The picturesque Kok-Zhailau Plateau (from Kazakh, meaning «Green Pasture»), nestled at the foot of the Zailiysky Alatau range, draws hundreds of visitors daily. It’s no surprise, given the exceptional beauty of this mountain retreat.
Kok-Zhailau is part of the Ile-Alatau National Park and sits at an altitude of 1,450–1,750 meters. Its proximity to Almaty and stunning natural landscapes make it one of the most popular hiking destinations in the region. The plateau remains a favorite spot year-round, welcoming visitors in every season. One of its most striking features is the majestic Tien Shan fir trees, which grow abundantly, filling the air with a refreshing pine fragrance.
Navigating Kok-Zhailau is straightforward, thanks to well-placed trail markers. Hikers can choose from several routes to the valley, but it’s important to stay on course to avoid dead ends. For instance, some adventurers prefer a scenic path through a birch grove, although this trail is best suited for experienced hikers. Alternatively, a gentler route offers an easier climb, and at one point, both trails merge. Wooden benches along the paths provide rest stops with panoramic views of the city below. At the end of the ascent, hikers are rewarded with a charming waterfall.
Along the way, informative signs offer insights into the valley’s diverse flora and fauna. The surrounding area is home to Tien Shan brown bears, marals (a type of deer), Pallas’s cats, wild boars, Indian porcupines, stone martens, dwarf eagles, vultures, and hoopoes, among other species. Many of these animals are listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book of endangered species.
The plant life includes unique varieties like Ostrowski’s tulips, Zinaida tulips, Alatau crocuses, Sievers apple trees, and wild mint, all thriving in this rich ecosystem.
Thanks to the plateau’s location between the Big and Small Almaty Gorges, it offers stunning views of notable landmarks like the Shymbulak Ski Resort, Kumbel Peak, the Medeu Skating Rink, the Big Almaty Peak, and the Kok-Tobe TV Tower—assuming the weather is clear.
Locals from Almaty enjoy spending weekends and holidays here. In summer, they come for picnics, family gatherings, sports, and hiking. In winter, it’s a hub for sledding and skiing. Tourists also visit Kok-Zhailau to experience yet another gem of southern Kazakhstan.
How to get there?
Take bus No. 12 to the «Akbulak» (Rodnik) stop. From there, follow the signs near the «Prosvetitel» Sanatorium, with a path of approximately 5 kilometers leading to the plateau.
Alternatively, you can start from the Big Almaty Gorge, turning left after the eco post. The road leads to the Kumbel Hotel and then up to the plateau. However, this route is longer and may take several hours to complete.