Belyo, Salt lake in Khakassia, Russia

Belyo is a salt lake in the Russian republic of Khakassia, sitting at about 1,230 feet (376 meters) above sea level in an open steppe landscape. The water takes on a pale, milky color due to its high mineral content, and the shoreline is often lined with white salt deposits left by evaporation.

Salt extraction at the lake began in the 19th century and drew merchants and workers to the surrounding area, gradually shaping the local economy. Over time, the lake shifted from an industrial resource to a natural site of interest, as mining activity declined.

The Khakas name Пілӧ Кӧл and the Russian Белё both relate to the lake's pale, mineral-rich water; the German name Beljosee translates as "White Lake". The lake is a traditional recreation spot for South Siberians, with most beaches on the southern shores. Around Mount Chalpan, the Khakas Nature Reserve protects ancient petroglyphs and burial grounds.

The lake is easiest to reach in summer, when roads across the steppe are in better condition and the shoreline is fully exposed. Nearby towns offer basic accommodation, and the city of Abakan to the north serves as a practical base for the visit.

The salt concentration in Belyo is high enough that a person can float on the surface without effort, much like in a sea. This makes the lake one of the rare inland bodies of water in Siberia where swimming feels noticeably different from an ordinary lake.