Dzhungariya, Kazakhstan

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Dzhungariya, Kazakhstan

5. Dzhungariya

The Dzungar Alatau is a sprawling mountain system covering an area of 700 square kilometers, located at the juncture of two major mountain ranges: the Eastern Tien Shan and the Altai. The Dzungar Alatau is divided into two distinct regions: the Lepsy River region and the Usek River region. Its highest point is the Semenov-Tienshanski Peak, situated on the Kazakhstan-China border at an altitude of 4,622 meters above sea level. Near the border lies a notable mountain pass known as the Dzungarian Gate, which stretches between 10 to 50 kilometers in width. The lower elevations of this mountain system are characterized by semi-desert landscapes, gradually transforming into steppe terrain that ascends to 2,600 meters. Beyond this point, the terrain gives way to stunning alpine meadows. The narrow ridge of the Dzungar Alatau, with its jagged peaks and steep slopes, features numerous rocky precipices that range from 400 to 1,000 meters in height. Above 3,500 meters, the ridge is blanketed by perpetual snow and glaciers. The mountain valleys are narrow and can reach depths of 800 to 1,000 meters, making many parts of the region difficult to access.

The climate of the Dzungar Alatau is temperate continental. Winter daytime temperatures range from -5°C to -6°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to -15°C to -25°C. In the summer, daytime temperatures reach between +20°C and +25°C, while at night the temperatures range from +5°C to +7°C. The region is sparsely populated, with the true inhabitants of this wild area being red wolves, bears, Siberian stags, wild Chalyn rams, and a myriad of small rodents. Observant visitors are likely to encounter one of these animals during their journey.

The Dzungar Alatau is especially popular among trekkers, with excellent opportunities for hiking in the regions surrounding the Lepsy, Baskan, and Aksu Lakes, as well as around the picturesque mountain lakes of Zhasylkol and Bolshoye. Other recommended trekking destinations include the Kokpek and Taurly Mountains, the Bezymyannyj Pass, the Semenov-Tienshanski Peak, and the Volchiy and Banditskiy Passes. These areas offer stunning natural beauty and are perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore the untouched wilderness of the Dzungar Alatau

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