Charyn River
The Charyn River originates in the Ketmen Ridge and winds its way through the Charyn Gorge and the famous Charyn Canyon. Its journey also carries it through the Ash Grove, where the relic Sogdian ash trees thrive.
As one of the principal tributaries of the Ili River, the Charyn River plays a vital role in the region's water network. Notably, the Moinak Hydro Power Plant is situated along its course, giving rise to the creation of the Bestobe Reservoir. With a length spanning 427 km (265 mi), the Charyn River provides an exhilarating rafting experience, graded at 4-5 levels of difficulty.
Primarily nourished by melting snow and ice, the Charyn River holds immense significance for irrigation, timber harvesting, and hydropower generation in the area. Anglers also find delight in the Charyn's offerings, as the river is rich in fish such as scaly osman, burbot, common roach, grayling, and trout. The optimal fishing period spans from April through November.
How to get there?
Starting from Almaty, accessing the Charyn River is attainable via the Kuldjinsky tract, which subsequently transitions into the R-21 road. Alternatively, one can opt for the A-351 and A-352 highways. The average duration of this journey is just a little over 3 hours.