Karakash River, Mountain river in Xinjiang, China.
The Karakash River is a mountain river in Xinjiang that rises in the Kunlun Mountains and flows northwest through rugged highland terrain toward the Tarim Basin. The river runs through deep valleys and carries sediments rich in minerals from the peaks above.
The river valley was for centuries a corridor used by traders moving between Yarkand and Leh via the Karakoram Pass. Caravans carrying goods in both directions depended on this route to cross some of the most demanding terrain in Asia.
People along the river still search the banks for nephrite jade carried down from the mountains, a practice passed from generation to generation. The pale green and white stones are worked into ornaments and remain central to local trade.
Visiting the river area requires special permits because of its location near international borders, so it is worth checking current entry requirements well before planning a trip. The terrain is remote and can be difficult, so preparation and local guidance are a good idea.
The name Karakash means "black jade" in Turkic, yet the river is also famous for its white nephrite, which is rarer and more sought after than the black variety. Both types of jade can be found in the same riverbed, which is unusual for a single waterway.
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