Karakul Lake

Karakul Lake

Guide Karakul Lake is located at the foot of Muztagh Ata, known as the "Father of Ice Mountains," 191 kilometers from Kashgar. The China-Pakistan Highway runs along the lakeside, and it is not far from the base camp for climbing Muztagh Ata (a 5-hour journey on foot or by camel). Introduction "Karakul" means "Black Sea." At an elevation of 3,600 meters, the lake is 30 meters deep with a total area of 10 square kilometers. It is a high-altitude glacial erosion and moraine lake. Its surface reflects the towering and mysterious Muztagh Ata, with snow-capped peaks and mirrored waters creating an exceptionally enchanting landscape.

The grasslands around the lake, such as Subash Grassland, are lush with water and vegetation, dotted with herds of cattle and sheep. There are Kyrgyz yurts and stone houses, as well as specially designated mountaineering camps. Thirty kilometers north of the lake lies the Bulunkou Transport Station, which also provides accommodation and meals for tourists.

Tip: The best time for hiking here is between May and October. Food/Accommodation/Shopping: Mongolian yurt accommodations cost 40 RMB per person, while brick house accommodations cost 50 RMB per person.

Kashgar, Xinjiang