Barsa-Kelmes Island in Uzbekistan
Barsa Kelmes, Uzbekistan
Barsa-Kelmes Island, once an island in the Aral Sea, is now a peninsula located in Karakalpakstan, western Uzbekistan. In the 1980s, it spanned around 133 km², but as the Aral Sea receded, it became part of the mainland, growing in size. Its name, "Barsa-Kelmes", translates to "The Place of No Return," adding to the mystery of this remote region.
Geographical Features
- Salt Marsh: The area is dominated by a vast salt marsh, a consequence of the Aral Sea's evaporation. The environment here is harsh, with extreme temperatures and high salinity, making it uninhabitable for most plants and animals.
- Ustyurt Plateau: Barsa-Kelmes sits on the Ustyurt Plateau, a region known for unique geological formations, including canyons, cliffs, and vast desert landscapes made up of gypsum and clay. This creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
Ecological Importance
- Barsa-Kelmes Nature Reserve: Established in 1939, this nature reserve was created to protect the region's unique wildlife and plant life. Despite its tough environment, the area is home to species like the kulan (wild ass), goitered gazelle, and the saiga antelope.
Cultural Mystique
- Legends: The island's name is tied to local legends that speak of mysterious disappearances and time distortions, adding an air of mystery to the area.
Visiting Barsa-Kelmes
Due to its remote and challenging location, visiting Barsa-Kelmes requires careful planning. Special equipment and guidance are necessary to navigate the extreme conditions of the region.
Hidden Gems of Uzbekistan
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