The blue pearl of Mongolia

Khatgal
Although the turquoise cyan blue water resembled Caribbean beaches, the cold shocked us as we dove into the lake, sprinting back out as fast as possible. Although today the air temperature was warm, the lake stayed frigid.
The lakes subtle surroundings contrasted with its dramatic weather patterns. One minute the sky is blue, the lake glassy. The next minute, before we have enough time to throw on our Kokatat dry gear, the sky’s turn dark and thundery, frequent lightning bolts illuminating the stormy sky.
After our chilly swim we lay on the small rocky beach drying off.
To the east subtle rolling hills are silhouetted on the far horizon. To the west, jagged peaks reach up, the tallest still carrying snow. South, our directing of travel, the lake narrows, were the town of Khatgal is perched. The town signifies the end of the Khovsgol Lake, and the beginning of the Eg River.

Sarah McNair-Landry