Travel and recreation on the lakes of Zhetysu region in Kazakhstan -
Fishing on Lake Sasykkol -
Sasykkol Lake is a picturesque body of water located at the foot of the Dzungarian Alatau, about 30 kilometers from the village of Sarkand. Its name translates from Kazakh as "rotten lake", because reeds grow along the shores of the lake, when the reeds bloom, an unpleasant aroma spreads over the lake. The lake has an elongated shape, its length is 50 kilometers, its width is 15 kilometers, and its maximum depth is 5 meters. The lake is famous for the fact that pink pelican’s nest on it and the richest muskrat lands are located here, which are located in impassable wetlands called "Thousands". The lake contains the island of Kishkin-Araltobe, which is 5 kilometers long, 2.8 kilometers wide, and the Araltobe Peninsula, on which there is a rocky hill with a height of 470 meters above sea level. The lake is home to carp, walleye, marinka, perch and other fish species. Next to Lake m is Lake Alakol, famous for its healing waters.
How to get there and visit -
Sasykkol Lake is located 618 kilometers from the city of Almaty and 36 kilometers from the city of Usharal in the northwestern part of the Alakol basin, the border of the Abay region and Zhetysu region, the Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 46°34'50"N 80°54'53"E
Information -
Lake Sasykkol is of tectonic origin, its water is brackish due to its high mineralization. The lake is shallow, with a maximum depth of up to 4.5 meters, and strongly depends on seasonal precipitation and rivers flowing into it (for example, Tentek). The shores are mostly flat, sometimes swampy, with thickets of reeds, which creates ideal conditions for nesting birds. Flamingos, pelicans, egrets, ducks and other species live here, many of which are listed in the Red Book of Kazakhstan. In spring and autumn, Sasykkol becomes an important transit point for migratory birds, and at this time you can observe grandiose flocks resting on the water. The lake is rich in fish, so the lake is popular with fishermen who come here both from the surrounding villages and from afar. Today, the lake is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. People come here for the silence, the beauty of nature, fishing and bird watching. The view of the lake at sunset is especially fascinating, when its waters turn golden and pink, and birds soar above the surface.
History and legends -
In ancient times, the area of Sasykkol was part of the routes of nomads and the Great Silk Road. Near the lake, archaeologists have found burial mounds of Saka tribes and traces of medieval settlements. Local legends say that the lake was sacred to the Turkic tribes – its waters were considered healing, and nearby rituals were held to ask the spirits of nature for good luck in hunting or healing from diseases. The nomads believed that the lake "breathes": the water level varies depending on the mood of the spirits. For local residents, Sasykkol remains a sacred place. There is a belief that the lake helps to purify the soul: if you swim at dawn, you can remove negative energy. Tourists often come here not only to watch birds, but also to meditate by the water. However, the lake requires careful treatment – due to climate change and economic activity, its ecosystem is vulnerable. The authorities and environmentalists are working to preserve the unique flora and fauna, including the organization of nature reserves and sanctuaries.
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