Ulytau Alley
Ulytau Alley in Astana was opened in 2018 as a generous gift from the Karaganda region in celebration of Astana's 20th anniversary. Stretching across a length of 250 meters, this alley holds great significance, earning its name from the Kazakh language, where «Ulytau» translates to «Great Mountain».
Ulytau refers to a mountain range located in the very center of our country. Throughout history, it served as the headquarters for numerous Kazakh khans and was also the first headquarters of the Golden Horde. Moreover, in 1465, the Kazakh Khanate was formed in this very region. Additionally, Ulytau holds a momentous event in its timeline when, in 1730, the combined forces of three Kazakh clans successfully repelled the continuous attacks by the Dzungars, who had been targeting Kazakh lands for many years.
The alley itself resides within one of the newer districts of the capital, connecting Mangilik El Avenue and Turkistan Street. The architect Serik Rustambekov incorporated miniature replicas of several significant Ulytau monuments along the alley, including petroglyphs illustrating horses, bulls, hunting scenes, and people. Moreover, visitors can observe copies of ancient copper-smelting furnaces and stone statues called balbals.
The alley boasts ornate sculptures of unique animals, particularly the saiga antelope that roams the steppes of Ulytau. Additionally, a prominent feature known as the Khan Ordasy point marks the spot where Kazakh khans were traditionally elevated to their position of authority, symbolized by being raised on a white felt mat.
Located closer to Turkistan Street, opposite the Botanical Garden, the centerpiece of the alley is the Monument of Gratitude to the Kazakh People. During the period of 1930-1952, people of many ethnic groups from the USSR were forcefully deported to Kazakhstan. These deportees were abandoned in the vast steppe without provisions or shelter. However, the local residents warmly welcomed them, offering support and assistance.
How to get there?
You can get to the Ulytau Alley by buses #15, 15A, 18, 35, 43, 46, 47, 54, 70, 802, and 806.
Other tourist attractions near Ulytau Alley:
- Botanical Garden
- Taikazan Fountain
- Mangilik El Arch
- Monument of Gratitude to the Kazakh People
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