The Republic of Altai is a wonderful and amazing region, where majestic mountains adjacent to beautiful lakes. In the caves here you can find traces of ancient civilizations, and see mysterious drawings on the rocks. Due to the huge number of attractions, as well as the inaccessibility of many places, it is necessary to get acquainted with the Altai Republic in advance and draw up a clear plan of action.

General information about the Republic of Altai

Republic of Altai - subject Russian Federation. Unofficial name - Gorny Altai. It is part of the Siberian Federal District. It occupies an area of ​​92 thousand km 2, the population is 218 thousand people. The capital is the city of Gorno-Altaisk.

Story

Modern archaeological excavations have shown that the first settlements on the territory of the Altai Republic appeared more than 100 thousand years ago. Further history of these lands:

In IV-III centuries BC. e. in the Altai lands, the first state of Dinling-go arose. In the II century BC. e. it was destroyed by the Xiongnu (ancient nomadic people). Since that time, the Kyrgyz tribe has settled on the territory of Altai.

In the 4th-6th centuries, Gorny Altai was part of the Zhuzhan Khaganate (an early Mongol state).

Since the 7th century, the Turkuts (the ancestors of the Altaians) have been the rulers of the Altai lands.

In the 12th century, Gorny Altai became part of the Great Mongol Empire, which lasted until the 14th century.

In the XIV-XVII centuries, the Altai lands were part of the Dzungar Khanate.

Since 1756, the Altaians have been subjects Russian Empire. IN early XIX century, the first Russian settlers settled in Gorny Altai. The village of Ulalo was founded, which over the course of several decades became a major trading center.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Soviet power came to Gorny Altai, and the Oirat Autonomous Region was formed.

After the collapse of the USSR, the Republic of Altai was formed as part of the Russian Federation.

How to get there

The Republic of Altai can be reached in the following ways:

by plane. Direct flights from Moscow to Gorno-Altaisk are carried out by S7 airlines Emirates Airlines. From St. Petersburg can be reached with transfers in Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Moscow;

by train. From Moscow, this type of transport can be reached to Biysk, then by bus or fixed-route taxi - to Gorno-Altaisk. From St. Petersburg, the train will take you to Novosibirsk, after which you need to transfer to a bus to Gorno-Altaisk;

by car, but this is a way for extreme people. To get from Moscow to the Republic of Altai, you need to overcome more than 3800 km and pass through Chuvashia, Tatarstan, Chelyabinsk region, Tyumen region, Omsk region, Altai region. The distance between St. Petersburg and the Republic of Altai is 4380 km, the route: Leningrad Region-Perm Territory-Tyumen Region-Omsk Region-Novosibirsk Region-Altai Territory-Altai Republic.

Sights of the Republic of Altai

The sights of the Altai Republic are fascinating and varied. Here extreme people conquer Mountain peaks, lovers of picturesque landscapes tend to see beautiful lakes, connoisseurs of history visit educational museums.

natural attractions

Most of the natural attractions of the Altai Republic are part of the Altai and Katunsky reserves, which, together with the Ukok plateau, formed an object world heritage UNESCO named "Golden Mountains of Altai". The protected area has an area of ​​more than 16 thousand km2.

Aktru Glaciers

The Aktru glaciers are one of the most famous natural attractions of the Altai Republic. They are located in the gorge of the same name, at an altitude of more than 2 thousand meters. A feature of the local relief is numerous depressions, which contributed to the accumulation of snow and the formation of glaciers. total area Aktru valley is 16 km 2.

Aktru glaciers cover the vast territory of the Altai Republic, including mountain ranges

The mountain glacial basin includes 5 glaciers:

Big Aktru. It occupies an area of ​​10 km 2. There are rocks, waterfalls and lakes on the glacier.

Small Aktru. The lower part of the glacier is strongly inclined, due to which icefalls are formed. At the very foot of the Small Aktru there is a cave, in the central part of which a stream flows. The blueness of the cave vaults is reflected in the water, which creates a stunning spectacle.

Dome Glacier. It got its name from its domed shape. It is located between the Aktru and Dzhelo rivers. From the highest point of the glacier, a stunning panorama of the surrounding expanses opens up.

Kyzyl-Tysh, whose peaks are loved by beginners and experienced climbers.

Waterfall Aktru. It has a pronounced tongue, from under which a stream flows and forms a stunning waterfall. The surface of the glacier is flat, so it is great for snowboarding.

Glacier pool decoration - Blue Lake, location on the Bolshoi Aktru glacier. The lake got its name from the sky-colored water. IN summer time Numerous tourists come here to admire the beauty of the natural reservoir.

On the territory of the Big Aktru there is a Blue Lake, popular among tourists.

There is an alpine camp in the Aktru valley, which has been operating since the 40s of the last century and was previously used to train climbers. Today the camp is a tourist base, where there is accommodation for every taste: from stationary tents to two-story cottages. The base is open all year round.

It is easier to get to the camp site by car along the following route:

Drive along the Chuisky tract to the village of Kurai.

The next point is the village of Kyzyl-Tash.

Then move 8 km along the Kurai steppe to the ford across the Tyute River.

Near the ford begins the only road that goes straight to the camp site.

Sacred Mount Belukha

This is the most high mountain Republic of Altai, located in the east of the Katunsky ridge. The absolute height of the mountain is 4409 meters. It has three peaks: East Belukha, Delaunay Peak and West Belukha. The peaks are always covered with snow, which is why the mountain got its name.

Belukha - the highest mountain of the Altai Republic

Altaians consider this mountain sacred. According to an ancient legend, Belukha is the home of the goddess Umai, who symbolizes the feminine. Belukha has other names, the most unusual of them is "Uch-Orion". The peaks of the sacred mountain are placed relative to each other in the same way as the three central stars of the constellation Orion. Perhaps Belukha is really closely connected with space, and the snow-white mountain peak is the personification of spirituality and purity. Many travelers note that the presence of mysticism is felt on the mountain.

Three peaks of Mount Belukha - accurate projections of the central stars of the constellation Orion

The slopes of Belukha are covered with numerous glaciers, thanks to which the rivers Katun, Kucherla, Akkem were formed. These rivers are fast-flowing and often create waterfalls of extraordinary beauty. So, the right tributary of the Katun formed a beautiful waterfall Rassypnaya.

The right tributary of the Katun River created a beautiful waterfall Rassypnaya

Siberian firs, firs, birches and mountain ash grow on the mountain. Of the shrubs, honeysuckle and cranberries predominate. From animals live shrews, voles, mountain goats. The order of birds is represented by white partridges, alpine jackdaws, and choughs. And also there are rare species of birds listed in the Red Book: lentils and golden eagles.

