[2025 Raiymbek District Attraction] Travel Guide for Lake Kaindy (Updated May)

Welcome to Kazakhstan! In just 3 days, you can explore this mysterious country. This super practical guide is a must-have for your trip! / Must-Visit Attractions: - Charyn Canyon National Park ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Uygur, Enbekshikazakh and Raiymbek district of Almaty region, 7 km west of the village Shonzhy and 200 km east of Almaty Opening hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: Flexible With its rugged rocks and stunning scenery, this is a great place to explore natural wonders. - Kolsai Lake ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Almaty region, Raiymbek district, Saty str. Ultarakova 38 Opening hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours This crystal-clear alpine lake is like a pearl set among the snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking beauty. - Kaindy Lake ⭐⭐ Address: Almaty region, Raiymbek district, Saty str. Ultarakova 38 Opening hours: Flexible Recommended visit time: 1 day Nestled among the mountains, this clear lake is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some peace and quiet. / Travel Essentials: Kazakhstan Travel Checklist 🧳 📞 A SIM card is a must-have. Tele2 is a good choice for both internet and calls. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter so you don't have to worry about power during your trip. You'll be ready for any type of socket. 🪪 Although a visa is not required, you should still carry your passport and ID card with you for safety. 🧣 Kazakhstan can be a bit cold in December, so don't forget your thick coat, scarf, and gloves! With these preparations, your trip to Kazakhstan will be easy and enjoyable! ✨ / On your trip to Kazakhstan, you can explore Central Asian culture and enjoy a unique journey. Start your magical journey now!

#naturalbeauty Located nearby Almaty city, Kaindy Lake is one of the must visit destination around Almaty. You can easily find an open trip with local agent travel with affordable cost. The journey is around 4 hours away from Almaty. The crystal clear water, the silence and a calm vibes surrounded will give you a peaceful vibes around the lake. That is what makes Kaindy Lake so popular among the tourists. There are so many local travel agent that provide day tour to Kaindy Lake. So feel hassle-free to enjoy this stunning lake. There are two ways of getting to the lake. 1. You could take horse ride to the lake, or 2. You could go by walk to the lake. It depends on your needs, but I suggest you to have a horse ride as this will complete your experience during your journey here. 📍Kaindy Lake, Kazakhstan #100waysoftravel #kaindylake #kazakhstan #kazakhstantravel #nature #almaty

Kaindy Lake is truly a surreal wonder tucked deep in Kazakhstan’s mountains. The lake’s stunning green-blue color is mesmerizing and unlike anything I’ve seen before. What made the experience even more magical was the journey. Riding a horse through the mountain trails to reach the lake. The path winds through forested hills and scenic landscapes, making the trip as unforgettable as the destination itself. The round-trip horse ride cost just 7,000 tenge, and it was worth every bit for the breathtaking views and the adventure. If you’re in Kazakhstan, Kaindy Lake is a must-see! nature, adventure, and beauty all in one place.

