This high-altitude lake in central Kyrgyzstan is one of our very favourite destinations in the region – a spot that has everything you come to this part of the world to see, in abundance. Framed by a backdrop of snow peaks, its turquoise waters are enfolded by expanses of rolling grassland used as ‘jailoo’ (pastures) in the summer months by local nomads.

A few families have set up traditional yurt camps here for visitors, which enables you to experience the unique atmosphere of the lake at different times of day, and in changing light. Herds of beautiful horses and shaggy yaks dot the shoreline, against an exotic spread of ice-flecked peaks.