Qarokul, Mountain lake in Pamir Mountains, Tajikistan
Qarokul is a mountain lake in the Pamir Mountains situated at an elevation of about 3,960 meters. It spans roughly 25 kilometers across two distinct basins separated by a peninsula extending from the southern shore.
The basin formed roughly 23 to 25 million years ago following a meteorite impact. Scientists discovered this origin in 1987 through satellite imagery analysis.
The Kyrgyz people living near the lake practice traditional sheep and yak herding, which has adapted to the extreme mountain environment. Their way of life reflects generations of knowledge about surviving in this high-altitude region.
The lake is reachable via routes from the town of Aqtash, with transport services available during warmer months. Roads stay clearer of snow during this period, making the journey more manageable.
The water is salty and has no outlet streams, despite reaching depths of up to 230 meters. This isolated body of water creates an ecosystem completely cut off from external water sources.
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