The Sacred Wealth of Zhetysu

To enjoy the contemplation of nature, Almaty residents do not need fabulous money for visas and flights. Tour trips to Kolsay Lakes, Kaindy and Charyn Canyon are a great idea for organizing a full-fledged leisure.

Kolsay

Without exaggeration, this is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Whoever has been to the Kolsai lakes at least once won't forget their splendor. The three lakes in the Northern Tien Shan, 330 kilometers away from Almaty, are called "the pearls of the mountains". The lakes are situated in the Kolsay National Park with rare species of animals and plants included in the Red Book.  A boat trip in the middle of an enchanting panorama of mountainous landscape with dense forests is a real pleasure.

Kaindy

"Kaindy" - literally: "abundant with birch trees". The lake was formed by an earthquake in the mountains, two kilometers above sea level. A mountain landslide blocked the river and filled the valley with water. Even seasoned travelers are impressed by the mysterious view of the reservoir, from which the trunks of centuries-old sunken trees rise. Diving and underwater shooting in the "birch" water will be extremely unusual and interesting.

Charyn Canyon

Just 200 kilometers from Almaty, along the border with China and Kyrgyzstan, is a unique canyon, 30 million years old. The length of the gorge (154 kilometers) rivals the largest canyons in the world, and the depth of 300 meters impresses tourists. There are special viewing platforms for visitors among the reddish cliffs of the canyon.

Author: Nadezhda Sergeeva
Photos: from the archives of the press services