take a photo at the ‘Today, I’ve traversed all the winding roads’ sign
12:00 Have a picnic at Bandeer Lake and taste kumis (fermented mare’s milk) provided by local residents
15:00 Return to Kashgar and conclude the itinerary
Located deep within the Pamir Plateau, the Muji Volcanic Craters, dubbed as ‘calcareous sinter-type cold volcanoes’ by geologists, defy conventional perceptions of traditional volcanoes. Recent research in 2025 by a team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals that the Muji volcano cluster consists of 46 well-preserved volcanic cones, formed between 6,300 and 2,700 years ago. Its unique calcium carbonate sinter deposition structure holds significant value in global volcanic geology research.[Cost Explanation:Transparent Service Commitment]
Reference price range for 2026 (subject to actual consultation and contract signing):
Adult:10,500-12,800 yuan per person
Child (under 1.2 meters):4,200-5,500 yuan per person (including seat, insurance, and complimentary items)
Cost Includes:
Transportation:Arrange a 7-9 seater business vehicle based on the number of people, including fuel and toll fees for the entire journey
Accommodation:Four nights of high-standard accommodation (including two nights at a five-diamond hotel in Kashgar)
Admission Tickets:First entrance tickets to scenic spots such as Baisha Lake, Muztagh Ata Glacier Park, and Karakul Lake
Meals:Seven breakfasts + four special lunches and dinners
The ‘Eye of Pamir’ in the core area of the volcano cluster is a must-visit for geology enthusiasts. Within this volcanic crater, approximately 300 meters in diameter, cold springs interact with minerals to form blue-green water bodies, creating a stark contrast with the surrounding grayish-white calcareous deposits. Even more astonishing is the distribution of 12 cold spring vents around the crater, continuously emitting gases with a methane content as high as 85%. Visitors often witness the spectacular sight of bubbles bursting on the water’s surface.Services:Professional driver and guide services, equipped with emergency oxygen cylinders and a plateau medical kit
Special Notes:
Permit processing fees are included
Horseback riding experience fees are included in the itinerary
:4,500 yuan per person (single travelers will be accommodated with roommates whenever possible)
[Professional Service Guarantee System]
Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency has established a three-tier guarantee mechanism:
1. Vehicle Guarantee:All vehicles are equipped with GPS positioning and emergency communication devices, undergoing 22 daily pre-departure checks
2. Medical Guarantee:Portable pulse oximeters and oxygen generators are carried in the vehicle, with a green rescue channel established with Taxkorgan People’s Hospital
3. Emergency Guarantee:Each tour group is accompanied by two certified guides familiar with the locations of 12 emergency contact points along the border defense highway
Geology experts recommend visiting the volcanic craters in the early morning or late afternoon when the oblique sunlight enhances the clarity of the calcareous deposit textures. Paired with the perpetually snow-capped Eighteen Arhats Peaks in the distance, it creates a breathtaking scene of ‘The Song of Ice and Fire.’ Recent observations in 2026 indicate that eight high-quality protected bird species, including black-necked cranes and bar-headed geese, inhabit the wetlands surrounding the volcanic craters.[Registration Instructions]
You can register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, with consultation services available from 09:00 to 20:00 daily. When registering, please provide:
Scanned copies of the front and back of valid identification
Health commitment letter (must be signed to confirm no plateau contraindications)
Special dietary requirement instructions
[Travel Tips]
Optimal Season:May-October (autumn wetland scenery visible in September-October)
Equipment Suggestions:Waterproof hiking shoes, windproof jacket, polarized sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen
Photography Timing:Capture volcanic crater light and shadow one hour after sunrise and golden-hued snow-capped peaks 30 minutes before sunset
Cultural Etiquette:Obtain prior consent before photographing local residents, remove shoes and wear long pants when entering certain areas
Consult customer service manager Zhang Jing of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency for the latest 2026 departure information and discount plans. All itinerary details are subject to the electronic contract signed by both parties. Prices may fluctuate based on market supply and demand, so it is advisable to register 30 days in advance to secure discounted seats.
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation

