The World's Second-Largest Mountain Lake Is An Alpine Gem Famous For Scenic Hikes And Beaches

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. 

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.

On your three-hour drive on A365 from Bishkek to Balykchy, on the west side of Issyk-Kul, you'll pass through the incredibly scenic Boom Gorge, along with a massive Kyrgyz flag on the hillside. You'll feel like you've crossed the high deserts of southern Idaho to reach the lake, with Arizona-like red rocks or Colorado-esque high altitude adventures just beyond Issyk-Kul's shore.

The photogenic landscapes of the gorgeous Tian Shan mountains (and the altitude) change from desert canyons and wind-carved sandstone cliffs to lost, alpine rivers with magnificent waterfalls in the span of a few miles. On the southern side, don't miss hiking near Jeti-Ögüz, "the seven bulls," one of the best and most accessible day hikes in the country, as well as trekking in Skazka "Fairytale" Canyon and to Barskoon Waterfall, where Yuri Gagarin, the first person in space, was commemorated for taking a vacation after returning to earth (and there is a large bust of his face). From personal experience, the hikes are truly out of this world.

On your way, stop at a Globus or Narodniy supermarket to pick up cash and all items you would need for a hike or picnic on the lake, as well as some chocolates. One key point: Kyrgyz hospitality is as incredible as the views. In rural areas, much of the diet is comprised of meat and dairy products, and locals will very likely welcome you to their yurt for the best hot meal they can provide. If you make local friends, they will be incredibly touched if you offer them some small sweets or souvenirs from your home.