Tashkorgan map. Tashkorgan was a stop on the ancient Silk Road. It is an interesting town to visit and experience Tajik culture and to enjoy the views of the Pamir Range. Check out the map of Tashkorgan link on this page.

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Historic
Tashkorgan is a vibrant town nestled amongst the Pamir Mountains. Tashkorgan's ancient stone fortress has stood watch over the town and the splendid mountain ranges surrounding it for centuries. This beautiful and rugged area has a wealth of activities for the adventurous and not so adventurous traveller.

Roof of the World
As you leave Kashgar via the Karakoram Highway and enter the Pamir Range you will be astounded by the views. Snowcapped peaks and awesome rock formations line the highway to Tashkorgan. Every turn in the road reveals new and astonishing vistas.

The tallest summit in the Pamir Range is Kongur soaring 7,719 meters above sea level. Other tall peaks in the area are Kongur Tiube at 7,595 meters and Muztagh Ata at 7,546 meters.

Tashkorgan (Taxkorgan, Tashkurgan, Taxikurgan)
Tashkorgan means “Stone Fortress” and has a long history. It was at a strategic location on a branch of the old Silk Road. From Tashkorgan there were paths leading South to Mingtake Pass and on to the Indian Subcontinent, and West to the areas of what are now Afghanistan and Tajikistan. It is believed that Marco Polo and the Chinese Buddhist monk, Xuan Zang, visited Tashkorgan.

On the northern edge of the town are the well-preserved ruins of the stone fortress. It was valued throughout history because its location and construction made it easily defendable. The position of Tashkorgan affords magnificent panoramic views of the Pamir Mountains. Looking South from Tashkorgan it is possible to see Muztagh Ata. Sunrise is a particularly special time as multi-coloured rays reflect onto the different peaks surrounding the town.

Tajiks dancing “Eagle of the Highland”
The history of the Tajik people in Tashkorgan can be traced back to the 10th Century BC when they settled in the Eastern Pamirs. There are thought to be upwards of 33,000 still living here.

They have herded sheep and cattle on the pastures of Tashkorgan for centuries. Some Tajiks choose to live close to their herds whilst others live in the town. Their homes are brightly decorated inside with rich coloured carpets adorning both the floors and walls. The women favour red clothing and their brilliantly adorned headdresses sparkle with red, pink and purple embroidery.

In this rural society rituals and festivals play an important part. Tashkorgan is famous for its soaring eagles. The Tajiks of Tashkorgan remember this majestic bird in the “Eagle Dance”. The swirling, swooping movements are accompanied by eagle bone flutes. Etiquette has a major role in Tajik society and it is common to see Tajik men greeting each other with the customary beard-stroking whilst the women place both hands on their chest and bow. The rituals are specific to the age and status of those meeting.

Tajik hospitality is legendary and we can offer you visits to local Tajik homes where you will gain valuable insights into their customs, culture and food.

Map of Tashkorgan

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