Rafting and fishing on the Lepsy River -
Recreation on the rivers of Kazakhstan -
The Lepsy River is a beautiful mountain river, located in the Zhetysu region, is one of the significant rivers of the region, originates in the mountains of the Dzungarian Alatau. Its waters are fed by snow and springs, so the river remains full almost all year round, it plays an important role in the water supply of the region. The river also flows through the territory of the Almaty region, next to the river is the famous village of Lepsinsk (Lepsi) and the village of Cherkassk. The river stretches for tens of kilometers, cutting through picturesque foothills, steppes and fertile lands. The river banks are densely overgrown with shrubs, willows, poplars, and in some areas, there are pine groves. Small villages and agricultural lands can be seen along the stream, as the river's water is actively used for irrigation of fields. The length of the river is 417 kilometers, the Baskan River flows into the river, the river occupies the third place after the Ili River and the Karatal River and flows into Lake Balkhash.
How to get there and visit -
The Lepsy River is located near the village of Lepsi (Lepsinsk), Almaty region, Zhetysu region, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 45°40'43"N 80°19'47"E
Information -
Lepsy River is of considerable importance for the life of the region: it is a source of fresh water, helps to support agriculture and creates a special microclimate along its valley. The coastal areas are home to many birds – herons, ducks, seagulls, and fish are found in the water, which makes Leps attractive for fishing enthusiasts. In spring, the river banks are decorated with carpets of tulips and other wild flowers, and in summer, locals and tourists come here to relax and enjoy the coolness and silence. There are towns and villages along the river, such as Lepsy and Sarkand, whose life is closely connected with its water. Locals remember the times when the river was more full–flowing, and they speak with concern about its shallowing - due to climate change and the active use of water for irrigation, the lower reaches are shallowing, which threatens the ecosystem of Balkhash.
Historically, the Lepsy River served as a natural landmark and path for nomadic tribes crossing the Zhetysa. Today, its valley is a combination of natural beauty and rural lifestyle, where you can feel the harmony of man and nature. For travelers, the Lepsy River is of interest as a place for hiking, horseback riding and ethnographic routes, because along its course you can find both natural monuments and traces of the ancient history of this region. It's not easy to get to the most scenic areas, often requiring an off-road vehicle and a permit to visit the border area, but the views of the mountain valleys and the opportunity to see unspoilt nature are worth it.
The Lepsy River is not just a water stream, but the vital nerve of the region, where history, nature and modern challenges related to water and its preservation for future generations are intertwined.
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