Enchanting Beauty of Lake Almaty
Experience the breathtaking serenity of Lake Almaty, a natural wonder surrounded by majestic mountains and perfect for outdoor adventures.
Nestled in the Bostandyk District of Almaty, Lake Almaty is a breathtaking natural gem surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its striking turquoise waters and stunning alpine scenery, the lake offers a perfect backdrop for relaxation, hiking, and photography. Visitors can indulge in various outdoor activities while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
A brief summary to Үлкен Алматы көлі
- Almaty, Bostandyk District, KZ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trails around the lake.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside, as there are few dining options nearby.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the area is home to various bird species.
- Check local weather conditions beforehand to ensure safe hiking and enjoyment.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Almaty and head towards the south on Al-Farabi Avenue. Continue on this road until you reach the intersection with the Almaty ring road (also known as the M-39 highway). Take the exit towards the direction of the mountains, following the signs for Big Almaty Lake. After approximately 30-40 minutes of driving, you will arrive at the parking area near the lake. Note that there may be a small parking fee depending on the season.
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Public Transportation
To reach Big Almaty Lake using public transportation, take bus number 28 from the center of Almaty. The bus departs from the Central Bus Station and will take you to the Bostandyk District. Once you arrive at the last stop, you will need to transfer to a taxi or a local shuttle service that operates towards Big Almaty Lake. The taxi ride will take about 15-20 minutes. Ensure you confirm the fare upfront; the ride generally costs around 1,000-2,000 KZT.
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Hiking
If you are feeling adventurous and are already at the Big Almaty Lake area, you can hike to the lake from nearby trails. There are marked paths that lead to various viewpoints around the lake. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking gear and bring plenty of water and snacks. The hike can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on your chosen trail.
Discover more about Үлкен Алматы көлі
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Super Valun
3.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere of Super Valun, a must-visit tourist attraction in Almaty's Medeu District.
Gora Mokhnataya Sopka
12.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gora Mokhnataya Sopka, a serene mountain peak in Almaty, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Shymbulak Peak
13.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Shymbulak Peak, where adventure meets tranquility in the heart of Kazakhstan's majestic mountains.
Fountain Medeu
13.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Fountain Medeu in Almaty, a stunning tourist attraction surrounded by mountains, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Kim Asar gorge
14.5 km
Explore the stunning Kim Asar Gorge in Almaty - a hiker's paradise filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences in nature.
Altybakan
14.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Altybakan, a premier hiking destination in the stunning Ile-Alatau National Park of Kazakhstan, where adventure awaits around every corner.
Furmanov peak
15.3 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and adventurous trails of Furmanov Peak, a natural gem in Almaty, Kazakhstan, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Алматы панорамасы
15.3 km
Unwind in the stunning Almaty Panoramas, a breathtaking hiking area that offers spectacular views and a rich biodiversity for nature lovers.
Kimasar Pass
15.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Kimasar Pass in Almaty, a stunning destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Kazakhstan.
Butakovskoye Ushchel'ye
15.6 km
Explore the stunning Butakovskoye Ushchel'ye in Almaty, Kazakhstan – a breathtaking mountain peak offering spectacular views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Butakovskiy waterfall
17.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Butakovskiy Waterfall in Almaty, a stunning natural attraction perfect for hiking and immersing in nature's beauty.
Samyy Bol'shoy Flagshtok Kazakhstana
17.2 km
Explore the towering Samyy Bol'shoy Flagshtok, an iconic symbol of Kazakhstan's national pride in the heart of Almaty.
The Abundance Garden Bench
18.4 km
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Visit Center Ile-Alatau National Park
19.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Ile-Alatau National Park, a national park in Kazakhstan renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Ekspozitsiya "Kazakhstan"
19.6 km
Discover the cultural treasures of Kazakhstan at Ekspozitsiya Kazakhstan, a must-visit attraction in Almaty that showcases the nation's rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bol'shoye Almatinskoye
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking tranquility of Bol'shoye Almatinskoye Lake in Almaty, a perfect escape into nature surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Big Almaty Lake
0.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Big Almaty Lake, a serene natural oasis surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Big Almaty Lake BAL
0.8 km
Explore the stunning Big Almaty Lake, a glacial gem surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tien-Shan Astronomical Observatory
1.4 km
Explore the cosmos at the Tien-Shan Astronomical Observatory, a scientific marvel in the stunning Tien-Shan mountains near Almaty.
