Mount Belukha
Mount Belukha is known by various epithets like the "Two-Headed Beauty," the "Ice Mountain," and the "Crown of Altai." As the highest peak in both Altai and Siberia, its dual summits tower over the surrounding mountain ranges. The Eastern peak soars to a height of 4506 meters (14783 ft), while the Western peak stands at 4440 meters (14567 ft). Between these two peaks lies the Belukha Saddle, a ravine at an altitude of approximately 4000 meters (13123 ft).
Located on the border of Kazakhstan and Russia, the mountain is called "Muztau" in Kazakhstan, which translates to "ice mountain" – a name well-deserved as its peaks remain perpetually cloaked in snow and ice. The climate in the foothills is markedly continental, with temperatures often plunging below freezing at higher elevations.
Kazakhstan lays claim to the northwestern portion of the mountain. The Belukha massif boasts 169 glaciers, including the Big Berel and Small Berel glaciers within Kazakhstan, once part of a single glacier. The Belaya Berel River originates from these glaciers, eventually joining the Bukhtarma River.
Conquering Mount Belukha is no small feat due to the challenging terrain of rocks and glaciers. For a long time, the mountain remained unconquered, with unsuccessful attempts in 1907 and 1909. It wasn't until 1914 that it yielded to human determination. Comparatively, Elbrus and Kazbek, both taller than Belukha, were first conquered in 1829 and 1868, respectively. Aspiring climbers would be wise to select the summer months for their ascent, as other seasons offer nearly insurmountable challenges. The region's tectonic activity further complicates the journey, with avalanches, rockfalls, and even earthquakes posing common hazards.
An intriguing fact about Mount Belukha is its equidistant location from four oceans. UNESCO has included Mount Belukha in its World Natural Heritage List. Additionally, this enigmatic mountain is steeped in legends, with some believing that the mythical utopia of Belovodye (a mythical kingdom in Russian folklore) and the elusive Shambhala are concealed somewhere near the mountain.
How to get there?
Accessing Belukha is possible from nearly any point within the expanse of Katon-Karagai National Park. To embark on this journey, one must first reach the reserve itself, which is accessible from Ust-Kamenogorsk. Travelers can follow either the R-157 or R-163 highways, leading them to the village of Katon-Karagai, situated in close proximity to the park's entrance.
Other tourist attractions near Mount Belukha:
- Katon-Karagai National Park
- The Village of Katon-Karagai
- Katun Ridge
- Kokkol Waterfall
- Rakhmanovskie Klyuchi Resort
- Yazevoye Lake
- Berel Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum
Recommended tours:
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On request
Discover Altai, shrouded in secrets and legends, giving a charge of strength and energy, the mysterious mountainous country where the probability of meeting other tourists is negligible. Having passed the way from ancient nomadic culture to mysterious "stonemasons", the desire to return to these lands will remain with you foreve...
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Along Mountain Trails")
On request
The combined route of this tour will require certain skills of horse riding in the mountainous area, and living in tent camps without the benefits of civilization and guest houses with minimal amenities will be to the liking of experienced tourists only.
On request
Not the most difficult route to the foot of Belukha, to the famous Kok-Kol camp. During this small trip, which requires certain skills of horse riding in the mountainous area and minimal tourist training, you will have time to get acquainted with Altai culture, visit unusual places and do unusual things...
On request
It is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the Kazakh Altai, learn about history, culture and local traditions, visit the most iconic places of the East Kazakhstan region and change 4 climate zones at once. This tour includes several overnights in a tent camp without the benefits of civilization, and in the rainy seas...