Lentil lives on Belukha - a bird listed in the Red Book

Many strive to “conquer” Belukha and climb to the top, but this is not easy to do. It is cold here all year round and strong wind blows. The surface of the mountain is covered with thin ice, which makes it difficult to climb. The most dangerous section is the Akkem wall, located in the northern part of Belukha. Near the mountain there is a camp site "Belukha", as well as a search and rescue service of the Russian Emergencies Ministry. The route from the village of Tungur to the foot of the mountain is popular among tourists. It is located close to state border Russia and Kazakhstan. If you are a citizen of Russia, then be sure to have a passport available to travel along the tourist route. Citizens of other states must additionally provide permission from the border guards, which is issued at the FSB department of Gorno-Altaisk. To climb the peaks of Belukha, all categories of citizens must have permission.

It is easier to get to the village of Tungur from Gorno-Altaisk by car along the route: Aya-Kumalyr-Yustik-Multa-Tungur. You can also take a bus that departs from the Gorno-Altaisk bus station.

This is the largest lake in the Altai Republic, as well as one of the deepest on the planet. It was named Teletskoye IV century ago by Russian pioneers, because at that time a tribe of Teleses lived on the shores of the lake. Locals call the reservoir Altyn-Kel, which means "golden lake". Northern part the lake has long been mastered by tourists, the southern one is located far from the settlements and is difficult to access, you can get here by boat or boat. On the southern shore of Lake Teletskoye there are campsites and campsites. These places are popular among fishermen, as well as lovers of beautiful nature. In the lake, the water is cold and not suitable for swimming, but this is compensated by clean air and beautiful scenery.

Teletskoye Lake - the largest in the Altai Republic

From the capital of the Republic of Altai, Teletskoye Lake can be reached by car along the route: Choya-Artybash-Teletskoye Lake.

The beautiful Beluga whale has been admiring her reflection in the mirror waters of the Akkem lakes for many millennia. These lakes have an amazing ability to change color depending on the viewing angle: they can be pale blue, dark blue, light gray, and matte milky. The fabulous beauty of the local landscapes attracts tourists like a magnet.

Akkem lakes change their color depending on the viewing angle

In ancient times, glaciers were located on the site of the lakes, which gradually changed their location and “took” huge boulders with them. As a result, hollows formed on the surface of the earth, in which lakes were located. One of them is Lower Akkemskoye, the valley of which has the shape of a trough. The depth of the lake varies from 9 to 16 meters. On the shore of a natural reservoir there is a weather station - one of the oldest in Altai. For 80 years, the weather station has been monitoring local natural objects. Not far from the Lower is the Upper Akkem Lake, which becomes “full” during the spring flood. In the rest of the period, the lake, rather, can be called a river - water arrives in the basin and runs further.

Akkem lakes are located 40 km from the village of Tungur.

The magnificent valley of the Seven Lakes

The valley is heart-shaped and includes beautiful lakes, bustling waterfalls, flowering meadows and majestic mountains wrapped in white shawls of snow. The path to the valley is difficult and consists of overcoming three levels:

The first ascent starts at the Upper Akkemskoe Lake. A winding path, winding between bushes and trees, will lead you to a valley, along the perimeter of which a cedar forest grows. From here a stunning view of the Belukha and Ak-Oyuk mountain ranges opens. The second mountain is a kind of landmark that will tell you the further direction.

After the path comes to a picturesque stream. Here begins the next level of ascent. Overcoming the second tier, you will see thickets of snow-white dwarf birches. "Guiding Star" - the same mountain Ak-Oyuk. At the top of the "second floor" are three lakes, the beauty of which will make you stay here for a long time.

To see the rest of the lakes, move further up the road. There are 4 reservoirs here, each of which has a certain color. The first lake is black, so it is made by dark stones at the bottom. In summer, the lake warms up well and is suitable for swimming. The second is blue and resembles the sky. This is the deepest and coldest body of water. The third, thanks to the sandy bottom, is golden. In summer, its shores are decorated with yellow flowers, similar to dandelions. Fourth - turquoise. A mountain stream flows into the lake, so the water in it is always cool.

In the valley of the Seven Lakes you can see reservoirs with black and turquoise water

Big Chulchinsky waterfall

This is the most big waterfall Republic of Altai. It is located on the Chulcha River, which is why it will receive such a name. However, the Altaians call this natural monument Uchar, which translates as "impregnable." Indeed, getting to the waterfall is not easy:

First you need to get to the northern shore of Lake Teletskoye. The nearest settlement is the village of Artybash.

Then, on a motor ship or boat, cross the reservoir in a southerly direction.

Then drive to the Chulcha River and cross to the opposite bank.

Then go a few hours on foot to the waterfall along a mountain path. This path is "extreme" and requires maximum caution.

Uchar waterfall - the largest in the Altai Republic

Going to the Big Chulchinsky waterfall, be sure to take safety ropes with you, and also use the services of a guide.

Mysterious Katun terraces

This is real architectural masterpiece created by nature. Terraces are located in the valley of the main river of Altai - Katun. The largest of them are 200 meters high. Travelers are speechless when they see these sandy shores having an unnatural rounded shape. Studying natural monument has been going on for a long time, but there is still no scientific explanation for how the terraces appeared.

But the native Altaians know the reason for the origin, who willingly tell curious tourists ancient legend. Once all the rivers were imprisoned in the Altai Mountains and could not get out of there. Day and night, their mournful cry was heard. In those days, a hero lived in Altai, who decided to free the rivers: he ran his hand along the mountain slopes and thereby created deep cracks in them, through which joyful streams ran. After the strong man pulled his bow and sent it to the very big mountain huge arrow. The mountain split in half, releasing the main river. The fragments of the mountain have created flat terraces.

Katunskiye terraces - unnaturally flat shores of the lake, created by nature

The Katun terraces are located near the villages of Inya and Maly Yaloman. You can get there by car from Gorno-Altaisk along the route: Kamlak-Shchebalino-Kurota-Khabarovka-Inya.

Sacred Plateau Ukok and Altai Princess

The Ukok Plateau is located in the southern part of the Altai Republic. The average height of the mountain ranges in this place reaches 500 meters. The most high point plateaus - the top of Mount Kuiten-Uul. Water resources of the plateau: the Ak-Alakha, Kara-Alakha, Kaldzhin, Kara-Bulak, Dzhumala rivers, as well as 800 lakes.

