Grove of Dancing Birches
On the shore of Lake Borovoe, there is a small but unique birch grove. What sets this grove apart from others is the anormal shape of the tree trunks. At first glance, it may seem as though someone has twisted the trunks of the birches; some are so contorted that they nearly touch the ground. This peculiar feature has earned the area the name "Grove of Dancing Birches."
A legend surrounds this grove. According to the tale, young men and women used to gather here for joyful celebrations. The khan wanted to join the festivities but knew his presence would embarrass the youth. So, one day, he disguised himself as a commoner. During the festivities, the girls began to dance gracefully. The khan, overwhelmed by admiration, accidentally revealed his identity. The frightened girls froze mid-dance and were transformed into birch trees.
There are more scientific explanations for the twisted trunks. One theory suggests that because the trees grow in a relatively open space rather than a dense forest, strong winds bent the young birches. In winter, the snow's weight further bent the trees. When the snow melted, the birches began to straighten and continued to grow, only to bend again the next winter, creating their distinctive shapes.
Another explanation attributes the bent trunks to soil shifts during the trees' growth. This phenomenon can occur in areas with tectonic faults, causing the trees to grow with bends rather than straight.
How to get there?
The Grove of Dancing Birches is located on the northern shore of Lake Borovoe, near the village of Burabay. This well-known spot is easy to find, especially since there is a sign along the road pointing it out.
Other tourist attractions near the grove:
- Lake Borovoe
- The Village of Burabay
- Ayutas Rock
- Burabay Museum of Local History and Nature
- Burabay Zoo
- Jumbaktas Rock
- Mount Bolektau
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