Kow Ata

Kow Ata is an underground lake in an eponymous cave near Bäherden in Turkmenistan, at the foot of the Kopet Dag. It is the largest in Commonwealth of Independent States.

History

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.

Geology

Cave

The cave has a length of and variable width of. There are five entrances.

Lake

The lake is at a depth of from the 3rd cave entrance; no sunlight reaches the cave. Length is reported to lie between and ; breadth varies, across the length, between and. Average depth is about ; maximum depth is.
The water flows out into a sulfur-rich spring.

Limnology

The temperature of the lake remains roughly constant throughout the year, between and. The water has a high mineral content and is especially rich in sulfur. The water is transparent with a shade of bluish green.

Flora and fauna

Bats, rodents, birds, and about 50 invertebrate species inhabit the cave.

Tourism

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. Changing cubicles and an observation platform are provided at about 80% length of the stair-route. There are no safety features except a tape warning swimmers to not proceed beyond.

Healing

is practiced.