The Ukok Plateau is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Golden Mountains of Altai"

Monuments of nature on the Ukok plateau:

In the 90s of the last century, archaeologists made a sensational “find”: a mummy of a young woman was found in the Ak-Alakha tract. Currently, the mummy is known as the Altai Princess, but in fact the woman was not of such noble origin. The Altaians call the mummy "Ak-Kadyn", which means "honest, kind" and consider it the guardian of the "lower" world, which does not allow the penetration of the forces of evil from the underworld. Now the woman's body is stored in the National Museum of Gorno-Altaisk. Part of the population of the Republic of Altai believes that the body of Ak-Kadyn must be returned to the burial place, because it is after the removal of the mummy from the burial chamber that natural disasters hit Gorny Altai one after another.
Mound Al-Alakha - the burial place of the "Altai Princess"

mountain range Tabyn-Bogdo-Ola - sacred place for Buddhists. Translated from the Mongolian language, the name of the attraction means "Five divine mountains." According to ancient legend, the name of the mountain was given by the legendary Genghis Khan.. The highest point is Mount Kuiten-Uul, which has a height of 4300 meters. The mountain is located at the junction borders of three powers: China, Russia and Mongolia.

Tabyn-Bogdo-Ola mountain range - a sacred place for Buddhists

The source of the Warm Key, located on the banks of the Dzhumala River. The thermal waters of the spring contain radon and have healing properties. The water temperature is 20 degrees Celsius all year round, which attracts many tourists here. Altaians believe that the spring heals not only the human body, but also the soul. Perhaps this is indeed true.
The waters of the Teply Klyuch spring have healing properties.

You can get from Gorno-Altaisk to the Ukok plateau by car along the route: Onguday - Kosh-Agach - Jazator. You can also get to the village of Ongudai by bus, which starts from the Gorno-Altaisk bus station. Next, a fixed-route taxi will take you to Jazator.

This amazing landscape park is located on the left bank of the Katun River. It was founded by enthusiasts in the 90s of the last century. The fauna of the garden - rare plants of Altai, Siberia, North America and other parts of the world. Particular attention is paid to the study and cultivation of "native" plants. Samples are often brought to the garden from the far corners of the republic and planted in the park. In the greenhouses you will see ziziphora fragrant, rock spurge, Rhodiola rosea. Every year this beautiful place visited by more than 2 thousand tourists.

In the Gorno-Altai Botanical Garden you can admire rare plants from different parts of the world

The Botanical Garden is located on the 503rd kilometer of the Chuisky tract, 77 km from Gorno-Altaisk. Address: c. Kamlak, Shebalinsky district. You can get from the Gorno-Altaisk bus station by regular bus. Opening hours: March-August - from 9.00 to 20.00 seven days a week. Entrance fee: adults - 200 rubles, children - 100 rubles, students - 150 rubles.

Ancient traces of history

In the Republic of Altai there are historical monuments that must be seen.

Mounds - burial places of tribal leaders, built in the III-V centuries BC. e. Found during archaeological excavations in the 30s of the last century. Under a thick layer of stones were burial chambers, each with an area of ​​about 50 m2. Sarcophagi with embalmed bodies of men and women were found in the chambers. An interesting fact is that the bodies of men were decorated with numerous tattoos. Luxury items were located near the sarcophagi: Chinese silk clothes, ancient jewelry, Iranian carpets, ancient saddles, a chariot. Today, all valuable finds are kept in the Hermitage, as well as in the Biysk Museum of Local Lore.

Pazyryk burial mounds - ancient burial places of tribal leaders

You can get there by car along the route: Gorno-Altaisk - Inya - Balyktuyul - Pyzyryk burial mounds. Viewing is free.

Mysterious Altai Stonehenge

Between the Saylyugem and Yuzhno-Chuysky ridges is the most mysterious sight of the Altai Republic - huge stone pillars on which ancient petroglyphs are carved. A similar landmark is located in England and is listed as a World Heritage Site.

Altai Stonehenge - oblong boulders set in the place of the ancient burial place of the bodies of shamans

The Altai Stonehenge includes oblong boulders 6–7 meters high, one of which has the shape of a throne. Altaians believe that if you sit on a boulder and relax, then a person will certainly be cleansed at the energy level. There are several versions of the origin of this historical monument, however, most scientists are inclined to believe that the bodies of shamans were buried in this place. This assumption is based on the following facts:

The boulders are located strictly in a circle.

There is a "throne" for the shaman.

In ancient times, during the burial of shamans, stones were brought from remote places, and the boulders of the Altai Stonehenge just have an alien origin.

The attraction is located 20 km from the village of Kosh-Agach. You can get to the village by regular bus from Gorno-Altaisk.

Translated into Russian, the name of the attraction means "rock with an inscription." Indeed, on this rock there are ancient Mongolian and Chinese inscriptions, as well as drawings. Some images are from the Bronze Age, others from the Middle Ages. Near the rock are the ruins of an ancient fortress. The legend tells that in ancient times, the Mongol troops led by Sonak more than once raided the Altai lands. The cruelty of the Mongols knew no bounds: Altaian men were exterminated, women and children fell into slavery and were taken to Mongolia. But one day the Altaians prepared to meet the enemy: they built a stone fortification near the Bichiktu-Kaya rock. The fortress held out for the whole summer, but Sonak bypassed the Altaians from the rear and took the fortification.

Ancient Mongolian and Chinese inscriptions, as well as mysterious drawings are visible on the Bichiktu-Kaya rock.

Scientists find it difficult to answer the question of when and by whom the fortress was built. However, the skillful arrangement of parts of the fortress suggests that the builders were well versed in the art of war.

The attraction is located near the 710th km of the Chuisky tract. Getting there is easier by car. Viewing is free.

Museums of the Republic of Altai

Museums of the Altai Republic will introduce you to the traditions, history and culture of these lands.

A. V. Anokhin National Museum

National Museum was created in the 20s of the last century by the composer and local historian Andrei Viktorovich Anokhin. Today, the museum fund includes more than 66 thousand copies, which are represented by archaeological finds, ethnographic objects, paleontological exhibits, old books, art objects. The pride of the museum is a collection of paintings by famous artists, including V. P. Chukuev, I. I. Ortonulov. The scientific library operates on the basis of the museum.

National Museum of A. V. Anokhin - the largest in the Altai Republic

Location: Gorno-Altaisk, st. Grigory Choros-Gurkina, 46. Schedule: Wednesday-Saturday - from 10.00 to 18.00, Sunday - from 10.00 to 17.00.

tenhandle

This is a museum complex that tells about Russian culture. On the basis of the museum, there are expositions dedicated to various areas of decorative and applied art: pottery, the manufacture of ritual dolls, wet felting. Here you can not only see the products of artisans, but also take training master classes. And also on the territory of "Desyatiruchka" folk holidays, traditional Russian rituals are held.

In the museum "Desyatiruchka" you can see works of arts and crafts

The museum is located in the village of Cheposh. When traveling by car, first go to the regional center Semal, then move along the Chemal highway.

Nicholas Konstantinovich Roerich is not only a famous artist and writer, but also a researcher. In the 1920s, he organized an expedition to Asian regions, including Gorny Altai. One of the stopping points was the village of Upper Uimon, where the members of the expedition stayed for about two weeks. After visiting these places, Roerich painted many amazing paintings.

The museum is located in the former estate of the merchant Atamanov. Exhibits - paintings by N. K. Roerich, photographic materials telling about the artist's expedition.

Exhibits of the exhibition - paintings by N. K. Roerich

The village of Verkh-Uimon also deserves the attention of tourists. Old Believers have been living here since the end of the 18th century, so in the village you can see unique old wooden houses that were built according to the lunar calendar.

Museum coordinates: Verkh-Uimon village, st. Embankment, 22. Opening hours: from 9.00 to 19.00 seven days a week. Entrance fee: adults - 100 rubles, children - 50 rubles. If you travel by car, you can get to the village of Verkh-Uimon from the capital Gorny Altai on the route: Mayma-Dubrovka-Souzga-Manzherok-Barangol-Kamlak-Baragash-Kyrlyk-Oktyabrskoe-Verkh-Uimon. Also, many tourist routes pass through the village.

What to see if you come with a child

In the Republic of Altai there are places where little tourists will like:

City park of culture and recreation of Gorno-Altaisk. Various attractions, a cinema, cafeterias work here. The park has a large playground. There is a bike and electric scooter rental shop. Address: Gorno-Altaisk, st. Socialist, 24.
The City Park of Culture and Leisure of Gorno-Altaisk is equipped with a playground

Bison Reserve, where at present there are 47 individuals of these rare animals. The reserve includes three picturesque parks with meadows, springs and streams. Coordinates: Chuisky tract, 169 km, Cherga. The distance from Gorno-Altaisk is 80 km.
In the reserve, children will see beautiful bison

Water park, located at the recreation center Tursib. The entertainment complex is equipped with water slides and attractions. Address: Chemalsky district, with. Turbaza Katun. Working hours: from 10.00 to 21.00, day off - Monday.
The water park of the Tursib recreation center is equipped with water slides

How to plan a trip

You should come to the Republic of Altai for a week or more. After all, the main value of these places - amazing nature, and you need to not only see it, but also “feel it”. You can plan your vacation in the following ways:

Stop at the mountain shelter "Ak-Kem", which is located in the middle of the forest, on the banks of the Akkem River. The infrastructure of the recreation center includes a two-storey spacious cottage, a campsite with tents, a sauna, a volleyball court. On the territory of the estate you can stay with your own tents. Excursions to the Valley of the Seven Lakes, to the Akkem lakes, to Mount Belukha start from here. Coordinates of the camp site: Ust-Kokinsky district, tourist zone "Katunskie squirrels", Ak-Kem gorge.
Mountain shelter "Ak-Kem" is located in the middle of a green forest

Go to the Ukok plateau in the area of ​​​​Teply Klyuch, not far from which there are cozy houses where you can stay for a few days. Thus, you can combine relaxation, recreation and sightseeing of the Ukok plateau.
Near the Warm Key there are simple wooden houses where you can stay for a rest.

Choose one of the recreation centers on Lake Teletskoye for a stop. The Zhemchuzhina estate is popular among tourists and is open all year round. Here you will be offered accommodation in a cozy cottage with all amenities. On the territory of the estate there is a bathhouse, swimming pools, gazebos. Location: Turochaksky district, tourist area- Priteletskiy.
The estate "Zhemchuzhina" is located on the shore of Lake Teletskoye

Go to the Manzherok resort, where there is the longest chairlift in Siberia, numerous hotels and recreation centers. Popular park-hotel "Manzherok", located in a beautiful pine forest on the banks of the Katun. The hotel is equipped with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a sauna, a swimming pool. Here you will always be offered interesting excursion tours. Hotel location: 470 km of the Chuisky tract, Maiminsky district, Manzherok village.

Resort Manzherok is equipped with the longest chairlift in Siberia

To make your vacation mobile, it is easier to move around the Altai Republic by car, which can be rented in Gorno-Altaisk. You can also use the services fixed-route taxis that run to all tourist destinations. Bus service in the republic is not very well developed.

When is the best time to visit the Altai Republic?

It is better to make a sightseeing tour of the Altai Republic in summer, when the average air temperature is 20 degrees. The end of spring and the beginning of autumn is also a pleasant time for excursions: the air temperature is quite comfortable and there are no strong winds. Winters here are severe, on the plains frosts can reach 40 degrees. Therefore, vacation winter time it is better to spend in the mountains, where it is much warmer. For example, you can visit the Artybash ski resort on Lake Teletskoye. The resort is equipped with a chair lift, ski slopes. You can also go snowmobiling and tubing here.

Artybash - popular ski resort Republic of Altai

Address ski complex: Turochaksky district, with. Artybash, st. Kedrovaya, 1.

Your vacation may coincide with interesting holidays that are celebrated in the Altai Republic:

Dylgayak - carnival. On this day, folk festivals are held in all settlements of the Altai Republic, fairs are organized, pagan effigies are burned on ritual bonfires. Dyylgayak is celebrated in mid-late March, the dates change every year.
Dyylgayak is a national holiday of the Altaians, during which ritual bonfires are burned

National holiday El Oiyn, which is celebrated every two years. The holiday is nomadic and each time it is held in a new place. In 2018, El Oiyn will be held in the Mezhelik Valley from June 29 to July 1. The purpose of the event is to preserve the customs and traditions of the Altai people. The holiday includes: sports events - archery, horse racing; theatrical performances; performances of dance and folk groups; fairs and exhibitions.
Horse races are held during the El Oiyn holiday

By following these simple tips, you will avoid many troubles during your vacation:

Before the trip, print out and take with you the emergency numbers of the Republic of Altai.

If you are going to explore hard-to-reach sights, register the route with the Ministry of Emergency Situations. In case of emergency, search activities will be organized and you will be rescued.

Ticks are active on the Altai lands from May to September. In order not to pick up this misfortune, take precautions while walking in nature: do not walk on tall grass, wear long-sleeved pants and shirts, use special ointments from ticks.

tourist map

tourist map will help to see the main sights of the Altai Republic

Altai is a vast region with mountain peaks covered with never-falling snow and glaciers. The mountainous country is rich and hundreds of thousands karst caves. This is more than 200 thousand deep lakes and rivers with the purest water and frequent rapids. Primordial natural resources Altai is constantly attracting tourists and climbers - amateurs active rest. 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 sandy beaches, and 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.

