Talgar Pass
There are two passes known as Talgar in the Ile Alatau Mountains near Almaty.
The Big Talgar Pass, situated at an elevation of 3167 meters (10390 ft), is the more renowned of the two. It owes its popularity to the presence of the Shymbulak Ski Resort, and a cable car that links the Medeu Skating Rink with Shymbulak crosses through the pass. Nestled between the peaks of Shkolnik, Shymbulachka, and Chkalov, the Big Talgar Pass offers breathtaking vistas of Almaty, the Shymbulak Ski Resort, and the surrounding mountains. This pass is always bustling with tourists; in the summer, it's a hub for hikers, while in the winter, freeriders on skis and snowboards are a common sight.
The Small Talgar Pass sits at an elevation of 2767 meters (9078 ft) above sea level, positioned to the east of the Big Talgar Pass, in the direction of Shymbulachka Peak.
The routes to both Talgar passes can be described as relatively easy, making this area suitable for novice hikers.
How to get there?
To reach the pass from Almaty, first follow Kerey-Zhanibek Khandar Street to the Medeu Skating Rink. From there, you'll need to ascend to the highest point of the Shymbulak resort, known as Kombi-2, which stands at an altitude of 3200 meters (10450 ft) above sea level. The most efficient way to reach this elevation is by utilizing the cable car. It's advisable to bring warm clothing along for the journey, as even in summer you will encounter snow at the pass.
Other tourist attractions near the Talgar Pass:
- Shkolnik Peak
- Abai Peak
- Phiskulturnik Peak
- Chkalov Peak
- Shymbulachka Peak
- Gorelnik Gorge
- Bogdanovich Glacier
- Manshuk Mametova Lake
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: Mountain Tour")
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain landscapes just a stone's throw away from the center of Almaty! Explore the awe-inspiring wonders nestled in the Ile-Alatau Mountains and ascend to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level.
_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.
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Situated at an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level, this frigid and desolate lake boasts a depth of 30 meters. The lake is encompassed by stunning mountain peaks, creating an exceptionally beautiful panorama from all directions.
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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.