Kow Ata, the Underground Lake
In the mountains of Turkmenistan, steps lead down into a cave where a warm, sulphurous lake lies in the dark. People bathe in it all year round.
What was reported
Kow Ata, the 'Father of Lakes', is an underground lake in a cave in the Kopet Dag mountains of Turkmenistan. Visitors walk down a long flight of steps into the cave, where the air smells of sulphur and the water stays at about 36°C all year.
The lake is fed by mineral springs and is believed to have healing powers. Bats live in the cave's roof.
Explanations offered
The warm water comes from deep underground, heated by the Earth and rich in minerals. Its depth is said to be great, and its full extent is not well known. It's a popular place for bathing and has been developed as a resort.
- When
- Known for centuries
- Where
- Kow Ata, Ahal, Turkmenistan
- Witnesses
- Bathers and visitors
- Status
- A real place
Famous cases are real, widely reported events. Each file sets out what witnesses said and the explanations that have been offered, without taking a side.