Looking for advice: Irkeshtam to Kashgar to Khunjerab Pass

Question

I'm planning to ride my bicycle from Osh to Irkeshtam to Kashgar and then across the Khunjerab Pass to Northern Pakistan on the KKH this July. What is the longest distance between town where one can buy food? Also, how much water is there along the way?

Answer

Cycling from Osh (Kyrgyzstan) to Irkeshtam, then to Kashgar, and across the Khunjerab Pass to Northern Pakistan is a challenging route, especially in July when temperatures can be high and water sources limited. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect regarding distances, towns, and water availability along the route:

1. Osh to Irkeshtam

Distance: Approximately 110–120 km, mostly mountainous terrain.
Towns & Services: Very few settlements along this stretch. Sary-Tash is the main village where you can stock up on food, drinks, and basic supplies before reaching the border.
Water: Minimal sources along the road; it’s advisable to carry at least 3–5 liters per person, depending on temperature.
Tips: Border crossing can take time. Ensure all visas and permits are ready for China before departure.

Irkeshtam Border to Kashgar

Distance: About 260–270 km, mostly in the Kyrgyz-Chinese border mountainous area into Xinjiang.
Towns & Services: The Irkeshtam border has limited facilities; once inside China, you’ll encounter small villages such as Akto, Ulugqat, and Wuqia. Most villages have basic shops, but don’t expect full supermarkets.
Longest Stretch Without Food/Water: Approximately 80–100 km between some villages, especially in the desert and mountainous regions west of Kashgar.
Water: Small streams exist in some valleys, but the water is not guaranteed potable. Carry sufficient bottled water or purification methods.

Kashgar to Khunjerab Pass (via KKH)

Distance: About 500 km along the Karakoram Highway (KKH) to the Khunjerab Pass.
Towns & Services: Major towns along the KKH include Tashkurgan (approx. 200 km from Kashgar) and smaller villages in between. Services can be sporadic, with limited food options and no 24-hour convenience stores.
Longest Stretch Without Food/Water: Between Tashkurgan and Khunjerab Pass, roughly 150 km. Carry extra provisions.
Water: There are streams and rivers along the route, but always filter or treat water. Reliable bottled water can be purchased in Tashkurgan and Kashgar.

General Advice

Plan for stretches of 80–150 km without guaranteed supplies. Carry at least 5–7 liters of water per day in hot weather and extra food for unexpected delays.
Fuel your body with high-energy snacks and consider electrolyte supplements, as temperatures at lower altitudes in July can be high, and the Khunjerab Pass is over 4,600 meters.
Check local travel advisories and border regulations, as permits may be needed to enter certain border areas in Xinjiang and Northern Pakistan.
Accommodation is sparse; plan for camping or pre-booked guesthouses in Tashkurgan and Kashgar.

Overall, careful preparation is essential. Stock up in Kashgar before heading to the Khunjerab Pass, and carry extra food and water for the remote stretches along the KKH.

Looking for advice: Irkeshtam to Kashgar to Khunjerab Pass

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