Lake Son-Kul, also known as Sonkyol or Sonkul, is located in the northwestern part of the Naryn region of Kyrgyzstan. It is the second-largest lake in the country after Issyk-Kul.
The name “Son-Kul” is translated from Kyrgyz as “lake of wild ducks.” The lake is situated at an altitude of 3,016 meters above sea level, surrounded by the mountain ranges of the Tien Shan. It covers an area of 278 square kilometers, stretching approximately 28 kilometers in length and 18 kilometers in width. The average depth is 8.6 meters, with a maximum depth of about 14 meters.
Like any place with a majestic and mysterious landscape, Son-Kul is shrouded in numerous legends. One of them tells the story of a cruel khan who once ruled in the area where the lake now lies. He gathered the most beautiful girls from across the Tien Shan for his harem. Their suffering and sorrow moved the mountains, and one day, the land beneath the khan’s palace collapsed, flooding his fortress and the surrounding lands. Thus, according to legend, Lake Son-Kul was formed.
A portion of the lake is part of the Karatal-Japyryk State Nature Reserve, established in 1994. The waters of Son-Kul are home to various fish species, including whitefish, osman, and loach, but before 1959, there were no fish in the lake—it was artificially stocked. The surrounding area is a haven for numerous bird species, while the mountains are inhabited by snow leopards, foxes, and wolves. There are almost no forests here, but many medicinal herbs grow in the area, along with rare edelweiss flowers.
The lake is fed by melting glaciers, and the Son-Kul River flows out of it, eventually joining the Naryn River. From late September to early June, the lake is covered with ice. In winter, temperatures can drop to -20°C, and the roads leading to the lake become impassable. As a result, reaching Son-Kul during the cold season is nearly impossible.
During the warmer months, the lake attracts travelers with its azure waters and picturesque green meadows. In summer, herds of sheep and horses graze on these pastures, while shepherds live in traditional yurts set up on seasonal pastures, known as jailoo. When the cold sets in, the yurts are dismantled.
For centuries, the summer pastures of Son-Kul have attracted herders from Kochkor, Naryn, and At-Bashy. This provides visitors with a unique opportunity not only to stay in a cozy yurt but also to taste the traditional Kyrgyz beverage—kumis. This fermented dairy drink, made from mare’s milk using a special process, is known for its health benefits and has long been considered a symbol of vitality and longevity.
The journey from Bishkek to Son-Kul takes 6-7 hours by car. Part of the road is paved, but some sections are rough and unpaved. Visitors can reach the western shore via the Kalmak-Ashuu and Terskey-Torpok passes, while the southern shore is accessible through the Moldo-Ashuu pass. Hiking and horseback riding enthusiasts can take routes through the Chil-Bel, Uzbek, or Tuz-Ashuu passes.
For travelers wishing to experience the nomadic lifestyle, local residents offer accommodation in traditional felt-insulated yurts. Even in summer, daytime temperatures rarely exceed +15°C, and nighttime frosts are common. However, the yurts are equipped with wood-burning stoves, ensuring warmth and comfort. Additionally, visitors can try horseback riding or fishing at the lake.
The surroundings of Son-Kul bear traces of ancient civilizations. Rock carvings, left by nomads centuries ago, can be found in the area.
On the northern shore of the lake stands the mausoleum of Tailak Baatyr, built in the late 19th century. This Kyrgyz national hero lived in the 18th–19th centuries and defended the lands of present-day Kyrgyzstan from external threats. Beside him lies his ally and brother, Atanay.
Not far from Son-Kul is the village of Kok-Oi, known for its Emel mineral spring, which is said to have a composition similar to Borjomi mineral water.
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