Tashkurgan border permit

Hi. We will be travelling to Kashgar during golden week and we want to visit Tashkurgan as well. Does anyone know whether Kashgar PSB will be open during public holidays?

If you plan to visit Tashkurgan from Kashgar, you will need a border permit issued by the Kashgar Public Security Bureau (PSB). This permit is mandatory for all foreigners traveling to Tashkurgan and the surrounding border areas in Xinjiang.

1. PSB Operation During Public Holidays

During China’s Golden Week (usually the first week of October), most government offices, including local PSBs, may have limited hours or be closed for official holidays. In Kashgar, this can affect your ability to obtain a Tashkurgan permit on the spot during the holiday period.

  • It is not guaranteed that the Kashgar PSB will be open every day during Golden Week; typically they may close on national holidays such as October 1–3.
  • Even if open, the office is likely to be extremely busy, and processing times may be longer than usual due to the holiday and high tourist demand.

2. Recommended Approach

  • Apply for your Tashkurgan permit well in advance, ideally a few days before Golden Week, to avoid being blocked by PSB closures or long queues.
  • Many travelers arrange permits through local travel agencies or hotels in Kashgar. These agencies are familiar with the PSB requirements and can submit the application on your behalf.
  • If you plan to go independently, confirm PSB opening times by calling ahead or checking with your hotel concierge.

3. Practical Tips

  • Carry multiple copies of your passport, Chinese visa, and travel itinerary; the PSB requires these for permit issuance.
  • Plan your visit to Tashkurgan for early in the morning or immediately after obtaining the permit to maximize time in the area.
  • Be prepared for travel restrictions and checkpoints, especially during holidays, as border areas in Xinjiang have additional security measures.

In summary, the Kashgar PSB may not have normal operating hours during Golden Week, so it is strongly recommended to arrange your Tashkurgan border permit in advance through a local agency or your hotel to ensure your trip is not disrupted.


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