Turgen Gorge: Nature's Hidden Gem in Kazakhstan

Explore Turgen Gorge in Kazakhstan: Waterfalls, ancient relics, and outdoor adventures await in this stunning natural sanctuary within Ile-Alatau National Park.

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Turgen Gorge

Turgen Gorge, located in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan, is a breathtaking destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Nestled within the Ile-Alatau National Park, the gorge is renowned for its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're a nature lover, a hiking enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene escape from city life, Turgen Gorge has something for everyone. One of the highlights of Turgen Gorge is its stunning waterfalls. The most famous among them is the Bear Waterfall, which plunges 30 meters into a pristine pool below. The sound of the rushing water and the sight of the surrounding greenery provide a perfect backdrop for a peaceful retreat. Additionally, the gorge is home to the Kairak Waterfall, a majestic 55-meter cascade that offers a more challenging hike for the adventurous traveler. Apart from its waterfalls, Turgen Gorge is also known for its ancient relics and historical significance. The region is dotted with ancient burial mounds, some dating back to the Bronze Age. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the area. For those interested in flora and fauna, the gorge is a paradise, boasting a variety of plant species and wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard. Outdoor activities are plentiful in Turgen Gorge. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, and even trout fishing in the crystal-clear streams. During the winter months, the gorge transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. With its diverse attractions and natural beauty, Turgen Gorge is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kazakhstan.

Local tips in Turgen Gorge

Visit in late spring or early autumn for the best weather and fewer crowds.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and waterfalls.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and wildlife of the area.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal by the waterfalls or along the scenic trails.
Check weather conditions before heading out, as the area can be prone to sudden changes.

File:Медвежий водопад Тургень.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Енбекшиказахский район, ущелье Киши-Тургень сверху (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Turgen (in Kazakhstan. Almaty).JPG - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Turgen Gorge?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ile-Alatau National Park

Experience the stunning beauty and adventure of Ile-Alatau National Park, a natural gem just outside Almaty, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Baiterek

Discover Baiterek, the iconic symbol of Astana, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Kazakhstan's rich culture and modern aspirations.

Altyn Emel National Park

Explore Altyn Emel National Park: A breathtaking fusion of unique landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage in the heart of Kazakhstan.

Almaty Television Tower

Experience breathtaking views and learn about Kazakhstan's broadcasting history at the iconic Almaty Television Tower.

Butakovskiy waterfall

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Butakovskiy Waterfall in Almaty – a hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Turgen

Experience the serene beauty of Turgen River in Kazakhstan, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Tamgaly-Tas

Discover the ancient petroglyphs and stunning landscapes of Tamgaly-Tas, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kazakhstan that reveals the rich history of its past.

Furmanov peak

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Furmanov Peak, a premier outdoor destination in Almaty offering stunning views and thrilling adventures.

Raiymbek Batyr monument

Explore the Raiymbek Batyr Monument, a stunning tribute to Kazakhstan's heroic past nestled in the vibrant city of Almaty.

Atameken Ethno-Memorial Map of Kazakhstan

Discover the essence of Kazakhstan at Atameken Ethno-Memorial Map, where history and culture come alive through stunning miniature replicas of iconic landmarks.

Tanbaly

Discover the ancient rock carvings and stunning landscapes of Tanbaly, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kazakhstan, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Monument of the Beatles

Discover the Monument of the Beatles in Almaty, a captivating tribute that celebrates the timeless legacy of this legendary band amidst stunning natural beauty.

Bear Waterfall

Explore the breathtaking Bear Waterfall in Almaty, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in a stunning outdoor adventure.

Құлықұлы Жалаңтөс (Соқыр) батырдың кесенесі

Explore the historical significance and cultural legacy of Batyr Zhalantau, a monumental tribute to Kazakhstan's brave past, nestled in Karaganda.

Turgay Plateau

Explore the Turgay Plateau, a stunning mountain peak in Kazakhstan, offering breathtaking views, rich culture, and serene nature for every traveler.

