Kow Ata Underground Lake
Ahal
Kow Ata Underground Lake, also known as The Bakharlyn, is a remarkable natural feature located near Bäherden in Turkmenistan at the foot of the Kopet Dag mountains. It is the largest underground lake in the Commonwealth of Independent States. The lake lies within a cave approximately 250 meters long with five entrances, and the lake itself is situated about 55 meters below the third cave entrance. The water maintains a constant temperature between 33°C and 38°C year-round, is rich in sulfur and minerals, and has a transparent bluish-green hue. The cave hosts a diverse ecosystem including bats, rodents, birds, and around 50 species of invertebrates. Since the 1960s, Kow Ata has been developed for tourism with a road, electricity, hotels nearby, and an illuminated staircase leading down to the lake. Visitors can bathe in the lake, making it a popular weekend retreat, and balneotherapy is practiced here due to the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich water. The cave’s unique geological and biological characteristics, combined with its recreational and healing uses, make Kow Ata a fascinating destination.
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Tip: The best time to visit Kow Ata is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Visitors should prepare for a descent via a long illuminated staircase and use the changing cubicles provided. It is advisable to check local conditions before visiting, and those interested in balneotherapy should inquire about available treatments. Advance booking is not typically required, but arriving early on weekends is recommended to avoid crowds. Safety measures are minimal, so swimmers should heed warnings and avoid venturing beyond designated areas.
Interesting facts
- •Kow Ata is the largest underground lake in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
- •The cave housing Kow Ata has five entrances and stretches about 250 meters in length.
- •The lake’s water temperature remains constant between 33°C and 38°C throughout the year.
- •The mineral-rich water flows out into a sulfur-rich spring nearby.
- •The cave supports a diverse fauna including bats, rodents, birds, and about 50 invertebrate species.
History
The Kow Ata cave was first documented by archaeologists in 1856.
In 1896, local press coverage noted the installation of a wooden staircase by the Bäherden rail-station authorities, which increased tourist visits from Ashgabat.
During the 1960s, infrastructure improvements including road construction, electricity supply, and nearby hotel development significantly boosted accessibility and tourism.
Since then, Kow Ata has become a popular recreational and therapeutic site.
Place Guide
Illuminated Staircase1960s
A long, winding staircase with lighting that leads visitors safely down to the lake inside the cave, featuring an observation platform and changing cubicles approximately 80% down the descent.
Kow Ata Underground Lake
The central feature of the cave, the lake is approximately 75 to 80 meters long, 8 to 23 meters wide, and up to 15 meters deep. Its warm, sulfur-rich water is known for therapeutic properties and is popular for bathing.