The "Maili-Sai" Zone is located in close proximity to one of the major industrial centers of the Osh region in the Jalal-Abad region. The city of Maili-Sai includes the valley of the Mailuu-Suu River ("fat water"). This area is known for its oil deposits. The distance from the city of Osh to the zone is 170-180 km.
The lower part of the valley features semi-deserts and steppe landscapes, occupying an elevation range from 700 to 1100 meters above sea level on a gently undulating foothill plain. The vegetation is dominated by wormwoods and ephemeral plants. In the desert landscape zone, where trees are rarely found, the pistachio tree grows. This is an unremarkable and gnarled-looking tree, no more than 5 meters tall, very similar to multi-stemmed bushes. Locally, the pistachio is called the "tree of life," and it is believed that its fruits invigorate a person, promote health, and prolong life.
Among reptiles, the gray monitor lizard holds a special place. It is one of the very rare animals listed in the international Red Book. This is the largest exotic lizard, reaching a length of up to one and a half meters. With a very fierce and terrifying appearance, the monitor can put up serious resistance in case of danger, using not only its sharp teeth but also its powerful tail, which is about a meter long. Currently, the gray monitor can only be found in Southern Kyrgyzstan, primarily from the east of Uch-Kurgan to the basin of the Mailuu-Suu River.
In the mid-mountain part of the valley, as in all nearby areas, nut-fruit forests are widespread. At the same time, areas of juniper forest are often encountered. Nestled within one of these forests in the valley of the Kerei River is a small but very beautiful lake, Kutman-Kel, which has attracted pilgrims from all around, including the famous Arslanbob, for centuries with its crystal-clear water. A mausoleum and several houses have been built here. Higher up is the Ice Lake, with the ruins of an ancient mausoleum on its shore. A stream originating from the slopes of the 4126-meter peak flows into the lake.
The zone is rich in mineral water deposits. A group of springs (Mailuu-Suu, Kek-Tash) is located near the city of Maili-Sai. Their mineral waters are similar in mineralization levels and taste qualities to the famous sources of Matsesta. Elders and pilgrims still tie colorful rags to the branches of bushes near the springs, which are considered sacred, firmly believing that all diseases and misfortunes will leave. There are more springs located 8 km northwest of the village of Kochkor-Ata. The mineral water from these springs is used by the local health resort and is effective in treating stomach diseases.
