Lake Sary-Chelek

In ancient times, the area now occupied by Lake Sary Chelek was a lush, expansive valley. Here, priests adorned in golden robes, devoted servants of the sea god Kho, established their city, Sai Kho, on the riverbanks. This sacred city thrived for countless years under the watchful gaze of their deity, Kho, who was depicted as a figure with a fish’s body and a human’s head, residing in a marble basin within the temple.

Kho was revered as the divine teacher who imparted vital knowledge to the local tribes, including farming, cattle breeding, and various other trades. Every century, the high priest, who was chosen through a divine process, would pass away. In accordance with tradition, the priests would select the most beautiful girl from the valley to be brought to the basin. Kho would then emerge from his marble dwelling, bestow a kiss upon her, and nine months later, the girl would give birth to a child destined to become the next high priest.

For millennia, this harmonious existence continued, but calamity struck when enemies discovered hidden paths into the valley. They stormed the city, slaughtering nearly all the priests and inhabitants. In desperation, the high priest implored Kho for aid. The sea god responded with a thunderous roar, causing rocks to tumble and water to cascade from the mountain peaks into the valley. The floodwaters obliterated the city and its people, sweeping away the remnants of the once-glorious civilization.

Thus, Lake Sary Chelek was formed, and it is said that the spirit of Kho might still dwell beneath its tranquil waters.