Lake Kaindy is located in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan at an altitude of about 2000 meters above sea level, surrounded by dense forests and mountains. It was formed as a result of an earthquake in 1911, which caused a large landslide that blocked the gorge and created a natural dam. Water gradually filled the resulting space, forming a lake up to 30 meters deep.

A feature of Lake Kaindy is the huge number of submerged spruce trees that are visible under the clear water. Their trunks protrude above the surface, creating an unusual and mysterious landscape. The water temperature is extremely low even in summer, which contributes to the preservation of the submerged trees. The amazing turquoise shades of the water, caused by calcite deposits on the bottom, combined with bare tree trunks, create an impressive picture. The lake is popular for diving.

Not far from Kaindy are the Kolsay Lakes - the "pearl" of the Trans-Ili Alatau. This group of three picturesque high-mountain lakes at an altitude of 1800 to 2700 meters above sea level are surrounded by dense pine forests and majestic mountain peaks. The Upper Lake is famous for its crystal clear water; the Middle Lake is the largest and deepest, also very picturesque and surrounded by pine forest; the Lower Lake is available for recreation and picnics. The water in the lakes is cool and clear, and is home to trout and other freshwater fish.

The Assy River Valley is one of the most picturesque places in this region. These are endless green pastures of high-mountain meadows, and turbulent mountain rivers with the purest water, and dense pine forests, and red rock outcrops, and majestic mountains framing the horizon.

Moving up the valley towards the Assy-Turgen plateau, you can clearly observe the change of unforgettable landscapes, various natural and climatic zones from semi-desert to alpine meadows.

The famous Assy-Turgen Astrophysical Observatory, which is located on the mountain plateau of the same name, is one of the largest astronomical stations in the territory of the former Soviet Union. The observatory was founded in the middle of the 20th century and serves as an important scientific center for observing space objects and studying astronomical phenomena. Due to its location at a high altitude (2750 meters above sea level) and in conditions of low light pollution, the observatory provides favorable conditions for high-precision observations. The observatory is equipped with a 1560-mm reflector, which is used to study the Sun, stars and exoplanets.

Photos and text by Max Nasekin

8 May 2025