Sairam-Ugam National Park
Sairam-Ugam National Park is a true natural wonder, brimming with scenic gorges, high-altitude lakes, glaciers, verdant meadows, and lush forests. Spanning seven altitude-based ecosystems, the park boasts a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna.
The park is home to snow leopards, brown bears, mountain goats, Turkistan lynxes, martens, argali, and porcupines. One of the most unique inhabitants is the Menzbier’s marmot, a species found only in this region. It’s recognized for its smaller size and distinctive fur color. Scientists have recorded 59 species of mammals and around 300 species of birds within the park's boundaries.
The flora is equally rich, with 1,635 plant species, 62 of which are endangered. Among the most captivating are the Greig and Kaufman tulips, the Sievers and Nedzvetsky apple trees, Karatau allium, Korolkov arum, Zeravshan juniper, and the Yanchevsky currant. Each April, the park attracts numerous tourists who come to marvel at the blooming tulip meadows.
Key attractions of Sairam-Ugam National Park:
- Sairam Peak, standing at 4,238 m (13904 ft) is the highest point in the Turkistan region.
- Kyryk Kyz Rocks. Meaning "forty girls" in Kazakh, these giant stalagmite-like formations resemble human figures standing tall.
- Akkum Waterfall is located near the Kyryk Kyz Rocks.
- Lake Makpal is situated at 2,100 meters (6890 ft) above sea level. This deep sapphire-colored lake is surrounded by steep cliffs on one side and meadows on the other.
- Sairam-Su Lakes is one of the most popular attractions in the region, with a recently upgraded trail leading there.
- Lake Susyngen is the largest high-altitude lake in the region. Its name means "water disappeared" in Kazakh, as the lake occasionally becomes shallow.
- Kaskasu Falls are often referred to as the "Japanese Falls" due to the cascading streams reminiscent of the famous Akame waterfalls.
- Lake Balykty is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, where the bottom is visible. Its proximity to settlements makes it a popular picnic spot.
- Sazan Ata Rock Paintings are ancient petroglyphs carved into flat black rocks along the floodplain of the Sazan Ata River.
- Silbeli Lakes are located just south of the Sazan Ata petroglyphs at over 2,500 meters (8200 ft) above sea level.
- Vladislav Peak (3,632 m/11916 ft) is a pyramidal peak with a designated tourist route, perfect for adventure seekers.
- Ushbastobe Ancient Settlement was once a formidable fortress with impregnable walls and moats. The site has yielded hundreds of archaeological artifacts.
How to get there?
The Sairam-Ugam National Park is located in the Turkistan region of Kazakhstan, near the border with Uzbekistan. The nearest city, Shymkent, is approximately 70 km (43 mi) northwest of the park.
You can explore the national park either with a guided tour or independently. If you choose to visit on your own, you must select one of the 11 designated routes and register on the park's official website beforehand.
The park office in Shymkent is located at 24/1 G. Ilyaev St.
Other tourist attractions near Sairam-Ugam National Park:
- Aksu-Jabagly Nature Reserve
- Mount Kazygurt
- Mausoleum of Akbura
- Mausoleum of Koshkar Ata
- Saryagash Resort Area
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Recommended tours:
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On request
Embark on this tour to delve into the historical monuments of the South Kazakhstan region, coupled with an exploration of Aksu-Jabagly, the country's oldest nature reserve.
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