By: Alex
Take a look at these photos first — the lake’s Tiffany-blue waters may make you think you’re in paradise, either the Maldives or Japan’s famous Blue Pond in Hokkaido (related article). If you had the chance to visit, chances are you’d be snapping selfies left and right, maybe even slipping into a swimsuit for a dip. But it’s probably best to stay out of the water.
This pond is located in Novosibirsk, Russia — roughly north of China and near the northeastern part of Kazakhstan. Thanks to social media exposure, the lake has rapidly gained popularity. It’s even earned the nickname “Novosibirsk Maldives” and has its own dedicated Instagram page (@maldives_nsk).
Like Hokkaido’s Blue Pond, the “Novosibirsk Maldives” is also an artificial body of water. However, the blue color of the Japanese pond comes from its unique geological structure and nearby hot springs, while the Russian one is actually a dumping site for coal ash from a nearby thermal power plant.
Irina, a local resident who took photos there last month, said in an interview that although there was no noticeable smell, she definitely wouldn’t go swimming because “the entire periodic table is in there.”
Siberian Generating Company, which owns the power plant, stated that the pond is technically “not toxic,” but they still warn residents and tourists not to swim there. “The water contains calcium and other metal oxides, which may cause allergic reactions upon skin contact. In addition, the muddy bottom may trap swimmers.”
In fact, someone posted on Instagram: “The next morning, my legs were a bit red, then itchy the day after — luckily, nothing serious in the end.”
▲ Many influencers have already flocked here for their photos.
▲ Models and couples have also come here to shoot photos.
▲ The coal-fired power plant is just nearby.
▲ Even from this angle, it looks somewhat like Hokkaido’s Blue Pond.
▲ It doesn’t look too shabby even compared to Iceland, a favorite of photographers.
Source: Mashable