Tourist Route #2
- Distance: 35 km one way (Checkpoint 1 - Besshatyr Mounds, the route is marked in green on the map).
- Route: Checkpoint 1 → 17 km → Tanbaly Tas Petroglyphs → 9 km → Zhantogai post → 9 km → Besshatyr Mounds → 35 km → Checkpoint 1.
- Access: Entry is only possible from the direction of Shengheldy village.
- Permit: Must be obtained online or at the park office in Basshi village.
Places to See: Route Highlights
On the Road from Almaty:
- Konaev City: You will pass through the region’s center for entertainment and gambling, home to numerous casinos.
- The Ili River and Kapchagai: The route crosses the Ili River at its widest point — right where it flows out of the Kapchagai Reservoir. The road then continues along the scenic shoreline of Kapchagai.
- Turn to Checkpoint 1: After passing Shengheldy village, you must turn right. The road leads towards the Dzhungarian Alatau Mountains, following the shoreline until you reach the park's entrance gate.
Within Altyn-Emel National Park:
- Kapchagai Reservoir and Sholak Mountains: The path runs through a valley sandwiched between the reservoir’s shore and the Sholak Mountains — the first spurs of the Dzhungarian Alatau range.
- Tanbaly Tas Petroglyphs: Look for these ancient rock carvings on stones covered with a dark coating (desert varnish or patina).
- Path to Besshatyr Mounds: The road to the Saka burial mounds at the foot of the Degeres Mountains passes along the Ili River’s inner delta (avandelta). On your way, you will see the Zhantogai Ranger Station.
- The Royal Burial Mound: The inner burial chamber of the largest mound may be closed to the public. We recommend checking for access availability with the rangers at Checkpoint 1 or the Zhantogai Station.
Important Information:
Please exercise caution when near mountains and rocky formations. To ensure your trip is safe and comfortable, be sure to read the Travel Advisory in advance.
