Lake Baikal in Russia is Asia's second-largest lake by surface area (after the Caspian Sea), though it is the world's deepest and largest by volume.
Asia's Largest Lakes by Surface Area:
1. Caspian Sea:
- Surface area: ~371,000 sq km
- Technically a lake (enclosed water body)
- World's largest lake
2. Lake Baikal:
- Surface area: ~31,722 sq km
- Located in Siberia, Russia
- Deepest lake: 1,642 meters maximum depth
- Largest by volume: Contains ~23% of world's fresh surface water
Alternative Consideration - Lake Balkhash:
- Surface area: ~16,400 sq km (varies seasonally)
- Located in Kazakhstan
- Sometimes listed as third-largest
Important Distinction: If counting only freshwater lakes, Lake Baikal is Asia's largest freshwater lake. The Caspian Sea, despite its name, is actually a saltwater lake.
Key Takeaways:
- Caspian Sea: largest overall (saltwater)
- Lake Baikal: second by area, first by volume and depth
- Lake Baikal: largest freshwater lake in Asia
- UNESCO World Heritage Site