Kayrakkum Reservoir (Tajikistan), Mirnaya Bay: recreation

In the 50's. The last century for the purpose of building a hydroelectric power station and regulating the flow of the river. Syr Darya on the territory of Sughd region was built Kairakkum reservoir. Local, not having a direct access to the seas, call this reservoir only the Tajik Sea.

general characteristics

This artificial pond is at an altitude of 7 m above sea level, has a total capacity of 4,160 million m³, only half is actively used. The length of the reservoir is 75 km, the width is 20 km, the height of the dam is 32 m. The maximum depth of the reservoir is 25 m.

In winter, the Kayrakkum reservoir often freezes, and in summer the water can warm up to +32 ° C.

Initially, it was planned that an artificial reservoir would have only economic significance for the region, but over the years this region has become a popular place for recreation not only for residents of Tajikistan, but also for tourists from nearby countries. The construction of the reservoir began in 1950, and the water was filled from 1956-1958.

The reservoir has created a new ecosystem in the region. A commercial fish appeared in the reservoir. Birds, flying from Asia to India, make a parking on the banks of the reservoir.

Tajikistan on the world map can not be found, but it will be necessary to try to find a reservoir on it. If there is a desire to go here on vacation by car, it is better to take a detailed plan of the area.

Climatic conditions

The reservoir is characterized by its microclimate, the formation of which is affected by the nature of the underlying surface and the activity of the three main cyclones of the region - the South Caspian, Upper Amu Darya and Murgab. Depending on the current flow of air, the region's weather is also determined. The average annual precipitation is 400-800 mm. Winter - cold, wet, summer - hot, arid. Kairakkum reservoir is located in such a territory where precipitation falls mainly in the warm season in the form of rains and short-term showers. Snow happens in winter, but rarely, sometimes a permanent snow cover is established. The average temperature in January is -1 ... -3 ° C, in July - + 33 ... + 35 ° С.

Flora and fauna

In the surrounding areas fruit gardens have been planted and land areas have been developed which, thanks to the reservoir, have permanent watering.

The reservoir of Kairakkum is suitable for fishing. This is the holiday in Tajikistan. In the reservoir are found in large quantities of carp, bream, temple and pike, only 12 species of freshwater fish. They entered the reservoir straight from the Syr Darya. Near the pond there is a fish farm, whose fishermen are engaged in commercial catches.

Currently, the region is developing as a resort. Warm water reservoirs and sandy beaches on the coast are excellent conditions for a family holiday. Along the pond stretches the resort area with numerous recreation centers, sanatoriums and children's camps.

Where to rest?

The most visited tourist centers are the Holiday House "Kairakkum", "Mirnaya Bay", "The Tajik Sea", "Shifo" and "Bakhoriston" sanatoria, Zuhal and Orlyonok.

Holiday House "Kairakkum" welcomes visitors. The territory is always quiet, cozy and quiet. But, as the visitors tell, the service is lame. Also, the conditions are only for the economy class.

"Mirnaya Bay" is popular because it is a stone's throw from the houses to the beach. On the territory of the base are equipped one-storey buildings, ready to accommodate up to 45 people. At the service of tourists are entertainment: billiards, catamarans, a bath, a brazier. And of course, a clean and equipped sandy beach. There are separate houses of the "superlux" class.

The "Tajik Sea" base is focused mainly on youth. Comfortable rooms, extensive territory for various sports games, the possibility to rent a catamaran or a bicycle, as well as guided tours of the region. Living in this institution, you can understand how good the species of such an object, as Kairakkum reservoir.

Rest can be done in the sanatorium "Shifo". It consists of houses for living and a complex with treatment rooms. They come to correct their health.

Sanatorium "Bakhoriston" is a large health-improving complex. Among the visitors of the sanatorium are not only residents of Tajikistan, but also holidaymakers from Russia and neighboring regions.

About 7,000 children are cured in summer camps for children. In total there are 23 such establishments in the region. Here is such a wonderful country - Tajikistan. On the map you can find each of the buildings, so you will not get to work with them. For lovers of "wild rest" on the shore of the reservoir are equipped with comfortable camping. The prices for accommodation and excursions are budgetary, there is an opportunity to rest well and inexpensively.

Interesting historical sites

The Sughd region and its center in Khujand have a long history and architectural and historical monuments that have survived to this day. The most popular places in the region are the Sheikh Muslihiddin Mausoleum and the Khujand fortress. Both attractions are to the south of the reservoir. The mausoleum is an architectural ensemble of the XIX century, consisting of a minaret, a cathedral mosque and the burial of Sheikh Muslihiddin. Khujand fortress was built 2,5 thousand years ago and protected the city from enemies. Gradually the fortress collapsed, rebuilt. The original view of this building was returned in 1990 after a powerful restoration. In the same year, the historical museum was opened, which stores more than 1,000 exhibits in its walls.

To get to the resort zone of the reservoir, you can reach the region. Center - Khujand city, and from there 200 km to the east.

conclusions

Rest in Tajikistan, namely the described reservoir, still has many disadvantages, as it is just beginning to develop in the resort area. But the region has already earned a lot of positive feedback and received regular vacationers. Tourists are attracted by the cultural and historical heritage of the region, picturesque landscapes with diverse flora and fauna, favorable climatic conditions. It is for these reasons that there are so many travelers and families with young children here.