History of Issyk-Kul
Issyk-Kul, the pearl of Central Asia, is rich in its fascinating history that began a millennium ago. According to the legend, this lake emerged due to a stunning earthquake that caused the city to sink into the underworld, and the depression formed as a result was filled with water. This mysterious process gave the world Issyk-Kul, which has become a symbol of both natural beauty and mysterious forces of nature.
Issyk-Kul is first mentioned in Chinese chronicles from the 2nd century BC under the name of Zhe-Hai, which translates as "warm sea". These ancient records emphasize the importance of the lake in the cultural and commercial life of the region on the ancient Silk Road. Important events are associated with the Great Silk Road era, when Issyk-Kul became an oasis for travelers and traders, attracting a diversity of cultures and riches.
In the 19th century, the first serious studies of the lake began, revealing its unique geographical features. However, a real turning point in the history of Issyk-Kul occurred in 2006 when archaeological excavations, led by the Vice President of the Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan, Vladimir Ploskikh, discovered an ancient civilization on its bottom, dating back at least 2,500 years. This discovery expanded the understanding of the region's history and underscored the importance of Issyk-Kul as a place holding ancient secrets.
Today, Issyk-Kul does not only embody the beauty of nature and the richness of its cultural heritage, but also continues to attract the attention of scientists and history enthusiasts with its mysterious and multifaceted past.
Interesting Places
Karakol (1869): One of the oldest towns in the region, known for its wooden constructions, including the Old Russian Orthodox Church built in the 19th century.
Tian Shan Mountains: An ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering numerous opportunities for trekking and skiing.
Feichang Gorge (Feichang Canyon): Located northeast of the lake, Feichang Gorge is known for its colorful rocks and formations, providing unique landscapes with vivid hues created by natural processes.
Jeti-Oguz Gorge: Also known as the "Seven Bulls," this gorge on the western shore of the lake is famous for its tall red rocks resembling the heads of bulls. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views and hike trails, including the well-known "Broken Heart" stone.
Barskoon Coast: Barskoon is a picturesque area on the northern shore where mountains meet the water. Here, visitors can enjoy sandy beaches and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, creating an impressive contrast.
Bel-Ayrek (Svetlaya Peninsula): This peninsula on the southeast of the lake offers magnificent views and shallow, clear waters. Bel-Ayrek is also known for its thermal springs, making it an attractive place for relaxation.
Jurgantai Gorge: Located on the northern side of Issyk-Kul, this gorge is renowned for its natural beauty, waterfalls cascading down the rocks, and stunning landscapes. Jurgantai offers excellent opportunities for hiking and photography.
Blue Bay (Zhar-Bulak): This beautiful location on the western shore is known for its turquoise waters and stunning beaches. Blue Bay attracts tourists with its pristine waters and picturesque surroundings.
Tamchy-Tash (Stone-Berry): Located on the southwest shore, Tamchy-Tash is known for its colorful stone formations shaped by erosion over centuries. The unique shapes and colors of the rocks make this place distinct.
Kozyr-Sai (Goat Ridge): Located on the northern shore near the village of Bokonbayevo, Kozyr-Sai is a scenic canyon with tall red cliffs and green forests. Visitors can stroll along trails and enjoy breathtaking views.
Barskoon Sand Dune (Sary-Bulak): On the southern shore of the lake, Sary-Bulak is a sand dune known as "Barskoon." This is a unique spot where the sand dune merges with green pastures and the lake creates a mesmerizing landscape.
Kel-Tor: Positioned on the eastern shore of the lake, Kel-Tor is a mountain peak providing stunning views of Issyk-Kul. Tourists can enjoy picturesque sunsets and sunrises.
Altyn Arashan: A picturesque valley on the eastern shore of Issyk-Kul in the Tian Shan Mountains, a few hours' drive from Karakol. This popular tourist destination attracts visitors with its nature, mountain air, and thermal springs.
Karagul: This beautiful gorge, located on the northeast shore, is known for its wild and mountainous landscapes. Tourists can hike and enjoy the clean air.
Arabel Plateau: A unique natural formation located at an altitude of about 2,200 meters in the northern foothills of the Tian Shan, near Lake Sary-Chelek. This place is located within the Sary-Chelek National Park and offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Valley of Flowers: In spring, especially in May and June, the Arabel Plateau turns into the Valley of Flowers. A multitude of colourful flowers such as tulips, daffodils and irises bloom, creating a unique carpet of flowers and attracting many florists and tourists.
Grigoryevskoye Gorge: A picturesque gorge located on the eastern shore of Issyk-Kul in the Kyrgyz Range. This place attracts tourists with its amazing nature and diverse vegetation.
Semenovskoye Gorge: Another magnificent gorge on the eastern shore of Issyk-Kul, east of the town of Karakol. This place is known for its natural beauty and diverse vegetation.
Barskoon Gorge: On the western shore of the lake, Barskoon Gorge impresses with its mountainous landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic lakes. It is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.