Arrived at the meeting point at 5 AM and boarded the bus. Since the attractions were hundreds of kilometers outside the city, a day tour was the only option. I booked with JoinMe, while another group went with KKTour. At 9 AM, we reached the first stop: Charyn Canyon. We had 1.5 hours to explore. Walking to the midpoint—a large rock about 2 kilometers away—took around 40 minutes, leaving little time before heading back. The real highlights, like the Sharyn River, were in the latter half. Later, I learned from the guide that cars could pick up/drop off only at the start and end points, with no stops in between. Thankfully, my drone captured the breathtaking views, so I didn’t miss much. Overall, it couldn’t compare to China’s Tianshan Grand Canyon or Yulin’s "Chinese Antelope Canyon." (Photos 1-3) At 11:10 AM, we arrived at the second stop: Black Canyon. This was just a quick roadside attraction with only 15 minutes to take photos. Overlooking the canyon from the horizon, the rushing river below contrasted with Charyn—here, the rocks were black, hence the name. There was a spot where you could slip past the railing to stand on a large rock for photos. (Photo 4) By 1 PM, we reached the vicinity of Kolsai Lakes. Due to traffic, we had to walk 20 minutes to get there. The area has three lakes (upper, middle, and lower), though I’m unsure which one we visited (elevation: 1,800 meters). As for the scenery? Let’s just say lakes of this caliber are a dime a dozen in China. We had 1.5 hours to explore, with the option to take a boat ride at a reasonable price. (Photo 5) At 3 PM, everyone returned to the bus. It started raining, and after 30 minutes, we arrived at Saty Village for lunch at a simple restaurant. The options were limited, overpriced, and—most importantly—terrible! (Photo 6) At 4 PM, we switched to UAZ vehicles for the fourth stop: Kaindy Lake. How bad was the road? Rain had turned the potholes into pools of muddy water. Then came the wild part: The road ahead was completely flooded, with flowing water at least dozens of centimeters deep—like a river. Just as I wondered how the car would cross, the driver floored it and plowed right through! Is this Kazakhstan’s version of the Yangwang U8? Despite the shabby interior, the UAZ was decked out with a bar-style sound system blasting DJ hits at full volume, hyping up all the foreigners onboard. (Photo 7) The bumpy ride lasted half an hour before reaching the parking area (which doubled as a horse stable). Adventurous folks could hike, but most opted to pay for horseback riding—far more affordable than Indonesia’s Mount Bromo. Unlike the leather saddles I’d used on grasslands before, these were just cloth pads that turned into waterlogged sponges after the rain, soaking my underwear. After 20+ minutes on horseback, we still had to hike a few hundred meters to witness the tour’s crown jewel: the world’s one-of-a-kind underwater forest! Formed by a 1911 earthquake that created a landslide dam, the submerged birch trees now stand half-drowned, with only their tops visible above the water—paired with the lake’s mirror-like reflections, the sight was utterly magical. (Photos 8-9) At 7 PM, we boarded the bus back to Almaty, a grueling 5-hour journey.

Day1⃣: City roaming + stunning sunset 📍Ascension Cathedral 👉 World-class wooden architecture! The candy-colored church is super fantastic, thousands of white pigeons are circling and super healing ~ The park where the church is located is lush and green, and it's a big picture! 🚶5 minutes walk directly to Green Bazaar (largest local market) 🍉 There are piles of melons and fruits, the color of beef and mutton is tempting! The clean and tidy market smoke and fire is a must-go for photography enthusiasts 🍴Navat is recommended for lunch 🔥 One-stop check-in for Kazakhstan's national cuisine! The decoration is super ethnic, hand-grabbed rice/horse sausage must try 🌆 Stroll around the pedestrian street in the afternoon, and take a drive to Mount Cocteau in the evening! 🚠Cable up the mountain, overlooking the sunset over the city, romantic worth bursting! · Day 2⃣: Two Lakes and One Canyon Day Tour (Join Me Tour) 💡 WhatsApp in advance to make an appointment, offline payment is super convenient! 1⃣️ Charon Canyon⛰️ The landscape of "Black Canyon" is shocking, it looks like the surface of Mars! 2⃣️ Lake Caindi (strongly recommended! 🏕️) The secret realm of earthquake formation! Withered trees stand in the water of the blue lake, the ghost is breathtakingly beautiful 3⃣️ Lake Colsay 🎑 "Little Ili of Kazakhstan"! The snow-capped mountains reflect the lake, you can go hiking/boating, and the light and shadow are first-class in the evening! 🌙 Back to town at about 22, tired and happy to wear! · Day 3⃣: Snow Mountain Cable Car Light Hike 🏔 Aratau National Park 1⃣️ 30 minutes from the city! The four-season snow-capped mountains are the companions, the cable car directly reaches the observation deck, and the sea of ​​​​clouds is within reach 2⃣️ Easy hiking route, novices can shoot the same blockbuster as "Lord of the Rings"! · 📌 Tips ✔ Visa: Visa-free for 14 days, no problem with a white book ✔ Transportation: Yandex ride is super cheap, English communication mainly relies on gestures 😉 ✔ Currency: 1¥≈70 Kengo, remember to exchange more coins 💬 "The landscape of Kazakhstan is like God overturning the palette!" Sisters rush!

