Teletskoye

Teletskoye, also known as Teletsk Lake (Телецкое озеро), is a large freshwater lake in the Altai Republic, Russia. It is the largest lake by surface area in the republic and among the deepest in the region, with waters that remain cold and clear throughout the year.

Geography and physical characteristics: The lake lies in a mountainous basin of the Altai Mountains. It is roughly 43 kilometers long and up to about 5 kilometers wide, covering an area near 230 square kilometers. The surface sits at approximately 435 meters above sea level, and the basin is surrounded by rugged peaks and forested slopes.

Hydrology: Teletskoye is fed by numerous mountain streams and alpine lakes, contributing to its oligotrophic water quality. The primary outflow is the Biya River, which flows into the Katun River and continues into the Ob river system.

Ecology and conservation: The surrounding area features pine and larch forests, alpine meadows, and rocky ridges that support diverse flora and fauna. The region includes protected areas, such as the Teletskiy Nature Reserve, established to conserve the lake’s ecosystems and endemic species.

History and tourism: The region has long been inhabited by indigenous Altai peoples, with later Russian exploration. Today Teletskoye is a popular destination for visitors in summer, offering boat trips, hiking, fishing, and opportunities to visit shore settlements such as Artybash. The combination of scenery, clear waters, and mountainous terrain makes it a notable feature of the Altai landscape.