Central Asia's Enchanting Lakes
Unveiling Issyk-Kul: Kyrgyzstan's Crown Jewel Lake
For many travelers, Kyrgyzstan's Issyk-Kul Lake is a must-see. Surrounded by majestic mountains on all sides, it takes a full two days to drive around its perimeter. This vastness creates a spectacular panorama, with snow-capped peaks seemingly dissolving into the distance. Gazing across the water, it's easy to mistake it for an ocean – a true testament to its immense size.
Giant Among Giants
Issyk-Kul holds several impressive titles. It's the second-largest saline lake on Earth (we'll explore the first in a future blog) and the second-largest alpine lake globally, trailing only Lake Titicaca in the Andes. Furthermore, it ranks as the seventh deepest lake and the tenth largest by volume.Issyk-Kul translates to "Warm Lake," which is a bit of a head-scratcher. At an altitude of 1,607 meters and a depth of 700 meters, it's located in a region known for harsh winters.
Snow often surrounds the lake, and even summer brings no tropical warmth. However, the high salt content prevents Issyk-Kul from freezing over, making it a true natural marvel.
Unforgettable Kaindy and Kol-say Lakes: Kazakhstan.
The peaks jutting out of the water are actually dry fir trunks. The trees themselves became submerged in the mountain lake. In any other location, they would have rotted away long ago, but in Kaindy, the cold water (even in July, it doesn’t rise above 6°C) has preserved the trees perfectly. On clear days, they are clearly visible through the water, allowing many divers to explore this enchanting underwater forest. "Kaindy" in Kazakh translates to "birch,"which is ironic because
Lake Kaindy is surrounded by a magnificent coniferous forest. The reason is simple: below the lake lies the largest birch grove in the entire Tien Shan, which lent its name to the gorge, the river, and the lake.
A Forest Reborn in Water: A Shared History with Lake Kol-Sai
The story of Kaindy's submerged forest is intertwined with its neighbor, Lake Kol-Sai. A little over a century ago, in 1911, a powerful earthquake shook the region. The tremors triggered a massive landslide that dammed the riverbeds in both valleys, creating these picturesque lakes. What were once thriving coniferous forests were suddenly submerged in the cold waters.
Despite its enigmatic appearance, Lake Kaindy's history is a well-documented tale of nature's transformative power. The earthquake that birthed the lake also preserved a unique ecosystem. Unfortunately, recent mudflows have posed a threat to this delicate balance. However, the resilience of this place and its captivating beauty continue to draw visitors from all corners of the globe.
Unfortunately, there is a risk that this magical place will disappear; 2011 mudflow almost destroyed the lake, decreasing water level to 3 meters and carried away quite some of the dry firs.
Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve
Kyrgyzstan, nestled in the heart of Central Asia, boasts numerous hidden gems with breathtaking landscapes waiting to be discovered. One such gem gaining rapid recognition is the Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve. Sary-Chelek captivates visitors with its uniquely stunning scenery, pristine nature, diverse wildlife, and several enchanting mountain lakes that mirror the star-filled sky at night. A highlight of the experience is encountering authentic shepherds tending their herds,
offering a glimpse into Kyrgyz nomadic life. "Leave the road, take the trails," as Pythagoras said, leads travelers off the beaten path to immerse themselves in nature as it was meant to be experienced.
Amidst this breathtaking scenery, you'll encounter the true spirit of Kyrgyzstan – the nomadic shepherds. Their presence adds a touch of authenticity to your journey, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life that has been passed down through generations. Embarking on Untamed Paths As you venture beyond the beaten track, you'll discover the essence of Sary-Chelek's allure. The trails lead you into uncharted territories, where
nature unfolds in all its raw beauty. Embrace the spirit of adventure as you explore this untamed wilderness, leaving the familiar behind and immersing yourself in the wonders that await. A Sanctuary for Nature Lovers Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a wealth of opportunities to explore and discover. Hike through verdant forests, trek up rugged mountainsides, or simply relax by the shores of a tranquil lake. With every step, you'll be captivated by the reserve's diverse flora and fauna, including snow leopards, bears, and a variety of birdlife.
Kel-Suu Lake: A Hidden Gem Unveiled
Lake Kel-Suu is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kyrgyzstan. Kel-Suu is located in the Aksai valley of the Naryn region. The lake, which is located at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level, appeared after a landslide in the 1980s. The resulting bowl - bounded on one side by sheer cliffs, on the other by Mount Sary-Beles - began to fill as a result of melting glaciers.Kel-Suu means "incoming water". Glaciers melt and the lake collects water, it leaves very slowly.
But in 2018, the water went down several hundred meters, and after a while the lake reached its previous level. In summer, the water level should rise due to more active melting of glaciers, but this does not
happen. That is, the lake is completely unpredictable. Locals joke that before coming here, it is better for tourists to ask if there is water in Kel–Suu. The length of the lake is 9 kilometers, the width is from 500 to 2000 meters. But the depth is only 5-10 meters.To get here, you need to pass two border posts. It is impossible to get to the lake without a special pass. In addition, it is impossible to get to Kel-Suu by car, and part of the way will have to be
overcome on horseback or on foot. Nevertheless, more and more tourists come here every year. The picturesque views and turquoise color of the water are worth all the difficulties.
Tranquility Song Kol: Nomadic Serenity
Song Kol, another must-visit destination in Kyrgyzstan, is often on travelers' lists. Located about a six-hour drive from Bishkek, it's feasible for an overnight trip for those short on time. Most visitors stay for one or two nights as part of a broader Kyrgyzstan itinerary. Sitting at a lofty 3,016 meters above sea level, Song Kol is significantly higher than Issyk Kul. Despite being smaller in size—measuring about 29 kilometers across at its widest point and 13 meters deep—it still
impresses with its vastness. Unlike Issyk Kul, Song Kol is a freshwater lake. Driving around its perimeter takes considerable time due to the absence of paved roads near the lake. To reach the shore, travelers
often need to venture off established tracks, adding to the adventure of exploring this remote and stunning location.During the summer months, roughly from May to September, Song Kol transforms into not just a tourist hotspot but a vibrant nomadic hub. Families and communities migrate to the lake's shores, establishing yurt camps where they live alongside their families and livestock. This traditional nomadic lifestyle contrasts with their winter routines,
during which they inhabit more modern buildings in towns and villages at lower elevations. Here, children attend school, and adults engage in regular jobs, blending traditional nomadic practices with modern comforts and opportunities. This harmonious coexistence offers a unique perspective on the benefits of both lifestyles, showcasing a balanced and productive approach to living in Kyrgyzstan's diverse landscapes.