Köw Ata Underground Lake, Turkmenistan

Köw Ata underground lake is located at the foot of a mountain, about  two hours Northwest of Ashgabat. Located approximately 235 ft underground, and filled with high concentrations of sulfur, salts and other minerals, Köw Ata is the closest equivalent to a thermal spa in Turkmenistan. The average water temperature is 95º F. Köw Ata underground lake is also a protected home for the largest known colony of bats in Central Asia.

After paying the "American price" of 40 Manat, or approximately $14 (the price for Turkmen citizens is 3 Manat - $1.05), I descended into the cave, making my way to the underground lake. As I approached the lake, the temperature began to increase from the hot vapors. The air began to take on a sharp sulfuric smell. At the first the smell was a bit off-putting, giving the impression of filth, but I got used to it relatively quick. At first, the water appeared murky due to the high concentration of dissolved minerals. But once up close, the water is very clean.

The stairs led directly into the water, with a rock ledge about 4 feet underwater for the first 6 feet out. Then suddenly, the rock ledge ends with a 90º drop. Being in a dimly lit cave and having the bottom go out under my feet in a thermal lake was a little daunting, but I got used to it quickly.

Swimming 200+ feet underground is a little strange at first, it is a feeling that is difficult to describe in words. But is was an experience worth setting aside initial inhibitions.

The entrance into the underground lake, complete with Soviet-era sculptures.

The decent 235 ft into the cave.

The underground lake. The water appears murky due the high mineral content and the lights reflecting of the surface. But the water is actually very clean. Unfortunately, this image does not capture the actual scale of the lake or the high cave ceilings.

My wife and I enjoying our swim. The water supposedly has healing properties due to its high mineral content. I am very skeptical of such claims, but the hot water mixed with so many minerals did feel relaxing.

Grabbed this shot of the mountains just behind the underground lake.