Kazakhstan’s lakes are world-renowned for their scenic beauty. Nestled among endless mountains and steppes, fresh and saline bodies of water in various shapes are filled with crystal-clear water, each lake possessing its own fascinating characteristics and history. Among the numerous natural wonders of Kazakhstan lies a unique body of water that not only captivates visitors with its magical beauty but also with various anomalous phenomena. The clear and pristine Kok-Kol Lake is a gem of the Karakistak Valley, famous for its healing waters.
Kok-Kol Lake is located in southern Kazakhstan, in the Zhambyl region, with the closest cities being Taraz and Shymkent. It’s very easy to locate Kok-Kol on the map. The distance from the village of Merke to the lake is just 32 kilometers.
The name “Kok-Kol” translates from Kazakh as “Blue Lake,” and this is no coincidence. The water in the lake is clean, with a beautiful sky-blue hue, despite the fact that the lake has no river tributaries and does not flow into any other water body.
GPS coordinates: N42°34’48.76″ E73°07’06.13″
The lake has a self-purifying nature—if any litter falls into the water, it eventually gets drawn deep into the lake and disappears. Sometimes a slight ripple is visible on the lake’s perfectly smooth surface, followed by waves that can grow into large whirlpools, pulling in not only debris but also animals, birds, and sometimes even unsuspecting tourists.
One day, a visiting hydrologist was observing birds near the shore when he suddenly saw a flock of birds scatter in panic, circling around a specific spot on the lake, occasionally flying straight up. The researcher could not explain the reason for the birds’ commotion, as the water’s surface remained calm. Then, just a few meters from him, the surface rippled, and zigzags appeared, as though a large, serpent-like body was moving beneath the depths. However, its tail and submerged head remained still. The man quickly climbed a high slope to get a better view of the strange phenomenon. The serpent-like zigzags became even more pronounced, continuing for a few moments. The scientist was convinced that a snake would soon emerge from the depths, but after a few minutes, the creature sank back down.
Another intriguing feature is that after these anomalous disturbances, the water of the lake not only becomes completely pure and transparent but also acquires healing properties, enriched with minerals, though this effect lasts only for a short time. During these times, locals often make sure to stock up on the lake’s water.
Another mystery is the appearance of salts on the shores. After the lake “comes alive” and the water becomes healing, a white salty residue appears on the shores. But since no rivers flow into the lake, how does this salt form?
When the surface of the lake becomes disturbed, strange sounds can be heard. Some witnesses claim that, while near the lake, they heard not only the sound of waves but also moans, roars, and even hissing. According to legend, a serpent named Aydakhar lives in the lake. This water spirit is said to be more than 15 meters long. Some elders even claim to have witnessed this ancient monster making sounds at Kok-Kol and dragging animals into the water.
As mentioned, the lake has neither inlets nor outlets, yet even during heavy rainfall or intense drought, the water level remains constant. Kok-Kol Lake does not overflow or dry up. Despite extensive research by scientists to determine the depth of the lake, in many places, they have been unable to reach the bottom.
Once, a group of divers explored this mysterious lake. During their prolonged study, a huge whirlpool formed on the surface of the lake and sucked one of the divers in. His colleagues searched for him for a long time, but they were unable to recover the body, and the expedition was eventually halted. Rescue workers who arrived at the site of the diver’s disappearance advised his friends not to attempt reaching the bottom, warning them that any efforts to find the lost diver would be futile.
Some time later, the diver was found safe on the shore of a small river near the lake. It turned out that the strong current had dragged him deep into the lake, passed him through an underwater tunnel, and then expelled him onto the surface.
Another story tells of a local shepherd who was grazing a flock of sheep near the lake while tourists were swimming. Suddenly, an unusual ripple passed across the surface of Kok-Kol, and the swimmers screamed in terror. Then, silence fell. The tourists vanished without a trace.
In the 1970s, scientists were able to lift the veil of mystery and provide an explanation for this anomalous phenomenon. Geologists determined that the lake was formed as a result of a glacier’s retreat and is now situated in a depression filled with morainic deposits, which allows ice to be preserved for millennia. The lake’s bottom contains numerous caves and channels, some of which periodically suck in water, forming waves and whirlpools. The periodic suction of water, along with air, explains the strange sounds that emerge from the depths. The salts and minerals found in the lake come from underground water sources or are brought up from the lakebed due to powerful eddies.
It seems that scientists have been able to understand most of the anomalous phenomena of Kok-Kol Lake during their expeditions, but the lake’s depth remains unknown in certain areas to this day. Who knows, perhaps in the underwater caves of this tumultuous body of water, an ancient serpent-monster still lurks—after all, the famous Loch Ness and Kok-Kol Lake were formed around the same time and share a similar glacial origin.
If you’re wondering where Kok-Kol is located, the bottomless lake can be found high in the mountains. The lake is accessible by a difficult mountain road. Experienced travelers recommend reaching the lake with several vehicles, in case one breaks down or gets stuck. The lake is small, with a length of 250 meters and a width of just under 200 meters, and visitors can set up a basic camp on the shore.
The surrounding areas are wild, pristine, and rarely visited, with no tourist infrastructure. Along the way to the lake, you will encounter solitary nomads grazing livestock, who can guide you to the lake.
Due to its unusual physical properties, Kok-Kol Lake is included in the list of anomalous places in Kazakhstan. A strange surge of energy is felt around the lake. After visiting the lake, tourists leave with enthusiastic impressions of the breathtaking landscapes of the Merke Mountains. The Karakistak Valley is a sacred place known for its positive energy. While traveling to Kok-Kol Lake, you can also get acquainted with the traditions and customs of the local people, see sacred sites, and touch stones with special energy.
Routes and Attractions
To fully appreciate the beauty and wonders of Kok-Kol Lake, consider the following routes and attractions:
• Route 1 – Around the Lake: A 3-hour hike around the lake, offering stunning views, birdwatching opportunities, and chances to take memorable photos.
• Route 2 – Mount Aktau: This relatively easy hike leads to the summit of Mount Aktau, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
• Route 3 – Lake Akkol: This hidden lake is just a few kilometers from Kok-Kol. Visitors can either hike or drive a 4×4 to reach the lake, known for its green waters and healing properties.
• Attraction 1 – Sayram-Su Resort: This resort offers a variety of wellness treatments, including mud baths and mineral springs.
• Attraction 2 – Petukhova Rock: A unique rock formation resembling a rooster, popular for photography.
• Attraction 3 – Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: This impressive architectural landmark is located near Kok-Kol and is a pilgrimage site for Muslims.
Practical Information
• Getting there: Kok-Kol Lake is about a 3-hour drive from Almaty. The road is generally good, but the last few kilometers may be unpaved.
• When to Go: The best time to visit Kok-Kol Lake is from May to October when the weather is warm.
• What to Bring: Be sure to bring enough water, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable hiking shoes.
• Where to Stay: There are several guesthouses and campsites near Kok-Kol Lake where you can stay.
