Karakuri Lake

Introducing Karakuri Lake
Karakul Lake is a high-altitude lake nestled 189 km (117 miles) southwest of Kashgar city. Karakul Lake is renowned for its stunning, crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, which offers a serene and picturesque landscape that captivates travelers and photographers alike. It is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural crossroads, where diverse ethnic groups such as the Kyrgyz and Tajiks maintain their traditional nomadic lifestyles, adding a rich cultural tapestry to the area’s allure.

Karakuri Lake Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Ka La Ku Le Hu 喀拉库勒湖
• Best Time to Visit: May to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 2-3 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Nature, Mountaineering
• Surface Area: 10 square kilometers (3.86 square miles)
• Average Depth: 30 meters (98 ft)
• Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY 45
• Address: At the foot of Muztagh Ata, Akto County, Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region

What to expect at Karakuri Lake

At the lakefront, there is grassland with roaming flocks and herds. At dawn, Karakuri Lake looks as pure as a jade mirror. When the sun rises, the lake changes colors in the course of a few minutes from mauve to golden and then to light pink. The snow-covered mountain, green grass and livestock form reflections in the mirror-like water, creating a fair and charming picture of Karakuri Lake.

 

At the lakeside, there are yurts and frame houses of Tajik ethnic group providing rooms and board for visitors. You can also go out on the small rafts and enjoy yourselves on the lake. A reception center near the lake facilitates rentals, yachts, camels, horses etc. in accordance with your needs.

How to get to Karakuri Lake
• Take a bus at Kashgar Coach Station to Karakuri Lake.
• Rent a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle free private transfer from hotels in Kashgar to Karakuri Lake.

Additional travel advice on Karakuri Lake
• Warm jackets are necessary as the temperature is low during night.
• If you want to spend another day here, you can stay in the Mongolia ger (CNY 40 per person) or in the brick house (CNY50 per person).