Kaindy Lake, stretching 400 meters in Kazakhstan, boasts a unique beauty with a strange forest growing beneath its waters.
The lake was formed after an earthquake in 1911, when rocks blocked the flow of a river, creating a natural dam. Subsequent rainfall supplied additional water to the valley, leading to the formation of Kaindy Lake.
Kaindy Lake is located within the Kolsai Lakes National Park, approximately 130 kilometers from Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. The highlight of the lake is its unique submerged forest. The trunks of spruce trees grow submerged in the lake, rising straight up above the water’s surface. These tree trunks stretch towards the sky, creating a mysterious scene. From a distance, the forest appears to be a multitude of spears thrusting directly into the sky.
Additionally, the water in the lake is always crystal clear, allowing visibility down to the bottom. The highest temperature recorded throughout the year is only around 6 degrees Celsius, which helps preserve the submerged spruce trees’ growth. Consequently, while vegetation in other flooded lakes often deteriorates over time, the spruce trees in Kaindy Lake have remained intact for decades.
Viewed from underwater, the trees resemble the wreckage of a sunken ship rather than an ancient forest. In most lakes, submerged trees decay or break over time; however, the specific conditions of Kaindy Lake have allowed the trees to remain preserved for decades. The color of the lake’s surface frequently changes, often turning a captivating shade of blue. This unusual color is due to lime and other minerals dissolving into the water from nearby mines.
The upper parts of the trees that rise above the water have shed all their side branches and bark, leaving behind pale white wood that resembles giant toothpicks or spears protruding from the water’s surface. However, beneath the water, branches and even needles remain visible but have turned a reddish-brown due to the lack of sunlight. They are also covered in algae, making them look like masts of ancient shipwrecks.
As visitors approach the lake, the water becomes crystal clear, occasionally revealing salmon swimming inside. This allows tourists to see the underwater forest. Kaindy Lake is not just a picturesque body of water; it is also a geological wonder. The lake’s formation through seismic activity and the emergence of the submerged forest creates a unique landscape that is both captivating and inspiring.
Today, Kaindy Lake attracts many tourists thanks to its spectacular colors and the bizarre tree branches protruding from the lake’s surface. Due to the extremely cold water temperature, those who enter must wear diving suits or other protective gear. For diving enthusiasts, Kaindy Lake provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Exploring the submerged forest and diving among the towering tree trunks feels like stepping into a surreal world. The pristine waters offer stunning views, allowing divers to marvel at the breathtaking natural landscapes beneath the surface.
In winter, Kaindy Lake transforms into a magical wonderland. The snow-capped mountains surrounding the frozen lake create a picturesque scene that appears to leap from a fairy tale. The ice covering the lake adds an enchanting layer, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Kaindy Lake and its surroundings are a paradise for ecotourism. This area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as snow leopards and golden eagles. Exploring the trails around the lake and witnessing the unspoiled beauty of nature is an experience that will leave you in awe.
Despite its undeniable beauty, Kaindy Lake remains relatively unknown to many. It is a hidden gem in the heart of Kazakhstan, waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations. Despite the devastation caused by the earthquake and subsequent landslides, nature has transformed disaster into a breathtaking landscape that enchants all who visit.
