Close to the border with Russia, at the foot of the eastern Sayan Mountains, the “blue pearl” – as it is known in this part of northwestern Mongolia – is classified as one of the 17 ancient lakes of the world, having held water consistently for more than 2 million years.
With mirror-like azure waters stretching to distant horizons under immense skies, it is also, with the exception of Russia’s Lake Vostok, considered the world’s most pristine lake. In an arid land where most lakes are salty, Khövsgöl contains almost 70 per cent of Mongolia’s fresh water and it is held sacred
Palani’s work has been widely published by many of the world’s leading publications. He is the author of six books including his latest – Wind, Water. His work is part of the collection of the National Portrait Gallery in London and his images have been shown widely including at the prestigious Visa Pour L’Image in Perpignan, France. He talks about his work and photography around the world, including in the TEDx series and at the Asia Society in Hong Kong and New York,and he has been recognised with awards including World Press Photo
Awards World Press Photo
