KAINDY LAKE

Into the Depths: Explore Kaindy Lake and Its Sunken Forest Wonderland

What is so attractive about the Kaindy Lake in Kazakhstan?

Kaindy Lake Almaty is considered a famous landmark, and it is visited annually by a large number of tourists from all around the world. The reservoir impresses with a surreal view that does not leave anyone indifferent. Dead Lake Kaindy was created by nature about 100 years ago and has been popular among connoisseurs of unusual natural objects ever since.

Geographical characteristics

Many tourists are interested in how to get to Kaindy. The natural landmark is located in southern Kazakhstan, 280 km from Almaty. The trip by car will take about 5 hours. The border with Kyrgyzstan is located nearby. The unique lake can be seen at the Kungei Alatau Gorge, which belongs to the Tien Shan mountain system. Lake Kaindy is located at an altitude of 1667 m above sea level.

Formation of a local landmark

More than 100 years ago, in 1910, an earthquake occurred in those places. It caused a rock collapse in the Kaindy Gorge. The peculiarity of the natural disaster was its duration. The mountains shook for almost 5 minutes under the influence of powerful tremors. Large cracks with displacements up to 8 m formed in the mountain structures. On the river of the same name, sunken forest lake Kaindy was formed as a result of the strongest earthquake.

Sunken Forest

Before the disaster, mighty Tien Shan fir trees grew in the valley. Their root system was not damaged in the earthquake, but the trees were flooded with water. The roots, like powerful anchors, grew into the rocky soil and did not let the trunks fall. The tops of coniferous trees that are above the water surface of Dead Lake Kazakhstan-Kaindy eventually became bleached trunks. They have neither bark nor branches. The part of the spruce that is underwater has preserved branches and spruce needles. Spruce roots did not rot and preserved their natural beauty, thanks to the low water temperature, which does not exceed +6 °C.

Seasonality

The optimal time to visit the underwater forest at Lake Kaindy in the Tien Shan mountains of Kazakhstan is July and August. Dry weather during these months makes access to the site much easier. However, if it rains during the week leading up to your visit, the chances of encountering muddy roads increase. For diving enthusiasts, winter presents an ideal opportunity, as the water in Lake Kaindy—often referred to as the Dead Lake—is obvious during this season.

Interesting facts

The name "Kaindy," translated from Kazakh, means "birch grove." This picturesque reservoir earned its enchanting name due to the abundance of birch trees located just 5 km away from the site. One of the unique features of the ethereal Lake Kaindy is that, even during the summer when air temperatures can reach +23°C, the water remains surprisingly cool, not exceeding +6°C.

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WHAT TO TAKE ON TOUR

  • Comfortable walking shoes
    Trekking boots, sneakers or comfortable hiking shoes are the best solutions.
  • Sunscreens and repellents
    Cosmetics with a UV filter, repellent creams, a hat and sunglasses will definitely come in handy while walking.
  • Comfortable and warm clothes
    During a holiday in the mountains of Almaty, the temperature can fluctuate significantly, and it is better to grab warm clothes that do not hinder movement.
  • Food and drinks
    If you have chosen the economy format of a weekend tour in Kazakhstan, you can take water beverages, and food with you to have a snack or have a picnic in one of the picturesque locations along the route.

WHY SILKTRAVEL?

  • Individual approach
    Travel comfortably without noisy groups.
  • Experience
    Explore hidden gems and capture stunning moments in secret locations for the best pictures.
  • Safety first
    After every tour, we diligently conduct technical inspections on our vehicles.
  • Presents
    That’s a good tradition in Silk Travel. We try our best to make every visit to Kazakhstan memorable. It can be horse riding, drone videos or sweet gifts.
  • Flexibility
    Our guides can choose the difficulty level of the tour for you.
  • Attainments
    Our expertise extends to tire repair even in the heart of the steppe.
Talgat Zhangaziyev
Professional tour guide, founder of Silktravel and videographer
Hi, dear traveler! My name is Tau.
After I started traveling the world and seeing the beauty of different countries, which inspired me to share the beauty of my home country with avid travelers and beauty seekers.
We offer private tours by comfortable SUV
with all-inclusive service.

our guides

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