Sonkel, Kyrgyzstan

Tian Shan mountains conceal many strange secrets. In one of their Talkessel is located Sonkel lake. Its height above sea level forms 3 016 meters. Despite the impressive size, the lake is quite flat, its maximum depth is only 14 meters. The lake is surrounded by the incredibly beautiful meadows that the locals use for pasturing. The wonderful Hochgebirgssee is rich in fish. There are rare species of fish, such as Tibetan char and carp fish.

The surroundings of the lake have a rich fauna, more than 50 bird species live on its banks. From the fresh water lake springs the river of the same name, which is fed by the 18 mountain streams. Excursions to the lake are offered in the period from the end of maize to the end of September for the tourists. At other seasons, the mountain lake is covered with ice. Sonkel is as found not only for ecological, but also for ethnographic tourism. Travelers will be able to visit some interesting Kyrgyz villages and get to know the culture of the local population. The old village of Tchaek is the closest to the lake. Next - Lake Sarez