Uvs Lake
Uvs
Uvs Lake, also known as Uvs Nuur, is the largest lake in Mongolia by surface area, spanning 3,350 km² at 759 meters above sea level. It is a highly saline, shallow lake formed as a remnant of an ancient vast saline sea. The lake lies primarily in Mongolia with its northeastern tip extending into Russia's Tuva Republic. Surrounded by the Uvs Nuur Basin, one of the best-preserved natural steppe landscapes in Eurasia, the lake's basin is home to diverse biomes where the northernmost desert meets the southern tundra. The lake freezes from October to May and supports 29 fish species, including the edible Potanini altai osman. Its high salinity results from its endorheic nature and mineral-rich inflow from rivers originating in the Khangai and Altai mountains. The basin hosts 173 bird species and 41 mammal species, including endangered ones like the snow leopard and argali. Uvs Lake and its surroundings remain largely untouched due to low population density and traditional nomadic lifestyles, preserving its ecological integrity. Recognized by UNESCO in 2003, the area is also rich in archaeological sites linked to nomadic tribes such as the Scythians, Turks, and Huns, making it a site of both natural and cultural significance.
Plan your trip to Mongolia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Uvs Lake is during summer months when the weather is milder and the lake is ice-free, allowing for wildlife observation and exploration of the basin. Due to its remote location and protected status, visitors should plan logistics carefully and respect local conservation guidelines. Booking local guides familiar with the region can enhance the experience. There are no specific ticket requirements, but visitors should check for any permits needed for protected areas. Discounts or special permissions may be available for researchers or conservation groups.
Interesting facts
- •Uvs Lake is half as salty as the ocean, with a salinity of 1.88%.
- •The lake freezes over from October to May each year.
- •The Uvs Lake Basin includes twelve clusters of protected sites representing major eastern Eurasian biomes.
- •The basin is where the world's northernmost desert meets the southernmost tundra zone.
- •The area supports endangered species such as the snow leopard, argali, and Asiatic ibex.
History
Uvs Lake is a remnant of a vast saline sea that existed thousands of years ago.
Over millennia, geological and climatic changes isolated the basin, forming the highly saline lake seen today.
The surrounding basin has been inhabited by nomadic tribes such as the Scythians, Turks, and Huns, leaving behind over 40,000 archaeological sites.
In 2003, recognizing its unique natural and cultural value, UNESCO designated the Uvs Lake Basin as a World Heritage Site, highlighting its status as one of Central Asia's largest intact watersheds.
Place Guide
Uvs Lake
The largest saline lake in Mongolia, notable for its shallow depth, high salinity, and ecological importance as part of a vast endorheic basin supporting diverse flora and fauna.
Uvs Nuur Basin
A vast watershed spanning 70,000 km² crossing Mongolia and Russia, representing one of the best-preserved natural steppe landscapes and hosting a variety of biomes from desert to tundra.
