Natural attractions of the Almaty region -
Mountain hike along the Bolshaya Almatinka River to the Big Almaty Lake -
The Bolshaya Almatinka River is a mountain river that originates on the glaciers of the Trans–Ili Alatau, or rather in the mountainous area of Peak Sovetov and peak Molodezhny. The river is a natural symbol of the city of Almaty and its landmark, flows through the Bolshoe Almatinskoye mountain gorge. The river flows through both mountainous terrain and the city and is the elder sister of the Malaya Almatinka River, which flows through the Small Almaty Gorge. The river is quite stormy and very picturesque, along the river there are several mountain hiking trails along which you can visit such a famous natural landmark as the Great Almaty Lake or BAO. Also in the lake area there is the Tien Shan Astronomical Observatory and even higher there is a Space station on the Dzhusaly Kezen pass from which there is a mountain route to Big Almaty Peak and Tourist Peak.
The Bolshaya Almatinka River offers a variety of opportunities for outdoor activities and ecotourism: hiking and trekking, the river gorge and its surroundings are famous for many hiking routes, for example, there is a hiking route "Japanese Road". Camping and picnics can also be arranged on the river, the river and its surroundings are ideal for those who want to spend a weekend in nature. The Sunkar Center is located in the river gorge, where hunting birds such as eagles, falcons, owls, etc. are bred, as well as shows with birds of prey are held here every day. There are many cafes and restaurants along the river where you can enjoy Kazakh and European cuisine. The nature of the river gorge offers many picturesque views that attract photographers and artists.
How to get there and visit -
The Bolshaya Almatinka River is located in the city of Almaty and kilometers away in the mountains of Almaty, Ile-Alatau Natural Park, Almaty region, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°05'31"N 76°57'32"E
History and information -
The history of the Bolshaya Almatinka River (Big Almaty River) is closely connected with the development of the city of Almaty, which until 1921 was called the city of Verniy. In the 19th century, the river served as an important source of water for the first settlements founded by Russian settlers. Over time, canal systems appeared in the river valley, thanks to which gardens and fields were irrigated. During the Soviet period, a series of hydraulic structures were built on the river, including dams, hydroelectric power plants and water intakes, to regulate its flow and use the water for the needs of a growing metropolis. One of the key facilities was the Great Almaty Canal, which provides water supply not only to the city, but also to the adjacent agricultural areas.
The Bolshaya Almatinka River is not just a natural object, but also an important part of the history of Almaty. It unites the city's past and present, attracting both locals and tourists. Here everyone will find something to their liking: from extreme sports to relaxing walks among the mountain landscapes.
Photogallery:
