The highest waterfalls in Kazakhstan and Central Asia -
Trekking to the Burkhan-Bulak Waterfall -
The Burkhan-Bulak Waterfall is a true mountain legend, hidden in the heart of Zhetysu, among majestic rocks and pine forests. It is not just the highest waterfall in Kazakhstan, it is the spirit of the mountains, whispering with the voice of water. Situated in the mountains of the Dzungarian Alatau at an altitude of 2250 meters above sea level, in the upper reaches of the Kora River, this waterfall amazes with its wildness, power and beauty. It is not so easy to get to it - and this is its special magic. This place is not for an idle glance and easy rest, but for an adventurer, for someone who is ready to hear the heart of nature and test the strength of his car. The path to the waterfall begins along a mountain road from the village of Tekeli, where the Buddhist stupa (Tekeli stupa) is located. Along the gorge there is a mountainous, difficult-to-pass road intended only for high-traffic 4x4 jeeps.
Second route to the Burkhan-Bulak waterfall leads through another place, or rather, before reaching the village of "Kapal" there is a turn into the mountains which along a difficult mountain road will lead you to the pass "Kapalsky Vzvoz" (45 ° 01'26 "N 79 ° 01'16" E) from where you will need to go down to the gorge "Kora", along which you need to go further to the waterfall. ATTENTION: Both roads described above and leading to the waterfall are very difficult, they pass through hard-to-reach mountainous terrain! We recommend going to the waterfall through the pass "Kapalsky Vzvoz". It is best to travel in this region in the summer, July, August, in winter this location is completely inaccessible. Also, be sure to monitor the weather, choose clear and sunny days for a trip to the Burkhan-Bulak waterfall. Just above the waterfall in a beautiful mountain valley there is a small eco-camp Taubulak (eco camping), there are places to rest, a place to spend the night, you can eat. Above the camp along the river there is also a mountain road, along which you can climb to the upper reaches of the gorge "Kora".
How to get there and visit -
The Burkhan-Bulak waterfall is located high in the mountains of the Dzungarian Alatau in the upper reaches of the river "Kora", mountain gorge "Kora", Eskeldinsky district, Zhetysu region, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 45°00'27"N 79°12'28"E
Information -
Burkhan-Bulak is not one stream, but a whole cascade system of waterfalls descending along a steep cliff. The total height is about 168 meters. The upper part consists of three main cascades that fall from a height of 112 meters, and another one - below, almost 56 meters. This spectacle is breathtaking: the water falls with a roar, crashing against the rocks, creating fog and rainbows. The mountains around seem to part to reveal this natural shrine, surrounded by centuries-old firs, mosses and mountain grasses.
The name "Burkhan-Bulak" is translated as "Sacred Spring". And these are not just words. Local residents have always treated this place with special respect. It is believed that the water here has a cleansing power, and the place itself has an energy that can heal the soul. According to legend, sages, hermits, seekers of enlightenment stayed here. The noise of the waterfall lulls and clears the mind, gives answers if the heart is open.
The route to Burkhan-Bulak is a real adventure. The road goes through passes, through mountains, along rivers and gorges. Sometimes the path is only accessible in summer, and even then you need an SUV and the readiness to hike. But those who reach the waterfall never leave the same. Here, every stone is filled with history, every drop of water is the breath of the Dzungarian Alatau.
The Burkhan-Bulak waterfall is not just a natural object. It is a place of power, where time and space merge, where you feel that the Earth is alive. This is an ideal place for photo tours, hikes, meditations, solitude with nature. A real miracle that has preserved its pristine nature, despite all the changes around. And while this waterfall is roaring, the sacred spirit of Zhetysu lives, free and powerful, like the mountains that gave birth to it.
Photogallery: