Things to do in Kanas Lake
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kanas Lake has to offer
Historic Monuments
In Kanas, history unfolds through iconic natural landmarks and traditional settlements that showcase the region’s heritage.
Kanas Lake (喀纳斯湖)
A legendary alpine lake known for its vivid blue waters framed by snow-capped peaks and dense pines.
Hemu Village (禾木村)
A traditional wooden Kazakh village along the river, famed for sunset colors and photo-ready houses.
Kanas Waterfall (喀纳斯瀑布)
A scenic waterfall in the Kanas valley that feeds the lake, best seen after spring melt.
Museums
Learn about the local history, culture, and natural heritage through regional museums.
Burqin County Museum (布尔津县博物馆)
Displays regional history, ethnography, and natural history from the Altay area.
Altay Prefecture Museum (阿勒泰地区博物馆)
Exhibits on local peoples, archaeology, and wildlife from Xinjiang's northern region.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites in the wider Burqin-Kanas region.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding religious monuments recommendations for Kanas Lake. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
National & Theme Parks
National parks and scenic reserves that protect Kanas' pristine landscapes.
Kanas National Nature Reserve (喀纳斯国家级自然保护区)
China’s famed nature reserve protecting Kanas Lake and its alpine ecosystems.
Three-color Forest (三色林)
A pine forest famous for shifting autumn colors and ethereal light.
Kanas Scenic Area (喀纳斯景区)
A designated scenic zone offering panoramic lake and mountain views.
Neighborhoods
Local neighborhoods and villages that give a glimpse of life around Kanas.
Hemu Village (禾木村)
A charming Kazakh village near the lake with traditional wooden houses and meadows.
Burqin Town (布尔津镇)
The county seat with markets, guesthouses, and a gateway to Kanas.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to experience Kanas.
Hiking the Kanas National Nature Reserve trails
Traverse well-marked paths through pine forests to lake viewpoints.
Sunrise or sunset photography at Kanas Lake (喀纳斯湖)
Capture the lake’s changing colors against dramatic mountains.
Stargazing over Kanas
Clear night skies offer superb views of the starry sky.
Gastronomy
Local flavors to try in Kanas.
Xinjiang lamb skewers (烤肉)
Grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and chili.
Airag (马奶酒)
Fermented mare’s milk, a traditional Kazakh drink.
Dapanji (大盘鸡)
Hearty chicken dish with potatoes and peppers.
Lamb kebab and nan
Flatbread served with grilled meats and spices.
Nightlife
Evenings around Kanas.
Stargazing evenings at guesthouses
Clear skies offer excellent star viewing after dark.
Local Kazakh cultural performances
Occasional traditional songs and dances in camps or guesthouses.
Entertainment
Activities to entertain as you soak in the scenery.
Boat ride on Kanas Lake
Relaxing boat trip to see the lake’s shoreline and wildlife.
Horse-drawn carriage ride
Old-world transport along village lanes and lakeside paths.
Wildlife-watching tours
Guided tours to observe birds and other valley wildlife.
Sports
Active ways to explore the region.
Hiking and trekking
Several scenic trails suit different fitness levels.
Horseback riding
Explore the valley on horseback with local guides.
Photography tours
Guided photo trips to capture the lake and landscapes.
Off the Track
Ventures beyond the most photographed sights.
Sunrise at the lake
Morning light over Kanas creates spectacular colors.
Three-color Forest excursion
Visit the colorful forest for unique light and scenery.
Nomad camp stay
Experience traditional nomad life with yurts and hospitality.