Issyk Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum
Issyk Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum, established in 2010 near the town of Esik in the Almaty Region, covers an expansive 422 hectares. The museum's inception followed the discovery of the Issyk burial mounds, which contain the remains of a Scythian warrior, famously referred to as the Golden Man. The museum complex includes more than 80 burial mounds, as well as the ancient Scythian settlements of Orikti and Rakhat.
Within the museum's four halls, visitors can explore the fascinating history and culture of the Scythians. The first hall features an exact copy of the Golden Man under a special glass flask, alongside copies of jewelry, gold items, remains of ceramic dishes, weapons, parts of horse harness, skeletons, and other relics found during excavations of the Issyk mounds.
The second hall showcases the work of archaeologists who contributed to the museum's establishment, featuring photographs and personal belongings of the researchers and a sectional model of the mound. The third hall displays exhibits from various eras, from the Paleolithic to the Middle Ages.
The Memorial Hall of B. Nurmukhanbetov honors one of the archaeologists who made significant contributions to the creation of the museum on the territory of the Issyk burial mounds. Visitors can view exhibits related to the work of Bekmukhanbet Nurmukhanbetov, who conducted personal excursions to the site and shared stories about the excavations.
The museum's temporary exhibition features a constantly changing exposition, while balbals (Turkic stone sculptures) and a stone labyrinth welcome visitors at the entrance. Overall, the Issyk Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about the fascinating Scythian era, which is a significant part of Kazakhstan's history.
How to get there?
Getting to the Issyk Museum from Almaty is easy and straightforward. Simply follow the Kuldjinsky tract and pass through the villages of Guldala, Panfilovo, and Avat, heading towards the city of Esik. As you drive along the highway, you'll notice the reserve-museum, which is difficult to miss, and there are signs along the way to guide you. The roads are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
If you prefer not to drive, you can take bus #225 to the town of Esik. The bus will drop you off near the museum, and it's a short walk from there.
Opening hours:
Mon-Sun from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Other tourist attractions near the Issyk Museum:
- Turgen Gorge
- Lake Issyk
- Issyk Trout Farm
- Kairak Waterfall
- Asy Plateau
- Asy-Turgen Observatory
- Gunny Ethnic Village
- Ile-Alatau National Park
- Zelenoye Lake
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Lake Issyk One-Day Tour")
Welcome to Lake Issyk, one of the most picturesque lakes near Almaty. This tour also offers insights into archaeological finds within Scythian burial mounds.