Boat ride on Lake Imantau -
Fishing on Lake Imantau and a hike to Mount Imantau -
In the middle of the turquoise waters of Lake Imantau rises its main attraction – the forest-covered Kazachiy Island, which locals call “Zheke-aral” (Lonely Island) or Tasaral. This secluded piece of land with an area of about two hectares is an amazing microcosm that has preserved the pristine nature of Northern Kazakhstan, and is part of the Kokshetau National Park. The length of the island is 930 meters, the width at its widest part is 586 meters. The island, like an ancient guardian, rises on a granite base, its slopes are covered with centuries-old pines and birches, the roots of which fancifully intertwine the stone ledges, creating fantastic natural sculptures. The island can only be reached by boat, which can be rented in one of the recreation areas on the lake shore. The best time to visit is from June to September, when the lake is calm and nature is in all its glory. It is important for tourists to know that landing is only allowed in certain places, and on the western side of the island there is a convenient natural "pier" - a flat granite slab protruding into the water. When going to the island, it is worth remembering the strict rules: collecting plants, making fires and any activity that can disrupt the fragile ecosystem of this unique place is prohibited. On the water, while in a boat, observe safety precautions, be sure to wear life jackets, do not rock the boat, obey the orders of the captain of the boat. Near the lake where the island is located is the resort village of Imantau and Mount Imantau, to which a walking route leads.
How to get there and visit -
Kazachiy Island (Tasaral) is located in Lake Imantau, 4 kilometers from the shore, Aiyrtau district, North Kazakhstan region, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 52°59'23"N 68°18'20"E
Information -
In spring, Kazachiy Island (Tasaral) on Lake Imantau is covered with a carpet of wild peonies and irises listed in the Red Book of Kazakhstan. And in autumn, you can observe an amazing phenomenon here - "Indian summer" in Imantau, when the web entangling the trees sparkles in the sun like a silver veil. The island preserves traces of ancient settlements, archaeologists have found bronze arrowheads and fragments of ceramics here, confirming that the island was used as a sanctuary. Local old-timers say that shamans performed their rituals here back in the 19th century. The island looks especially magical at sunset, when the last rays of the sun illuminate the pine crowns, creating the effect of a golden glow. At these moments, it seems as if time stands still, and the ancient rocks begin to tell their centuries-old stories.
The island on Lake Imantau is not just a geographical object, but a real keeper of the memory of generations, a place where the connection of times and the grandeur of Kazakhstan's nature are especially keenly felt. Here, far from the noise of civilization, everyone can feel part of this ancient landscape, touch history and for a moment be transported to the era when these lands were home to nomadic tribes and witnesses of great historical events.
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