Dzhungarian Alatau

The western spurs of the Dzhungarian Alatau form the northern and western borders of the Altyn-Emel National Park.

This is a part of the Koyandytau ridge, the Altyn-Emel ridge and the Matai, Degeres and Sholak ranges (from east to west, with a gradual decrease in height).

The Koyandytau ridges (3459 m) and Altyn-Emel (2928 m) have an alpine relief type. The steppificated southern slope of the Altyn-Emel ridge is distinguished by deep rocky gorges, and the watershed of the ridge is characterized by rocky domed peaks. The Koyandytau ridge has a more severe appearance with characteristic features of the Dzhungarian highlands.

On the way to the village of Basshi, tourists drive through the beautiful Altyn-Emel pass in the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains.

The Altyn-Emel pass separates the ridge of the same name from the Matai ridge.

The Matai (2880 m), Degeres (2280 m) and Sholak (1785 m) ridges do not reach the snow line and do not have permanent glaciers. They are characterized by steep stepped relief forms with narrow deep gorges.

The gorges of Kara-Espe, Taigak and Terekty in the Sholak Mountains are known for their numerous rock paintings, among which the Tanbaly Tas petroglyphic complex stands out, a unique monument of the history and culture of ancient nomadic tribes.

The Kyzylauyz gorge in the Sholak Mountains is relatively small. At the entrance, the rocks have a pinkish tint, that is why the gorge got its name, Kyzylauyz ("red mouth" in Kazakh).

Here, during the period of rains and snowmelt, you can see the Akbulak Waterfall.

When entering the national park via Checkpoint 1 near the village of Shengeldy, the road goes along the Sholak Mountains, the western end of Dzhungarian Alatau, which comes close to the shore of the Kapchagai reservoir.

The Tanbaly Tas petroglyphs are located in the Sholak mountains.

The ancient historical and cultural monument, the Saka mounds of Besshatyr, is located between the Ili River and the Degeres Mountains.

The Dzhungarian Alatau Mountains can be visited near the village of Basshi. Many gorges are accessible, including Naizatapkan, home to ancient sacred springs and petroglyphs.