On March 16, 2022, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev made a proposal to divide the Almaty Region into two parts, separating the new Jetysu Region. The decree was signed in the summer of that year and the new region appeared on maps.
As of early 2023, the region’s population is almost 700 thousand people. Most of them live in the city of Taldykorgan. The region has three more towns: Tekeli, Jarkent, and Sarkand. Still, many people live in rural areas. From the east, the Jetysu Region borders China.
History of the ancient land
About two thousand years ago, the lands of Jetysu were inhabited by the Scythians, Iranian-speaking nomadic tribes. For hundreds of years, these lands passed into the power of one tribe or another. States were created and destroyed. In the 13th century, these lands were conquered by the army of Genghis Khan, and the great commander himself gave Jetysu to his son Chagatai. However, the Mongols remained in power for a relatively short time, and in the 15th century, the Kazakh Khanate was formed here.
The land of Jetysu was a silent witness to the war between the Kazakhs and the Dzungars – one of the most tragic pages in our history. Jetysu joined the Russian Empire in the 19th century in search of protection from the enemies. After the collapse of the USSR, these ancient lands became part of independent Kazakhstan.
Why is the Jetysu Region worth visiting?
Seven large rivers and several hundred smaller streams flow there giving life to many trees and plants. The mountain slopes are overgrown by giant Tien Shan spruces – they’re endemic to Central Asia. In the valleys, you can walk through relic turanga and ash groves, some of the trees are hundreds of years old.
The Jetysu Region is home to one of the most popular beach tourism spots in Kazakhstan – Lake Alakol with many resorts scattered on its shore.
There is the amazing Altyn-Emel National Park, where you can see the unique Singing Dune, ancient rock paintings, Scythian burial mounds, and the colorful mountains of Aktau and Katutau.
The Jetysu Region is also adorned with the mountains of the Dzungarian Alatau, which are ready to reveal their natural treasures to travelers: the Burkhan-Bulak Waterfall, the Kora Gorge, the Kalakai Prehistoric Monument, Lake Jasylkol, and many more.
Local offers:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Charyn Canyon One-Day Group Tour")
If you need a refreshing day away from the city, join us on this tour of Charyn Canyon. Marvel at its stunning beauty and immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the nearby rural area and market.
![Групповая экскурсия "Знакомство с Нур-Султаном. Маршрут I" (2,5-3 часа) [ожидает перевода]](/assets/cache_image/products/0_gallery/tours/astana-excursions/astana1_420x650_c98.jpeg "Групповая экскурсия \"Знакомство с Нур-Султаном. Маршрут I\" (2,5-3 часа) [ожидает перевода]")
Идеальный вариант для первого знакомства со столицей Казахстана! Город во всех проявлениях менее чем за 3 часа: от административного сердца страны до экономического, молодежного и событийного хаба
On request
Don’t miss the chance to ski at Shymbulak Ski Resort, famous for its mild climate, large quantity of sunny days, steady snow and the magnificent surrounding views!
On request
Day of skiing on the best and the largest resort in Kazakhstan, which matches the European standards of quality. This tour is suitable for beginners and experienced skiers and freeriders. The tour allows to ride both on the groomed slopes and off-piste with possibility of organizing backcountry nearby the resort.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Butakov Waterfalls Trekking Tour")
On request
Butakov Waterfalls can be found in the Ile Alatau Mountains near Almaty. The breathtaking scenery, pristine air, and refreshing coolness have been drawing tourists to this location for quite some time.
On request
Trekking to the Gorelnik Gorge is a highly favored adventure for tourists and trekking enthusiasts alike. The gorge boasts stunning scenery with abundant trees, mushrooms, and berries. If lucky, one might even encounter the wild inhabitants of the area, including mountain deer.
On request
Kim-Asar Gorge is very popular among Almaty townspeople. The main reason is that it can be easily reached by bus or by car, and a slight steep ascent allows even unprepared tourists to pass it. In addition, the route is available for walking almost any time of year.
On request
Standing at 3680 meters, the Big Almaty Peak might give the false impression of being a formidable and challenging climb. However, ascending to the summit doesn't necessitate specialized mountaineering skills.
On request
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.