Karakol

3 42.50°, 78.39° NE
About location

Karakol sits at the eastern end of Issyk-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan, where the Terskey Ala-Too range rises south of the town. Founded as a Russian military outpost in the 19th century, it developed into the principal urban centre of the lake’s eastern district. Broad, tree-lined streets retain a largely low-rise character, with bazaars, shops and public services concentrated around the centre. Karakol’s Dungan Mosque, built of wood without metal nails in the early 20th century, reflects the town’s Dungan community, while the wooden Holy Trinity Cathedral is another enduring landmark. The town is also a practical base for journeys around Issyk-Kul and into the surrounding Tien Shan.

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