Lake Maralye
Maralye Lake, also known as Chaban Bai, is one of the most picturesque lakes in the Kazakh Altai. It’s nestled among relatively low mountains at an altitude of 1,700 meters (5577 ft) above sea level. The Maralikha River flows quietly into the lake, while the Belaya River rushes out with rapids and a stormy flow.
The lake covers an area of 2.2 sq.km (0.8 sq.mi) and has a depth of around 5 meters (16 ft). Due to its shallow waters, the lake warms up quickly in summer, making it a pleasant spot for swimming. It is especially popular among fishermen, who come to catch grayling and ide. If you plan to fish, you must purchase tickets in the village of Chernovoye (Akkaynar).
How to get there?
Maralye Lake is located in the Katon-Karagai district of the East Kazakhstan region, on the southern slope of the Listvyaga mountain range, about 8 km (5 mi) from the Russian border. Access to the lake is only possible by SUV or horseback.
Other tourist attractions near the lake:
- Yazevoye Lake
- Berel Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum
- Rancho Tourist Resort
- The Village of Katon-Karagai
- Rakhmanovskie Klyuchi Resort