Kow Ata underground lake

Kow Ata ("father of caves") lies near Bäherden at the foot of the Kopet Dag, deep inside the cave of the same name, and is considered the largest underground lake in the CIS.

A long stairway leads down to the water, bats live in the cave roof, and the sulphurous mineral water stays warm all year, so people bathe here even in winter.

Locals believe the water has healing powers, and being a few hours from Ashgabat it is a favourite outing for Turkmens and visitors alike.