Altai is a vast region with mountain peaks covered with never-falling snow and glaciers. The mountainous country is also rich in hundreds of thousands of karst caves. These are more than 200 thousand deep lakes and rivers with the purest water and frequent rapids. The pristine natural wealth of Altai constantly attracts tourists and climbers - lovers of outdoor activities. A story will be told about some beauties of Altai.
Lake Beloe
The rounded lake located in a mountain basin reaches a depth of seven meters. Its gently sloping shores abound with sandy beaches, while the steep ones descend to the water with pebble placers. In the center of the reservoir rises a granite island overgrown with tall bushes, where in the Elizabethan times the industrialist Demidov secretly minted coins.
The lake is rich in fish (roach, perch, ruff) and crayfish. The oldest picturesque mounds are located not far from it, and Mount Sinyukha is only 5 km away.
Mountain Sinyukha
Its height is over 1200 meters. The firs that cover it look blue from a distance, and on the rocky peak, where the wind often walks, nothing grows. Thanks to his destructive work, the mountain abounds with bowl-shaped granite recesses in which water accumulates, which is considered holy.
At the foot of the mountain there is a place of constant Orthodox pilgrimage - a worship cross, to which, after the Trinity, believers flock from surrounding places. Here, a lush pine forest grows on granite. Climbing the mountain, from where a view of the Kulundir steppe opens, is not difficult, a convenient path leads to the top.
Mount Charming
The rocky peak of the mountain resembles the head of a bird with an open beak. A quarter of a century ago, archaeologists discovered an ancient sanctuary on it, where sacrifices were made to the spirits of earth and water. At the very top of the rock there is a natural tower, which served the pagans at the same time to observe the surroundings and the heavenly bodies.
At the foot of Charming lies a clean lake with a brownish tint of rocky bottom. And dense forests grow on its slopes.
Mount Semicave (Seven brothers)
This is a 150-meter limestone cliff hanging over the Ini River. The mountain is interesting with seven caves. One of them - Struna - a tunnel 75 meters long, rising up to 40 meters.
The second - Gloomy - is equal in size to it, but almost gently sloping. In it, about 250 years ago, archaeologists found the remains of ancient people, suggesting that this was their burial place. In one of the small caves, bones of people and animals, tools dating back to the Stone Age were also found.
Mount Tserkovka
This mountain, similar to a cone, has risen almost 800 meters. For the convenience of vacationers, a lift runs to its top, and the walking distance is an hour and a half. From it you can admire the Belokurikha resort and the Biysk valley.
There are all the charms of a civilized holiday here - a cafe, a comfortable path, benches for rest.
At the top of the mountain there is a rock resembling a spire with a dome. There is a cross here. At the rock, baited birds constantly rest, which are not afraid to sit on the palm of your hand.
Mountains Big and Small Monastery
Snow-white rocks with caves, grottoes and arches are located in the valley of the Charysh River.
The hundred-meter mountain Big Monastery is replete with caves. The topmost one is the Bastion, the site of the Stone Age people. Ancient arrowheads were found in it.
The Small Monastery is slightly below it. It is crowned with stone gates, there are a dozen caves and a stone arch. The largest of the caves - Water - is located near the waters of Charysh. It has a tiny lake with healing water.
The legend tells about the love of the daughter of the mountain king and the son of the king of the waters, who were separated by their parents. The young man was turned into a river, and the girl, hidden in a cave, drowned in a lake of tears. The lake washed underground passage, connecting with the river. This place is popular with lovers.
Denisova Cave
The famous cave is located on the Anui River. It is believed that she is 800 thousand years old. Nature took care of creating a natural refuge for the Neanderthals who lived here 300 thousand years ago. Water flows, in addition to a vast cavity, washed out three more entrances in the stone. The larger one, located at the top, became a source of light and a chimney.
The name of the cave is associated with the monk Dionysius who lived in it more than two centuries ago. She has another name - bear mountain or stone. According to legend, a stone is buried in its thickness, into which an evil shaman has turned, thanks to the intercession of a good sorcerer. This cave has long served as a shelter for settlers heading east. Now it is one of the objects of the excursion route.
House Museum of V.M. Shukshina
The former house of the writer's mother, which was bought with his first significant fee, is located in the village of Srostki. In addition to it, the museum also includes the former school - the Shukshin Literary Museum and the house where he spent his childhood and youth.
The exposition exhibits books with his autographs, works of famous contemporaries, whose life somehow came into contact with his life. There are also portraits of all Shukshin's relatives, theater posters from performances based on his works and with his participation. The territory of the museum occupies more than a hectare.
Cascade of waterfalls on the Shinok River
The name of the Shinok River (a tributary of the Anui), which falls from an almost two-kilometer height and flows through a rocky cedar gorge, means "impregnable." There are more than a dozen waterfalls along its length. Their height ranges from three to 72 meters. The largest waterfall Giraffe or Sedoy is also the leader among the Altai waterfalls. No less stormy Double jump, three times less than the leader in height.
