Whether they’re just hard to reach or little-known, off-the-beaten-path mountain lakes are often overlooked as traditional tourism destinations. However, these treasures are often caretakers of secrets as deep as the still, blue waters below. High in the Tien Shan mountains of Central Asia lies a glistening alpine lake shrouded in centuries of mystery from its origin high on the Kyrgyz Steppe and its military weapons testing facilities. Issyk-Kul, near the Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan border, is the world’s second-largest and second-highest mountain lake after this overlooked South American pearl high in the Andes. Moreover, it is the second-largest saltwater lake in the world after the Caspian Sea, previously having over 100 streams draining into the lake with no way out.
Being the second-largest alpine lake in the world, Issyk-Kul’s climate varies considerably on the west and east sides of the lake. The region is full of incredible discoveries from hundreds of species of unique flora, fauna, and wildlife on both the drier west side and the greener eastern shore. Issyk-Kul rests at 5,272 feet above sea level. Though the winter temperatures around Issyk-Kul become frigid, the lake rarely freezes over due to its high salinity. In the Kyrgyz language, Issyk-Kul translates to “warm lake,” though don’t let the name fool you. During the warmest months of the year, the water temperature reaches about 68 degrees, but the cool water feels incredible on a hot summer afternoon. Oh, and I forgot to mention — the lake is as clear as can be and has something for everyone, from beach bums who want to kick back on the Kyrgyz Riviera to Soviet history buffs.
Relaxing at glistening Issyk-Kul
Like some of the best lakeside towns in the U.S., visitors from the former USSR and Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek, flock to Issyk-Kul to kick back during the summer months. The drive is about four hours, but during this peak season, many reputable local and international tour agencies also offer trips to and around Issyk-Kul. If you don’t speak Russian or Kyrgyz, check for the company’s strong social media presence in English on Instagram before booking. The lakeside has been a popular getaway in Kyrgyzstan for decades. During the Soviet era, tourists from across the USSR, as well as Young Pioneers (their official scouting program), came to bathe and relax in the placid lake waters for their mystical healing properties. Many of the best beaches and places for a dip are located in the middle of the north and south shores.
If you’re looking for a sandy beach with Western (or even Soviet-style) resort accommodation, the small resort towns of Cholpon-Ata or Kurskoye on the north shore are your best bet. The Karven Four Seasons resort offers a private beach, rental equipment, and sporting amenities for guests, along with scenic views of the lake and mountains. For a more peaceful and quiet stay, Hotel Silence lives up to its name, according to TripAdvisor and Google Maps reviews. If you’re looking for unspoilt beaches and a window into local culture, the small beach villages of Tong and Tosor on the southern shore are more undeveloped. That being said, both beaches are popular spots for glamping in a traditional Kyrgyz yurt. Yurts are so important culturally that the inside of a yurt’s roof is at the center of Kyrgyzstan’s flag.
Out-of-this-world hikes and hospitality