Saty is a picturesque rural village in southeastern Kazakhstan, located in the Almaty region near the stunning Kaindy Lake. Nestled in the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, Saty serves as a gateway to the famous Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged forest. The village is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, with rolling hills, lush meadows, and pristine rivers. It offers a glimpse into traditional Kazakh rural life, where locals engage in farming and eco-tourism. Saty is a popular stop for travelers seeking outdoor adventures such as hiking, horseback riding, and camping in one of Kazakhstan’s most scenic regions. #springwander #almaty #kazakhstan

Nestled at the foot of the Tian Shan Mountains, Almaty is a jewel in the heart of Central Asia. This city boasts both stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. During my journey, I found a unique sense of poetry and tranquility amidst its mountains, lakes, and city streets. Charyn Canyon: Wildness in Serenity Driving to Charyn Canyon, the scenery gradually transformed from gentle greenery to vastness. The canyon's cliffs, as if cleaved by a giant axe, are rugged and dark. At the bottom, a stream rushes, its sound echoing through the canyon walls along with the wind. Standing at the canyon's mouth, the world seemed to fall silent, leaving only the raw breath of the earth. Charyn Canyon's beauty is raw and powerful, its depth inspiring awe. Lake Kaindy: A Sunken Forest Sanctuary Lake Kaindy rests peacefully among the mountains, a green emerald embedded deep within the valley. Its surface is as calm as a mirror, reflecting the sky and clouds. Dead trees rise straight from the water, like a sunken forest silently guarding this sanctuary. Time seems to slow down by the lake, the coolness of the water permeating the air, bringing a sense of clarity and peace. Kolsai Lakes: Gazing Amidst the Clouds The blue of Kolsai Lakes is as rich as a stroke of oil paint. The water shifts through shades of deep blue, turquoise, and sapphire, a masterpiece painted by nature. Lush pine forests line the shores, occasionally punctuated by birdsong. Sitting by the lake, gazing at the light filtering through the clouds, I felt completely immersed in this tranquil world. Zenkov Cathedral: A Fusion of Color and Faith Almaty's Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden structure built without a single nail, is a marvel. Its golden domes gleam in the sunlight, and the pastel blue, yellow, and pink of its exterior evoke a fairytale castle. Inside, soft light streams through stained-glass windows, illuminating ancient murals. The air is filled with the scent of candles and incense, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere. Arbat Street: The City's Vibrant Pulse Arbat Street is Almaty's most artistic pedestrian street. Bookstores, cafes, and various shops line the street, filling the air with the aroma of coffee. Street musicians play guitars, children doodle on canvases, and a carefree atmosphere prevails. Strolling along, I encountered art exhibitions and musical performances, as if the entire street was whispering the city's stories. City Sunset: Golden Light on Rooftops In the evening, from a panoramic viewpoint, the distant city bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. Almaty's buildings, though not towering, possess a gentle charm. Sunlight dances on windows, reflecting people returning home, and the city's pulse slows amidst the warm hues. Central Mosque: A Place of Quiet Faith The white domes of the Central Mosque shimmer under the sun, its golden minarets reaching for the sky. Inside, blue and white geometric patterns on the walls resemble a starry sky. Worshippers kneel in silent prayer, the sound of chanting resonating beneath the domes, carrying a deep and devout power. Kok-Tobe: City Lights Under the Stars As night falls, Kok-Tobe Hill offers the best view of the city. Almaty's lights twinkle like stars scattered across the earth. A gentle breeze carries the melody of street music, revealing the city's tender side. Subway Station Music: The City's Heartbeat An unexpected musical performance in a subway station became one of the most memorable moments of my trip. Under the station's arches, young people played guitars and hand drums, their music and voices creating a lively rhythm. Commuters stopped, smiling and swaying to the beat. In that moment, Almaty's pulse seemed to beat with the music, radiating a free and vibrant spirit. Almaty's beauty lies in its majestic mountains and lakes, as well as in the gentle charm of its streets. The vastness of nature and the poetry of the city remind us that life's breadth and intimacy can coexist.

This is a lake that you can go to on a tour from Almaty. It is said that it was originally a forest, but when water came into the valley, the trees were submerged and became a lake.

