Serenity at Big Almaty Lake: A Natural Gem
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Big Almaty Lake, a serene escape nestled in the Tian Shan mountains, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Big Almaty Lake is a breathtaking destination nestled in the Tian Shan mountains, offering stunning views and serene surroundings for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its turquoise waters and picturesque landscape make it a must-visit for tourists in Almaty.
A brief summary to Big Almaty Lake BAL
- 3X4M+XW, Almaty, Bostandyk District, KZ
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake while soaking in the stunning views.
- Stay hydrated and carry enough water, particularly if you plan to hike.
- Respect the natural environment by sticking to marked trails and avoiding littering.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from Almaty city center and head south on Al-Farabi Avenue. Follow the road until you reach the intersection with the Almaty Ring Road (A2). Turn left onto the ring road and continue for about 20 kilometers. Then, take the exit towards Big Almaty Lake (BAL). Follow the signs leading you to the lake. The road will take you through a scenic mountain area. There is a parking lot available near the lake, but be prepared to pay a parking fee, which is usually around 1,000 KZT.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take the metro to the Almaty 1 station. From there, you can catch bus number 28 or minibus number 12 that heads towards Big Almaty Lake. The bus ride will take approximately 1 hour. Make sure to have some KZT in cash as you will need to pay the fare, which is around 300 KZT. The bus will drop you off at the entrance of the park leading to the lake. From there, it is a short hike (about 1 kilometer) to reach the lake itself.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
Alternatively, you can use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Yandex.Taxi or Uber. Request a ride to Big Almaty Lake (BAL) from your location in Almaty. The drive will take around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. The fare is typically between 1,500 KZT to 2,500 KZT, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions. This option is more convenient if you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
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