Located in the eastern portion of the nation of Kyrgyzstan, Lake Issyk-Kul is a lake of wonders. For starters, its size. As far as lakes at large are concerned, this is the 10th largest lake in the world by volume. If one were to count only alpine lakes, this is the second largest alpine lake in the world(Lake Titacaca is the largest alpine lake in the world). Lake Issyk-Kul has a slight saline content as well.
Another thing to consider about the lake is this. This lake NEVER freezes, except for only the most shallow areas of the lake, such as the coves. Lake Issyk-Kul is located in the high altitudes, at 1607 m above sea level. It is also ringed by the Tian Shan Mountains, which are capped with snow. In fact, Issyk-Kul's name is Kyrgyz for "hot lake".
Why does Lake Issyk-Kul never freeze? Well, one reason to consider is this. Even thought Lake Issyk-Kul has a slight saline content, but only a slight saline content. Salt in water will lower the freezing point of water. However, the salinity of Lake Issyk-Kul is 0.3%, so the effect of salt water might play a part, but not as much as it would for an ocean, which would have a higher salt content.There is another reason that has been looked at. There are warm springs at the bottom of the lake. Because of these warm springs, this lake never freezes. so even on the coldest winter day in this portion of Kyrgyzstan, the lake stays liquid.
Lake Issyk, a lake of wonders.
Image source: http://www.steppejourneys.com/p/combined-country-tours.html
Other sources: http://www.globalnature.org/24451/LIVING-LAKES/Asia/Issyk-Kul/02_vorlage.asp
http://www.issykkulinvest.kg/en/why-issykkul-oblast/tourism/Recreation-zones/Issyk-Kul-Biosphere-Area/
http://www.happytellus.com/lake-issyk-kul/kyrgyzstan
http://aslo.org/lo/toc/vol_47/issue_4/1210.pdf
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