Myuryu, Alas formation in Ust-Aldan District, Sakha Republic, Russia.
Myuryu is a vast depression in the permafrost landscape, characterized by temporary water bodies that form seasonally and expansive grasslands. The terrain results from natural cycles of thawing and refreezing that create the distinctive sunken bowl shape across the lowland.
This depression developed through repeated cycles of permafrost thawing and refreezing occurring over extended periods in geological history. The resulting formation represents one of the world's largest examples of this type of terrain, shaped entirely by freeze-thaw processes.
The grasslands hold cultural importance for local Sakha communities, who recognize the space as part of their ancestral territory and traditional way of life. Seasonal gatherings and ceremonies continue to mark the land's role in keeping local traditions alive.
The site is remote and requires careful planning due to its harsh climate and challenging terrain with seasonal water accumulation. Travelers should arrange local guidance and bring appropriate equipment suited to permafrost conditions and unstable ground.
This formation is among the world's largest alas depressions created by permafrost processes, making it a rare geological example on a remarkable scale. Scientists study it closely to understand how freeze-thaw cycles shape land across extreme environments.
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