Issyk-Kul

The Issyk-Kul is one of the largest lakes in the World. The natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan is called the precious pearl of Asia. The water reservoir is located in the northeastern Region of the Republic, surrounded by the Mountain Ranges Kungei-Ala-Too and Terskey Ala-Too, which belong to the Tien Shan. In terms of water quality, it ranks second after Lake Baikal. The increased salt content and the mild climate prevent the lake from freezing even at minus temperatures.

The Astronauts, who were in flight, were surprised that this object is clearly visible from Space. The Soviet Cosmonaut Alexei Leonov described the lake as a shape that resembles the pattern of the human Eye.

All sources flow only into the Issyk-Kul, not a single river flows out of it. Thanks to this property, minerals are deposited in it, and its unique chemical composition is beneficial for humans. In terms of salinity, the reservoir is superior to all other lakes, but it is five times worse than seawater. The high value of the composition is explained by a combination of elements: chloride, sodium, magnesium, sulfate.

The water is crystal clear and oxygen-rich and looks like the ocean. Depending on weather and light conditions, the liquid changes its colour from azure to saturated blue.

Ancient Chinese writings describe Issyk-Kul as a “warm Sea” called Zhe-Hai. The scientific interest of researchers in the lake only became apparent in the middle of the 19th century. Russian scientists investigated the natural resources of the Lake. Nikolai Mikhailovich Prshevalski bequeathed it, burying his body on a picturesque shore.

On a sunny, clear day you can see through the water the outlines of the ruins of the destroyed ancient city of the Scythians, which is about 2.5 thousand years old. The remains of an unknown civilization were discovered by archaeologists from the Slavonic University in 2006. Scientists have suggested that the city was a lively trading center, as it was located near the Great Silk Road.