Tamgaly tas

Location: Along the Kapchagay highway, you need to pass Konaev city, turn left at the first junction onto the A355 highway, and after 12.5 kilometers, move northwest towards the Ili River.

What’s interesting about it?

The Tamgaly-Tas tract (translated from Kazakh as “stones with signs”) can be proudly called an open-air museum. Thousands of different images were left on the rocks by people who had lived in these places since the Bronze Age. There are runic writings, animal-style petroglyphs, images of Buddha, and drawings of a sun-faced deity of unknown origin, which scientists are still arguing about.

What to see?

This nature reserve is unique and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The area of Tamgaly tas is 3.8 thousand hectares, so the consistent study of rock inscriptions can provide entertainment for a long time.

Of course, it is better to study petroglyphs with an experienced guide who will explain in detail the theories of their origin and the facts about the research. The total length of the route is about five kilometers.

When is the best time to visit?

Tamgaly Tas is best visited in the spring or autumn to avoid sweltering heat or extreme cold.