Nature / Lake

Balık Gölü (Lake Balık)

Doğubayazıt, Ağrı

CommonMachine translated

One of Turkey's highest large lakes, formed by a lava dam at an elevation of about 2,250 m, with brown trout, beaches and a surface that freezes completely in winter.

Safety warning

This is a high-altitude, windy area; the weather can change quickly. In winter the lake freezes and roads may be closed by snow; do not go out on the ice unless you are sure it is safe. This is a rural region; check road and security conditions with local authorities before visiting.

Its story

Balık Gölü is a barrier lake formed when lava from the volcanism of Mount Ağrı blocked a depression. At an elevation of about 2,250 meters, it covers an area of 30–34 km², and its deepest point is around 37 meters. It is fed by streams, shoreline springs and groundwater; the stream flowing out of the lake waters the Doğubayazıt reed beds. It is counted among the wetlands of international importance; brown trout live in it, and velvet scoters nest on the small island in the lake. In winter its surface freezes completely, and fish are caught by breaking the ice. In the summer months, the beaches and meadows on the shore and the dirt roads around the lake are suitable for walking; on clear days you can photograph Mount Ağrı. On an islet by the lakeshore there are also the ruins of a castle with remaining walls.

Key facts

Admission: Open area
Elevation: About 2,250 m
Getting there: About 26 km from Taşlıçay; about 60 km from Doğubayazıt and Ağrı
Visit duration: Half a day

Trip purpose

Seasonal
Photography
Quiet
Hiking

Location

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39.73428, 43.56603

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Source: Web derlemesi (doğrulanmalı): https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bal%C4%B1k_G%C3%B6l%C3%BC | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Bal%C4%B1k | https://goturkiye.com/agri | https://www.serka.gov.tr/assets/upload/dosyalar/agri-turizm-kesif-rehberi.pdf | https://www.openstreetmap.org/relation/2861302