In the 50s. last century in order to build a hydroelectric power station and regulate the flow of the river. Syrdarya in the territory of the Sogd region was built Kairakkum reservoir. Local, not having direct access to the seas, call this reservoir only the Tajik Sea.
general characteristics
This artificial pond is located at an altitude of 7 m above sea level, has a total capacity of 4 160 million m³, only half is actively used. The reservoir is 75 km long, 20 km wide, and the dam height is 32 m. The maximum reservoir depth is 25 m.
In the winter season, the Kairakkum reservoir often freezes, and in summer the water can warm up to +32 ° C.
It was originally planned that the artificial pond would only have economic value for the region, but over the years this region has become a popular vacation destination not only for residents of Tajikistan, but also for tourists from nearby countries. The construction of the reservoir began in 1950, and was filled with water from 1956-1958.
The reservoir has created a new ecosystem in the region. Commercial fish appeared in the pond. Birds flying from Asia to India make parking on the banks of the reservoir.
Tajikistan on the world map will not be difficult to find, but you will have to try to find a reservoir on it. If you want 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 influenced by the nature of the underlying surface and the activities of the three main cyclones of the region - the South Caspian, Upper Amu Darya and Murghab. Depending on the current air flow, the weather of the region is also determined. The average annual rainfall is 400-800 mm. Winter is cold, wet, summer is hot, arid. The Kairakkum reservoir is located in a territory where precipitation falls mainly in the warm season in the form of rains and short-term rainfall. There is snow in winter, but rarely, sometimes a permanent snow cover is established. The average temperatures in January are -1 ... -3 ° C, in July - + 33 ... + 35 ° C.
Flora and fauna
In the surrounding areas, orchards were planted and land plots developed, which, thanks to the reservoir, have constant watering.
Kayrakkum reservoir is suitable for fishing. This is famous for holidays in Tajikistan. Large quantities of carp, bream, temples, and pike are found in large numbers in the pond, a total of 12 species of freshwater fish. They hit the reservoir directly from the Syr Darya. Not far from the reservoir, a fishing industry operates, the fishermen of which are engaged in commercial fishing.
Currently, the region is developing as a resort. The warm water of the reservoir and sandy beaches on the coast are excellent conditions for families. A resort area with numerous recreation centers, resorts and children's camps stretched along the reservoir.
Where to relax
The most visited camp sites are the Kairakkum Rest House, Mirnaya Bay, Tajik Sea, Shifo and Bahoriston sanatoriums, Zukhal and Orlyonok housing estates.
Kairakkum Holiday House welcomes visitors. The territory is always quiet, cozy and calm. But, as visitors say, the service is lame. Also, the conditions are intended only for economy class.
“Mirnaya Bay” is popular for being within easy reach. On the territory of the base, one-story buildings are equipped, ready to accommodate up to 45 people. At the guests' disposal there are entertainment: billiards, catamarans, bathhouse, barbecue. And of course, a clean and equipped sandy beach. There are separate "deluxe" class houses.
The base "Tajik Sea" is focused mainly on youth. Comfortable rooms, a vast territory for various sports games, the ability to rent a catamaran or a bicycle, guided tours of the region are also provided. Living in this institution, you can understand how good the views of such an object as the Kairakkum reservoir.
Rest can be spent in the sanatorium "Shifo". It consists of houses for living and a complex with treatment rooms. People come to him to improve their health.
Sanatorium “Bahoriston” is a large health-improving complex. Among the visitors to the sanatorium are not only residents of Tajikistan, but also vacationers from Russia and neighboring regions.
About 7 thousand children are cured in children's health camps during the summer. There are 23 such institutions in the region. Here is such a wonderful country - Tajikistan. On the map you can find each of the buildings, so getting to them is not difficult. For lovers of "wild relaxation" on the coast of the reservoir are equipped with convenient campsites. Prices for accommodation and excursions are budget, there is the opportunity to relax well and inexpensively.
Interesting historical sites
The Sogd region and its center, Khujand, have a long history and architectural and historical monuments that have been preserved to this day. The most popular places in the region are the Sheikh Muslihiddin Mausoleum and the Khujand fortress. Both attractions are located 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 defended the city from enemies. Gradually the fortress collapsed, rebuilt. The original appearance of this building was returned in 1990 after a powerful restoration. In the same year, a historical museum was opened, which stores over 1,000 exhibits in its walls.
You can get to the resort area of the reservoir, having reached the reg. the center - the city of Khujand, and from there 20 km to the east.
conclusions
Rest in Tajikistan, namely on the described reservoir, still has many drawbacks, as it is just beginning to develop in the resort direction. But the region has already earned many positive reviews and has received regular vacationers. Tourists are attracted by the cultural and historical heritage of the region, picturesque landscape zones with diverse flora and fauna, favorable climatic conditions. It is for these reasons that there are so many travelers and families with small children.