The nature of Russia, not once praised by writers and depicted in paintings by artists, has for many centuries delighted the human eye with its beauties. In the Shirinsky district surrounded by wooded mountains lies an unusually beautiful freshwater lake Itkul (Khakassia). Its pristine beauty leaves an extraordinary impression in the heart of every vacationer.
Where is the lake
The name Itkul originates from ancient legends. The name of the brave hero Ita, who triumphed over the unkind water spirit of the lake, became part of the name, and the second part - kul - means "lake". Such rivers as Karysh, Karasuk and Teplaya flow into the reservoir. Itkul itself is a source of drinking water for the nearby village of Zhemchuzhny.
The area of this reservoir is twenty-three square meters, and the average depth reaches seventeen meters. Lake Itkul itself (Khakassia) is surrounded by steppe massifs and mountains, which gives it an unusual, fabulous look.
You can get to this reservoir along the federal highway M-54 "Yenisei". There are numerous rides to the lake itself, but from time to time they are dug up to restrict the entry of cars.
Conservation area
Lake Itkul (Khakassia) is located on a protected area, which is inhabited by various representatives of the fauna and flora of more than five hundred species. Some of these plants and animals are listed in the Red Book of Khakassia, and some in the Red Book of the Russian Federation.
Not so long ago, the lake belonged to the public zone and was a rather favorite place for vacationers. Cattle grazed on its banks , and many animals and plants were mercilessly destroyed by poachers and people who came to rest. And only after the formation of the reserve in the reservoir, the surrounding nature regained its original appearance, and rare and endangered species of animals and plants were saved from death.
Since most of Itkul belongs to the Khakassky reserve, then all the actions carried out in this area (bathing, setting up a camp, etc.) are possible only with the permission of his administration.
Lake Reviews
Each tourist needs to be allowed to become a part of his life in this fairy tale called Lake Itkul (Khakassia) for at least a few days. Reviews of people who saw these beauties can be varied, but all of them are filled with enthusiasm and admiration. Indeed, even the indigenous city dwellers, thanks to their rest on the lake, will be able to escape from crowding and noise, from civilization and everyday hustle and bustle. It uses only pure drinking water, which is a source of health and longevity. In addition, herbs with healing power and unusually clean air work wonders, saturating the human body with strength and energy.
Relaxation
Everyone chooses the most suitable vacation option for themselves. And knowing the beauties of Russian nature, few will refuse to visit them at least once. Undoubtedly, Lake Itkul (Khakassia) also belongs to such places. Photos of primeval nature taken during the rest will remind you of a great time for a long time.
The coastline of the lake is somewhat diverse. In some places it is covered with sand, in others it is steep and poorly suitable for entering water. There is also a very swampy part of the lake shore.
A fairly large area of the reservoir belongs to the protected area. In such places it is forbidden to drive vehicles, make fires, pitch tents, fish and even swim. Vacationers in this case are accommodated in a territory free of protection.
The beauties of almost untouched nature look very impressive and spectacular, which can be seen from the viewing platform on the mountain, located near the lake.
Of course, it should be noted that Itkul is most suitable for a calm, relaxed vacation.
What is interesting lake
Undoubtedly (because it is located in the conservation area), Itkul (Khakassia) is a lake where fishing is prohibited. However, the underwater world of the reservoir is incredibly rich. Since the lake is very clean, there are many diverse fish. In the waters of Itkul, perches, silver carp, breams, peled and other fish species live.
Rare animals such as peregrine falcons, burial eagles, balabans, bell cranes are also found on the shores of the reservoir.
It should be noted that Lake Itkul (Khakassia) is very popular among vacationers who prefer not fishing with a fishing rod, but spearfishing with scuba diving. Also, water tourists quite often organize kayaking trips. The route begins with Itkul and goes through one of the Spirinsky lakes - Orlinoye. Then it passes along the Tuim River and ends on Lake Beloe.
The water in the pond warms up only in the middle of July, but the swimming season lasts from June to August. The air temperature in this period can reach thirty-five degrees above zero, but at night it is pretty cool.
The summer months are an active time for algal blooms, so allergy sufferers are not recommended to swim in the lake at this time.