How to reach the remote Muzart Volcanic Crater in the Pamirs

Mujig Volcanic Crater is located on the eastern edge of the Pamir Plateau, in Mujig Township, Aksu County. The area features a cluster of low-profile volcanic cones surrounded by wetlands and snow-capped mountains, with few visitors. The road conditions are challenging, but the scenery offers a unique experience unlike any standard route.

Location & Directions

It takes most of the day to travel from Kashgar via Aytak and Bulunkou to Mujy Township. The latter half consists of gravel roads and pastoral tracks that become muddy during the rainy season; standard sedans are not recommended for this route.

There's also a longer route via Taxkorgan. Which path to take depends on current road conditions—confirm with local drivers rather than relying solely on navigation apps.

Documents and Access

Mujie Township is in a border control zone; a border pass is required. When applying, state your destination as Mujie and ensure the details match your ID card. Some road sections have checkpoints; please cooperate with registration.

No official visitor facilities are available near the crater. Access to designated areas is subject to on-site conditions. Do not climb over fences or enter fenced grazing lands used by herders.

What are you looking at?

The volcanic cone is reddish-brown with a pitted surface, surrounded by wetlands and streams. Colors appear darker on cloudy days, while sunny days offer high contrast. Evening side lighting highlights the cone's silhouette.

At over 3,000 meters in elevation, walking too fast can leave you breathless. Viewpoints are scattered; avoid hiking too far just to find the perfect angle. For highlights on geological features, refer to:Xinjiang Canyon Landforms。

Road and Vehicle

The gravel road includes washboard sections and water crossings; vehicles may get stuck after rain. It is recommended that off-road vehicles travel in groups, carrying tow ropes and a spare tire. Mobile signal is intermittent; download offline maps in advance.

Gas stations are only in county towns and townships; fill up before departure. Carry enough water and food—there are no restaurants along the way. Return to the township before dark; do not drive at night.

How to plan the itinerary

A common itinerary spans two days: Day 1 travels from Kashgar to Muji, featuring an afternoon visit to the volcanic crater before staying in a township or returning to Bulunkou. Day 2 heads back to Kashgar via Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake, covering the main highlights of the Pamir region.

If you're short on time, skip Muztagh and focus your energy on Tashkurgan. For a standard 2-day itinerary in the Pamirs, refer to:How to plan a 2-day itinerary for the Pamir Plateau。

Note

Weather changes rapidly at high altitudes; bring windbreakers and rain gear. The soil near the crater rim is loose—do not approach the edge. Livestock graze nearby; slow down when you see cattle or sheep and do not honk your horn.

Take all trash with you—leave no plastic or batteries behind. Do not hammer rocks or collect specimens. Lodging is basic; return the same day if you have high hygiene standards. Southern Xinjiang routes available.Southern Xinjiang Tour Itineraries。

Accommodation in Miji Township is mostly homestays with basic amenities and unreliable hot water. Sleeping bag liners are recommended for added comfort. Dining options in the township are limited; inform your host if you plan to eat dinner early. Strong winds blow near the volcano crater, so secure your hat. Do not step on vegetation while taking photos; alpine grass recovers very slowly. Verify road conditions before entering pastoral routes. If it rains on the day of travel, switch to the standard Pamir route. Families with children should exercise caution due to challenging road conditions and high altitude. Drivers must be familiar with the route and should not rely solely on navigation systems. Before returning, check fuel levels and tire condition.

Mujie is not a casual half-day trip. Treat the road conditions and altitude with seriousness.

Place the crater in daylight; return to town before nightfall.

The turf around the crater is thin; it takes years to recover a new path. Stay on existing vehicle tracks and trails—do not cross the grass just for a photo. Herders care deeply about their pastures; always ask before entering any fenced area.

Skip the trip if it's raining or rain is forecast. Gravel roads become extremely slippery when wet, and water depth in fords is often invisible. Instead, take the standard Pamir route—the scenery will still be stunning.

No signal or supplies near the crater. Fill up your tank and pack enough water and food for a full day before you leave. Travel with at least two vehicles so you can tow each other if you get stuck.

Do not step on the wetlands between volcanic cones. The surface may look dry, but soft mud lies beneath. Follow the tire tracks; do not cut across the grass for a shortcut.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a ticket required to enter Mukiji Volcano Crater?No formal tickets required, but access passes may be needed; some areas are managed locally.

Can a sedan get in?Not recommended. The latter half includes gravel roads and water crossings, which can be tough on the undercarriage. An off-road vehicle is a safer choice.

If you have time and are looking for unique geological sites, consider Muji. Please verify road conditions and required permits beforehand.Online SupportInquire.

Editor's Note: South Xinjiang travel arrangements in the Pamir region are highly seasonal. This article has been verified by China International Travel Service (Xinjiang) based on current seasonal conditions. For confirmation of itinerary pacing and vehicle arrangements, please contact our local travel consultant or explore more Xinjiang travel guides on this site.