Mount 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 - 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 on it ancient sanctuary 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 former school belongs to the museum - literary museum Shukshin 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 remind fairytale 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 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.

The sights of the region are very diverse. They include both natural objects and historical and cultural ones. The Altai Territory hides a lot of riches. The sights of the region can be described for a very long time. We will introduce the reader to the main ones.

Waterfalls of the Shinok River

The Shinok River is not among the largest rivers in Russia. This is just a tributary of the Anui, which, in turn, flows into the Ob. Nevertheless, Shinok is one of the most popular tourist sites in the Altai Territory. The fact is that on this river there are beautiful waterfalls. Over 120 meters is total length seven waterfalls. The height of the Giraffe, the largest of them (also called Big Shinok) is 70 m. Small waterfalls reach a height of 10-15 m.

The Shinok River attracts tourists not only with its picturesque view, but also with its rich fauna. Very rare species of birds and animals are represented on the territory of the reserve - two-colored kozhan, musk deer, wild maral, peregrine falcon.

There are several camping areas on the banks of this river. This place attracts tourists, in addition to waterfalls, by the fact that it is located not far from where more than 20 cultural layers belonging to different eras were found by archaeologists. It was found, in particular, that the Neanderthal site was located here about 280 thousand years ago.

Taldinsky or Tavdinsky caves

The Altai Territory is amazing in its beauty. The sights of the region, created by nature itself, attract many tourists here. Taldin caves are one of the most interesting places to visit. They are a group of more than 30 water-washed caves. For 5 km on the border of the Altai Territory and the Republic of Altai, the rocks in which this complex is located are stretched. The most popular of the caves is Bolshaya Tavdinskaya. More than 20 m is a height difference in it. For tourists there are several routes of varying difficulty. Another monument of nature karst arch, is located near the Tavdinsky caves. It reaches 5 m in height and 13 in width.

archaeological finds

These caves are a natural monument of local significance, with which the Altai Territory is so rich. The sights of the region attract not only tourists, but also archaeologists. Archaeological expeditions carried out here showed that there were sites of ancient people at this place. For example, fishing tackle and ceramic fragments were found. Legends about a treasure hidden in the local caves, which belonged to Admiral A. Kolchak, are much less reliable. A lot of people who wanted to find it appeared in the second half of the 20th century, but nothing is known about the result of their attempts so far.

Reserve "Swan"

The natural attractions of the Altai Territory are unique and diverse. Let's talk about one more of them. In September 1973, the Lebediny reserve was formed in the Altai Territory. Seven years earlier, a flock of swans flew to the lake, located near the village of Urozhaynoe, for the winter. This happened for the first time since the beginning of the 20th century. Soon it was decided to create a reserve, which includes the lake, as well as the territory adjacent to it. Under the protection of the state is 38 thousand hectares, which housed such sights of the Altai Territory as a section of the Katun River, several lakes, about 70 islands, as well as Zmeinaya and Talitskaya hills. In 1999, after the appointed experimental period, the status of "reserve" was finally approved. In addition to swans, other birds live here: goldeneye, mallard, black grouse, as well as the big merganser, which is included in the regional Red Book. The fauna is also represented by deer, roe deer, otters, minks, red foxes. An observation deck was built on the lake for bird watching. It is located 10 meters above the water. This distance allows you not to frighten the swans and provides an opportunity for tourists to watch them in natural conditions.

Belokurikha

Belokurikha is a balneological resort of federal importance. This one located in is located at an altitude of about 240-250 m above sea level. It is located at the foot of Mount Tserkovka. As early as the beginning of the 20th century, the healing properties of local mineral springs began to be used for the first time. Today, tour operators often mention Belokurikha when they describe the sights of the Altai Territory to their clients.

Here, in the 1920s, an outpatient clinic, an office building, a solarium, and a dining room were built. The first visitors could improve their health in the baths of the hydropathic, as well as swim in the local thermal springs. The Altai air itself is useful, because it has the same concentration of light air ions - one of the most important healing components - as in famous resorts Europe.

In Belokurikha during the Great Patriotic War was evacuated a well-known children's. On the territory of this resort today there are numerous recreation centers, dispensaries, sanatoriums. Alpine skiing is actively developing in the city. Today, 3 slopes of varying difficulty are equipped for descents. Belokurikha also hosts meetings of environmentalists and nature defenders, as well as "Siberian Davos", an international economic conference.

Srostki village

The sights of the Altai Territory are connected not only with nature, but also with the culture of our country. The village of Srostki is one of the oldest settlements on its territory. It gained all-Russian fame thanks to Vasily Shukshin, his native.

Splices are first mentioned in 1753 in a report by Colonel de Garrigue. By 1811, more than detailed information about him. During the census, or audit carried out at that time, it was attested that 19 families live in this village. The first church was built with donations from local residents in 1910.

Tourists come to Srostki today to learn about Shukshin's life. The memorial museum-reserve of this writer works in the village. It consists of a depository, the exhibition mother of the writer, as well as the house in which Vasily Shukshin himself spent his childhood and youth. Shukshin readings are held annually on Mount Piket, which bring together writers, musicians, and artists from all over the country.

Altai village

The village of Altaiskoye (Altai Territory) is also somewhat popular. The sights of this place are few today, however, the tourist and recreational sector in this village has been actively developing in recent years. Here is located, in particular, the SEZ On the bank of the river. Kamenki, not far from the village of Altai, there is a very picturesque area called "Pikhtochki". It is located on a riverside terrace with rocks overgrown with pines and is one of the most favorite places for recreation for guests of the village and local residents.

Intercession Cathedral

In the autumn of 1898, Pokrovsky was laid Cathedral. After 6 years, the first service was held in it. The part of the city of Barnaul, in which this cathedral is located, was considered the poorest at that time. It was inhabited by workers, artisans, petty bourgeois, and peasants. It is all the more surprising that the temple was built precisely on their donations.

Intercession Cathedral replaced the old wooden church that had been in operation since 1863. Byzantine, or pseudo-Russian, style was chosen for the new building. Religious frescoes, the plots of which are based on the plots of paintings by N. Kramskoy, V. Vasnetsov, M. Nesterov, dominate the design of this red-brick cathedral.

Intercession Cathedral, since 1917, experienced difficult times - it was shelled, the cross on the dome was demolished, the bell tower was destroyed. Restoration work began in the temple in 1943. It remained for a long time the only functioning temple in the city. Divine services are currently being held in the Pokrovsky Cathedral. The restoration of his wall paintings was carried out in 2011.

Polyakov Trading House (Red Store)

In Barnaul there are many sights of the Altai Territory. The photo of the next one, which we will talk about, is presented below.