Waterfall of the Shukur Gorge
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Waterfall of the Shukur Gorge, a stunning natural gem in Almaty, Kazakhstan, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
Гүлім бұлақ
2.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Gülüm Balak in Almaty, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration amidst stunning landscapes.
Big Almaty Peak
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Big Almaty Peak, a top hiking destination in Kazakhstan with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Bear Waterfall
5.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Bear Waterfall in Almaty, a stunning natural attraction surrounded by lush landscapes and rugged mountains.
Titov peak
5.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Titov Peak, a stunning nature preserve in Almaty, Kazakhstan, showcasing incredible landscapes and serene outdoor adventures.
Tuyuk-su Glacier
5.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Tuyuk-su Glacier in Almaty, Kazakhstan - a hiker's paradise with stunning views and serene landscapes.
Youth Pass
5.9 km
Explore Youth Pass in Almaty: A breathtaking hiking area offering stunning mountain views and diverse trails for all adventurers.
Visit center Ayusay
6.5 km
Explore the wonders of Alma-Arasan at Visit Center Ayusay, your essential guide to the stunning state park and its natural beauty.
Alma-Arasan
6.6 km
Experience the charm of Alma-Arasan, a stunning tourist attraction in Almaty featuring a beautiful waterfall, playgrounds, and delightful dining options.
Hot Spring
7.4 km
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Radon spring “Alma-Arasan”
7.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and therapeutic waters of Radon Spring 'Alma-Arasan' – a tranquil hiking paradise in Almaty.
Essential places to dine
Almasay
8.4 km
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Gornyy
9.6 km
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Park Sarbaz
10.5 km
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Rifugio del Monte
11.4 km
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Chay Khana Navat
11.5 km
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Chalet
11.6 km
Discover Chalet in Almaty: A cozy cafe offering authentic Kazakh cuisine with stunning mountain views, perfect for every traveler.
Big Chefs
11.6 km
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Grelka
11.7 km
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S.Ne.G. Hotel & Restaurant
12.1 km
Experience the best of Almaty at S.Ne.G. Hotel & Restaurant - where exquisite dining meets comfortable lodging.
Oblaka restobar
12.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at Oblaka Restobar amidst breathtaking mountain views in Chimbulak Ski Resort.
Base Camp Yurta
12.6 km
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Restoran - Muzey "Tandyr"
12.8 km
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Qazaq Auyl | Казах Аул
13.8 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and authentic Kazakh culture at Qazaq Auyl | Казах Аул in Almaty - your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Auyl
13.8 km
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Samal
14.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Trekking Shop
12.6 km
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DS Premium Boutique
17.9 km
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MEGA Alma-Ata
18.4 km
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JACK & JONES
18.5 km
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Упаковка подарков
18.6 km
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Villa Boutiques & Restaurants
18.7 km
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Prada Almaty Esentai Mall
18.7 km
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DIOR Almaty
19.2 km
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Saks Fifth Avenue
19.2 km
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Gucci
19.2 km
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Viled
19.2 km
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Pinko Boutique
19.2 km
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Chopard Boutique
19.2 km
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Esentai Gourmet
19.2 km
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VALENTINO
19.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Skala
11.7 km
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Gostinitsa
12.9 km
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Kumys Butakovka
15.7 km
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Mnau Mektep
17.4 km
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Chechil Жарокова
18.5 km
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Lagerboy
18.7 km
Discover the essence of Almaty's nightlife at Lagerboy, the go-to pub for vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drinks.
ШИШКА Premium
18.9 km
ШИШКА Premium: An upscale bar and restaurant in Almaty offering exquisite dining, a vibrant atmosphere, and a unique hookah experience.
LIQUORS
19.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Almaty at LIQUORS, where diverse drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.
Spirit Bar
19.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Almaty at Spirit Bar, where exquisite wines and cocktails await to enchant your senses.
Bar Дикий Койот
20.1 km
Experience Almaty's vibrant nightlife at Bar Дикий Койот, where eclectic vibes meet an impressive drink selection.
Harat's Pub
20.2 km
Experience the warm hospitality of Harat's Pub, an Irish gem in Almaty, where local culture meets traditional Irish charm.
Victory PUB
20.3 km
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Zhest'
20.3 km
Discover the electric energy of Zhest' Night Club in Almaty, where music, dancing, and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.
Harvey`s pub and grill
20.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Harvey's Pub and Grill in Almaty, a perfect spot for food and drink lovers.
The FRIENDS Bar & Terrace
20.8 km
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