Ereymentau Mountains
The Ereymentau Mountains, situated approximately 150 kilometers (93 mi) east of Astana, straddle the border between the Akmola and Karaganda regions. These mountains are an integral part of the Saryarka – the expansive Kazakh steppe, punctuated occasionally by low-mountain massifs.
The name "Ereymentau" derives from the Kazakh language, translating to "small mountains." The name hints at their relatively modest elevation and expanse. Nevertheless, these mountains boast captivating landscapes, archaeological sites, and a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Fauna
The Ereymentau Mountains host rich and diverse wildlife, including species adapted to mountainous, forested, and steppe environments. There one can see argali sheep, Siberian roe deer, badgers, foxes, wolves, corsacs, steppe marmots, ferrets, ermines, white hares, ground squirrels, hamsters, black grouse, golden eagles, partridges, turtle doves, gray and white-fronted geese, and more.
Flora
Despite their relatively small geographical footprint, the Ereymentau Mountains and their environs support a remarkably diverse flora. Over 400 species of vascular plants thrive in this region, including several rare and endangered species. Notably, the rare black alder tree finds a home amidst this botanical richness.
The Ereymentau Mountains also harbor medicinal plants, such as marsh gentian, immortelle, pheasant's eye, Chinese liquorice, and Ephedra distachya among others.
Custodians of History
Beyond their natural beauty, the Ereymentau Mountains serve as guardians of a rich historical legacy. This rugged terrain shelters numerous burial sites from the Stone and Bronze Ages, as well as monuments dating back to the Scythian era and stone sculptures from Turkic times. These historical remnants bear witness to the enduring presence of civilizations, their rise and fall, and the passage of millennia. Exploring these historic sites promises a profound and lasting impression.
How to get there?
You can reach the Ereymentau Mountains by car. Depart from Astana and take the Astana-Pavlodar highway. Your journey will take you to the town of Ereymentau, from where you should continue in a southeast direction to reach the mountains.
Other tourist attractions near the Ereymentau Mountains:
- Buiratau National Park
- The Town of Ereymentau
- Lake Kobeituz
- Olenty Petroglyph Site
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