Taygak Gorge
Taygak Gorge is a deep and challenging canyon located in the Sholak Mountains within Altyn-Emel National Park. Spanning 10 kilometers (6 mi), the gorge is renowned for its scenic beauty and ancient rock paintings. These petroglyphs depict animals, hunting scenes, and horsemen with bows and spears, as well as unusual subjects for Kazakhstan, such as people playing musical instruments. The petroglyphs are scattered throughout the gorge rather than concentrated in one area.
In addition, Buddhist inscriptions were discovered in the lower part of Taygak Gorge. These inscriptions, dating back to the 17th century, reproduce the mantra "Om mani padme hum." They were likely left by monks from a nearby Buddhist monastery.
How to get there?
The Taygak Gorge is situated in the western part of the Sholak Mountains, within the Kerbulak District of the Jetysu Region. From Almaty, you can reach Altyn-Emel National Park via the Almaty-Ust-Kamenogorsk or Almaty-Khorgos highways, taking the R-20 highway past the town of Konayev and the Kapchagai Reservoir.
Other tourist attractions near the gorge:
- Aulie Agash
- Aktau and Katutau Mountains
- Terekty Gorge
- The Town of Jarkent
- Khorgos International Center for Cross-Border Cooperation
- Ili River
- Kora Gorge
- Burkhan-Bulak Waterfall
- Bayan-Jurek Ridge
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park 2-Day Tour")
Visit the stunning Altyn-Emel National Park in Kazakhstan, established to protect endangered species of plants and animals. Witness breathtaking landscapes and wildlife during your visit.
Discover the highlights of Altyn-Emel National Park, including the stunning Singing Dune and the striking Aktau Mountains, along with Kazakhstan's most awe-inspiring canyon, Charyn Canyon.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park Off-Road Tour")
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_420x650_4ab.jpg "Untamed Dzungaria Off-Road Tour")
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