Photo by Laima Gūtmane (simka… / CC BY-SA 3.0
💧 Water FeaturesPanevėžysEasy access
Kirkilai Karst Lakes
Biržai, Panevėžys1-2 hoursBest: May to September
A cluster of deep, crystal-clear lakes formed by collapsed karst caves — some of the most unusual and beautiful water features in Lithuania, with depths reaching 15 meters.
The Kirkilai lakes are among the most unusual natural features in Lithuania. This cluster of small but remarkably deep lakes was formed when underground caves in the karst bedrock collapsed, creating steep-sided sinkholes that filled with crystal-clear groundwater. Some lakes reach depths of 15 meters despite being only a few dozen meters across.
The water clarity is extraordinary — on calm days, you can see the bottom even at depth. The vivid turquoise and emerald colors change with the light and seasons, creating a landscape that looks more like a Caribbean cenote than northern Europe. A walking trail connects the main lakes.
Why Visit
Stunningly clear sinkhole lakes in an unexpected Lithuanian setting. The vivid colors and unusual geology make this a photographer's paradise.
Address
Kirkilai, Biržai district
56.1833, 24.6667
Visitor Tips
- 1A boardwalk trail connects the main lakes
- 2Swimming is not recommended due to steep underwater slopes
- 3Best light is midday when the sun illuminates the depths
- 4Combine with Biržai Castle visit
Nearby Locations
www.vle.lt
Panevėžys
Moderate
🕳️ Underground
Biržai Karst Region
Lithuania's most dramatic karst landscape — over 9,000 sinkholes, underground rivers, and dissolving bedrock that occasionally swallows roads and fields without warning.
Biržai3-4 hours
www.15min.lt
Panevėžys
Easy access
📜 Historic Curiosities
Biržai Castle and Karst Region
A reconstructed Renaissance castle surrounded by one of Lithuania's most unusual geological landscapes — a region riddled with sinkholes, karst caves, and mysterious underground rivers.
Biržai3-4 hours