Lake Sasykkol
Lake Sasykkol, situated near Lake Alakol on the border of the Abay and Jetysu regions, is an intriguing destination for nature lovers and tourists. While the lake's name may sound peculiar to those familiar with the Kazakh language, it has a fascinating origin. The word «sasyk» refers to something rotten or smelly, alluding to the dense reed beds that line the lake's shores. As these reeds decompose, they emit a distinct odor, pervading the entire coastline.
With a length of 50 km (31 mi), a width of approximately 20 km (12 mi), and an average depth of just over 3 meters (10 ft), Lake Sasykkol ranks as the third largest lake in the East Kazakhstan region and one of the ten largest lakes in Kazakhstan. It features a small peninsula and an island, both named Araltobe. The lake is fed by the Tentek, Ai, and Karakol rivers, while the Jinishkesu River flows out of it, supplying water to Lake Koshkarkol, which is situated between Alakol and Sasykkol.
Summer is the prime season for swimming in Lake Sasykkol, with the average water temperature reaching a pleasant 29°C (84 oF). During the colder months from November to April, the lake's surface freezes. This doesn't deter enthusiastic fishermen from trying their luck, as the lake is home to a variety of fish species such as zander, carp, perch, and more.
The lake attracts a rich diversity of bird species, including cormorants, swans, ducks, geese, herons, loons, pelicans, gulls, sandpipers, and others. The surrounding area is also inhabited by various wildlife, such as muskrats, foxes, and wild boars.
Lake Sasykkol forms a part of the Alakol system of lakes, and its northern coast is encompassed within the Alakol Nature Reserve. Consequently, the lake serves as both a recreational destination and an object of ecological, cultural, and educational tourism.
How to get there?
Lake Sasykkol is accessible from various locations, including Almaty, Semey, and Ust-Kamenogorsk. If you're departing from Almaty, the journey spans approximately 618 km (384 mi) and can be completed in around 8 hours by car, following the A3 highway.
Alternatively, those traveling from Semey or Ust-Kamenogorsk can also reach Lake Sasykkol by car, embarking on an approximately 8-hour journey covering a distance of nearly 500 km (311 mi). The route encompasses the R-138 and A3 highways.
Other tourist attractions near Lake Sasykkol:
- Lake Alakol
- Lake Jalanashkol
- Lake Balkhash
- Lake Zaysan
- The Village of Cherkassk
- Arkan-Kergen Gorge
- The Village of Lepsi
- Dzungarian Alatau Mountains
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