Things To Do
in Digar
Digar is a small city in Xinjiang, China, positioned at 42.685 latitude and 89.7711 longitude. The town blends Uyghur, Han, and Kazakh influences, which you can taste in its markets and tea houses. Ancient walls, dusty plazas, and desert landscapes frame daily life here.
Visitors come for authentic cultural experiences, affordable street food, and access to nearby oases and steppe trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Digar and check in to a cozy local guesthouse surrounded by stunning mountain views. Spend the morning acclimatizing to the altitude as you take a leisurely stroll through the village, observing the traditional architecture and welcoming locals. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local specialties to fuel your adventures ahead.
After lunch, embark on a guided hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the nearby mountains. Discover hidden valleys and ancient stone carvings while learning about the region's rich culture from your knowledgeable guide. Don't forget to capture the vibrant scenery with your camera.
As the sun sets, indulge in a traditional Digar dinner featuring flavors of the region. Engage in conversation with fellow travelers and locals over a fire, sharing stories and laughter under the stars. End your night with a peaceful sleep, re-energizing for the adventures to come.
Begin your day by visiting the local market, vibrant with colors and sounds of vendors selling fresh produce and handmade crafts. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you sample various street foods, engaging with friendly shopkeepers along the way. Capture the essence of Digar by taking photos of the bustling market life.
In the afternoon, join a workshop to learn traditional crafts such as weaving or pottery from skilled artisans in the community. This hands-on experience allows you to appreciate the meticulous work that goes into creating these beautiful pieces. You'll walk away with a newfound respect for local artistry and a unique souvenir from your trip.
Return to your guesthouse and enjoy another delightful dinner, perhaps trying a dish you haven't tasted yet. Spend your evening relaxing, perhaps playing games or engaging in storytelling with other guests. This communal atmosphere fosters friendships that will enrich your travel experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥪Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural blend of Uyghur and Han influences
- Access to desert landscapes and oasis towns
- Affordability and authenticity in street food
- Limited English in rural areas
- Harsh summer heat and variable weather
- Occasional travel restrictions or visa processes in border areas
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello (Mandarin)
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Qǐngwèn, cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
- "Assalamu alaykum" - Hello (Uyghur greeting)
- "Rakhmat" - Thank you (Uyghur)
- "Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Digar
Visit one of these nice places.
The ancient fortifications glow with warm light as the day begins, perfect for silhouettes and wide desert horizons.
Underground irrigation channels with circular wells create geometric patterns in soft evening light.
Rolling dunes and palm-lined oases offer dramatic contrasts and long shadows for landscape shots.
Intricate tilework, arched portals, and prayer lamps provide rich architectural photography.
Food in Digar
Digar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juicy skewers grilled over charcoal, best at night markets; pair with flatbread.
Must-Try!
Spicy chicken with potatoes and peppers served over wide noodles or bread.
Chewy noodles in a rich lamb broth with carrots and herbs.
Rice cooked with carrots, onions, and tender meat for a hearty bowl.
Fresh bread baked in clay ovens, served with strong tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning-to-night market with stalls selling spices, nuts, dried fruits, and grilled snacks.
Street stalls offering kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and local pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or handshake; address elders with respect; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Modest clothing is appreciated in religious sites and rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Bargaining is common in markets; do so with a smile and patience.
Safety
Tipping in Digar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely expected in ordinary restaurants; you may tip tour guides or hotel staff small amounts as a gesture of appreciation.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are common in urban areas; ATMs are available in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings with warm afternoons; a good time for city walks and hillside hikes; layers recommended.
Very hot and dry; carry water, sun protection, and light clothing; many desert trails are best at sunrise or sunset.
Mild temperatures and clear skies; ideal for photography and longer excursions.
Cold, with chilly nights; some attractions may have reduced hours; pack insulated layers.
Digar at Night
Hiking in Digar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trail with red rock formations and sunrise views.
Longer multi-day hike passing through oases, dunes, and steppe scenery.
Airports
How to reach Digar by plane.
Major hub in Xinjiang with connections to major Chinese cities and some international flights.
Gateway to western Xinjiang; frequent domestic services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group in Xinjiang with a distinct language, music, and cuisine.
Significant community in urban centers, contributing to business and education.
Smaller community with nomadic heritage and cross-border ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional activity tied to livestock herding and nomadic cultures; often available near oasis towns.
Cultural sports featured in festivals and local gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Digar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in noodle and vegetable dishes; in Mandarin, say 'Wǒ chī sù' to indicate vegetarian; in Uyghur, ask for a veggie-forward meal when possible.