Saryesik-Atyrau Desert
Saryesik-Atyrau is a sandy-clay desert in the Jetysu and Almaty regions of Kazakhstan, situated to the south of Lake Balkhash. The desert is intersected by the Ili and Karatal rivers, as well as numerous dry riverbeds.
Evidence of a bygone era
A millennium ago, the desert was crisscrossed by rivers and caravan routes. The presence of rivers allowed residents to partake in irrigated agriculture. This led to a shift towards a sedentary lifestyle, with cities being constructed in the desert. People not only cultivated the land but also engaged in fishing and hunting. During that time, the Turanian tiger even roamed the nearby forests.
Archaeologists have unearthed several medieval settlements in the Saryesik-Atyrau desert, extending from the Malaysary Mountains to the Balkhash shore. It is believed that these cities were situated along the banks of a long-dried-up river. Among the largest cities were Aktam, Karamergen, and Agashayak. These names were bestowed upon them by archaeologists. The original names remain a mystery that may never be unraveled.
The reasons behind the cities' decline remain uncertain. Some scholars suggest that the inhabitants abandoned their homes as the rivers dried up, while others propose that the cities fell victim to destruction by the Mongols in the 13th century.
During the Soviet era, the desert was transformed into a pastureland. Up to 90% of the region's sheep were brought here for winter grazing. Shepherd's dwellings and enclosures were scattered throughout the desert. Now their remnants are gradually being engulfed by sand.
How to get there?
The desert is traversed by a road that connects the town of Ushtobe to the village of Almaly, running alongside the Karatal River. Additionally, there are numerous dirt roads scattered throughout the desert. Please note that these roads are prone to being washed away in the spring and during rainy weather.
Other tourist attractions near the desert:
- Southern Shore of Lake Balkhash
- Pribalkhashsky Nature Reserve
- Ile-Balkhash Nature Reserve
- Ili River
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