Kolsai Lakes

Көлсай көлдері

The “Pearl of the Tian Shan,” three terraced alpine lakes strung through a spruce valley. You can row on the lower lake, and the hike to the middle lake is Almaty's most beautiful day trek.

Kolsai Lakes are a chain of three terraced alpine lakes on the northern slope of the Kungey Alatau mountains. They lie in Kolsai Lakes National Park, about 300 km east of Almaty, in the same area as Lake Kaindy. The lower lake (Lake 1) sits at 1,818 m and is about 1 km long, reachable on foot from the parking lot. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by straight Tian Shan spruces that reach into the clouds. You can rent kayaks or pedal boats (about 3,000–5,000 tenge per hour) or ride horses along the shore. From the lower lake to the middle lake (Lake 2, at 2,252 m), a 9 km mountain trail climbs about 450 m through conifer forest and alpine meadows. The one-way walk takes 3–4 hours. The middle lake is larger and quieter than the lower lake, and many consider it the most beautiful lake in the Tian Shan. You can also rent a horse to get there, about 10,000–15,000 tenge round trip. The upper lake (Lake 3, at 2,850 m) is another 4 km beyond the middle lake and close to the Kyrgyz border. It requires a border permit, so most visitors do not go. National park admission is about 900–1,400 tenge per person. The lakeshore has yurt camps, wooden cabins, and a café. Transport: driving from Almaty takes 4–5 hours via Saty village. Most people take a two-day tour. On day one, visit Charyn Canyon and stay in Saty village. On day two, visit Kaindy Lake and Kolsai Lakes. Notes: afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains, so start hiking early. Above 2,000 m, dress warmly and protect yourself from the sun. Carry your passport in the border area, and campfires are not allowed in the park.

Kolsai Lakes

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