Kairak Waterfall
The Kairak Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder situated in the heart of the Ile Alatau Mountains, specifically in the Turgen Gorge. While several waterfalls can be found in the area, the Kairak Waterfall stands out as the tallest and most captivating. Fed by the river of the same name, which originates in the glaciers before merging with the Turgen River, this cascade is a marvel to behold.
The name «Kairak» has its roots in the Kazakh language, where it means a grindstone. This meaning is aptly chosen, as the cascades have worn away the rocks over time, creating their own path through the terrain. At an altitude of 2130 meters (6988 ft) above sea level and a towering height of 40 meters (130 ft), this waterfall is truly a magnificent sight to witness.
Visitors can admire the beauty of the waterfall from a specially-built wooden bridge located near the middle of the lower cascade. On hot summer days, the cool, clear water sprays from the falls offer a refreshing respite. Numerous springs can be found nearby, providing potable water. The picturesque landscapes around the waterfall are striking, with nearly black rocks, milky water rushing in a stormy stream, and verdant moss and trees.
Tourists must traverse a beautiful gorge en route to the waterfall, with gazebos and benches intermittently placed along the path for resting and soaking in the scenery. Signposts indicate distances to various attractions in the area.
The best time to visit the Kairak Waterfall is from May to October, though in winter, the falls do not freeze entirely, with ice stalactites creating wondrous patterns on the rocks. The route to the waterfall is a favorite among hikers and is included in our unforgettable tour of the Turgen Gorge.
How to get there?
To reach the Kairak Waterfall from Almaty, visitors must travel approximately 100 kilometers (62 mi), which takes about 2.5 hours. Travelers should drive along the Kuldjinsky tract to the town of Esik (Issyk) before turning left towards the village of Kyzylzhar. Afterward, before reaching the village of Turgen, they must turn right towards Tauturgen. From there, the road continues along a small path that follows the Turgen River to the village of Batan, where signs lead to the Kairak Waterfall.
Other tourist attractions near the Kairak Waterfall:
- Medvejiy Waterfall
- Asy Plateau
- Asy-Turgen Observatory
- Lake Chon-Uryukty
- Talgar Peak
- Issyk Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum
- Chilik Pass
- Glacier of the Mining Institute
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