Chu-Ili Mountains
The Chu-Ili Mountains, part of the Tien Shan range, are a relatively low, weathered mountain chain forming a natural boundary between the Ili and Chu rivers. The highest peak, Anyrakai, stands at 1294 meters (4245 ft) above sea level. Comprising limestone, slate, and granite, these ancient mountains bear the marks of time, wind, and erosion.
Throughout history, the Chu-Ili Mountains have served as a passage to neighboring regions, including China, Dzungaria, and Turkestan. Today, the Kurdai Pass in the southeastern part of the range is an integral section of the Western Europe-Western China road. Moreover, the M39 highway, one of the country's busiest, traverses these mountains, connecting major cities such as Almaty, Shymkent, Tashkent (Uzbekistan), and Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan).
Wildlife and historic landmarks
In the spring, the Chu-Ili Mountains come alive with lush grasslands. Dominated by a desert-steppe landscape, the northeastern border of the ridge meets the Taukum sands, while in the west, the mountains meet Lake Balkhash. During spring, the slopes are adorned with the rare Albert and Greig tulips, with Regel's tulip being an exclusive inhabitant of the Chu-Ili Mountains. Lucky observers may encounter wildlife like goitered gazelles and argali, although more common sightings include susliks, jerboas, Central Asian tortoises, various snake species, as well as birds like larks, European rollers, and hoopoes soaring above.
The Chu-Ili mountains are renowned for their ancient petroglyphs etched into the Khantau rocks. These petroglyphs, dating back to the Bronze Age (approximately 1-3 millennium BC), depict hunting scenes, animals, and chariots. Additionally, archaeologists have unearthed ancient burials containing jewelry and utensils within these highlands. Furthermore, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tanbaly Petroglyph Site, can also be found here, adding to the historical and cultural significance of the Chu-Ili Mountains.
How to get there?
The Chu-Ili Mountains are located about 180 km (112 mi) northwest of Almaty, on the border of the Almaty and Zhambyl regions. You can reach the mountains by driving along the A-2 or M-36 highways for about 3 hours.
Other tourist attractions near the Chu-Ili Mountains:
- Mausoleum of Kainazar Ata
- Tanbaly Petroglyph Site
- Ili River
- South Shore of Lake Balkhash
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Tanbaly Petroglyph Site Day Tour")
Immerse yourself in history by embarking on a tour of the Tanbaly Petroglyph Site. This place boasts several thousand rock paintings, representing a treasure of global significance safeguarded by UNESCO.