Katon-Karagai National Park
The largest national park in Kazakhstan, Katon-Karagai National Park, is situated in the enchanting East Kazakhstan Region, nestled within the Kazakh Altai Mountains. Established in 2001, it rightfully stands as one of the country's most iconic landmarks.
The serene landscapes of the park have a profound impact on all who visit, fostering a profound sense of unity with nature. Towering evergreen spruce trees, majestic mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and the unique blend of the Altai spirit with the Kazakh mentality all contribute to the magic of Katon-Karagai National Park.
Katon-Karagai Park is a year-round spectacle, whether it be the lush greenery of summer meadows, snow-capped mountain peaks, or the vibrant hues of autumn. The splendor of this region is truly astonishing, explaining why the picturesque landscapes of Eastern Kazakhstan draw innumerable tourists.
Mount Belukha
Within any national park, adventure seekers are presented with a wealth of breathtaking locations and distinctive landmarks. Katon-Karagai Park is no exception, offering several renowned attractions, some of which are recognized beyond Kazakhstan's borders. Foremost among these is Mount Belukha, situated in the northern reaches of the park and also known as Double-Headed Mountain. This mountain has a magnetic and enigmatic allure, often deemed mysterious and captivating. Climbers consider it a duty to conquer its towering peaks. Belukha has two summits: the Eastern Peak, which stands at 4506 meters (14783 ft), is the highest point in the Altai Region and all of Siberia, while the Western Peak reaches an impressive 4440 meters (14567 ft). Nestled between these peaks is the Belukha Saddle, a ravine that reaches an altitude of approximately 4000 meters (13123 ft). Mount Belukha forms the natural boundary between Kazakhstan and Russia, with the northwestern slopes belonging to Kazakhstan.
Throughout history, Mount Belukha has been veiled in legends. For instance, it was believed that the mythical Shambhala, a paradisiacal realm, could be found in the vicinity of Belukha. Another legend revolves around the mountain's name. According to this tale, the region was once inhabited by the White Ear, a Bigfoot-like creature. However, the leader of the area coveted the White Ear as a living plaything. Despite their best efforts, no one succeeded in capturing the creature. Through cunning, they eventually managed to kill the White Ear, but they couldn't transport his body to the leader. The remains were left to rest on the ground, and over time, a towering snow-capped mountain emerged. This mountain came to be known as Belukha, echoing the name of the legendary White Ear (the word “Belukha” has the same root as the Russian word meaning “white”).
Waterfalls
Katon-Karagai National Park is famous for its waterfalls, and there is an abundance of them to explore. The most picturesque are:
- Kokkol Waterfall. This impressive waterfall stands at a height of 60-80 meters (197-262 ft), making it the largest waterfall in the Altai region. Sourced from the Big Kokkol River, it is located 23 kilometers (14 mi) from the Rakhmanovskie Klyuchi Resort and approximately 15 kilometers (9 mi) from Mount Belukha. Visitors can admire the cascading Kokkol waters from a comfortable observation deck, and camping is possible due to the accommodating terrain. At the base of the waterfall, Chinese characters and drawings can be seen on the water-polished walls, a mystery that even archaeologists and specialists have yet to unravel. The sunlight bathes the waterfall in a radiant glow, offering visitors not only a chance to appreciate its beauty but also to capture stunning photographs. To reach Kokkol, visitors can hike or hire horses, and along the hiking trails, there are opportunities to explore some of the park's 162 glaciers.
- Yazevy Waterfall. This waterfall is named after the nearby Yazevoye Lake. The path leading to it winds through ancient forests with centuries-old trees. Yazevy Waterfall boasts multiple cascades, with the tallest reaching a height of 12 meters (39 ft). Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck catching grayling or ide in the local waters.
- Rakhmanovsky Waterfall (Veronica's Hair). Nestled close to the Rakhmanovskie Klyuchi Resort in the Arasan River valley, this waterfall originates from a moraine lake perched at an altitude of 2265 meters (7431 ft) above sea level. It descends in three-stage cascades down steep cliffs. To witness this spectacle, visitors can cross Rakhmanovskoe Lake by boat and then embark on a forested route (4 kilometers or 2.5 mi) to reach an observation deck. Here, one is treated to the mesmerizing sight of one of Altai's most beautiful mountain waterfalls.
It is impossible to list all the waterfalls of the Katon-Karagai Park; some do not even have names. However, this fact does not deter those seeking the thrill of discovery in this unique and unknown terrain.
Lakes
- Yazevoye Lake stands out as one of the most picturesque lakes not only in Katon-Karagai Park but throughout Kazakhstan. Encircled by mountains, meadows, and coniferous forests, the lake offers a breathtaking panorama, especially on sunny days when the reflection of Mount Belukha graces its clear waters. Fed by the river of the same name, Lake Yazevoye boasts a guest house on its eastern shore, accommodating approximately 15 guests. A boat trip adds an excellent dimension to the tourist experience.
- Lake Rakhmanovskoye, known for its therapeutic radon waters of blue-green hue, spans 2.6 kilometers (1.6 mi) in length, slightly over 500 meters (547 yd) in width, and reaches depths of about 31 meters (102 ft). Surrounded by mountains and a mixed forest of birches, cedars, and larches, the lake is maintained at a refreshingly cool temperature by the mountain rivers that flow into it. Its waters, however, are devoid of life. Legends shroud Lake Rakhmanovskoe, with one suggesting the presence of an old man's spirit dwelling in its waters, luring in careless swimmers to its depths. Another tale recounts the story of a hunter named Rakhman, who wounded a deer that miraculously emerged unharmed on the other side of the lake, leaving no trace of injury.
Rakhmanovskie Klyuchi
Rakhmanovsky Klyuchi, also known as Rahman's Springs in English, consists of 12 springs located near Lake Rakhmanovskoye. These springs boast temperatures ranging from 34 to 42 degrees Celsius (93-108 oF) and are enriched with various minerals, including magnesium, calcium, radon, iron, silicon, chlorine, silicic and sulfuric acids, carbon dioxide, and sodium chloride.
Berel Burial Mounds
The Berel burial ground is a complex comprising 40 mounds dating back to the V-IV centuries BC, corresponding to the Early Iron Age. Within these mounds, archaeologists have unearthed gold jewelry, valuable artifacts, as well as the remains of buried individuals and horses. You can see these artifacts and the mounds in the Berel Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum.
Flora and fauna
The Katon-Karagai State National Park is home to rich and diverse wildlife. Among the fauna inhabiting the park are snow leopards, martens, Altai mountain sheep, brown bears, squirrels, deer, Siberian musk deer, manuls, Ikonnikov's bats, moose, and various species of birds, including Altai snowcocks, black storks, peregrine falcons, gray cranes, and demoiselle cranes. The park's landscape features centuries-old spruces, cedars, firs, larches, as well as unique botanical treasures like Altai rhubarb, Ludwig's iris, Rhodiola rosea, Macropodium, and more.
Katon-Karagai Park holds immense cultural, environmental, scientific, and recreational significance. Since 2014, it has been included in UNESCO's list of specially protected heritage sites.
How to get there?
If you prefer to travel by car, the route takes you through Ust-Kamenogorsk (Oskemen), heading southeast for approximately 500 kilometers (311 mi) to reach the village of Katon-Karagai. Alternatively, you can take a regular bus from the Ust-Kamenogorsk bus station to the village of Katon-Karagai.
Other tourist attractions near the Katon-Karagai National Park:
- The Village of Katon-Karagai
- Irtysh River
- Lake Markakol
- Markakol Nature Reserve
- Bukhtarma Reservoir
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