Unmissable attractions to see

Mountain Resort «Oi-Qaragai Lesnaya Skazka»

Discover the ultimate mountain escape at Oi-Qaragai Lesnaya Skazka Resort, where adventure meets relaxation in the heart of Kazakhstan.

Ak Bulak

Experience the thrill of skiing in the breathtaking landscapes of Ak Bulak, Kazakhstan's premier ski resort, perfect for all levels of winter sports enthusiasts.

Butakovsky Gorge

Explore Butakovsky Gorge in Almaty, a breathtaking hiking area offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and well-marked trails for every adventurer.

Tamgaly-Tas

Explore the ancient rock carvings of Tamgaly-Tas, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kazakhstan, where history and breathtaking landscapes unite.

Hot Spring

Discover the healing powers of nature at Almaty's Hot Spring, where relaxation meets stunning mountain landscapes in an unforgettable experience.

Gorge Monakhovo

Explore the stunning trails of Gorge Monakhovo, a hiker's paradise in Kazakhstan's picturesque Tian Shan mountains, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.

Kazachka Gorge

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kazachka Gorge, a premier hiking destination near Almaty, where nature and adventure await.

Gorge Kaskelen

Explore the stunning landscapes of Gorge Kaskelen, a top hiking destination near Turar, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty.

Waterfall of the Shukur Gorge

Explore the stunning Waterfall of the Shukur Gorge in Almaty, a breathtaking hiking destination surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant biodiversity.

Turgay Plateau

Explore the breathtaking Turgay Plateau in Kazakhstan, a mountain peak offering stunning views, rich biodiversity, and endless outdoor adventures.

Almaty Kazakhstan

Discover the enchanting city of Almaty, Kazakhstan, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking nature and rich cultural heritage.

Big Almaty Gorge National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Big Almaty Gorge National Park, a hiking paradise near Almaty, Kazakhstan, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Essential places to dine

Mountain Resort «Oi-Qaragai Lesnaya Skazka»

Experience thrilling skiing adventures and serene mountain escapes at Oi-Qaragai Lesnaya Skazka Mountain Resort in Kazakhstan.

Shymbulak Resort Hotel

Experience the ultimate blend of luxury and adventure at Shymbulak Resort Hotel in Almaty - your gateway to Kazakhstan's stunning natural beauty.

Navat

Experience authentic Kazakh cuisine at Navat in Almaty – where tradition meets flavor!

U Afanasicha

Experience authentic Kazakh cuisine at U Afanasicha in Almaty—where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

Vahtanguri Georgian Restaurant

Discover the vibrant flavors of Georgia at Vahtanguri Restaurant in Almaty - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Kishlak

Experience authentic Uzbek cuisine at Kishlak in Almaty – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Line Brew Almaty

Experience culinary excellence at Line Brew Almaty - a premier steakhouse blending exquisite flavors with elegant ambiance.

Turandot Сары Арка

Experience exquisite Chinese cuisine at Turandot Сары Арка in Astana, where elegance meets authentic flavors.

Darejani

Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Darejani in Almaty – where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and cultural heritage.

Alasha

Experience the rich tapestry of flavors at Alasha in Almaty—where Uzbek cuisine meets European elegance.

ABAY Restaurant

Experience authentic Kazakh cuisine at ABAY Restaurant in Almaty – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

BAO Noodles-Sushi Bar

Discover the culinary delights of Asia at BAO Noodles-Sushi Bar in Almaty - where flavor meets creativity in every dish.

Olivier Restaurant & Bar

Experience the finest European cuisine in Almaty at Olivier Restaurant & Bar - where culinary artistry meets sophisticated dining.

Turgen

Discover the tranquil beauty of Turgen River in Kazakhstan - a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Korean House Family Restaurant

Experience authentic Korean cuisine at the Korean House Family Restaurant in Almaty - perfect for families and food enthusiasts seeking delightful flavors.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Guinness Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Guinness Pub, where Irish culture meets Almaty's nightlife with great food, drinks, and entertainment.

