How to get to Hotan

By planning a trip to Hotan, you are setting off for a legendary oasis city on the Silk Road, located in the northwest of China. Learning how to reach Hotan will be useful for every traveler: this vital regional transport hub is accessible by plane, train, or intercity bus. We have prepared a detailed overview of the routes so that your introduction to the land of famous jade and silk begins as comfortably and effortlessly as possible.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach this region is by air. The city is served by Hotan Airport (HTN), which acts as a key transport hub and receives regular flights from Urumqi, as well as other major Chinese metropolises. Thanks to a well-developed route network, this air gateway ensures a stable connection between the oasis and the outside world.

The terminal is located in immediate proximity to the city limits, sparing travelers from long transfers after landing. The airport is well-connected to the center, so you can head to your hotel or start exploring the sights almost immediately after collecting your luggage.

You can also reach Hotan by rail: the city's modern railway station has been welcoming passengers since 2011. Regular services connect the oasis with the regional administrative center, Urumqi, as well as with ancient Kashgar. This is a convenient and reliable option for those who prefer ground transport.

The train route passes through picturesque and rugged terrains, forming part of a unique railway loop around the Taklamakan Desert. Traveling along this line offers a rare opportunity to watch the mesmerizing landscapes of endless sands from the carriage window, making the journey a memorable experience in itself.

A bus journey through this region is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Southern Silk Road and witness the shifting landscapes from mountain peaks to sand dunes. One of the most convenient options is the route from Shache (Yarkand): comfortable buses cover the distance of approximately 320 kilometers in 4–5 hours, allowing passengers to enjoy views of the edge of the Taklamakan Desert.

For those willing to endure longer transfers for the sake of impressive panoramas, the road from high-altitude Tashkurgan is suitable. This journey, covering over 600 kilometers, takes practically the entire day but compensates for the travel time with breathtaking views of the rugged spurs of the Pamirs and colorful Uyghur settlements encountered on the way to the oasis.

Traveling to Hotan by car allows you to see the contrasting landscapes of Xinjiang, where rugged mountains give way to endless sands. The most popular and fastest route runs from Shache: the distance of about 320 kilometers is comfortably covered in 4–5 hours along the highway that skirts the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. A taxi ride in this direction will not be cheap, but it offers the freedom to stop for photo sessions against the backdrop of the dunes.

For lovers of long and scenic drives, the road from high-altitude Tashkurgan is suitable, which will take about 8–9 hours (a distance of over 600 km) and will be remembered for the majestic views of the Pamirs. Although the city of Leh appears to be a close neighbor on the map, it is separated by impassable mountain ranges, so for car travel, you should choose proven routes within the region that connect the oases of the Silk Road.

Preparing for a trip to Hotan requires consideration of the climatic and cultural features of this ancient oasis on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. To ensure your trip passes comfortably and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled a list of the most relevant recommendations for tourists.

1. Clothing and Climate Protection. The climate here is sharply continental and arid. In summer, light, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics and a hat for sun protection are necessary, while in winter, a warm jacket is essential as temperatures can drop below freezing. Be sure to bring sunglasses and a dense scarf or mask: the proximity of the desert often brings wind carrying sand and dust.
2. Getting Around the City. The most convenient method of transport for a tourist is official taxis, which are inexpensive here and widely available. Public transport is also developed, but routes and signs are often only in Chinese and Uyghur, which can make navigation difficult without knowledge of the language.
3. Finance and Payment. The national currency is the Chinese Yuan. In China, mobile payment systems (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are used everywhere, to which foreign cards can be linked. Cash will be useful at markets and in small shops, whereas international bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are generally accepted only in large hotels.
4. Health and Hygiene. The air in the region is very dry, so drink plenty of bottled water and use moisturizing creams. It is strictly not recommended to drink tap water without boiling it. There are pharmacies in the city, but medicine names will be in Chinese, so it is better to assemble a basic first-aid kit in advance.
5. Language and Communication. The main languages of communication are Chinese (Mandarin) and Uyghur. Few people speak English, mostly only staff at large hotels. We strongly recommend installing an offline translator app on your smartphone with photo and voice translation functions—this will greatly simplify communication.
6. Etiquette and Photography. Local residents are hospitable but conservative. Dress modestly, avoiding overly revealing outfits (such as short shorts and tank tops), especially when visiting religious sites. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents, particularly the elderly.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph police stations, checkpoints, or people in uniform—this is strictly prohibited and may lead to a check of your phone and deletion of images. Also, avoid discussing sensitive topics in public places.
8. Special Tip: Jade Market. If you decide to buy the famous Hotan jade, do so with caution. There are many fakes on the markets, so expensive purchases are best made in certified shops or accompanied by a reliable guide. Don't forget to bargain—it is part of the local culture.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and focus on the main thing—exploring the rich history and unique culture of the Silk Road. Be open to new experiences, show respect for local traditions, and the city will reveal its hospitality to you.