I’m planning a trip from Osh to Kashgar and have two options: hitchhiking or taking a bus/taxi.
I’ve heard the bus runs only once a week and takes about 20 hours. The taxi option is too expensive for me, though Osh Guesthouse helps arrange shared taxis. I might give them a call to check.
The more adventurous option is hitchhiking. Does anyone know if there are buses to Sary-Tash? My idea is to camp overnight there and start hitchhiking early in the morning towards the border. Is this doable, and how much time might it take?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
There is indeed a bus that runs from Osh to Kashgar once a week. It departs Osh on Sundays at 8:00 PM and returns from Kashgar to Osh on Wednesdays or Thursdays, though I’m not sure about the exact time for the return trip. The fare is $85.
Walking across the border isn’t allowed—you must use a vehicle. I’m unsure if hitchhiking is permitted, but I’ve heard it’s rare. Border guards might get upset or outright forbid it. Can someone confirm this?
Also, I’ve attached a photo of the bus with contact details if anyone needs it!
Walking across the border isn’t allowed
It is possible to cross on foot via Irkeshtam Pass. I’ve done it myself. You’ll need to take a taxi through the neutral zone up to the customs checkpoint. From there, you can catch a shared taxi to Kashgar.
Also, there is no need to stop in Sary-Tash. In Irkeshtam, there are plenty of small wagons you can sleep in for 50-100 som. In the morning, you can proceed straight to the border checkpoint.
For those considering hitchhiking, I’ve recently done this route! Here’s a breakdown of the journey:
Osh to Sary-Tash: Buses and shared taxis run frequently. Expect to pay around $8-$10 for a ride. Hitchhiking is also an option here, as local drivers are usually friendly.
Sary-Tash to Irkeshtam: Hitchhiking is possible, but cars are less frequent, especially outside peak hours. Start early in the morning for a better chance of catching a ride.
Irkeshtam Pass: You’ll need transport to cross the neutral zone—shared taxis are available for about $5. If you plan to walk, be aware it’s a long stretch, and some sections may not allow pedestrians.
Irkeshtam to Kashgar: From the border, collective taxis to Kashgar cost around $20.
If you’re camping in Sary-Tash, bring extra layers! It gets freezing at night, even in summer.
A small update for anyone planning this trip:
I took this route last month, and it was smooth. Hitchhiking, though possible, is tricky in winter due to the harsh weather conditions. Safe travels!