Barmaglot Bar

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Barmaglot Bar in Almaty, a perfect blend of local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Shakespeare Pub

Experience the charm of The Shakespeare Pub in Almaty, where great drinks, delicious food, and a cozy atmosphere await.

Olivier Restaurant & Bar

Experience the best of European cuisine at Olivier Restaurant & Bar in Almaty, where culinary artistry meets a vibrant atmosphere.

Mongol Bar

Discover the vibrant Mongol Bar in Almaty, where contemporary nightlife meets local culture and flavors in an unforgettable experience.

Harat's Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors of Ireland at Harat's Pub, a local favorite in Almaty offering hearty meals and refreshing drinks.

Glen Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Glen Pub in Almaty, where local flavors meet a lively ambiance for an unforgettable night out.

The FRIENDS Bar & Terrace

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of The FRIENDS Bar & Terrace, a top gastropub in Almaty offering delicious food, live music, and a cozy ambiance.

Bla Bla Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Almaty at Bla Bla Bar, where great music and lively atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.

Zhest'

Discover the electric energy of Zhest' Night Club in Almaty, where music, dancing, and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.

Tuyskan Bar

Discover the energetic nightlife at Tuyskan Bar in Almaty, where local culture meets modern entertainment in a vibrant setting.

Line Brew Reserve

Discover the flavors of Kazakhstan at Line Brew Reserve - a culinary journey through traditional and modern cuisine in the heart of Almaty.

Spirit Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Almaty at Spirit Bar, where exquisite wines and cocktails await to enchant your senses.

BATU bar & terrace

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at BATU Bar & Terrace in Almaty, a top destination for nightlife enthusiasts.

Ginger Beer & Shots

Experience Almaty's vibrant nightlife at Ginger Beer & Shots, where unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you!

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Turgen Gorge

Discover Turgen Gorge with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Turgen Gorge

- HelloСәлем
  [Salem]
- GoodbyeҚош келдіңіз
  [Qoş keldiniz]
- YesИя
  [Iya]
- NoЖоқ
  [Joq]
- Please/You're welcomeРахмет
  [Rahmet]
- Thank youРахмет
  [Rahmet]
- Excuse me/SorryКешіріңіз
  [Keshiriniz]
- How are you?Қалайсыздар?
  [Qalaisyzdar?]
- Fine. And you?Жақсым. Сіздікі?
  [Jaqsım. Sizdiki?]
- Do you speak English?Сіз ағылшынша сөйлейсіз бе?
  [Siz ağılınşa söylesiz be?]
- I don't understandМен түсінбедім
  [Men tüsinbedim]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseМенюмен танису керек
  [Menyumın tanisu kerek]
- I don't eat meatМен говядина жемін
  [Men govyadina jemin]
- Cheers!Тамаша!
  [Tamaşa!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseТілеймін
  [Tileymin]
- Help!Ауырсын!
  [Awırsın!]
- Go away!Өтіп кет!
  [Ötip ket!]
- Call the Police!Полицияға қоңырау шал!
  [Politsiyağa qoñırau şal!]
- Call a doctor!Дәрігерге қоңырау шал!
  [Däriğerge qoñırau şal!]
- I'm lostМен ауырсын
  [Men awırsın]
- I'm illМен ауырсын
  [Men awırsın]
- I'd like to buy...Сатып алғым келе ме?
  [Satıp algım kele me?]
- I'm just lookingКөзге түсіріп көрейін
  [Közge tüsirip körein]
- How much is it?Қанша?
  [Qanşa?]
- That's too expensiveОл тым де арзан
  [Ol tım de arzan]
- Can you lower the price?Құнды төмендеуге болады ма?
  [Qundy tömendeuge bolady ma?]
- What time is it?Қанша уақыт?
  [Qanşa waqıt?]
- It's one o'clockБір уақыт
  [Bir waqıt]
- Half past (10)Ондық үш
  [Ondıq üş]
- MorningТаң
  [Tań]
- AfternoonКеш
  [Keş]
- EveningКеш
  [Keş]
- YesterdayКеше
  [Keşe]
- TodayБүгін
  [Bügin]
- TomorrowЕртең
  [Erteñ]
- 1бір
  [bir]
- 2екі
  [eki]
- 3үш
  [üş]
- 4төрт
  [tört]
- 5бес
  [bes]
- 6алты
  [altı]
- 7жеті
  [jeti]
- 8сегіз
  [segiz]
- 9тоғыз
  [toğız]
- 10он
  [on]
- Where's a/the...?... қайда?
  [... qayda?]
- What's the address?Мекен-жайға қалай қайтарады?
  [Meken-jayğa qalay qaytarady?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Меніңге (картада) көрсете аласыз бе?
  [Meniñge (kartada) körsete alasız be?]
- When's the next (bus)?Келесі (автобус) не уақытта?
  [Kelesi (avtobus) ne waqıtta?]
- A ticket (to ....)Билет (....ға)
  [Bilet (....ğa)]

History of Turgen Gorge

Turgen Gorge has been a significant area for various nomadic tribes for centuries. Evidence of early human habitation, including petroglyphs and burial mounds, suggests that the region was a thriving center for these communities. The nomadic tribes utilized the gorge’s rich natural resources for hunting and grazing their livestock.
During the height of the Silk Road, Turgen Gorge served as a critical passageway for traders and travelers. The gorge provided a natural corridor through the rugged terrain of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, facilitating trade between East and West. Caravans carrying silk, spices, and other goods would traverse this scenic route, enriching the cultural tapestry of the region.
In the 13th century, the Mongol invasions under Genghis Khan impacted Turgen Gorge. The strategic location of the gorge made it a site of military significance during the Mongol campaigns. Historical records indicate that the area saw numerous battles and skirmishes as the Mongols expanded their empire across Central Asia.
During the Soviet era, Turgen Gorge underwent significant changes. The Soviet government recognized the gorge's potential for tourism and natural resource extraction. Infrastructure such as roads and small settlements were developed to facilitate these activities. The gorge also became a popular destination for Soviet citizens seeking recreation and adventure in the natural landscape.
Turgen Gorge holds a special place in Kazakh culture. The region is steeped in folklore and traditional practices, many of which are still observed today. Festivals, music, and dance in the area often reflect the rich heritage and the harmonious relationship between the people and their natural surroundings. The gorge continues to be a symbol of Kazakh identity and resilience.

Turgen Gorge Essentials

Turgen Gorge is located in the Almaty Region of Kazakhstan, approximately 70 kilometers east of Almaty city. The nearest international airport is Almaty International Airport. From the airport, you can rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Turgen Gorge. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Sayakhat bus station or use a tour operator that offers guided trips to the gorge.
Once in Turgen Gorge, you can explore the area by foot, bicycle, or car. There are several hiking trails for those who enjoy trekking. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, local tour operators offer guided jeep tours. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or arranging transportation with your accommodation provider is advisable.
The official currency in Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Almaty, but it is advisable to carry cash when visiting rural areas like Turgen Gorge. ATMs are available in Almaty, so it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before your trip.
Turgen Gorge is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken: avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, keep an eye on your belongings, and stay vigilant. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to be cautious.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities and police stations in Almaty, which is relatively close to Turgen Gorge. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, carry a basic first-aid kit as pharmacies are sparse in the gorge area.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and wear comfortable hiking gear. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to elderly passengers if using public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like kazy (horse meat sausage) and kumis (fermented mare's milk). Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Turgen Gorge like a local, visit the local markets and interact with the vendors. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the Bear Waterfall and the Turgen Fish Farm, where you can catch your own trout. For a unique experience, try the local honey, which is a specialty of the region.

Turgen Gorge: Nature's Hidden Gem in Kazakhstan

Local tips in Turgen Gorge