The road from Kashgar to Tashkurgan climbs from the Tarim basin onto the Pamir plateau and is part of the Karakoram Highway, which continues over the Khunjerab Pass into Pakistan. The drive crosses several passes above 4,000 meters, and the landscape changes from desert oasis to bare high-altitude plateau within a few hours.
Karakul Lake
The lake sits at about 3,600 meters, roughly 190 kilometers from Kashgar. It is brackish and deep blue, backed by Muztagh Ata, a broad glaciated peak of 7,546 meters known as the Father of Ice Mountains for its heavy snow cover. The view of the peak reflected in the lake on a still morning is the reason the drive is worth it. Kyrgyz herders live around the shore in yurts and graze yaks and sheep on the surrounding pasture, and a night in a yurt camp here is a common option.
Further along the road
Beyond the lake the road continues to Tashkurgan, a Tajik town with a ruined stone fort and dramatic mountain scenery, and then toward the Khunjerab Pass. Side valleys lead to the White Sand Mountain and White Sand Lake, and to the Subash and Muztagh Ata glaciers.
Practical notes
Permits have historically been required for travel in this border region, and requirements change, so check with a local agency before setting out. The altitude is significant: spend a night in Kashgar first and take the drive slowly. Weather can close the road, particularly in winter and early spring, and the pass road is often impassable from November to April. Bring warm layers, sun protection and cash, since there are few services beyond small roadside restaurants.
