Ketmen Ridge
Ketmen (Uzynkara) is a ridge in the Northern Tien Shan, extending east of the Ile Alatau Mountains. Stretching 310 km (193 mi) from west to east, the ridge continues into China. Therefore, Kazakhstan owns only half of it. The northern slopes are deeply carved by river valleys and steep gorges. Southern slopes are gentler and attract backcountry enthusiasts.
Formation of the Ketmen Ridge
Millions of years ago, volcanos were active in the eastern Almaty region. Magma still nears the surface, heating the hot springs of Chunja. The Ketmen Ridge itself is formed from this magma. It consists of relatively low mountains, with its highest point being Mount Aspan at 3,652 m (11980 ft). From Ketmen's peaks, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Khan Tengri Peak, Kazakhstan's highest point.
Legends and Beliefs
The word "ketmen" in Turkic languages refers to a hand tool similar to a hoe. According to legend, after creating the Earth, the Creator threw away this tool, forming the mountain range.
The most visited attraction of the ridge is the Komirshi Gorge, known for its "sacred" spring. Visitors come here to make a wish and tie a ribbon on a tree. However, we do not recommend this practice as it can harm the trees. It's important to respect nature and avoid causing damage based on unfounded beliefs.
Other Attractions
On the northern slope of the ridge, ancient rock paintings can be found. For instance, the Dardamty Gorge is home to over 300 petroglyphs depicting people and animals.
On the northern slope, near the village of Sumbe, lie the ruins of a Buddhist monastery. It was built by the Manchus in the mid-18th century and destroyed in 1864 when the Kazakhs reclaimed the lands from the Chinese.
Wildlife
Ketmen is also a haven for photographers and fishermen. The area is home to wapitis, roe deer, wild boars, lynxes, and even Tien Shan bears. The rivers are populated with trout and naked osman.
How to get there?
The Ketmen Ridge is located about 300 km (186 mi) east of Almaty, near the border with China. To reach it, leave the city via the Kuljinsky Tract and head towards the village of Chunja. The ridge stretches south along the Chunja-Koljat highway.
Other tourist attractions near Ketmen Ridge:
- Chunja Hot Springs
- Shalkode Valley
- Charyn Canyon
- Charyn National Park
- Kungey Alatau Mountains
- Lake Tuzkol
- Dzungarian Alatau Mountains
- Nazugum Cave
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Charyn Canyon One-Day Group Tour")
If you need a refreshing day away from the city, join us on this tour of Charyn Canyon. Marvel at its stunning beauty and immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the nearby rural area and market.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Golden Ring of Jetysu 5-Day Tour")
Embark on a distinctive travel itinerary in the Almaty Region, featuring highlights such as Altyn-Emel National Park, Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, Lake Kaindy, Tamgaly Tas Petroglyph Site, and numerous other captivating attractions.
On request
Not difficult for Dzhungar Alatau horseback trek. Suitable for those who have confident level of horse riding, love wild nature, tough trails and who are ready to overcome long distances on horseback and who have not so much time for adventures.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Alpine Meadows of Zhetisu Off-Road Tour")
On request
Little-studied and hardly visited by tourists mountain gorges and valleys with dizzying panoramas, alpine meadows, rough rivers, alpine lakes and a lot of impressions from the wild beauty of Zhetysu - all this in one adventure!
-sergejt_420x650_4ab.jpg "Canyons of Zhetisu Off-Road Tour")
On request
This off-road tour will enable you to see the most beautiful canyons of the south-eastern part of Zhetysu: Kyzylzhar, Temirlik, Bestamak and Valley of Castles of Charyn Canyon.
_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!
On request
Discover the breathtaking Kungey Alatau Mountains – one of Kazakhstan's most stunning mountain ranges. This trek is suitable for both novice and seasoned hikers, and the best part is, there's no need to carry a tent!
On request
Embark on a trek to the foothills of Dzungarian Alatau's highest peak, named in honor of Pyotr Semenov-Tien-Shansky, the pioneering explorer of Dzungaria. This expedition offers the opportunity to explore some of the area's most picturesque glaciers, valleys, and rivers .
On request
Explore an exclusive tour route through the central region of the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains, encompassing its gorges, glaciers, alpine meadows, and lakes. These locations remain unspoiled and rarely visited by people, making the tour a truly extraordinary and adventurous experience.