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Sarez Lake
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Sarez Lake is situated in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan at an elevation of approximately 3,265 meters above sea level. The lake was formed on February 18, 1911, following a massive earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 that triggered a colossal landslide. This landslide buried the village of Usoi and created the Usoi Dam, which stands at 567 meters high, making it the highest natural dam in the world. The impounded waters of the Murghab River eventually flooded the valley and the village of Sarez, giving the lake its name. Today, the lake stretches about 75 kilometers in length and reaches depths exceeding 500 meters. Due to the potential risk of a dam failure, which could cause catastrophic flooding across Central Asia, the site is under constant scientific monitoring. Its remote location and restricted access have preserved the lake as a place of raw, untouched natural beauty.
- Location: Tajikistan
- Nearby: Sarez Lake (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -19 | -17 | -12 | -6 | -1 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 1 | -5 | -11 | -17 |
| Rain mm | 11 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 9 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 9 | 9 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching Sarez Lake in Tajikistan typically involves starting from the nearest major settlement and arranging specialized local transport to this lake. Formed in 1911 by a massive earthquake that blocked the Murghab River.
Best season
The most favorable season to visit Sarez Lake is usually during the milder months, avoiding extreme weather typical for Tajikistan. Checking forecasts for this lake is vital.
Terrain & paths
Navigating the terrain around Sarez Lake typically presents natural obstacles inherent to a lake, requiring good physical fitness. Expect uneven ground throughout Tajikistan.
What to bring
Appropriate preparation for Sarez Lake includes sturdy footwear and layered clothing suited for the variable conditions of a lake in Tajikistan. Carry water and sun block.
Parking
Parking arrangements for Sarez Lake are typically found at designated areas in the nearest adjacent town within Tajikistan. At the lake itself, official spaces are non-existent.
Safety
Ensuring a safe visit to Sarez Lake requires constant awareness of the surroundings typical of a lake in Tajikistan. Inform someone of your route and follow all local rules.
Time needed
A standard visit to Sarez Lake typically ranges from a few hours to an entire day, depending on activities within this lake. Travelers in Tajikistan must factor in travel time.
Geography
Facts
- The lake was created by a seismic event on February 18, 1911.
- The Usoi Dam is the world's highest natural dam at 567 meters.
- The lake holds a massive water volume of approximately 17 cubic kilometers.
- It extends for 75 kilometers and reaches a maximum depth of 505 meters.
- The original village of Sarez lies 150 meters beneath the lake's surface.
- Travelers need a special permit from the Ministry of Emergency Situations to visit.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How to reach Sarez Lake?
Access is extremely difficult and requires special government permits and experienced mountain guides.
Is Sarez Lake developed for tourism?
No, it is a nearly untouched natural area without any tourist infrastructure.
What is the danger at the lake?
The lake lies behind an unstable dam that could burst in the event of an earthquake.
When should one visit the lake?
If at all, only during the short summer months of July and August.
What is needed for the trip?
Good physical condition, very good equipment, and an organized expedition.
Sarez Lake: where is it located?
Sarez Lake is located in Tajikistan.
Sarez Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Sarez Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Sarez Lake is situated in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan at an elevation of approximately 3,265 meters above sea level.
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Khorugh
Khorugh is the capital of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, located high in the Pamir Mountains.
Ishkoshim
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Sarez Lake
Sarez Lake is a remote high-mountain lake in the Pamir, created by an earthquake and known for its massive depth and wild beauty.
Bulunkul
A remote mountain village by the eponymous lake, known as the coldest place in Tajikistan, offering raw Pamir beauty.
Jisev (Geisev) Valley
An isolated hiking paradise in the Pamirs accessible only on foot, featuring crystal-clear lakes.
History & landmarks
Langar
A strategic village at the confluence of the Pamir and Wakhan rivers, famous for its thousands of prehistoric petroglyphs.
Vrang
A historical village in the Wakhan Corridor, known for its unique 4th-century Buddhist stupa.
Yamchun Fortress
The ruins of an ancient fortress overlooking the Wakhan Corridor.
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An ancient Silk Road citadel perched high above the Wakhan Valley, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Nature
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Bulunkul Lake
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Karakul Lake
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Zorkul
This transboundary lake lies on the border with Afghanistan and is a strictly protected nature reserve.
Gunt River
This glacial river flows through deep gorges in the Shugnan Mountains before emptying into the Pyanj at Khorugh.
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An impetuous mountain river that drains the Sarez Lake system and cuts through one of the wildest valleys in the Pamir.
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