Kow Ata (also The Bakharlyn) is an underground lake in an eponymous cave near Bäherden in Turkmenistan, at the foot of the Kopet Dag.[1] [2] It is the largest in Commonwealth of Independent States.[3]
The landform was first documented by archaeologists in 1856. Coverage by the local press in 1896—noting the authorities of Bäherden rail-station to have had a wooden staircase installed for safe descent—led to tourists from Ashgabat flocking the site.
In 1960s, a road was constructed to the cave, electricity supplied, and hotels built in nearby areas.
The cave has a length of 250 m and variable width of 12–50 m. There are five entrances.
The lake is at a depth of 55m (180feet) from the 3rd (by height) cave entrance; no sunlight reaches the cave.[4] [5] Length is reported to lie between 75m (246feet) and 80m (260feet); breadth varies, across the length, between 8m (26feet) and 23m (75feet). Average depth is about 10m (30feet); maximum depth is 15m (49feet).[6]
The water flows out into a sulfur-rich spring.
The temperature of the lake remains roughly constant throughout the year, between 33C and 38C. The water has a high mineral content and is especially rich in sulfur. The water is transparent with a shade of bluish green.
Bats, rodents, birds, and about 50 invertebrate species inhabit the cave.
Bathing is permitted in Kow Ata, making it a prominent weekend destination for residents of Ashgabat. A long-winding illuminated staircase leads to the cave.[7] Changing cubicles and an observation platform are provided at about 80% length of the stair-route.[8] There are no safety features except a tape warning swimmers to not proceed beyond.
Balneotherapy is practiced.