Yarkant County

Yarkant County sits at the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert and contains fertile oases fed by the Yarkand River. The water source supports agriculture in lower areas and grazing in higher regions across the landscape.

The region was once a Buddhist kingdom and later became the capital of the Yarkand Khanate, which held importance along the southern Silk Road. This period shaped the region's development for several centuries.

Uyghur communities here maintain traditional music and farming methods that shape daily life in the region. Local customs and practices remain visible in how people work and celebrate throughout the year.

The area is primarily agricultural and relies on irrigation systems for farming and livestock. Visitors should expect a rural setting where traditional ways of living are still common.

The land holds deposits of natural gas, oil, gold, and other minerals beneath the surface. These resources have become increasingly important to the region's economic development.

Location: Kashgar Prefecture

Capital city: Yarkand

Elevation above the sea: 1,232 m

Website: http://gat.xinjiang.gov.cn

GPS coordinates: 38.41446,77.24964

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:29