Monk’s Gorge

Monk’s Gorge, also known as Maralsay (Deer Gorge), is located in the Almaty State Nature Reserve in the Zailiysky Alatau mountains. The gorge resembles a canyon with steep cliffs covered by fir trees. Remnants of a cave, once inhabited by monks, as well as an old wooden cross, can still be found here.

Though the gorge is only about 2 kilometers long, the trail is quite challenging. The Monk River flows through the bottom of the gorge, requiring travelers to cross it several dozen times on their way to the cave. Along the route, there are several picturesque waterfalls, the most impressive of which stands nearly 12 meters tall. Visitors are treated to breathtaking landscapes throughout the hike, showcasing the natural beauty of the Almaty region.

The water of the Monk River is extraordinarily pure and is believed to have healing and invigorating properties. Many visitors drink from it and even collect it to take home. It’s important to note that much of the path runs through the river, requiring hikers to cross slippery logs and stones. Comfortable hiking shoes with non-slip soles are essential. In certain sections, hikers must climb rocky slopes and ascend steep inclines.

The air here is incredibly clean, and in the warmer months, it carries the scent of mountain herbs. Along the trail, hikers pass by ferns, raspberry bushes, and wild strawberries. On the surrounding pine trees, squirrels and lilac thrushes—often called “bluebirds”—can be spotted. Massive grey boulders loom over the trail, while the lush greenery and the crystal-clear river create a fairy-tale atmosphere. The two-tiered waterfall at the end of the trail, sitting at an elevation of about 1,700 meters, is a stunning finale.

The gorge derives its name from the Orthodox monks who once lived there in solitude. They dug caves, and later, built a small church. Over time, the new name, Monk’s Gorge, replaced the original name, Maralsay.

Before the 1917 revolution, Father Seraphim and a few other monks left the city of Verny (modern-day Almaty) to find peace and solitude in the Aksai Gorge. One evening, they witnessed a mysterious glow on a mountain peak, which led them to settle at its foot and begin their monastic life. They planted vegetables and tended to livestock, using the caves for prayer and food storage.

After the revolution, when religious figures were persecuted by the Bolshevik regime, Father Seraphim’s hermitage was discovered and attacked. Most of the monks, including Father Seraphim, were executed, and the church in the cave was destroyed. Some monks were arrested and later died in labor camps. In 1993, the hermitage was restored under the guidance of Archbishop Alexy of Astana and Almaty and was named the St. Seraphim-Theognostos Men’s Hermitage. The remains of the martyred monks are now on display in a church built among the majestic Tien Shan fir trees.

Although only a small corridor of the original cave remains, travelers often visit it to take photos. Nearby, a wooden memorial cross stands, believed to have been crafted by the hermit monks. Some say the cross is a tribute to the fallen martyrs, a symbol of their courage and faith.

Every year, thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit Monk’s Gorge. Despite the Christian Orthodox form of the cross, people of various faiths come to pay their respects. Visitors say the place radiates powerful energy, providing spiritual cleansing and enlightenment.

There are also a number of local legends surrounding the gorge. The route begins and ends at the “Sputnik” rest house. Staff and visitors often speak of seeing the ghost of a monk at night, dressed in a monastic robe. According to legend, those who encounter the ghost will be cured of ailments. The monk’s ghost also helps lost travelers find their way. However, it is said that if one sees the ghost of a deceased climber, it foretells a disaster such as an earthquake or landslide.

Another well-known legend is about the healing power of the spring water from the Monk River. The water is said to cure stomach, digestive, and even cardiovascular issues. Additionally, a local tradition involves tying a piece of one’s clothing to the branches of the nearby fir trees. It is believed that doing this, along with a sincere prayer, will help fulfill a cherished wish.