Sherkala Mountain

Sherkala stands as a solitary mountain and one of Mangystau’s defining symbols, known for its captivating silhouette. Depending on the angle, Sherkala’s shape resembles a Kazakh yurt, a slumbering lion, or even what some compare to the so-called “Face on Mars” or the “Martian Sphinx.” The mountain has an inexplicable magnetism that draws both travelers and storytellers. Its name, “Sherkala,” translates from Persian as “Fortress of the Lion,” a title that local legend richly supports.

The legend tells of an impregnable fortress once atop Sherkala, accessible only by a hidden path through a cave. Long ago, an invading army from a distant land besieged the mountain, desperate to find the entrance. They scaled the slopes, searched every crevice, yet they remained thwarted. Eventually, they discovered the well that supplied water to the fortress and blocked it, forcing the defenders to surrender. However, the attackers were so impressed by the defenders’ courage and tenacity that they honored their mountain stronghold, naming it the Fortress of the Lions.

Yet, this tale is only a legend. No historical records exist of a siege or fortress atop Sherkala, and it is unlikely that the mountain was ever more than a guiding landmark for caravans crossing the arid lands of Mangystau. Still, ancient ruins and the oasis of Akmysh have been found nearby, suggesting that merchants and travelers may have once rested at its base.

Sherkala sits 95 kilometers northeast of Aktau, though the driving route stretches this distance to 180 kilometers, taking about three hours to reach even by a standard car. If you wish to encircle the mountain or approach its foot closely, however, a 4WD is essential. Rising 332 meters above sea level, Sherkala spans 1,000 meters in length and 650 meters in width, making it possible to walk around the entire mountain within an hour. While scaling to its peak is impossible, there are niches and slight elevations on the northern face where one can climb to a modest height.

Today, Sherkala is a hallmark of Mangystau and a highlight of nearly every tour in the region. Close by, you’ll find other noteworthy sites such as Kok-Kala Gorge and the Castle Valley of Airakty. Just five kilometers from the mountain, there is a yurt camp with full amenities, ideal for overnight stays during an extended tour of Mangystau.