Lake Kaindy, also known as Kaindy Lake, is a unique and stunning natural attraction located in Kazakhstan. It's famous for its unusual and picturesque scenery. 

Kaindy Lake: Kazakhstan’s Enchanted Sunken Forest

Formation: Lake Kaindy was created as a result of a massive limestone landslide triggered by the 1911 Kebin earthquake. The landslide blocked the gorge and created a natural dam. Subsequently, the rainwater filled the gorge, forming a beautiful, crystal-clear mountain lake.
Submerged Forest: What makes Lake Kaindy particularly intriguing is the presence of submerged tree trunks rising out of the water. These trees, primarily spruces, remain standing in the cold water, which has a unique and eerie appearance. The cold water helps preserve the trees, which have turned white over time, adding to the lake's charm.

Crystal-Clear Water: The water of Lake Kaindy is known for its remarkable clarity, making it an attractive spot for divers and photographers.
Tourism: Lake Kaindy has become a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, picnicking, and photography. It's also a great place for those interested in ecotourism.
Accessibility: You can reach Lake Kaindy by traveling from Almaty to the Kolsai Lakes National Park. The journey to the lake typically involves some hiking or horseback riding.

Lake Kaindy is a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases the beauty of Kazakhstan's wilderness and is a must-visit for travelers looking to explore the country's stunning landscapes.

Hidden deep within the Tian Shan Mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan, Kaindy Lake is a surreal alpine lake known for its sunken forest — ghostly spruce tree trunks rising from crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Formed by a powerful earthquake in 1911, Kaindy (meaning “birch” in Kazakh) has become one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders and a favorite destination for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers.

Where Is Kaindy Lake?

Kaindy Lake is located in the Almaty Region, approximately:

290 km east of Almaty

Near the village of Saty, in the Kolsai Lakes National Park

Around 30 km from Lower Kolsai Lake

The lake sits at an altitude of 2,000 meters and is best accessed by 4x4 vehicle from Saty.

Why Is Kaindy Lake Famous?

🌲 Underwater Forest: The submerged trunks of spruce trees appear to grow out of the lake, preserved by the cold water.

💧 Turquoise Waters: The lake’s unique color comes from limestone deposits and glacial meltwater.

🏞️ Mountain Scenery: Surrounded by steep cliffs and dense pine forests in the Tian Shan range.

📸 Incredible Photography: A favorite for drone footage and landscape shots in all seasons.

How Was Kaindy Lake Formed?

In 1911, a massive earthquake triggered a limestone landslide, creating a natural dam across a gorge. Over time, rain and snowmelt filled the basin, flooding the forest and preserving the spruce trees in place. The result is a stunning and eerie underwater forest with tree trunks that remain upright even over a century later.

Things to Do at Kaindy Lake

📷 Photography & Drone Shots

Capture the surreal view of submerged trees and reflections — best lighting is early morning or late afternoon.

🥾 Hiking

There are multiple trails around the lake with panoramic viewpoints. Hiking from the parking area to the lake takes about 30–40 minutes.

🏕️ Camping

Camp at designated spots near the lake or in Saty village. The area is peaceful, with minimal light and noise.

🐎 Horseback Riding

Some locals offer horseback tours between Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy.

Best Time to Visit

✅ Spring to Autumn (May–October): The lake is most accessible and vibrant.

❄️ Winter (Nov–March): The lake freezes, creating a different but equally magical scene with snow-covered trees and ice.

🚫 Avoid April/early May: Muddy roads due to melting snow make access difficult.

Travel Tips

🧭 No mobile signal at the lake — download offline maps.

🚗 4WD needed for the final leg from Saty to the lake.

🥾 Wear sturdy shoes — terrain can be rocky or muddy.

🧺 Bring snacks, water, and weather-appropriate gear.

♻️ Respect nature — leave no trace.

Combine Kaindy with Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your trip by visiting other scenic spots nearby:

🌊 Kolsai Lakes (1st, 2nd, and 3rd)

⛰️ Charyn Canyon

🏡 Saty village — offers guesthouses and homestays

🐎 Zhabagly Nature Reserve for wildlife and flower meadows

Final Thoughts: Kaindy — A Hidden Gem of Kazakhstan

Kaindy Lake is unlike any other place in Central Asia — a serene, mysterious body of water where a forest was frozen in time. Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect shot, a hiker seeking peace in nature, or simply a curious traveler, Kaindy offers a truly magical experience in the Kazakh mountains.

Far from the crowds, surrounded by mountains and myths, Kaindy is a jewel waiting to be discovered.