#favouriteitinerary Kaindy Lake, located in Kazakhstan’s breathtaking Kungey Alatau mountain range, is a stunning natural wonder that is truly one of a kind. Known for its submerged forest, crystal-clear waters, and striking blue hues, the lake offers visitors a surreal and picturesque experience. Here’s an ideal itinerary to explore this hidden gem! 🌲💧 Day 1: • Morning: Start your journey by traveling to Kaindy Lake from Almaty, which is approximately a 4-hour drive. The scenic drive through the mountainous terrain will prepare you for the beauty that awaits. 🚗🌄 • Afternoon: Upon arrival, take a walk around the lake, which is surrounded by tall, pine-covered mountains. The submerged forest is the highlight, with the tree trunks emerging from the water, creating an otherworldly scene. 🏞️🌳 • Evening: Set up for an evening picnic by the lake, enjoying the tranquility of the area as the sun sets over the mountains. Day 2: • Morning: Rent a small boat or kayak to get a closer look at the submerged trees beneath the lake’s clear waters. The sight is magical, especially with the reflections of the trees on the water’s surface. 🚣♂️🌊 • Afternoon: Hike around the surrounding areas to explore the lush scenery and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. Tips: • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking. • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking beauty of the lake. • The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is ideal. This itinerary will give you a deeper appreciation for Kaindy Lake’s natural beauty and unique landscape! 🏔️ #favouriteitinerary #kaindylake #kazakhstantravel #naturelovers #outdooradventures #travelguide #landscapephotography #hiddenparadise #almatyadventures

Hello everyone! I wanna share my trip in Kaindy Lake the most beautiful lake in Almaty.Lake Kaindy is a 400-meter-long lake located in Kazakhstan. The lake reaches depths of nearly 30 meters.It is located 129 kilometers (80 mi) east-southeast of the city of Almaty and is 2,000 meters (6,600 ft) above sea level. When you remember that I have shared my trip to Kolsai Lake in my previous post. So Kaindy Lake is the second lake that we visited before we going to Kyrgyzstan. This place also includes in our ground tour itinerary. Actually since we booking ground tour package, we not worried about the transportation and our journey becomes smooth. If you want to go Kaindy Lake, I suggest you to book day tours because the Lake is quite far from Almaty city (estimated 4 hours 9 minutes) In Kaindy Lake you have 2 option whether you pay for horse riding or walking on your foot but that time we decided rides the horse to explore the lake (RM50 horse ride for return trip). We choose to ride the horses because from the entrance you should walking and hiking and it will take time to reach the lake maybe it’s can take around 1-2 hours depending on your stamina. So when you arrived in this lake you can walk around and take the pictures. We spend time around 2 hours and we back our horse and going down to the entrance. This is amazing experience and I love the views🥰 If you plan to travel in Almaty please put this place in your itinerary 🤗 I promise you will not regret!😁 #favouriteitinerary #travel #naturalwonders #myitinerary

#europetrip Post under Valentines => europe trip Loc : Visiting Almaty during winter was a magical experience. Kaindy Lake's submerged forest, adorned with a blanket of snow, created an ethereal, fairy-tale landscape. The serene Kolsai Lakes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offered a tranquil retreat perfect for reflection and photography. Saty Village was a cultural highlight, where warm hospitality and traditional Kazakh cuisine provided a delightful contrast to the winter chill. Each destination showcased the beauty of Kazakhstan’s natural wonders in the wintertime. The pristine, snowy landscapes and the rich cultural experiences made my winter visit to Almaty unforgettable. Whether you’re a nature lover or a cultural enthusiast, Almaty’s winter charm is a must-experience for any traveler.

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 Kaindy Lake The most special thing about this lake is the "underwater forest" in the lake. It is a unique landscape formed by an earthquake and is perfect for diving and taking photos! The lake water is clear and the surrounding environment is quiet, which is suitable for relaxation. There is a farm nearby that offers traditional meals. I recommend trying "Samsa" (grilled buns)!

