Kashgar Laining International Airport at a Glance

Kashgar Laining International Airport (KHG) is the air gateway to Kashgar, the historic Silk Road oasis city in the far west of Xinjiang, China. It was previously known simply as Kashgar Airport, and many travellers and booking sites still use that shorter name. The airport opened in 1953 and is a dual-use civil and military airfield.

For most visitors, flying is the practical way in. Kashgar sits a very long way from China's eastern cities, so the airport links the region with the rest of the country and with neighbouring Pakistan.

Where Kashgar Airport Is and How Far It Is from the City

The airport lies on the northern side of Kashgar, roughly 10 km from the city centre. Traffic is usually light, so the drive into town is short. It sits at an elevation of about 1,380 metres, which is worth knowing if you are heading on to higher ground in the Pamirs.

Terminal and Facilities at Kashgar Laining Airport

Passengers use a single terminal with eight gates. It is compact and easy to navigate, with check-in, security and baggage claim close together. Expect thorough security screening, which is standard across Xinjiang, so allow extra time before departure.

Airlines and Routes from Kashgar

Several Chinese carriers serve KHG, including China Southern Airlines, Air China, China Eastern Airlines and Sichuan Airlines. Ürümqi, the regional capital, is a key connection, and there are also flights to major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu. China Southern operates an international service to Islamabad, while other routes change by season, so check the current schedule before planning.

Getting from Kashgar Airport into Town

Taxis wait outside arrivals and are the simplest option for most travellers. Airport buses also connect the terminal with central Kashgar. Many hotels can arrange a pick-up if you ask in advance.

Things to See near Kashgar

• Id Kah Mosque, a landmark in the heart of the city
• Kashgar Old Town, with its mud-brick lanes and craft workshops
• The Sunday livestock market and bazaar, a long-standing local tradition
• The Karakoram Highway, which leads south towards Tashkurgan and the Pamir mountains

Travel Tips for Flying via Kashgar

Carry your passport at all times, as ID checks are frequent in the region. Keep in mind that the whole of China uses Beijing time, while many locals in Kashgar follow the unofficial Xinjiang time, two hours behind. Always confirm which time a schedule is quoted in.

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