Karakul (China) 喀拉库勒湖

About Karakul (China)

Still conditions can create striking reflections, while wind changes the colour and texture of the water. It is a landscape stop on a longer Pamir journey, with nearby settlements forming part of the lived-in surroundings. This is the Xinjiang lake, not the similarly named lake in Tajikistan.

The name Karakul means black lake. At 3,600 metres, it lies near the meeting point of three mountain ranges on the Pamir plateau, 196 kilometres southwest of Kashgar in Xinjiang. Surrounding summits remain snow-covered throughout the year. Meltwater from nearby glaciers strongly influences both the lake water and its sediment chemistry. Two Kyrgyz settlements stand along the shore: a small group of yurts and a village of stone houses on the western shore. The water ranges in colour from dark green to azure and light blue, with reflections of the surrounding mountains.

What to look for

• The lake provides views toward Muztagh Ata and the Kongur mountain group.
• Changing wind and light transform the water and reflections.

Location & getting there

Getting to Karakul (China)

Arrange the permitted road journey along G314 from Kashgar toward Tashkurgan and specify Karakul Lake in Akto County. Confirm the current entry and document requirements for your passport before departure, and use designated visitor stopping areas.