Each of the waterfalls ends with a corresponding bath and continues with a rocky gorge of the river stream following it. The mouth of the river is gentle and calm. Its composition differs little from mineral water. And the three largest waterfalls are recognized as natural monuments.
Kolyvan lake
A large body of water, located near Zmeinogorsk, is famous for its picturesque rocks. They resemble fairy-tale castles, magnificent columns, heroes of myths and human faces. This natural phenomenon, which is no longer found in Altai, is the result of undulating oscillations of the waters of the ancient sea.
How clean the water in Lake Kolyvanovsky can be judged by the fact that the rarest chilim nut grows in it, preserved from the pre-glacial era. The lake is replete with picturesque corners of uncivilized recreation, where difficult paths lead.
Lake Mokhovoe
The two-meter-deep lake is framed by bizarre granite rocks mixed with bright greenery of pine needles and birch foliage. And there are many water lilies in its water.
In the middle of summer, you can swim in this picturesque lake. True, only for those who are not afraid of the leeches that live in it in abundance. Here expanse for fishing, muddy lake backwaters have chosen carp.
Lake Yarovoe
Bitter-salty water (rather brine) of this closed reservoir is fed by underground springs. Its shores are almost treeless. Lake mud is healing, and in combination with the warm and dry climate of the region, this circumstance has made this reservoir a popular health resort.
Everything is provided for recreation on the lake: two extensive beaches with organized meals, a variety of entertainment and sports attractions. In summer it is crowded and especially picturesque.
Monument to V.M. Shukshin on Mount Piket
An eight-meter monument near the village of Srostki, where the Shukshin readings have been held for forty years. Every year, those who are close to the work of the national writer come here from all over the country.
From the top of a three hundred meter mountain, an overview of the Katun and those places that are immortalized by Shukshin's writer and film director opens up. The monument to Shukshin was donated to his homeland by the author - People's Artist Klykov. And he insisted that the sculpture should not be installed on the Chuisky tract, but on the writer's favorite resting place - Mount Piket.
Cave foot and mouth disease
The exploration of the cave with a heart-shaped grotto and various stalactites dates back to the second half of the last century. Narrow passages lead from the grotto to the mountain depths.
Scientists suggest that a giant lizard once lived in this area at a height of 500 meters. His frozen remains have grown into the cave stones.
Caves Paddock and Bats
The driven cave, made up of limestone coral fossils, is known for the remains of animals that lived during the Paleolithic period (rhinos, bears, tigers) were found in it. The inhabitants of the cave hunted them, and at the entrance they roasted them on fires, having previously butchered them with stone tools.
And in the Cave of the Bats, located a little higher than the Paddock Cave, there is a rare species of Egyptian hymenoptera - the pointed-eared bat. This is the only place where heat-loving animals have climbed so far to the north, hiding in the winter cold in the depths of the cave. There was also a Paleolithic site here.
Terrible Caves and Hyena Lair
The finds of the Terrible Cave date back to different times - from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages. There are stone, clay, metal objects of these eras.
The hyena's lair is a small cave with a flat inner platform. This is a vast repository of bones of wild animals from the Ice Age. They clearly show the imprints of the teeth of large predators. The speaking name of this karst reservoir is connected with this.
Altai cave
This is one of the largest caves in the region, more than two hundred meters deep with more than four kilometers of intricate passages. You can get into it only through the funnel hole near the ravine stream, which, hiding in a small lake, then reappears inside the cave.
Traveling through the cave labyrinths lasts more than one day. They are especially beautiful because of the huge stalactites and stalagmites, underground lakes and fabulously decorated vaults of tunnels and halls.
Rock Four brothers
At the time of the appearance of the Belokurikha resort (almost two centuries ago), a natural composition of rock turrets in the form of four ten meter likenesses of people became known, which was nicknamed the “Four Brothers”. A path has been laid to it, where, without being afraid of a person, squirrels and chipmunks can jump.
This harmony of man and nature is completed by rare birds living near the path. "Brothers" overgrown with legends. One of them says that these are really brothers who sacrificed themselves to save their only sister from a forest monster.
Ikonnikov Island
At the confluence of the Katun and Biya, there is a small island, formerly called the Great. During the Neolithic period, it served as a hiding place for hunters. Then ancient idols and icons were worshiped here.
On the island of Ikonnikov there is also a natural observation platform and about a dozen miniature lakes, where there are a lot of fish and waterfowl. Rare medicinal and ornamental herbs and shrubs grow here.
Royal barrow
Two meters high man-made burial of ancient tribal leaders has more than two thousand years of history. This is the first find in Altai of such a large-scale grave mound, the construction of which was supervised by priests.
It is believed that astronomical observations were also made from this site. The monolithic building was once defiled by barbarian conquerors.
Our planet is full of wonders, every person who loves to travel dreams of going to the Grand Canyon in North America or looking at Mount Everest, but how much have you heard about the beauty that is not far from you. In Russia there are many beautiful places that nature itself has created. One of the heavenly places on the territory of our country is the Altai Territory, a famous and popular place among tourists. The Altai Territory is part of the Siberian District, the nature here is distinguished by its unique and indescribable beauty. Green fields, mountains, lakes, if you like such landscapes, then you will not regret if you come to see the beauty of the Altai Territory. And among the beauty of the local area, there are the most famous places for recreation and walks. You can learn about these unique places in Altai below, and you will definitely want to visit this region even more.
Each location has its own magical side, although everything here breathes with nature itself, it seems that there is some kind of magical atmosphere here. So for those who love not only mountains and fields, it will always be interesting to learn the stories and legends that these places keep. In addition, there are many important archaeological sites here, so there are working museums with unusual exhibits everywhere. Everyone will find a vacation to their liking in the Altai Territory, there are many different entertainments for tourists, both for adult guests and for children, in addition, the type of recreation is different, excursions and walks, or outdoor activities, fishing, etc., it’s up to you .
Top 10 Things to Do in Altai Krai
Belokurikha is a whole tourist town. It has a rather interesting landscape and beautiful landscapes, as it is located right at the foot of Mount Tserkovka. The resort town became known only in the century before last, the town grew in popularity due to the discovered thermal waters on the territory, which attracted a large number of new guests who want to spend a wellness vacation. Indeed, such a nature has a beneficial effect on the body, since the air is very clean, this fact was confirmed by the discovery that there are fewer harmful substances in the local air, and it is comparable to the mountain air of Swiss resorts, in addition, now there is also healing mineral water. These factors have long attracted people here to relax in the warm seasons, but recently the resort has also acquired the status of a ski resort, so Belokurih is now waiting for you at any time of the year.
Location for forest lovers. In the Altai Territory you will find about five similar forests of different widths, the trees are majestic and tall as they should be., stretch into the distance, and you can walk along the trail. The largest ribbon is called the Barnaul Forest, it runs along the Ob River. This large forest belt stretches for 400 km, so you can enjoy the beauty for a very long time. Tourists come here often, as it is impossible to see enough of such a miracle. Trees have grown so close and dense to each other for a natural reason, it is believed that they formed into such ribbons since the Ice Age.
Near the resort town of Belokurikha there are plenty of beauties, one of the most popular places to visit is Mount Tserkovka. It is also a natural attraction, the mountain was formed in such a way that its top looks like church domes, as they thought, and even a cross was installed on top, which vividly conveys its name. By the way, the walk along the mountain itself will be quite interesting, as the trails will show you the local beauty of nature with all amenities, as there will be places to rest and eat along the way. For outdoor enthusiasts, you can walk through the forests and take the cable car.
The mysterious place Denisova Cave is a natural monument of this region. The cave is of great cultural importance, as it is the source of many important archaeological finds. In the last century, researchers actively began to work here, and their work was not in vain, many hunting devices, remains of animals and plants have already been discovered. Presumably, people lived in this cave several hundred thousand years ago. Their remains were also found, but the species that was found is unknown; in honor of the region, it was called the Altai (Denisov) man.
Between the steppe and mountainous Altai you will find the oasis of the region, Lake Aya. Tourists very often come here, especially in the hot season, the water is clean, there is greenery and silence around. The lake itself has the shape of a crescent, which, by the way, is reflected in the name of the lake: “Aya” in Turkic means the moon. Due to its location, the lake is well protected from the wind, the water warms up well in summer and it is very pleasant to swim in it. Therefore, there are already many hotels and places for recreation around, you can even stay here and enjoy your vacation.
At first glance, you may not even understand that this is a lake, it looks like a whole sea, it is so wide, the area of \u200b\u200bthe lake is 53 square kilometers. You will find it in the Kulunda steppe. In addition to being a wonderful place for swimming, the water in the lake is considered healing, so it’s definitely worth a dip. It is also impossible not to say that it is really very beautiful here, on clear days the sky is reflected in the water and everything looks like in a fairy tale. Despite the fact that there are a lot of people here in the summer, there are many sanatoriums and beaches around, you can walk here calmly and enjoy the surroundings.
Altai is generally famous for its abundance of caves, which is not surprising because mountainous terrain prevails here. But not all caves have an interesting look or history, Tavdinsky caves really deserve attention against the background of others. These caves stretch for 5 km, all caves have different shapes and depths. The largest cave is open to tourists and has everything you need so that even an unprepared tourist can see all the beauty of this world inside the cave. Inside you can even see a gnome. In the very center of the Big Tavdinsky cave there is a ledge that looks like a gnome, a tradition has been established that he should leave a coin as the keeper of these places.
Do not be afraid of such a formidable name, the mountain near Lake Aya has a very interesting view, it rises 250 meters up, the peak looks like a finger, for which it is nicknamed. Because of its appearance, many legends have been formed around the mountain, even now they rank it with magical powers to heal women's diseases. Even if you are not interested in such mysticism, it is worth visiting the mountain and seeing the wonderful view that opens from the top.