This is Polyakov's trading house, built in 1913. The building is now occupied by the shop "Red". It belongs to the merchant period of building the city of Barnaul and fully reflects all the architectural features inherent in that time. The two-story building, made in an eclectic style, has a U-shaped layout.

Red brick was used for the facade cladding. This became the basis for the name of the trading house, which spread among the people. Traditional elements of the Russian style were chosen for the decoration of the building: openwork forged ornaments, folk ornaments made of bricks.

In Barnaul in 1917 there was a strong fire. During it, many sights of Altai and the Altai Territory located in this city were destroyed: not only wooden, but also brick and stone buildings. However, the merchant Polyakov was able to keep this trading house. Local legend says that the workers were ordered to cover the wall with felt soaked in water. On the ground floor of the building in Soviet times was located the department store of the People's Commissariat of the USSR.

Auto Theft Museum Y. Detochkina

Interesting historical and cultural sights of the Altai Territory are offered to tourists by the city of Barnaul. One of the most unusual museums in Russia is located here. It is dedicated to motorists. However, the exhibits here are by no means old or expensive cars. Its main "heroes" are those items that are related to the theft of cars.

This museum was created on the basis of the local rescue service. The first items were obtained from the archive of city services. Representatives of law enforcement transferred to the collection a door shot through during the chase, "fake" car plate numbers and driver's licenses. Citizens themselves have made no less contribution. Barnaul residents shared with the museum folk remedies against theft, as well as other inventions. The fund of this museum today contains more than 150 exhibits.

The sights of the Altai Territory do not end there. We have listed only a few of them. You can get acquainted with this amazing place for a very long time. Everyone can find something interesting for themselves by exploring the sights Altai region, Altai Territory.

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 Three-Headed sacred mountain- the highest point of the Altai Mountains, crowning the Katunsky ridge, 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 mysterious 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 for 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

located on far south 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 beautiful 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 at the Gebler glacier on the southern slope of Mount Belukha, and after 688 kilometers merges with the Biya River, forming the Ob - one of largest rivers in Siberia.

All types of Altai landscapes are represented within the river - sheer cliffs, gorges, hills, waterfalls, rapids, diverse vegetation and animal world. 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 surrounded by the blue waters of the river, it can only be reached by a suspension bridge that can withstand 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 quite young natural object, formed 150-200 years ago as a result of an earthquake and a collapse of rocks. 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 in different time. 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 in the 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 externally repeat the forms 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.

We must immediately remember that territorially there is the Altai Territory, and there is the Republic of Altai. My goal now is to describe interesting places in Altai in general, so some of them will belong to the Republic, the other to the Altai Territory. What to visit in Altai is up to you. Altai is huge and different. The article contains only a part of the places that you can visit in Altai. This is not all, you can come to Altai every year and all your life, but every time you find something new.

The main factors that attract to Altai are, of course, the views of nature, climatic features and mineral springs. There is an abundance of sun in the Altai Mountains, amazingly clean and transparent air, a high degree of air ionization. The nature of the region captivates with its grandeur and originality. There are many salt and fresh lakes, relict forests grow, bizarre rocks, unusual caves and grottoes rise. The Altai Mountains, according to many people, bring pleasure simply from their contemplation.

What else is important to know about traveling in Altai:

• There are developed tourist places— Chemal and Teletskoye. There are a lot of tourists, and the facilities are not bad. You can get there public transport, in your car or even hitchhiking.
• But the most interesting places in Altai are located where buses do not go and rides are very rare. Almost wild places where you can drive off-road vehicles, on horseback, and somewhere - only on foot. Rest without comfort and not for everyone. Romance and extreme!
• Who by car, off-road in Altai is provided to you magnificent. Unless of course you decide to deviate from the track. But this way you can see many beautiful places.

Places worth visiting in Altai:

Lake Teletskoe (n. Artybash)

Teletskoye is the largest lake in Altai and one of the largest in Russia. The depth of the lake reaches 330 meters (25th position among the deepest lakes in the world). More than seventy rivers and streams flow into Teletskoye, and only one river, the Biya, flows out. The lake is located in a depression between the Korbu and Altyn-Tu mountain ranges and the spurs of the Abakan Range. The shores of the lake are mostly steep, represented by mountain slopes, which are completely overgrown with forest. There are real “century-old” cedars here.

The main popular attractions in the area of ​​Lake Teletskoye:

• waterfalls on the Third River.

Swimming on Teletskoye is not comfortable. The lake is filled with water from mountain rivers and has a great depth. The water in it remains cold even in summer, warming up no higher than 10°C. But thousands of tourists from year to year come here to look at the unique beauty, filled with mystery and mystery ... In the region of Lake Teletskoye, the paths of many complex routes pass (this is if you order a tour of Altai).

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The most famous locality on Teletskoye - the village of Artybash. The road ends here and in the summer months the village becomes local tourist center.

It is here that the camp sites are located, excursions are made from here, and, of course, the most interesting active routes begin from here.

The lake can be accessed from two sides.

For those who are interested in a more difficult and farther way - the southern shore of Lake Teletskoye. To get there, you need to pass through the Katu-Yaryk pass and the valley of the Chulyshman river. The road is quite tiring, but the views here are beautiful. Read more at the end. You can stay in cabins or tents.

An easier way is to drive up to Lake Teletskoye from the north side through the village of Artybash.

Turquoise Katun is a tourist complex located on the left bank of the Katun River, in the area of ​​Mount Red Stone. That is, this is not the whole Katun, but only part of the coastal zone. Here you will even see alpine meadows, forests with different tree species and mountain landscape. The total area is 32.3 sq. km. The complex is actively developing.

In the central part are the main objects:

• an artificial lake with an area of ​​7 hectares, warmed up to 23 degrees. For comparison, the temperature in Katun on the hottest days barely exceeds 10 degrees.
• around the artificial reservoir there are 5 cafes,
• water park, children's pond with attractions.

There are eight recreation centers on the territory of the complex. A wide variety of excursions, rafting, horse and bicycle rides are offered.

If you are looking for a holiday with comfort, this is Turquoise Katun.

Regular buses run to Turquoise Katun from Novosibirsk, Barnaul, Biysk and Gorno-Altaisk. If you get on your own, then from Biysk you need to drive here along the Chuisky tract, bypassing Srostki, Mayma and Manzherok.

The system of Tavdinsky or, as they are also called, Taldinsky caves is easily accessible. They are located in the popular tourist area "Turquoise Katun" near the village of Izvestkovy.

There are about 30 caves on the rocky five-kilometer ledge. The caves are interconnected and have several entrances. The most popular of them is "Girl's Tears" or "Tavdinskaya". Caves have been used by people since bronze age, as evidenced by the archaeological finds made under their arches. And from the top of the Tavdinsky mountain, a beautiful view of the beautiful Katun and the Chuisky tract opens up.

