Uvs Nuur, Salt lake in Uvs Nuur Basin, Mongolia and Russia
Uvs Nuur is a salt lake in the Uvs Nuur Basin along the Mongolia-Russia border. The water body sits at about 1,600 meters elevation and is surrounded by grasslands and mountain ranges.
The lake is a remnant of an ancient saline sea that shaped the landscape over millions of years. Its current form reflects the geological evolution of the region and long-term climate and water balance changes.
The name comes from Mongolian words referring to bitter residue in airag, reflecting the water's salty taste. Locals understand this place through its mineral-rich character, which shapes how people view and use the basin.
The water freezes from October to May, while summer surface temperatures reach about 25 degrees Celsius. Visitors should plan according to the season, as conditions significantly affect staying in this remote area.
Despite high salinity of about 19 grams per liter, about 29 fish species inhabit the lake, including the Altai osman. This adaptation to extreme conditions makes it a remarkable ecosystem in an austere landscape.
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