Kaindy Lake

Kaindy Lake is a natural mountain lake located in Kazakhstan’s Almaty region, within the Kolsai Lakes National Park. It is famous for its submerged spruce trees. The lake was formed in 1911 after a powerful earthquake triggered a landslide that blocked a gorge, allowing rain and meltwater to accumulate. The Tian Shan spruces submerged in the water now protrude above the surface, resembling ship masts in a surreal landscape. The lake is about 400 meters long and 21–25 meters deep. Even in summer, the water temperature remains below 6°C, making it unsuitable for swimming. The name “Kaindy” means “birch-covered area,” though the lake’s iconic trees are mostly spruces.