Kazakhstan Mountains

Kazakhstan’s mountains are a sought-after destination for tourists from all over the world. Beyond their stunning natural landscapes and unique flora and fauna, the mountains are renowned for their alpine resorts, sanatoriums, and alpinist camps, offering everything needed for adventure and relaxation alike.

Kazakhstan’s mountainous terrain is divided into high-altitude and low-altitude regions. The low-altitude area includes the “Yellow Steppe,” or Sary-Arka, located in central Kazakhstan. Stretching 1,200 km, Sary-Arka’s highest point rises to 1,565 meters. Although it’s largely a steppe, the region is dotted with mountain peaks. The tallest among them are Aksorgan (1,565m) and the Karkarala Mountains (1,403m). Scattered throughout this area are small, pristine lakes with clear water, nestled among the golden sands and mountain ranges. The region’s breathtaking beauty has earned it the nickname “Small Switzerland” due to its resemblance to Swiss landscapes.

In addition to Sary-Arka, Kazakhstan’s low-altitude regions also encompass the Mugodjary Mountains, located south of the Urals. Near the Caspian Sea, the Mangystau Mountains stand tall, with the Karagiye depression nearby—Kazakhstan’s lowest point.

Given its vast expanse, Kazakhstan shares borders with several Central Asian regions, which makes it home to two of the world’s most impressive mountain ranges: the Altai and Tien-Shan, which encircle the country from the southwest to the northwest.

In the northeast, the Altai Mountains—more specifically, the southwestern portion of the Altai-Sayan Uplands—are found. Kazakhstan’s Altai region comprises the Southern Altai, Western Altai, and the Kalbi Range. In Southern Altai, nestled between the Azutau and Sarytau ranges at an elevation of 1,449 meters, lies the Markakol basin, home to the stunning Lake Markakol. This area is a haven for rare bird species, such as the hazel grouse and the snowcock. The highest peak in the Altai, Belukha Mountain, straddles the Kazakhstan-Russia border. Revered across cultures, it holds special significance in Buddhism, with some believing it to be the location of the mythical Shambala. Belukha is one of the most popular destinations for mountain climbers.

The Western Altai is known for its rich mineral resources, boasting large deposits of copper, zinc, lead, silver, and gold. Due to its mining heritage, it’s often referred to as the “Mining Altai.”

The Kalbi Range, an extension of the Altai Mountains, connects these mountains to the Sary-Arka region in the west. The highest point in the Kalbi Range is Sary-Shoke, standing at 1,600 meters.

Another prominent mountain range in Kazakhstan is the Dzhungarian Alatau. Its longest chain, Severnaya, features peaks that rise up to 4,560 meters. These peaks are blanketed with eternal snow and glaciers, some stretching as long as 8 km. The western slopes and valleys of the Dzhungarian Alatau are home to rare species such as the argali (wild sheep), mountain goats, and the graceful Central Asian gazelles known as Persian gazelles.

Dzhungarian Alatau is not only celebrated for its natural wonders but also for its rich history. Ancient burial sites and petroglyphs, left by nomadic tribes more than 2,000 years ago, can still be found in the region.

One of Kazakhstan’s most picturesque locations is the Turgen Gorge, also known as the “Land of Waterfalls.” It is famed for its hot springs, waterfalls, clear lakes, and crystal-clear streams. The gorge is covered with alpine meadows, and the Assy River winds its way through the valley. Additionally, the valley holds Saka burial mounds, safeguarding the secrets of ancient nomads.

In southeastern Kazakhstan, the Tien-Shan Mountains dominate the landscape. The Kazakh portion includes the northern, western, and central Tien-Shan ranges. This area is the habitat for rare animals listed in the Red Book, such as the snow leopard and the Tien-Shan bear. One of the world’s most formidable peaks, Khan-Tengri, towers at nearly 7,000 meters in the Central Tien-Shan. Scaling Khan-Tengri is a lifelong dream for many climbers, making it a coveted challenge for mountaineers worldwide.