A road and signs lead from the bridge over the Katun to the caves. The entrances to them are visible from afar.

House-Museum of V. M. Shukshin

Located on the territory of the Altai Territory, Biysk region, in the village of Srostki. Guided tours have been open here since 1978. Consists of three houses. Vasily Shukshin's mother lived in one house, his childhood once passed in the other, and also the school building. The estate covers an area of ​​1.16 hectares. They will also tell about the memorable corners of the village, one way or another connected with the life of V.M. Shukshin.

The local sea is Big Spring Lake. There are no mountains nearby. Located on the territory of the central Kulunda steppe, 8 kilometers west of the city Slavgorod and 400 km from the city of Novosibirsk. The Scythian peoples who lived here earlier endowed the reservoir with the magical properties of making wishes come true!

At the bottom of the Yarovoye, two lines intersecting with each other were found. Scientists consider these furrows to be anomalous (in the good sense of the phrase). The water is both bitter and salty.

Lake Bolshoye Yarovoe Lake is located on a plateau, on which there are practically no trees. The shores of Yarovoye are quite high, and the south and southwest of the coastal territory is cut by ravines.

The lake is closed, nothing flows into it and nothing flows out. The composition of the water is unique, enriched with minerals, and everything else - artemia lives in the lake, dying, it mixes with salts and silt, forming an impressive mud layer, endowed with medicinal properties. The taste of water, in addition to salinity, has bitterness, the lake belongs to a brine-type pool, the supply of which is provided by underground springs.

The mud of the Great Yarovoye Lake is comparable in its performance to the mud of the lakes of such resorts as Odessa, Saki, Staraya Russa. Not very far from Yarovoye is another, but small, which has nothing to do with Altai, but is also known for its therapeutic mud. Unlike Yarovoye in Karachi, rest is wild, although there is also a sanatorium founded under the king (but the prices are still the same).

And many go to Yarovoye, photos from there are not always easy to distinguish from Anapa, for example. Also sand, sun, a lot of people on the beach. There are many sunny days, dry climate. Bolshoye Yarovoye Lake is perfect for health tourism. The territory is equipped guest houses and high-rise buildings where apartments are rented. Yarovoye was granted the status of a natural monument in 1978.

Nizhnyaya Katun area

The Nizhnyaya Katun region is located in the central part of the Altai Republic, in the Chemal region. The area with mountains of low height, overgrown with forests with a transition to the mountain-steppe zone of the Northern Altai. The territory of the district includes the valley of the lower Katun and the system of small mountain rivers. The area begins in the village of Ust-Sema, if you turn onto the Chemal highway from the Chuisky tract, which goes across the bridge to the left bank of the Katun.

Chemal region in terms of tourism is one of the most developed. It is accessible in terms of transport, has favorable climatic conditions, a unique and very picturesque landscape, as well as cultural and historical sites. Built in the region tourist bases and recreation centers.

As in the whole Altai, various excursions are offered along thematic routes by car, on foot or on horseback. The current of the Katun in this area is not very rough, which allows you to make an rafting with instructors for tourists with a low degree of preparation.

Archaeological objects are concentrated to the south of Chemal along the Katun, on the section of the road from Elanda to Kuyus. These are the sites of ancient people of different eras, burial mounds, burial grounds, rock paintings. Here is the famous Chemal hydroelectric power station, the temple of St. John the Theologian on the island of Patmos. The valley of the Lower Katun can be called perfect place for those who like to combine outdoor recreation, excursions with comfort.

The highest point of the Altai Mountains is located on the Katun Ridge. There are various names in local dialects: Uch-Sumer, Kadyn-Bazhy, Muztau shyny.

In the location of Belukha, earthquakes are common. The seismic activity of the zone is high, 7-8 points.

Summer is cool here. average temperature at the foot of Belukha in summer +6 C. Then comes an incredibly harsh winter (up to -48 C). Snow can fall in the summer, rain is a common thing.

At the foot of Belukha, dense coniferous forests and berry bushes, birches and alpine grasses, tundra lichens and Red Book flowers peacefully coexist.

The animal world in the vicinity of Belukha is ruled by small rodents - mice, voles. It happens that the stony slopes of the mountain will be honored by the presence of a lynx and a Siberian goat, or even a rare predator, the snow leopard.

Birds have chosen Belukha. Partridges, sparrows and even golden eagles settle here.

Mount Belukha is shrouded in myths and legends of varying degrees of gloom. The most famous one says that at the foot of the mountain there are gates to Shambhala (or Belovodie). Modern admirers of the ideas of the notorious Roerichs consider Belukha a place of power and the only safe place on Earth in case of another doomsday.

The Sofia Glacier can be reached from the village of Beltir in autumn. In winter there is a lot of snow, and at the beginning of summer there is too much water in the gorge.

Martian landscapes beyond the village of Beltir

And if you go to the very one to the Sofia glacier or Karagemsky and other gorges, you will see such landscapes. Places in Altai are not popular among tourists. So to speak, for the sophisticated. But if you compare it with a photo from Mars, it looks very similar (not counting the sky).

Lake Aya

Aya is very popular in Altai and besides warm lake. The size of the lake is small - 409 x 190 m, the average depth is 12 m, the maximum depth is 24 m, the water temperature in July is + 22 + 24 0С.

On the shore of the lake there is an equipped beach ( water slide, rental of sun loungers, showers, toilet), boat dock. Summer cafes and shops in the vicinity are also present. A number of routes from other places of rest in Altai are offered to Lake Aya. For example, scheduled excursions are conducted from the lower Katun region, including a visit.

Lake Aya has healthy air, a lot of sun. The shores of the lake are surrounded by low cliffs, covered with mixed forest. Not only residents of nearby territories come here, but from all over Russia and from beyond its borders. Lake Aya is located just 450 meters from the left bank of the Katun at an altitude of 380 meters above sea level.

Mount Devil's Finger

The rock is one of the most popular sights of the Altai region, located near Lake Aya.

The Devil's Finger Rock is one of the most popular sights of the Altai region, located near Lake Aya.

Valley of the Chulyshman River and the Katu-Yaryk Pass

The descent into the valley goes along a serpentine. The road is considered unsafe. Different cars are passing by, even right-handed sedans. Although it is difficult for the latter to climb later, it is easier to slide down.

Mountain trails in the area of ​​the Aktru gorge, the trail to the Blue Lake and the Aktru glacier

There are many places in the Aktru Gorge where you can go on foot. There are very difficult routes here, where you can go only with equipment and in bundles, and there are simple ones, for a day or even faster. There is a one with the same name. Climbers come there, you can check with them about the routes.

