If you’re looking for interesting places around Almaty, you shouldn’t miss Assy Plateau and Turgen Gorge.
As for Turgen Gorge, you can easily get there by car (and enjoy several walking trails to waterfalls). As for Assy Plateau, it is better to use SUV. As you’re entering National Park, you will have to pay a small fee (something about 2 EUR per person).
The plateau is located at heights of 2800-3200 meters. Since ancient times, it is being used as pasture. Scientists found remains of ancient humans, who lived here more then 5000 years ago.
Even though this plateau is hardly accessible, it is always populated. Hundreds and thousands years ago, it was used as a passage for caravans from Europe to India and China. Later, during Russian Civil War, it became the battlefield for Red and White army. Nowadays it is used as a home-place for observatory.
The way to Assy plateau. Panoramic view.
Part of the plateau is covered with coniferous woods. There are a lot of different berries and mushrooms here at the end of the summer.
Patrick is posing for a photo.
One more panoramic view of the plateau.
Mountains are really beautiful.
It is worth noting that Kazakh services are always trying to earn some “extra” money. So even though you have already paid your fee at the entrance to National Park, there is one more barrier with forestry officer nearby. He has some papers that should persuade you that the road to the plateau is out of service and no one can get there. “Stealth mode” for your car will cost you about (10 EUR).
Flights to Almaty:
Hotel prices in Almaty:
