Dardamty Petroglyph Site
The Dardamty Petroglyph Site is situated in the Almaty Region, amidst the northern foothills of the Tien Shan Mountains within the Ketmen Ridge. The site boasts an impressive collection of rock paintings that depict human figures and animals.
The site encompasses 300 petroglyphs, each providing a glimpse into different periods of the region's history. Among them, you can see drawings of wagons, camels, deer, and mountain goats, as well as scenes of hunting. Some of these artworks date back to the Early Iron and Bronze Ages, while the majority trace their origins back to the 1st millennium BC.
Noteworthy among the petroglyphs is a set of two carved symbols. They have been identified by archaeologists as belonging to either the Oirat or Tibetan script. The symbols date back to the 17th-18th centuries, the time when the Dzungar Khanate's rulers established their headquarters in this area. Additionally, near the rock art, the remnants of an ancient settlement have been unearthed.
How to get there?
The Dardamty Petroglyph Site sits approximately 7 km (4 mi) to the south of the village bearing the same name, situated within the Uigur district of the Almaty region. For those traveling from Almaty, reaching Dardamty village takes around 4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 314 km (195 mi) along the A-352 highway.
Other tourist attractions near the Dardamty Petroglyph Site:
- Chunja Hot Springs
- Charyn National Park
- Lake Tuzkol
- Ili River
- Charyn Ash Grove
- Nazugum Cave
- Derevyannoye Lake
Recommended tours:
View all offers
Discover the highlights of Altyn-Emel National Park, including the stunning Singing Dune and the striking Aktau Mountains, along with Kazakhstan's most awe-inspiring canyon, Charyn Canyon.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park Off-Road Tour")
On request
Explore Altyn-Emel National Park on an exciting 3-day off-road journey, filled with discoveries and unforgettable experiences!
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park and Charyn Canyon Off-Road Tour")
On request
If you like spending time in nature and delight in discovering the new and unusual – come join us on this off-road tour in Altyn Emel Natural Park and Charyn Canyon!
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Untamed Dzungaria Off-Road Tour")
On request
Discover the mysterious Dzungaria, where encounters with other tourists are rare. Brace yourself for challenging off-road routes, breathtaking alpine meadows, expansive plateaus, and historic ancient settlements.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Golden Ring of Dzungaria Tour")
On request
Embark on a route through the less-explored trails of the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains. This expedition promises encounters with Kazakhstan's tallest waterfall, ancient petroglyphs, the remnants of bygone settlements, an azure mountain lake, and various other natural landscapes!
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Trekking to Burkhan-Bulak Waterfall")
On request
Let's discover the mountainous land of Dzungaria, home to Kazakhstan's highest waterfall – Burkhan-Bulak. The trekking route will go through alpine meadows, highland plateaus, picturesque gorges, and other amazing natural wonders.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Origins of Kora River Trekking Tour")
On request
Join us on this moderately challenging route through the Dzungarian Mountains in the southeast of Kazakhstan. This 9-day adventure is designed for both seasoned mountain hikers and beginners with adequate training.