Talgar Peak
Talgar Peak is the tallest point in the Ile Alatau Mountains and a part of the Almaty State Reserve. Its elevation ranges from 4979 to 5017 meters (16335-16460 ft), as documented by various sources, surpassing even the Mont Blanc and Matterhorn peaks in the Alps.
Over the years, multiple expeditions have ventured towards this snow-capped peak with its distinctive triple «heads» but the first successful climb to the very top was in 1938. The peak butts up against the Korzhenevsky glacier on its southeast side, which is the biggest glacier in the Ile Alatau range. There's a cleared-out area where climbers can take a breather and set up tents.
You can easily see Talgar Peak from the town of Talgar, and sometimes even from certain spots in Almaty, as long as the weather is clear.
This peak isn't for the faint of heart. You need guts and determination to conquer it. Plus, it takes quite a bit of time – usually a week or more – depending on when you go and how ready you are. There are no simple ways up to the top, mainly because it's not in the easiest spot to reach.
How to get there?
The distance between Almaty and the town of Talgar is approximately 34 km (21 mi) along the Talgar tract. From there, the commonly preferred route for most tourists is the Antishin trail (though a few alternatives exist), which offers a quicker path to the peak. During the ascent, it's crucial to exercise great caution due to the presence of numerous rocks, steep cliffs, crevices, and other hazards.
Other attractions near the Talgar Peak:
- Lake Issyk
- Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum
- Turgen Gorge
- Metallurg Peak
- Kairak Waterfall
- Oi-Qaragai Mountain Resort
- Ile-Alatau National Park
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Bogdanovich Glacier Trekking Tour")
On request
Embark on a trek to the Bogdanovich Glacier, the closest glacier to the city of Almaty. Enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding peaks from the glacier's observation point.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Boukreev Peak Trekking Tour")
On request
An easy circular trekking route leading to Boukreev Peak in the Ile Alatau Mountains. Spanning 17 kilometers and designed for a one-day adventure, this trail begins at the Almatau tourist base in the Kotyrbulak gorge.
On request
Standing at 3680 meters, the Big Almaty Peak might give the false impression of being a formidable and challenging climb. However, ascending to the summit doesn't necessitate specialized mountaineering skills.
On request
Left Talgar Gorge is a scenic location adorned with flourishing meadows and dense coniferous forests. The hiking trail starts at the Medeu Skating Rink and culminates at the highest point of the Shymbulak Ski Resort.
On request
This route unveils the diverse contrasts and beauties of the Ile Alatau Mountains. Highlights include a visit to the Shymbulak Ski Resort, lunch in a traditional Kazakh yurt, crossing a glacier, witnessing the stunning Big Almaty Lake, and the unique opportunity to swim in a pond created by the Shukur Waterfall.