Karakul

Lake Karakul extends across 25 kilometers in diameter within the Pamir Mountains, featuring a peninsula on its southern shore and an island on the northern side.

The geological formation originated from a substantial impact event that occurred between 25 and 5 million years ago, creating a crater spanning 52 kilometers.

The name Karakul derives from the Kyrgyz language meaning black lake, replacing the earlier Tajik designation Siob in the high-altitude Pamir region.

The eastern shore contains a settlement that functions as a primary base for travelers exploring the lake, which sits at an elevation of 3900 meters.

The lake's water remains brackish due to its endorheic nature, meaning it lacks external drainage, while receiving less than 3 centimeters of precipitation annually.

Location: Murghob District

Elevation above the sea: 3,900 m

Part of: Pamir National Park

GPS coordinates: 39.04000,73.42000

Latest update: May 27, 2025 08:55