Natural Attractions of Kolsay National Park -
Ecological Tourism on Lake Kolsay -
Kolsay Gorge is one of the most picturesque places in the Zailiyskiy Alatau Mountains, striking in its untouched nature, majestic landscapes and unique ecosystem. The nature of the gorge amazes with its diversity. Here are dense coniferous forests, alpine meadows and steep slopes decorated with rocky ledges. In spring and summer, the gorge blossoms with a riot of colors, covered with a carpet of wild flowers. In autumn, the local landscapes acquire incredible golden-crimson hues. The gorge is famous for the fact that all three Kolsay lakes are located in it: "Kolsay Lower No. 1", "Kolsay Middle No. 2" and "Kolsay Upper No. 3". There is a one-day mountain route along the gorge along these lakes, which can be walked or ridden on horseback. This area is part of the Kolsay Lakes National Park and is very popular among residents and guests of Almaty and foreign travelers. In addition to the Kolsay gorge, there is another equally picturesque and frequently visited Kaindy gorge nearby, which contains the famous Kaindy Lake, which is famous for its sunken forest and Tien Shan firs sticking out of the water. The Kaindy River flows into and out of the lake.
How to get there and visit -
Kolsay Gorge is located 300 kilometers from Almaty, Saty settlement area, Kegen district, Almaty region, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 42°59'36"N 78°19'45"E
Information -
Kolsay Gorge is a real pearl of the Tien Shan, lost among mountain ranges and coniferous forests at an altitude of 1800 to 3200 meters above sea level. This place is often called "Kazakhstan Switzerland" for its stunning landscapes and nature: three crystal clear lakes connected by a mountain river, surrounded by centuries-old firs and rocks of bizarre shapes. The climate here is sharply continental - in the summer the daytime temperature rises to +20 ... +25 ° C, but at night it can drop to +5 ° C, and in winter frosts reach -25 ° C, turning the lakes into icy mirrors. The fauna of the gorge is rich and diverse. Here you can meet mountain goats, marals, marmots and many rare birds, including golden eagles. Foxes, badgers and even lynxes live in the forests. For lovers of nature observation and photographers, this place is of great interest. In addition to natural beauty, the Kolsay gorge offers various opportunities for active recreation. Tourists can go hiking and horseback riding, enjoy relaxing on the shores of the lakes or set up a campsite in one of the picturesque meadows. For those who prefer a more comfortable stay, there are guest houses in the vicinity, and in the village of Saty there are recreation centers and guest houses offering cozy living conditions.
Kolsay Gorge is a place where you can feel harmony with nature, enjoy the silence of the mountains and escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Regardless of the season, it leaves vivid impressions and gives the opportunity to see the beauty of the Kazakh mountains in all its pristine beauty.
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