Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy is a mountain lake nestled in a limestone gorge at about 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) elevation in the Kungei Alatau mountain range. The water stretches roughly 400 meters (1,312 feet) through the narrow canyon, creating an unusual body of water at this altitude.

A major earthquake in 1911 triggered a limestone landslide that formed a natural dam. This dam blocked the mountain river and created the lake as it exists today.

The name Kaindy comes from the Kazakh language and refers to birch trees that dot the surrounding mountains. These trees remain central to how locals understand their landscape.

The water stays around 6 degrees Celsius year-round, so thermal protection is essential if you plan to swim. Getting here involves mountain hiking and requires decent fitness plus proper gear.

Submerged spruce tree trunks stick up through the turquoise water with branches preserved by the cold. These ghostly trees have remained this way for over 100 years, creating an eerie and striking sight.

Location: Kegen District

Elevation above the sea: 2,000 m

GPS coordinates: 42.98461,78.46569

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:54