Lake Chatyr-Köl lies between the crests of At-Bashi and Torugart-Too at 3,350 m elevation. It is Kyrgyzstan's third largest lake, covering an area of 180 km². The lake's name literally means "celestial lake" in Kyrgyz, likely due to its high-altitude location.

The lake is a Ramsar site of global importance for biodiversity. It is known as a resting place for several species of wild birds, though the lake contains no fish—only freshwater shrimp.

A Brief History

The lake was discovered on March 11, 1859 by Chokan Valikhanov, the renowned traveler and Central Asian explorer.

Lake Chatyr-Köl

Chatyr-Köl is an alpine lake that is endorheic and relatively shallow (reaching depths of up to 20 m), extending 23 km long and 10 km wide. It is fed primarily by glaciers. The basin occupies the lowest part of the tectonic depression situated between the At-Bashi and Torugart-Too ranges at an altitude of 3,350 meters above sea level.

In summer, the region around the lake experiences relatively cool but pleasant temperatures around 10°C, while in winter temperatures can sometimes drop below -20°C, which explains why the lake is generally frozen from October through April.

The landscape surrounding the lake and accompanying you throughout your circuit is spectacular. On foot or horseback, you can explore the surroundings and enjoy views of the lake's blue waters reflecting the snow-capped mountain peaks.

A hiking excursion from Tash Rabat allows you to discover fascinating landscapes. The ascent is possible in 4-5 hours or 8 to 9 hours of walking round trip without descending to the lake. However, the difficulty of the altitude and sometimes unstable climate can make the trek challenging.

It is therefore preferable to undertake this hike at a leisurely pace over two days to fully appreciate the location. Be aware, however, that since the lake is situated in a border zone with China, you will need to obtain a border permit to access it without difficulty. To enjoy a panoramic view from the pass without descending to the lake itself, no permit is required.

The lake's shores are extremely marshy and can be dangerous if you venture into them, so do not underestimate the value of having a guide.

Home to numerous animal species, you may hope to spot a snow leopard in the distance or encounter marmots, mountain goats, and golden eagles along the way.

A few kilometers south of the Torugart-Too mountain range, you can discover the Little Chatyr Köl, connected to the main lake by a canal. Nearby, mineral springs, a nature reserve, and a mausoleum offer pleasant stopping points.

Before the Dolon Pass, a road branches west toward Lake Chatyr-Köl. You reach the lake after approximately fifty kilometers of rough road.

You can also reach it from the Tash Rabat caravanserai on foot or horseback. To reach the lake typically takes 5 to 6 hours.