Beloe Lake can be seen in the Kuryinsky district of the Altai Territory, where it is located in the basin of the Kolyvan ridge at an altitude of about 530 meters above sea level. The maximum depth of the lake is about 8 meters. The lake enters the basin of the Loktevka River, which is one of the tributaries of the Charysh River. Not far from the lake is Mount Sinyukha, which is the highest point of the Kolyvan Range. Also close to the lake is the village of 8 March.
The lake is home to many fish, making it a desirable destination for fishermen. Ruffs, perches, minnows mainly live here, roach, pike, tench are found, crayfish come across. The shores of the lake are covered with various shrubs: willow, honeysuckle, viburnum, wild rose. In the center of the lake there is an island of granite cliffs. According to legend, in the 18th century, the secret workshops of the famous businessman Akinfiy Demidov were located on this island, who minted coins from gold and silver in them.
The lake with a rocky bottom and warm clear water is suitable for swimming. Tourists from all over Russia seek to relax in these picturesque places with a mild climate. For the convenience of vacationers on the shore of the lake there is a base "Rock", which operates all year round. Lake Beloe is recognized as a natural monument of national importance.
Coordinates: 51.81477000,80.35831900
Blue Lake
The unusually picturesque Blue Lake is located in the Altai Republic. Blue Lake is located on the slope of another natural reservoir - Lake Kucherlinskoye. The lakes are connected by a stream. Lake Goluboe is relatively small, its length is slightly more than a kilometer, and its width is only 270 meters. The origin of the lake is associated with the melting of the glacier many centuries ago. The beautiful clear blue surface of the lake, in which the sky is reflected, apparently played a role in the name of the reservoir. Above sea level, the lake is located at an altitude of 2300 meters.
Around the lake are gorgeous landscapes, you can just walk and admire this beauty. Everywhere there are alpine meadows with herbs and fragrant flowers. They rise to the lake, possibly to a watering hole, beautiful snow leopards. And Siberian mountain goats can also drop in.
Coordinates: 49.85798800,86.45408000
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Seminsky pass
The Seminsky pass is the highest point of the Chuysky tract, the height of which reaches 1894 meters. The pass is a symbolic border between the Northern and Central Altai, covering an area of about 20 square kilometers.
You can climb the pass by overcoming 9 kilometers of walking, and descend - 11 kilometers. At the top of the pass, a stele is exalted, erected in 1956 in honor of the 200th anniversary of the entry of the Altai people into Russia. From the top you can also enjoy views of the Sarlyk and Tiyakhty mountains.
The flora of the pass is represented by dwarf birch, dwarf pine, white geranium, kandyk, Altai anemone, sticky catchment area, cold gentian, alpine burnet, cuckoo flax, floor moss and other plants. In the area of the pass there are places for collecting pine nuts.
Animals of particular interest to hunters live on the pass: bears, lynxes, squirrels, capercaillie, etc. Many birds living here are listed in the Red Book.
Coordinates: 51.04571100,85.60375200
The lake with the beautiful name Mirror is located in the Shipunovsky district of the Altai Territory. It is located surrounded by the unique Barnaul Ribbon Forest. The area of the lake is 18.54 square kilometers, the maximum depth is about 8 meters. A distinctive feature of the lake is crystal clear water. It has a lot of fish, mainly crucians and carps.
About 20 percent of the coastal aquatic plants of the lake are reeds and reeds. Perennial aquatic plants such as pondweeds can also be seen on the surface of the lake. The fauna of the lake is represented by molluscs of rare species, bell mosquitoes, floating bugs, amphipods. The lake is characterized by a large number of diverse zooplankton and phytoplankton. Fishing lovers have the opportunity to please themselves with paid fishing on this lake.
Mirror Lake is a natural monument of Altai. Fresh air with the aromas of pine forest, the purest lake water and magnificent landscapes attract many tourists here.
Coordinates: 52.52524400,81.86704800
Katunsky Reserve
The Katunsky reserve is considered one of the youngest in the taiga. It was opened in 1991, but research was carried out much earlier, at the beginning of the 20th century. Flora and fauna were studied for a long time by the scientist P.P. Sushkin. A characteristic feature of the Katunsky reserve is that it is located at a decent distance from the settlements of the republic. The nearest villages are located 100 kilometers away.
The reserve is famous for its huge number of alpine lakes. There are over 130 reservoirs on the territory, which are teeming with exotic fish and overflowing with various types of algae. In addition to them, the Altai Reserve is famous for its rare species of birds and animals. You will not find snow leopard, deer, black vulture, sable, peregrine falcon and many others anywhere else.
No less beautiful than the lakes in the Altai Territory are glaciers and snowfields. There are many of them in the area. Glaciations occupy most of the protected area.
Coordinates: 49.63333300,86.10000000
Kulunda lake
Kulunda Lake is located on the Kulunda Plain, in the Altai Territory, at an altitude of 98 meters above sea level. It is considered the largest lake in the Altai Territory, its diameter is about 35 meters. The average depth of this slightly saline lake is 2.5 - 3 meters, the maximum is about 5 meters. The rivers Suetka and Kulunda flow into the lake.
In summer, in shallow water, the lake warms up to 26 degrees Celsius. The water of the lake is rich in various salts that are beneficial to health. The bottom of the lake is sandy, but there are areas with therapeutic silt mud formed by crustaceans of the Artemia salina species.
The lake is included in two nature reserves: Suetsky and Blagoveshchensky. Various animals and birds are found on the lake itself and in its environs, including rare, endangered species listed in the Red Book of the Altai Territory and in the Red Book of Russia: a large jerboa, a steppe kestrel, a saker falcon, and so on. During seasonal flights, many waterfowl rest and nest on the lake.
Lake Kulundinskoye is a good place to relax. Here you can admire the steppe landscapes, sandy beaches, shallow water and warm water with healing properties create all the conditions for a pleasant and healthy bathing. The lake will please the fishermen, as it is inhabited by pikes and perches. In the vicinity of the lake there is the village of Znamenka, as well as sanatoriums and hotels.
Coordinates: 52.96966200,79.49874600
bitter lake
Lake Gorkoye is located in the Yegoryevsky district of the Altai Territory. The lake with an area of 4180 hectares is famous for its unique silty mud and healing alkaline waters. Since 1918, there has been a sanatorium "Lebyazhye" on the shore of the lake, specializing in the use of water and healing mud from the lake for medicinal purposes. It is connected by a narrow isthmus to the neighboring lake Gorkoe-Peresheechnoe.
The lake is surrounded by a unique ribbon pine forest. The shores of the lake are covered with clean fine sand, the water warms up well in summer, which creates excellent conditions for swimming. Fans of quiet outdoor recreation can place a tent in a pine forest. These places are distinguished by a large number of various mushrooms and berries. The combination of a mild climate, the cleanest healthy air and healing lake water create optimal conditions for a wonderful rest and recovery. The lake is a natural monument of a regional scale.
Coordinates: 51.68496200,80.76454000
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Kamyshlinsky waterfall
The Kamyshlinsky waterfall is based on the left tributary of the Katun River - on the Kamyshla River. Since 1996, the waterfall has been awarded the status of a natural monument of the Altai Republic. This is the most popular place among tourists, which is located in the lower reaches of the Katun.
The waterfall consists of two cascades with a total height of 12 meters. A trail leads to the waterfall from a pedestrian suspension bridge across the Katun - from the Tsarskaya Okhota tourist complex, one and a half kilometers downstream. The waterfall is not high, but it looks very impressive when the water falls and beautifully breaks at the foot of the cliff with splashes of all colors of the rainbow. In winter, the waterfall is covered with a crust of ice. The surroundings of the waterfall consist of limestones, quartzites, crystalline schists, porphyrites.
In 1940, collective farmers from a nearby village built a water mill on the Kamyshla River, which was turned into a sawmill during the war. Now you can see logs with metal shackles - the shafts of the mill blackened from time.
Coordinates: 51.67425800,85.74142500
The most popular attractions in Altai with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose the best places to visit the famous places of Altai on our website.
Altai is translated from Mongolian as "golden" and is a real paradise for travelers. Its biosphere reserves and parks are included in the UNESCO heritage, and the abundance of natural attractions and magnificent landscapes attract tourists from all over the world. Even the most beautiful photos do not convey the charm of these places.
The region is also famous for “places of power”, in which shamans perform their rituals. These sacred objects have a mystical effect on a person, causing a surge of emotions, a change in the perception of the world, revealing creative and even extrasensory abilities.
Mount Belukha (Uch-Sumer)
Uch-Sumer or the Three-Headed Sacred Mountain - the highest point of the Altai Mountains, crowning the Katunsky Range, reaches a height of 4509 meters. It is always covered with snow and is home to many glaciers from which mountain rivers originate. The tectonic instability of the massif is manifested by weak earthquakes, which often cause collapses and avalanches.
For lovers of the mysterious, the mountain is one of the most powerful sacred places - equidistant from the world's oceans, it personifies the energy center of the planet. Vibrational waves of the Beluga whale contribute to the spiritual and physical purification of a person, relieve diseases.
Pass Karatyurek
Translated from Altai, it means "black heart", since closer to its top the vegetation ends and the ascent takes place on black stones. From the mountain pass, Belukha Mountain, the Katun Range, the Akkem River Valley are clearly visible.
The height of the pass is 3060 meters, the ascent is accessible even to people without mountain hiking experience, but who have endurance and are able to tune in to many hours (up to 2 days) overcoming scree obstacles.
When climbing, the rises are replaced by plateaus, from which truly magical views of the surroundings open up.
Tavdinsky (Taldinsky) caves
One of the most interesting speleological places in the Altai Mountains is the Tavdinsky caves, so named because of the village of Tavda, which was once located nearby. The caves, of which there are more than 30, are located in sheer cliffs and cliffs, some of them are interconnected by passages. Due to the tourist popularity of this place, many caves are equipped with lighting and wooden steps in front of the entrance.
The most visited is the Big Tavdinsky cave or Maiden's Tears, with a spacious main gallery and a drop from the lower entrance to the upper one of 23 meters.
Near the caves there is a unique Tavdinsky karst arch (or Arch of desires) - the rest of the arch of the tunnel with a through hole width of up to 13, and a height of up to 5 meters.
Plateau (plateau) Ukok
It is located in the extreme south of Altai, at the junction of Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and China. The plateau is located at an altitude of 2-2.5 thousand meters and is framed by mountains, the highest of which - Kuiten Uul - reaches 4374 meters.
Mongolian and Chinese Buddhists, as well as pagan Altaians, consider this place sacred. Locals call the pastures of Ukok "the end of everything" - the threshold of the firmament.
During archaeological excavations, many burials of various periods were found here, the most incredible of which is considered the Altai Princess - the mummy of a young woman, presumably of an aristocratic family.
Valley of the Seven Lakes
This picturesque place is located in the Ust-Koksinsky district of Gorny Altai, not far from Lake Akkem.
Climbing to the valley to a height of 2.5 thousand meters takes up to 1 week and consists of three steps, when you climb them you can see rocky landscapes, mountain meadows with lush vegetation, noisy waterfalls and a calm expanse of lakes.
The color and temperature of the water in the lakes are different - in the warm Black Lake you can wet your feet and even swim, the turquoise-azure lakes are very deep and cold, they are fed by a stream from the glacier, and the shores of Lake Brides are decorated with white fluffy flowers.
Yarlu Valley (Edelweiss Valley)
It is located at an altitude of about 2 thousand meters, not far from Belukha Mountain, and is also called the Edelweiss Valley - these delicate flowers grow in abundance here.
The place is surrounded by rocks, which tourists have dubbed Blue - they whimsically shimmer with shades of blue, blue, gray, purple, pink. The ridge in the upper part of the Yarlu resembles the profile of a woman, for which he received the name Mother of the World.
In the center of the valley is the smooth Stone of Wisdom, locals claim that it is constantly growing, protruding several centimeters from the ground every year. Lying on a stone, you can recharge its energy and find solutions to important issues. The Yarlu Valley is a sacred place and is an object of pilgrimage for mediums and esotericists.
Akkem lake
Translated from Altai, Ak-kem means "white water" - due to the suspension of hard rocks, its waters have acquired a muddy gray-white color. The lake is 1350 meters long and 610 meters wide. It lies at the foot of the northern slope of Belukha Mountain and is saturated with melt waters of the Akkem glacier, so it remains cold even in summer.
There are no fish in the lake, and the locals call its waters dead. In addition to the breathtaking mountain views from this place and several beautiful natural sites nearby, Lake Akkem attracts tourists with its energy - it is believed that it has a positive effect on human health.
Big Kucherlinskoye Lake
It is located at an altitude of 1790 meters above sea level and is one of the largest reservoirs of glacial origin with a length of about 5 kilometers and a width of up to 900 meters.
From the Altai the name of the lake is translated as "saline". Its calm waters have a milky turquoise color and are in perfect harmony with the steep rocky cliffs covered with cedar and deciduous forest and supporting the lake on both sides.
Local residents endow this reservoir with mystical power and believe that the water in it is “alive”, and the spirit of the owner of Lake Kol-Eezi lives in it, frightening people with a bull's roar.
teletskoye lake
It is located in the northeast of the Altai Mountains, in the Turochaksky and Ulagansky regions of the Altai Republic. The lake is located at an altitude of 434 meters above sea level, its length is 77.8 kilometers, its width is up to 5.2 kilometers, and its maximum depth is 325 meters. It is the second largest storage of fresh water in Russia, which is characterized by extraordinary purity and transparency.
Local peoples call this reservoir Altyn-Kol, that is, "golden lake". From all sides it is surrounded by ridges, from the steep cliffs of which numerous waterfalls fall down, the shores open up with picturesque grottoes, sandy and pebble beaches.
Shavlinsky lakes
This group of alpine lakes in the Kosh-Agachsky district of the Altai Republic is located in the course of the Shavla River in the area of the North Chuya Range and is considered one of the most beautiful places in the Altai Mountains.
From the middle of the Lower Shavlinsky Lake, a breathtaking view of three snow-capped mountain peaks opens - Beauty, Fairy Tale and Dream. In windless clear weather, these peaks are completely reflected in the bright turquoise water of the Middle Lake, on the shore of which the Stone City is located - a place where statues of spirits that rule the world, as well as houses and altars for them, made of stone. Past this city, the path rises and leads to the Upper Lake.
Katun River
Translated from Altai, it means “woman”, “mistress”, and is the main waterway of the Altai Mountains. Katun originates from the Gebler glacier on the southern slope of Belukha Mountain, and after 688 kilometers it merges with the Biya River, forming the Ob, one of the largest rivers in Siberia.
All types of Altai landscapes are represented within the river - sheer cliffs, gorges, hills, waterfalls, rapids, diverse vegetation and wildlife. On the banks of the Katun there are settlements, camp sites, health resorts. The river and its tributaries are suitable for rafting. The powerful energy of this mountain river makes it a place of power that can help people achieve their goals.
Patmos Island
Located on the Katun River, on the outskirts of the village of Chemal. The locals call it Macarius Island - in honor of Saints Macarius Glukharev, the discoverer of the Chemal missionary camp, and Macarius Nevsky, who lived in the camp for 15 years.
Here is the Church of St. John the Theologian (currently a convent), known for its miracles - on one of the icons of the Mother of God, which was going to be restored, the colors appeared on their own, another icon streams myrrh and knows how to hear people's desires, helping them to be fulfilled.
This small stone island is surrounded by the blue waters of the river and can only be reached by a suspension bridge that can accommodate no more than 6 people at a time. The place is a center of tourism, local newlyweds come here for a wedding.
Kamyshlinsky waterfall
It is located in the Shebalinsky district of the Republic of Altai, on the Kamyshla River, not far from the place where it flows into the Katun. Falling from a height of 12 meters, the water hits the rocks and crumbles into many splashes, shimmering with all the colors of the rainbow.
The easy accessibility, beauty and legends of this two-cascade waterfall make it a popular sightseeing attraction. Since 1996 it has the status of a natural monument.
The flood of 2014 destroyed the suspension bridge over the Katun River, and now you can get to the waterfall by crossing the Katun by ferry or motor boat, or by walking along the mountain path to the Kamyshla River.
Big Chulchinsky waterfall (Uchar)
It is a cascading waterfall on the Chulcha River in the Ulagansky district of the Altai Republic. Locals call it Uchar - "flying" or "impregnable", it is very difficult to get to it.
The water falls not from a steep, but from a steep ledge and is about 160 meters, making the waterfall the largest in the region.
Uchar is a fairly young natural object, formed 150-200 years ago as a result of an earthquake and rock collapse. The usually calm Chulcha River in this place overcomes huge obstacles, its waters begin to boil and foam, and the roar of the waterfall is heard far around.
Kurai steppe
It is a large, 20 kilometers wide, intermountain basin in the southeast of the Altai Republic. It is located in the valley of the Chuya River at an altitude of 1500-1600 meters above sea level, between the Kuraisky and Severo-Chuysky ridges.
In addition to picturesque mountain landscapes, this place attracts with a large number of archaeological sites - numerous mounds, stone statues with runic inscriptions and drawings, ancient irrigation systems.
Looking at the Kurai steppe from a great height, you can see a giant ripple of the current - relief signs up to 20 meters high, formed during floods of glacier-dammed lakes about 15 thousand years ago.
Tract Kalbak-Tash (ancient petroglyphs)
It is located on the right bank of the Chuya River, on the 723rd kilometer of the Chuya tract, between the villages of Iodro and Inya. Kalbak-Tash is translated from Altai as “a flat hanging stone” – the rock hangs right over the road. The complex includes about 5 thousand rock paintings from different eras, the oldest of which belong to the late Neolithic (the end of the 5th-4th millennium BC).
The plates are engraved with images of animals, people, hunting scenes, as well as 30 lines of unique runic inscriptions. It is believed that this place was sacred to the peoples living here at different times. Some signs-petroglyphs testify that it was used as a temple and as an observatory.
Denisova cave
It is located in the Soloneshensky district of the Altai Territory, at an altitude of 28 meters from the Anui River and 670 meters above sea level. Locals call it Ayu-Tash - "bear stone". This horizontal type cave has a wide entrance, a length of 110 meters and an area of 240 square meters. Due to its large size and proximity to water, for many millennia it has been a reliable shelter for people and animals.
The cave has a great archaeological value - the remains of plants, animals and people of different eras, tools, weapons, utensils and decorations were found here. Thanks to these findings, for the first time, it was possible to establish the exact sequence of the change of ancient cultures, as well as to define the "Denisovsky man" - a separate species that differs from Neanderthals and modern people.
Church of the Holy Great Martyr Catherine
This Orthodox church, consecrated in 2009, is located in the village of Srostki, Biysk region, and is considered the most beautiful in Siberia. It was erected on the site of the Church of the Life-Giving Trinity, destroyed in the 60s of the last century.
As conceived by the architect, the new building should outwardly repeat the forms of the old church, although not wood, but brick was chosen as the material. In 1929, the writer, screenwriter, film director and actor Vasily Makarovich Shukshin was baptized at this place, and the opening of the Church of St. Catherine the Great Martyr was timed to coincide with his anniversary.
The main sights of Gorny Altai are represented by rare natural objects. We will try to give a short overview of attractive places to visit.
Museums and man-made objects
House-Museum of Roerich. Located in the village of Upper Uimon. The main exposition is devoted to the work of the famous artist, scientist and thinker. In addition, you can watch themed films, visit the exhibition pavilion and bookstore. Temporary exhibitions are held here periodically.
Monument to V. Shukshin. A bronze 8-meter monument stands in the historical homeland of the famous actor. In a simple pose of a person who sits down to rest and think, he seems to be on the top of a mountain. The monument opens up gradually and is very interesting. A popular location for taking photos and videos.
Monument "Altai - the heart of Eurasia". One of the most characteristic objects of Gorno-Altaisk is located on the Chuisky tract. The World Tree, the Polar Star, the symbolic image of the yurt - the dome and the hearth - all this carries the universal world symbolism. The object is located in a place that has long been considered the center of the World. It also contains messages to posterity in several languages.
Tourists are attracted not by the station itself, but by the water amusement park, which is organized here in the summer. In addition, you can visit unusual springs with "living" and "dead" water. If you didn’t have time to buy souvenirs, there are a large number of them here, from popular pine nuts and natural honey to exclusive coinage, which will be made right in front of you.
Botanical Garden. The attraction of Kamlak literally represents the pages of the "Red Book" - there are so many rare and unique plants here.
Republican Museum of Local Lore. It is located in Gorno-Altaisk and is the oldest museum in the region. Even in its form, it organically fits into the surrounding space, resembling one of the ancient burial mounds. The museum has collected several tens of thousands of exhibits, including one of the main historical values of these places - the mummy of the "Altai Princess". The museum has a souvenir shop. You can have lunch at a local cafe.
Reserve "Katunsky". The place near the village of Ust-Koksa strikes with the beauty of wild nature. It is located in the highest mountainous region of Altai and includes the main attraction - Mount Belukha, the highest point in all of Siberia. Here you can find interesting programs for yourself in the ethnomuseum, ecological camp. Interesting for both children and adults.
It is famous not only for its unique beauty and special atmosphere. People come to miraculous icons with their requests. Far from faith, tourists simply enjoy the opportunity to walk along the old suspension bridge and admire the scenery. It is worth visiting the church of St. John the Theologian.
Natural uniques
Lake Aya. It is the oldest reservoir in its origin. You can swim here in the middle of summer, as the water temperature reaches 25 degrees. It is interesting to visit the natural park on the coast. It is worth visiting a tour of the valley of the Katun River and taking pictures at the "Devil's Finger" mountain.
Korbu Waterfall. It belongs to the largest waterfalls of Lake Teletskoye. Very popular due to the special effect of water drops falling from a great height. They create, as it were, "wind out of the water." No less attractive are the surrounding steep cliffs covered with a mysterious forest. Nearby there are animals listed in the Red Book.
A special place on the Anui River has become a place of pilgrimage not only for archaeologists from all over the world. Since the end of the 20th century, tens of thousands of historically valuable objects have been discovered here - evidence of an ancient civilization. The place is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chike-Taman Pass. It will delight those who prefer interesting ascents and rare natural beauties. The height difference creates amazing landscapes. Sheer cliffs alternate with valleys. There is an excellent viewing area. And nearby grows an ancient shaman tree - larch. On its branches, visitors tie pieces of white cloth for good luck.
teletskoye lake. One of the cleanest and deepest reservoirs in Russia. Studies of its waters and surroundings are still ongoing. Teletskoye Lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges. There is a large nature reserve on its shore. There are many tourist centers nearby. A wide variety of tours and itineraries are available. You can even fish.
A twelve-meter two-cascade natural object will make you feel like the heroes of an action adventure. After all, you will have to go to it along the real suspension bridge in the thicket. You can even swim in the streams of the waterfall. And on the way, the guide will tell you an interesting legend about the name and origin of the Altai natural unique.
Kur-Kechu. The ancient tract has become a bright attraction of the town of Kupchegeni. Two rivers merge here - Katun and Bolshoy Ilgumen. The mystical place draws you in for hours. You can wander for a long time among the old ruins, burial mounds, remnants of religious buildings and rock paintings.
Source Kara-Kebek. It is interesting not only for its healing water with a high content of iron and silicon. Here you can observe unusual animals and birds that live in the wild. The colorful butterflies and the Red Book plants of the surroundings are delightful. Access to the key in the vicinity of Ongudai is absolutely free.
Tugaya and Komsomolskaya mountains. If you prefer active rest, you are here. Popular climbing trails have varying degrees of difficulty. There are fantastic views along the way. Rare species of flora grow here. And the mountains themselves have hundreds of millions of years in their origin.
What else to see in Altai
love stone. Check in at the legendary stone on the banks of the river. Biya - everyone who visits these places considers it due. The history of the village of Turochak tells about 2 lovers, bewitched because they admired each other, and not the beauty - the river. The place is also popular with honeymooners and everyone who only dreams of finding their love.
The place is worth a visit for all history buffs. The ancient rock paintings found here are very well preserved and are available for inspection. Petroglyphs will turn your idea of history and make you think about the many secrets of the universe.
Mineral spring in the village of Manzherok. Known for its medicinal properties. Its waters contain a large amount of silver. Water can be drawn directly from the key. It is especially recommended for those suffering from diseases of the stomach and kidneys.
Build your unique route through the many sights of Altai!
