Big Almaty Lake

Nestled at an altitude of 2,510 meters in the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains lies Big Almaty Lake, like a vast bowl filled with bluish-green waters gently lapping at the foot of a towering mountain. Often referred to as BAL (using its abbreviated name), the lake offers visitors breathtaking views of snow-capped slopes, fresh fragrant air, and crystal-clear waters. It is believed that the lake was formed over 2,000 years ago as a result of a devastating earthquake. The fissure left by the quake was filled with water from a river, giving rise to this wondrous attraction, now a celebrated natural wonder of Kazakhstan. The lake is approximately 45 meters deep, with a width of about 1 km and a length of 1.6 km.

If you arrive early on a weekday morning, you’ll be greeted by an almost meditative silence, as the waters remain calm and transparent at that time. It feels as though the sky itself has sunk into this serene mountain reservoir. The color of the lake shifts from turquoise blue to emerald green depending on the weather. In winter, especially in February, the lake shrinks, while in August the water level rises by as much as 20 meters. Regardless of the season, the shores of the lake are often quite cool (in summer, temperatures rarely rise above 10°C), so it’s wise to pack warm clothing for your visit.

From the lake’s shore, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. To the south, beyond the lake, lies Ozerny Peak (4,110 m), a little to the east is Sovetov Peak (4,100 m), and nearby stands Big Almaty Peak (3,680 m). Higher up the gorge, one can witness impressive glaciers, alpine meadows, and towering peaks rising above 4,000 meters. However, due to its proximity to the Kyrgyz border, access to these areas is restricted.

In the 1950s and ’60s, a hydroelectric power station was built at Big Almaty Lake. By the 1980s, the dam was reinforced and its height increased by 10 meters. Since then, the lake has been a vital source of drinking water for Almaty and is considered a strategic resource. As with any fresh water source, access to the lake’s shore is restricted for tourists. Signs posted around the lake serve as reminders, though many visitors, unaware of the regulations, descend to the water’s edge, risking confrontations with local security and possible fines.

Visiting Big Almaty Lake is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a weekend with loved ones. A hike around the area will boost your health and recharge your energy for days. To fully appreciate the mountain scenery and the lake’s beauty, a viewing platform has been set up 400 meters from the shore. Thousands of tourists choose this spot to capture the perfect photograph, with a panoramic view that encompasses both the lake and the soaring peaks, as if lifted straight from a postcard.

Due to its proximity to the border, it is essential to carry an identification document. There is also an ecological fee to visit the area. There are no food or beverage establishments around the lake, so it’s advisable to bring your own provisions.

A set of rules applies to the Big Almaty Lake territory: grazing livestock, littering, fishing, swimming, camping overnight, lighting fires, and visiting the dam without hydroelectric station staff are all prohibited.