Driving the forbidden Lake Khovsgol ice road
Lake Khövsgöl, also known as Lake Hubsugul, Khövsgöl Nuur, and Khövsgöl dalai, is a high mountain lake situated at an elevation of 1,645 meters (5,396 feet) above sea level in the Khövsgöl Province of northwest Mongolia. The lake is located near the Russian border, at the foot of the permanently snow-capped Sayan Mountains. It is the deepest lake in Central Asia, reaching depths of up to 262 meters.
Is Lake Khövsgöl worth it?
Lake Khövsgöl and its surrounding areas are renowned for their stunning natural beauty. The lake is often referred to as the "Younger sister of the Sister Lakes" (Lake Khövsgöl and Lake Baikal), reflecting its majestic and pristine environment. A short gravel road on the western shore of the lake climbs up to the top of Kadan Khyasaa, a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.417m (7,929ft) above sea level.
When is Lake Khövsgöl frozen?
From October, Lake Khövsgöl’s surface begins to freeze, forming a thick layer of ice ranging from 1.3 to 1.6 meters. This frozen surface provides a temporary road for large trucks transporting fuel from Siberia.
Can I drive across the frozen Lake Khövsgöl?
Despite the official prohibition of this practice in the 1980s due to environmental concerns—such as oil spills contaminating the lake—the practice still continues. Over the years, around 40 trucks have fallen through the ice. The lake often spends more time as a roadway than as a waterway during the winter months, presenting significant risks for drivers.
How dangerous is driving across Lake Khövsgöl?
Driving on the frozen lake presents serious risks. Ice drivers must remain vigilant for pressure ridges, which are breaks formed by the expansion and contraction of surface ice. Straying too close to these ridges can be fatal. Every winter, several vehicles fall through the ice due to the danger of driving on ice that is too thin. The lake has claimed many lives over the years, highlighting the importance of knowing where to drive and ensuring that the ice is thick enough to support vehicles.
When is the best time to visit Lake Khövsgöl?
The best time to visit Lake Khövsgöl is during the spring when precipitation is less frequent, although it remains very cold with ample snow on the ground. Summer, while somewhat warmer, is crowded and still cold, with frequent rain. Winter is extremely harsh, with temperatures dropping to as low as 30 below zero Fahrenheit. The lake remains covered in ice well into June, and brief snowfalls can occur in Hatgal as late as early July.
Pic: Mongolian Bike