Lake Sairan
From Quarry to Lake
It’s hard to imagine now, but there was once not a single drop of water where Lake Sairan lies today. The area was once a sand and gravel quarry. Year after year, excavators cut deeper into the ground, leaving behind a massive pit. Lake Sairan was formed in 1971, when the pit was filled with water.
By the 1980s, development around the lake was in full swing. Paved walkways, streetlights, gazebos, and playgrounds appeared. Beaches were equipped, boat docks were installed, and Sairan quickly became one of Almaty’s favorite leisure spots. Living in an apartment overlooking Sairan was considered a privilege.
Then came the 1990s. Economic turbulence didn’t spare the lake: infrastructure deteriorated, and the water grew increasingly polluted. Sairan’s image shifted, and its former charm began to fade. In the early 2000s, city authorities returned their attention to the lake. A fountain was launched. It instantly became a local attraction, though sadly, it didn’t operate for long.
Sairan’s New Chapter
Sairan truly came back to life in 2025, when a large-scale redevelopment of the surrounding area was completed. Today, the lake boasts:
- A 2.5-kilometer pedestrian promenade
- A beach refreshed with 11,000 tons of new sand
- Sports zones and children’s playgrounds
- BMX and skate parks
- Several hundred newly planted trees
- An observation deck with panoramic views
- Benches, gazebos, and modern art installations
- Lifeguard posts, police stations, and public restrooms
One of the main highlights is the floating pontoon bridge that links the two embankments. Walking across it feels as if you’re strolling right on the surface of the lake.
Lotuses, Herons, and the Occasional Laser Show
In the center of the lake, there’s a protected zone where lotuses grow. The water level in this area is carefully maintained even during seasonal drawdowns, so the plants never dry out. Herons, ducks, and other waterfowl have also made Sairan their home. On some evenings, the sky above the lake lights up with a laser show. There’s no fixed schedule. Catching it is a matter of luck.
More Than Just a Leisure Spot
Sairan isn’t only for walking and swimming, it also functions as a mudflow control basin. During heavy rains or floods, it can absorb vast amounts of water, shielding nearby residential areas from potential disaster.
How to get there?
Lake Sairan is conveniently located next to the Sairan bus station and subway station. To reach it, take the subway or use buses #3, 25, 34, 57, 90, 92, 118, 128 or trolleybuses 5, 19, 25 to the “Tlendieva” stop. Alternatively, take any of the following buses to “Sairan Bus Station” on Tole Bi Avenue: #16, 24, 37, 48, 59, 65, 85, 101, 106, 124, 126, 201, 202, and 206.
Other tourist attractions near Lake Sairan:
- Grand Park Mall
- Monument to Yuri Gagarin
- Russian Theater for Young Audiences
- ADK Mall
Gallery
Recommended tours:
All offers-1_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: City Tour")
Embark on a captivating 3-hour tour where you'll explore Almaty's prominent attractions. Visit the Museum of Almaty, marvel at the exquisite Ascension Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of trade at the Green Bazaar.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: Mountain Tour")
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain landscapes just a stone's throw away from the center of Almaty! Explore the awe-inspiring wonders nestled in the Ile-Alatau Mountains and ascend to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Ultimate Almaty Day Tour")
A fantastic option for a day-long adventure that involves discovering Almaty's most fascinating landmarks. This excursion allows you to explore the best attractions of Almaty and also takes you to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level, providing a delightful experience amidst the breathtaking mountain landscapes.