Kosbastau Tract
Nestled within the Altyn-Emel National Park, the Kosbastau Tract stands out as a haven for travelers seeking both power and tranquility. This tract boasts a venerable 700-year-old willow, an amazing grove of "dancing" turanga, and a rejuvenating radon spring.
The Tract's Trio of Treasures
The first gem of Kosbastau is a majestic willow that has stood tall for seven centuries. Discovered in 1960, this tree, standing at 20 meters in height (66 ft) and with a trunk girth of 15 meters (49 ft), is revered by locals. After centuries of growth, the trunks now require additional support. Harming the tree is considered a grave offense.
Adjacent to the willow, a grove of "dancing" turangas adds another layer of wonder. These trees’ stems zig and zag, thanks to the peculiar soil conditions nourished by a radon stream. Another reason for trees to twist is that they grow too close to each other. The turanga, a relict plant surviving the Ice Age, is a rare sight found exclusively in Central Asia, particularly in the valleys of the Ili, Syrdarya, and Chu rivers.
The third treasure, a radon spring, further enhances the allure of Kosbastau. Providing tired travelers with a natural retreat, this warm spring, enriched with healing radon water, proves beneficial for various health conditions. Radon, a chemical element utilized in medicine and technology, offers therapeutic benefits for musculoskeletal, metabolic, skin, gynecological, cardiovascular, and nervous system disorders.
Journeying to Kosbastau
The path leading to the Kosbastau Tract unfolds a mesmerizing tapestry that includes a visit to the remarkable Aktau and Katutau Mountains. Researchers warn that these geological wonders might vanish over time, making the opportunity to witness and touch these miracles of nature all the more compelling.
In addition, the rich biodiversity of Altyn-Emel beckons exploration. The park is home to endemic animals and plants, creating a unique ecosystem not found elsewhere. Alongside the turanga, other relict plants add to the park's natural splendor.
Photographs captured in the Kosbastau Tract will serve as enduring reminders of this extraordinary region. Until the day you decide to embark on a new adventure, Altyn-Emel Park's allure will linger, inviting you to return and relish its wonders once more.
How to get there?
The Kosbastau Tract is positioned 28 km (17 mi) to the east of Basshi village, nestled within the Jetysu region of Kazakhstan. To reach the national park from Almaty, follow A3 and A353 highways. En route, travelers pass through settlements such as Otegen Batyr, Bayserke, Konayev, Shengeldy, and Saryozek, eventually reaching the village of Basshi where the main office of the park is situated.
Other tourist attractions near the Kosbastau Tract:
- Aktau and Katutau Mountains
- The Singing Dune
- Mynbulak Tract
- Oshaktas Stelae
- Burial Mounds of Besshatyr
- The Town of Jarkent
- Jarkent Mosque
- Shoqan Walikhanov Memorial Museum
- Ili River
- Dzungarian Alatau Mountains
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