Diving at Lake Kol-Suu

Geographical Information: The lake is located in the Naryn region, Ak-Sai valley, on the border with China. It is situated in the upper reaches of the Kuruмduk River, a right tributary of Kak-Kiya, at an altitude of 3500-3600 meters above sea level (exact data is not yet available). The lake is of the dam type, formed by a strong earthquake. According to the map, there is no road to the lake, but eyewitness accounts suggest it is accessible. However, only by jeeps or vans. Lake Kol-Suu is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in Kyrgyzstan.

Climatic Conditions: The climate at Lake Kol-Suu is cold and mountainous. Air temperature in summer is 14-16 degrees during the day, and at night it can drop below zero. Summer in this area lasts approximately from July 10 to August 15. Even during this period, snow can fall.

Diving at Lake Kol-Suu is possible but quite extreme. The altitude above sea level is 3600m. At this height, it is not easy for an average person to be without acclimatization. Even after living in the mountains for some time, one does not get used to it immediately. Moreover, calculating deco regimes for this altitude is complicated. However, I believe that if everything is done carefully, then anything is possible. The lake, in terms of diving, is a blank slate. No diver has yet ascended to these heights. The depth of the lake is unknown, but judging by the rocky terrain, it is quite significant. Water temperature in summer ranges from 6-8 degrees. Visibility can vary from 2-3m to 9-12m, depending on the weather. After rain, visibility drops sharply. The flora and fauna of the lake are unknown.

In the summer of 2009, we plan to make a trip to Lake Kol-Suu. Once you see these fantastic landscapes of the lake and its surroundings, they are impossible to forget. The peaks covered with eternal ice, framed by turquoise water, beckon you again and again.