The border between the two districts runs across the lake from northwest to southeast.

[1] Bulayevo, the district capital, is located 35 kilometers (22 mi) to the southeast.

Its water level has dropped significantly in recent decades and currently there are only a few residual pools left.

[2][4] Shelegino is surrounded by steppe and marshy areas, Reeds cover most of the shallow parts of the surface and sedges and willows grow near the shore.

Migratory birds such as the greater flamingo visit the lake seasonally.