Ile-Alatau National Park

Ile-Alatau National Park was established in 1996 and stretches across the northern slopes of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains near Almaty. It covers an area of more than 2,000 square kilometers, with altitudes ranging from 600 to nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. The park protects an impressive variety of ecosystems, from semi-deserts to mountain forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers. Among its most famous peaks is Talgar Peak, reaching 4,973 meters. The region is a critical habitat for endangered species such as the snow leopard and the Tien Shan brown bear. Additionally, the park is known for its botanical diversity, particularly wild apple trees, which are ancestors of modern varieties. Located within the mountains is the Big Almaty Lake, a key drinking water reservoir for the city. Numerous hiking trails make it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature

Kolsai Lakes

A system of three deep blue mountain lakes strung like pearls in a forested gorge.

Lake Kaindy

A surreal natural wonder created by an earthquake in 1911.

Ili River

This mighty river originates in the mountains of Xinjiang and flows through southeastern Kazakhstan before emptying into Lake Balkhash.

More places

Trans-Ili Alatau

The Trans-Ili Alatau is a mountain range in the northern Tian Shan, rising south of the city of Almaty.

Ile-Alatau National Park

A picturesque park in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, framing the city of Almaty to the south.

Issyk Kurgan

One of the most important archaeological treasures in Central Asia was unearthed in this ancient burial mound.

Ili Valley

The Ili Valley is a fertile region along the Ili River that played an historically important role on the Silk Road.

Altyn-Emel National Park

Famous for the Singing Dunes, this park preserves rare ungulates like the onager and goitered gazelle.

Tamgaly Petroglyphs

A significant archaeological site featuring thousands of ancient rock carvings depicting pagan rituals, hunting scenes, and sun deities.

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Anyrakay Battlefield

On this vast plain, the united Kazakh tribes fought for their survival and freedom.

Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is a deep gorge on the Charyn River, often referred to as the little brother of the Grand Canyon.