#mountainhike I started my first day in Central Asia in Kazakhstan, and I decide to go for a hike to Kaindy Lake. The lake in Kazakhstan is a stunning natural wonder! 🌊 To get there, I had to hike for about an hour in the mountains of Kazakhstan. This unique lake is famous for its submerged forest, where towering tree trunks rise from the water’s surface, creating a magical scene. Formed by an earthquake in 1911, the lake is a vibrant turquoise color, making it a popular spot for photographers and adventurers. 🏞️ It's located in the Tian Shan Mountains, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. While you can hike around the area, uou can also enjoy picnics, or even go kayaking in the summer. Mark my words! This place has a lovely atmosphere and it makes Kaindy Lake a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Kazakhstan's natural beauty. Don’t forget your camera! 📸

#100waysoftravel The hike up to Kaindy Lake is an adventure in itself, winding through dense forests, alpine meadows, and offering breathtaking views at every turn. The trail is moderately challenging but rewarding, with each step bringing you closer to the mesmerizing blue waters that await you. The lake’s striking blue-green color is otherworldly, created by the mineral-rich waters and the submerged forest that eerily stands tall within the lake. The sight of the ghostly, submerged trees rising from the water is surreal, making Kaindy Lake feel like a place frozen in time. The tranquility of the area is unmatched, with the crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky. It’s a perfect spot for photography, a peaceful picnic, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. If you’re up for it, there are plenty of spots along the way for a rest, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and take in the fresh mountain air 🌬️ Kaindy Lake is a must-visit for anyone traveling in Kazakhstan. Whether you’re seeking adventure, stunning landscapes, or a peaceful retreat, this hidden paradise will not disappoint. Be sure to bring your camera, good hiking boots, and an adventurous spirit—you’re in for an unforgettable experience!!

Visit to Chayan Canyon, Kaindy and Kolsai lakes (all within a day trip). Although it is long travelling hours from Almaty town, once you witnessed the nature beauty, it is definitely worth it. And require to endure some off road adventure of about 30 mins for 4WD ride to Kaindy lake. And we were lucky as it snowed few days before at Kaindy and Kolsai lakes, hence it seems magical like early Christmas

One of the other places to visit when in Almaty is Kaindy lake. It’s one of the best lakes in East Kazakhstan, you will definitely like it. You need to do some of roaming and two river crossing to reach. This lake can only be reached by a strong 4X4 car. The view is incredible, but you need to hike to reach the lake. It’s worth visiting but avoid in winter. You can wild came there as well.

#familytrips2024 Kaindy Lake, located in the breathtaking landscapes of Kazakhstan, offers an enchanting natural wonder that captivates every traveler’s heart. This submerged forest, formed after an earthquake in 1911, features crystal-clear turquoise waters and towering submerged spruce trees that create a surreal and hauntingly beautiful scene. Nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains, Kaindy Lake is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy hiking through lush forests, picnicking by the lake, and exploring the surrounding scenic beauty. The unique underwater forest and vibrant blue hues of the lake make it a paradise for photographers and anyone seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. #KaindyLake #KazakhstanTravel #NaturalWonder #SubmergedForest #TianShanMountains #AdventureTravel #NatureLovers #ScenicBeauty #HikingTrails #CrystalClearWaters #UniqueDestinations #TravelGoals #HiddenGems #OutdoorAdventure #TravelPhotography #SereneEscape #ExploreKazakhstan #UnforgettableViews #ilovetravelling #penangfoodandtravel

Lake Kaindy, nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains of Kazakhstan, is a mesmerizing natural wonder. Formed in 1911 after a massive earthquake triggered a landslide, the lake's unique feature is a submerged forest of spruce trees, preserved remarkably well due to the cold mountain water. The crystal-clear lake surface mirrors the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal and tranquil atmosphere. Nicknamed the "Sunken Forest" or "Kaindy Lake," it has become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The submerged trees rising eerily from the lake bed provide a hauntingly beautiful spectacle, making Lake Kaindy a captivating and otherworldly destination for those seeking the wonders of untouched landscapes. #Tripstars

One of the most pristine lakes ever visited ! A country that made me a lake person, with perfect autumn colours and calmness around it. Can be clearly called a country of pristine lakes. Along with that, country is quite cheap to travel . Kazakhstan, you have truly stolen my heart ❤️❤️ #kazakhstan #lake #almaty #mountains #lakekaindy #camping #instatravel #autumn