The Almaty region is a treasure trove of untouched nature, and nestled to the east of Almaty lies the enchanting Turgen Gorge. This picturesque area boasts thermal springs, farms, apiaries, and historical landmarks, including burial mounds, Saka settlements, and ancient altars. Visitors are drawn here by the rustling of leaves, the sound of cascading waterfalls, the sweet aroma of wildflowers, and the warmth that fills the heart.
Turgen Gorge is located within the protected area of the Ile-Alatau National Park. The gorge stretches for 49 kilometers, with the northern slopes of the Zailiysky Alatau covering 34 kilometers of this expanse. From the glaciers, the swift Turgen River rushes down the rocky slopes, earning its name due to its remarkable speed—water flows at an astonishing rate of three meters per second. Historically, this route was also significant for European traders traveling to China and India, linking cultures and commerce.
The landscape of Turgen Gorge is a visual delight year-round. In spring, the hills are painted with the delicate pink and white blossoms of wild apple trees, raspberries, and apricots, while the air is filled with the sweet scent of rosehips and barberries. Summer brings a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, and autumn transforms the gorge into a canvas of yellows and oranges. Winter casts a magical spell, adorning branches with frosty lace and painting blue shadows at the foot of the trees. Regardless of when you visit, you will leave with unforgettable memories and stunning photographs.
The drive from Almaty to Turgen Gorge takes about an hour and a half via the Kuldzhinsky highway. Alternatively, you can head towards Konayev, which will add 20 kilometers and approximately 30 minutes to your journey. Aim for the village of Turgen, but do not enter it; instead, turn right and follow the southeast direction. Upon entering the protected area, be prepared to pay an environmental fee.
While there is a road through the gorge, caution is advised, as landslides and avalanches can occur. Evidence of one of the most significant landslides is visible at the entrance: in 1911, the slopes were exposed due to the Vernensky earthquake, revealing the types of vegetation that flourished during the pre-glacial period.
Today, Turgen is home to valuable tree species, including two-meter-high Tien Shan birches with pink bark and mossy Chinturgensky spruce forests, under which lies permafrost. The soil of Kazakhstan’s eco-park is rich in aromatic and honey-producing plants: wormwood, snakehead, and jujube coexist with thyme, sage, and other perennial herbs.
The wildlife is equally abundant, with squirrels, hares, bats, badgers, foxes, wolves, bears, and lynxes sharing the sanctuary. In the mountains, you might spot a roe deer or a wild boar. Keep an eye on the ground, as snakes can sometimes be found along the trails.
When planning a trip to Turgen Gorge, consider what type of tourism appeals to you most. The park offers bus tours, and there are recreational areas for children on the plateau. For adventure enthusiasts, multi-day hiking trips—either on foot or by jeep—are available. A circular tour of the main attractions in Turgen Gorge is perfect for a first-time visit.
The gorge is famous for its waterfalls, with the tallest located on a right tributary of the Turgen River. The horseback and hiking path to this waterfall has existed for over a million years. The Kayrak waterfall originates from glaciers and descends 74 meters. The sun is a rare visitor in Turgen Gorge, which keeps the water icy even in summer, while the rocks are cloaked in a 30-centimeter layer of moss.
The route to Kayrak takes about three hours from the village of Batan. You can drive to the village and then continue on foot. Bringing water is not necessary, as the springs in the gorge offer delicious, clean water, and if you visit at the end of summer, you can indulge in wild raspberries.
Crossing eight streams of the spirited Turgen River, traversing the confluence with the Bozgul River, taking a short break on a glade, and hiking one kilometer along the thundering river will lead you to your destination. The water cascades over the rocks, illustrating the saying, “water wears away stone.” In Kazakh, the waterfall is aptly named “Tochilo,” meaning “The Grinder.”
