Glade of Abylai Khan
The Ruler's Legacy
The Glade of Abylai Khan in Borovoe (Burabay) is one of few historical sites in the area, offering a glimpse into the region's past. This glade has become one of the most frequented attractions, revered by the Kazakh people for its connection to their esteemed ruler.
Abylai Khan (1711-1871) is renowned as the ruler of the vast Kazakh Khanate. He was elected during a kurultai (congress) convened in Burabay in 1771. Abylai's ascendancy came amidst tumultuous times for his people, marked by complex relations with neighboring powers such as the Qing and Russian Empires, as well as conflicts with the Dzungars and Kyrgyz.
The Glade of Abylai Khan
Abylai was elected as khan at the ruler’s headquarters, situated approximately 5 km (3 mi) from the present-day village of Burabay. This location is where the Glade of Abylai Khan is now located. This place features a monumental stele erected in 1991 to commemorate the 280th anniversary of the ruler's birth.
Legend intertwines with reality at the glade. Legend has it that many years ago, a mythical giant aided the Kazakh people in defending their lands. During a battle, the giant lost all his weapons and started uprooting trees, using them to crush his enemies. This is how the glade appeared. While this tale is undoubtedly mythical, the glade also holds an intriguing scientific aspect. Scientists assert that a distinct microclimate has evolved here, offering significant health benefits and bodily rejuvenation.
Abylai’s Throne
Nestled at the foot of Mount Kokshetau, the Glade of Abylai Khan also hosts the "throne" of Abylai Khan – a cluster of boulders resembling a regal seat. According to local belief, walking around the throne seven times clockwise and touching the throne may grant one's desires. Though a fence now surrounds the throne for preservation, the allure of its purported magical properties continues to draw visitors.
The Glade of Abylai Khan typically sees a constant stream of tourists, particularly during the warmer seasons when it becomes bustling with activity. During holidays, yurts are erected, offering treats and souvenirs for sale, and providing opportunities to interact with artisans. Visitors are often captivated by the sight of batyrs in traditional clothes and berkutchi (hunters with birds of prey).
How to get there?
Accessing the Glade of Abylai Khan is most convenient by car. It’s located a mere 5 km (3 mi) west of Burabay village along the main road.
Other tourist attractions near the Glade of Abylai Khan:
- Mount Kokshetau
- Okzhetpes Rock
- Jumbaktas Rock
- Lake Borovoe
- Imanaevsky Spring
- Devil's Reel Rock
- Mount Bolektau
- Cave of Khan Kenesary
- Bastion Rock
- Lake Bolshoye Chebachye
- Lake Maloye Chebachye
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