Kayrakkum Reservoir (Tajik Sea)

About 20 kilometers from Khujand lies one of the natural gems of the Sogdian region—the Kayrakkum Reservoir, a vast body of water stretching 50 kilometers eastward. This artificial lake was created in the 1950s during the construction of a hydroelectric power station to regulate the flow of the Syr Darya River. Due to its impressive size and the fact that Tajikistan is a landlocked country, the reservoir is often affectionately referred to as the «Tajik Sea» by locals. Its shores are lined with sanatoriums, recreation zones, and children’s camps, many of which date back to the Soviet era. The Syr Darya River, flowing down from the mountains, fills this «sea» with fresh, clean water, and the beach season here typically lasts from May to September.

The sheer scale of the Kayrakkum Reservoir is impressive, with a length of 55 kilometers, a width of 20 kilometers, and a maximum depth of 25 meters. It holds a staggering 4.2 cubic kilometers of water. The dam itself stretches 1,205 meters in length and stands 32 meters tall. In winter, the reservoir sometimes freezes, while in the summer, temperatures along its shores can soar to 30-35 degrees Celsius.

Over the years, this man-made lake has developed into a thriving ecosystem. Its waters teem with various fish species, such as pike, carp, catfish, perch, and bream. Moreover, it has become a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling from northern Asia to India and beyond.

The Kayrakkum Reservoir has also evolved into a popular destination for recreation. It’s an ideal spot for both swimming and fishing, with its long coastline lined with orchards that add to the scenic charm of the area. To reach the «Tajik Sea,» travelers can catch a minibus from Khujand to the town of Kayrakkum (recently renamed Guliston), a journey that takes about 20 to 25 minutes. For added convenience, taxis are also available at affordable rates. Otherwise, you may need to continue from Guliston to the actual shores of the reservoir.

While there is a free public beach just after the dam, it is often cluttered with litter. For a cleaner and more enjoyable experience, visitors can opt for a paid beach, such as the one at the Bahoriston Sanatorium, which costs around three somoni. This beach is well-maintained, with staff regularly cleaning the area, and there are cafes for refreshments. Lifeguards are on duty along the roughly one-kilometer-long shore. There is also a small, enclosed water area, perfect for children to swim safely.

Further along the coast, one can find many secluded beaches, often shaded by apricot trees, where you can escape the heat, relax in the cool shade, and listen to the gentle lapping of the waves.