Tuz Kul is situated in the southeastern coast of Issyk-Kul, the biggest lake in Kyrgyzstan. It is at an altitude of 1600 metres. The lake is very salty, that’s why it’s also sometimes called “the dead lake” and is often associated with the Dead Sea in Israel. No living creatures and plants can survive in the lake because of its high salt concentration. The salt level here reaches up to 70 %. Thanks to that swimming here can become enjoyable for many people, as one can’t drown here. The pressure of the water always takes you up.
The way to get to the lake is through the village of Kyzyl Too. The lake is just 300 metres away from the Issyk-Kul. The lakes are very close to each other, however, to have a look at both of them you need the climb up the small hill between them.
Tuz Kul lake is famous for its curative nature. The salty water and mud are known to have medicinal properties. It’s almost “a wellness centre in the open air”.Tuz Kul is also sometimes called Black Lake (Kara Kul), because of the mud which is believed to be enriched with healing minerals. It is also possible to spot blue and green mud, which are known to have unique properties. People who have problems with skin, like psoriasis or eczema, are especially recommended to come here to restore the beauty of their skin. The best delight after the mud spa is the natural bath in the clear waters of Issyk-Kul, which is a few hundred metres away.
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