It is not always possible and not for everyone to get to the Aktru base by car. You need to know the road, and not just any car is needed ...

A legendary place shrouded in secrets and legends. The Ukok Plateau is located at the junction of the borders of Kazakhstan, China, Mongolia and Russia. The height is 2200-2500 m. It is windy here, in winter the temperature drops to -50. The highest point of Ukok is Mount Kuiten-Uul 4374 (the second highest in Altai).

It was here that an ancient burial was found, from which the mummy of a woman, called the Princess of Ukok, was recovered. Local residents are still fighting with the authorities for the return of the princess to the burial place, they consider the fact that they took her from the plateau to be bad. The place is strange, cold, wonderful. But it draws you back again and again ... It is more likely to travel here in August-September. In spring and early summer there is a lot of water, sometimes snow. You can drive to Ukok either through the Warm Key Pass (the most likely way) or through the Jazator River. On the Ukok plateau there are organized tours within groups.

It is located in the south-west of the Altai Territory and border areas with Kazakhstan: Zmeinogorsk, Krasnoshchekovsky and Tretyakov regions.
Formed in 1999. At the moment it occupies an area of ​​over 40 thousand hectares, there are plans for further expansion. The proximity of the reserve to the black taiga, where there are no traces of human activity yet, creates a reason to consider these territories for new areas of the reserve.

There are several natural monuments on the territory of the reserve:

• scary cave,
• foot-and-mouth cave,
• cave Hyena Lair,
• Silurus cut,
• log Scary,
• Mount Seven Cave
• Tigirek fortress.

More than 600 species of plants, many mammals (65 species) and birds (117 species) grow within Tigireksky. Brown bear, roe deer, elk and deer live here, as well as Siberian weasel, sable, ermine, squirrel, white hare and chipmunk. You can see (although less often) wolverine, weasel, lynx, musk deer. There are a lot of feathered creatures in the reserve: for example, black grouse, hazel grouse, long-tailed owl, upland owl, nutcracker, capercaillie.

The relief is represented by small hills stretching throughout the reserve, topped with domed peaks, the shape of which gave the name to the reserve (“tigirek” is translated into Russian as “round, smooth”).

In winter, the places are dangerous, especially in the southeastern part, where avalanches, landslides and talus are frequent. In the east there are canyons and gorges, and the northwest is represented by a gentle slope.

The historical monument - the ruins of the Tigirek fortress - dates back to the 18th century. At one time, the fortress had the role of an outpost of the Kolyvano-Kuznetsk fortification line. The remains of the fortress are part of the era of Russian settlements on the territory of Altai, over the mines and factories of which the threat of Dzhungar raids hung. Today, a piece of history is a memorial building of military engineering art.

There are several tourist routes which can be overcome on horseback or on foot. These roads are associated with the inspection of colorful landscapes, woven black taiga, steppe meadows, mixed forests, woven birch, pine and fir trees. observation decks of natural origin are beautiful panoramas of the river valleys of the Big Tigirek and Ini. The trail linking the villages of Chineta and Tigirek can present a meeting with large birds of prey and ungulates represented by elk and roe deer.

Within the Altai Territory, the Tigirek Reserve is the only specially protected area on a federal scale.

Edelweiss Valley

The Edelweiss Valley (Yarlu Valley) is one of the most beautiful and amazing places Gorny Altai. It is located near Belukha Mountain, to the left of Akkem Lake, at an altitude of about 2000 m above sea level. The name of the valley is really speaking: flowers that are very rare in nature, listed in the Red Book - EDELWEISS, grow here.

Small, fluffy, very delicate in appearance! There is also a stone fortress in the valley. This place is certainly sacred for people, as evidenced by numerous stone figures built inside the fortress.

Petroglyphs Kalbak-tash

A large array of ancient rock paintings aged over 5 thousand images. According to scientists who studied Kalbak-Tash, the drawings were created by people who lived here from the Neolithic period (IV-VI centuries BC) to the Middle Ages (VIII-X centuries AD). On the stones you can see the figures of animals that inhabited the Altai several thousand years ago, hunting scenes and various, including solar, symbols (which once again indicates that swastika y was not invented by Hitler, and its meaning is completely different than many people think). The petroglyphs were made with both stone and metal tools. Researchers attribute well-preserved runic inscriptions to the ancient Turkic era. Some of the plots depicted can be easily correlated with the famous Altai myths.

You can get to the rock complex from the Chui tract. It is located on the right bank of the river. After the mark "723 km" you need to turn left between the fourth and fifth pillars of the power line and walk about 20 meters.

stone mushrooms

Unusual rock forms, created by nature as a result of a long weathering process, are located in the valley of the Karasuk River - one of the tributaries of the mighty Chulyshman. Fanciful stone mushrooms consist of rocks of heterogeneous composition and picturesquely rise above the slopes of the valley. Unfortunately, over time, unusual natural formations continue to collapse. According to local residents, some of the "hats" collapsed during a strong earthquake that occurred in the Altai Mountains in 2003.

You need to go to the mushrooms along a dirt road laid along the Chulyshman valley. From the mouth of the river (i.e. from Lake Teletskoye) the journey takes about 2 hours. The road near the Ak-Kurum tract runs along the opposite (left) bank of the river, to get to the "mushrooms", you need to cross the river and climb up the path.

Lower Shavlinskoye Lake

The lake lies in the spurs of the Severo-Chuysky ridge at an altitude of almost 2000 m above sea level and is framed by picturesque high peaks, from the glaciers of which the Right Shavla River flows. This is one of the most popular tourist sites. Hiking and horse trails. The eastern shore of the lake is overgrown with a good larch and cedar forest, in which there are thickets of lingonberries and blueberries, and in non-dry summers there are many mushrooms. Chipmunks live here.

The water of the lake is clean, grayling is found here. It is customary for tourists standing on the banks of Nizhny Shavlinsky to use water from mountain streams flowing into the lake for drinking and cooking needs. In the middle of the populated east coast there is a Glade of Idols, where wooden sculptures made by the hands of people who visited these places are exhibited. And the opposite western shore of the lake is steep and rocky, and there are no places for bivouacs on it.

Goes to the lake walking route about 35 km long from the village of Chibit. It is laid along the path through the Oroi pass (about 2200 m) to the Eshtykol plateau. And the final part of the path passes along the path on the right side of the Shavla River valley.

Belokurikha

The city of Belokurikha is beautiful resort with a developed structure entertainment centers(about twenty restaurants, bars and cafes, a bowling club, an aqua park that welcomes guests all year round) and sanatoriums. In spring, summer and autumn, Belokurikha attracts tourists with the beauty of its nature, and in winter it invites them to ski slopes located in resort area Belokurikha.