Eshkiolmes Petroglyph Site
The Jetysu region is renowned for its petroglyphs, and one of the most impressive collections of rock paintings can be found adorning the steep cliffs of Eshkiolmes. Nestled within the Dzungarian Alatau, the Eshkiolmes Ridge rises above the banks of the Koksu River.
Experts have documented over 10,000 drawings that bear the traces of Scythians, Uysuns, Huns, Turks, and other tribes who roamed the lands of modern-day Kazakhstan. The oldest rock engravings are dating back to the Bronze Age. Researchers have even discovered depictions of chariots left by the Aryan tribe; symbols of their presence intermingled with the artwork of other tribes. These ancient Aryans, also known as Indo-Europeans, arrived in present-day Kazakhstan during the great migration of peoples, leaving behind a fading legacy. The passage of time has rendered their drawings nearly indistinguishable from the natural hues of the rocks, requiring great effort to discern their traces.
In contrast, the illustrations left by other tribes vividly emerge from the rock faces, ranging from minuscule etchings measuring a mere centimeter to monumental compositions spanning entire surfaces. To facilitate exploration, the wealth of petroglyphs in Eshkiolmes has been divided into 24 gorges. While the number of gorges may continue to expand as discoveries unfold, these existing collections captivate the imagination.
The petroglyphs of Eshkiolmes predominantly depict animals, such as argali, deer, goats, horses, and bulls. Scenes of hunting and sacrificial rituals come to life through the skilled hands of the ancient artists. A glimpse into the Scythian period reveals detailed renderings of warriors adorned in armor, wielding shields and swords. The artistry extends further to portray archers taking aim at colossal giants.
The creators of these captivating petroglyphs were undoubtedly masters of their craft, for etching drawings onto nearly flat surfaces at such considerable heights demanded exceptional skills and abilities. Astonishingly, they achieved these remarkable works of art without the aid of modern tools or climbing equipment.
How to get there?
The Eshkiolmes petroglyphs can be reached from Taldykorgan in about 30 minutes (20 km) via the R-122 highway. From Almaty, the journey takes approximately 3.5 hours (275 km) along the A-3 highway, crossing the Karatal River and then turning onto the R-124 road through the village of Ushkol, leading to the ridge.
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