While the Bear Waterfall is shorter than Kayrak, it is no less picturesque. Once home to the brown bears with white claws, today it stands as a reminder of a bygone era, with only the name of the natural monument hinting at its history. The water plunges from a height of 28 meters, and the fast-moving current creates a cloud of mist at its base. Swimming beneath such a powerful cascade can be quite chilly, as the water temperature remains a brisk 12°C, even during hot summer days. In winter, the waterfall freezes, attracting thrill-seekers who climb the “icicle” to reach the mountain’s summit.
Reaching the Bear Waterfall is easier than getting to Kayrak, as it is only a few kilometers away from the main road, connected by a gentle path without any stream crossings. Along the way, you’ll find numerous glades with gazebos for relaxation; many visitors come here to prepare shashlik (kebabs) and enjoy time in nature.
The Bear and Rocky Waterfalls face each other across a mere 4 kilometers. As you walk about halfway to the Bear Waterfall, take a moment to look back; you will see the opposite slope of the gorge and the three-tiered Rocky Waterfall. The path to it is challenging—hence its name—leading many to prefer observing the Rocky Waterfall from a distance. However, if you decide to venture closer, be sure to wear comfortable footwear, as the trail can be rocky and overgrown with bushes.
Three tributaries of the Turgen River flow down the northern slopes of the Zailiysky Alatau from glacial valleys. At an elevation of 1,200 meters, the water weaves through the gorges of Donzhailau and Sholzhota, rushing over rocks, foaming and splashing as it roars through the gorge. The Turgen River stretches for 116 kilometers, with a watershed area of 905 square kilometers. Its moderate hardness makes the water suitable for irrigating plants and filling trout farms.
In Turgen Gorge, the river becomes calmer and more suitable for rafting. From April onward, the water level rises and remains elevated until September. Wooden bridges have been constructed along the hiking trails to the waterfalls, but they are often swept away during floods. The valley is also prone to mudslides; in 1947, a powerful channel flow was recorded here, repeating itself 14 years later.
In the Turgen basin, specifically in the Batan area, permafrost lies hidden at a depth of 40 centimeters, covered by mossy spruce forests. Towering relic spruce trees stand like a wall around the area. Navigating through the Chinturgensky gorge can be challenging; the narrow path is littered with loose rocks and steep climbs and descents, often obstructed by fallen trees. The abundance of fallen timber indicates the difficulty these spruces face in clinging to the moist, moss-covered slopes.
The Chinturgensky mossy spruce forests cover an impressive area of 900 hectares. This grove is unique in its plant cover and has been officially recognized as a natural monument of Kazakhstan since 1968.
Standing 53 kilometers from Almaty is the towering statue of a warrior clad in golden armor and a pointed headdress. This monument commemorates a significant archaeological find from 1969: during the construction of a bus station near Lake Issyk, a 6-meter burial mound was discovered. While the central burial site was empty, researchers found another—side burial—containing a wooden coffin with the remains of a Saka warrior dressed in a red, suede robe adorned with gold.
The jewelry, weapons, and the robe itself are housed in the National Museum, while a monument was erected in Turgen Gorge in memory of this remarkable discovery. Since then, other “golden warriors” graves have been unearthed, but the first remains a national symbol.
If you wish to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and fresh air of Turgen Gorge while paying attention to each attraction, consider staying for a couple of days. For those who appreciate comfort, the Tау-Turgen guesthouse invites you to stay in the rooms of its two-story complex. If you have a large family and prefer seclusion, opt for a cottage.
The area is safe and beautifully landscaped, with flowerbeds and benches for relaxation. In summer, you can swim in the mountain water pool, while winter offers opportunities for sledding. Year-round, there are facilities for various sports. After a day of exploring the gorge, it’s doubly rewarding to unwind by the campfire, enjoy shashlik, and indulge in a traditional Russian banya (sauna)—all of this, along with delicious meals from the local café “Tau-Turgen,” is warmly offered to guests.
Just 3 kilometers from the “Golden Man” statue lies a private trout farm, a popular spot among tourists. Here, you can not only savor freshly caught fish but also enjoy the thrill of fishing yourself. Equipment rental is available for a fee, as well as services for cleaning and preparing your catch. The pond is welcoming to novice anglers, with plenty of fish eager to bite on corn.
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