When traveling through the Northern Balkhash, the Bektau-Ata tract, rising above the surroundings, cannot be overlooked. This unique mountain massif, which has volcanic origins, is undoubtedly one of Kazakhstan's top attractions, captivating tourists with its natural beauty, tranquility, and serenity.
Where Bektau-Ata is located
The Bektau-Ata tract is situated 70 kilometers north of Balkhash city in the Karaganda Region. The entire elevation stretches over 4000 hectares, with a radius of about 6 kilometers. Externally, it resembles a volcano. However, it is actually a mountain system where highlands alternate with valleys and canyons of unusual shapes. The area also features picturesque bodies of water and springs, perfect for taking a break and refreshing yourself.
In the center of the massif, there are canyons teeming with hundreds of plant species. Here, you can also find argali sheep, jerboas, doves, cranes, and gazelles.
The Bektau-Ata area also houses the deepest cave in Kazakhstan, filled with fresh spring water.
How to get to Bektau-Ata
Many travelers wonder how to reach Bektau-Ata. Since the tract is located in the Karaganda Region, the easiest way to get there is by bus or car. The nearest city is Balkhash, which can be reached by train, bus, or airplane. Hitchhiking is also an option for those who practice it.
What Bektau-Ata offers to tourists
Bektau-Ata is an excellent destination for those who value peace and communion with nature. The mountain range is ideal for hiking, unusual photo sessions, and simply relaxing. During the rainy season and after winter, cascades of tiny lakes form on the slopes of the uplands, which are truly breathtaking. Additionally, at the very entrance to the cave is the famous "Qyz Auliye" or Holy Maiden rock. This revered site is visited by women seeking to pray for the birth of a child.
During the heyday of the Silk Road, Bektau-Ata served as a sort of beacon for caravan routes. Mineral deposits, trade, and the incredible nature, markedly different from the usual steppes and deserts, prompted the establishment of numerous settlements here. The luxurious lives of the kings who once inhabited these lands can be judged by the burial mounds at the foot of the massif. Visitors to Bektau-Ata can view the giant royal burial mounds from the Saka era.
During the Hunnic era, the area was considered sacred. Priests performed sacrifices here, and important state affairs were settled, along with horse and camel races.
Until the 19th century, this region remained a key trade hub. With the advent of Soviet power, engineering communications were established, and children’s camps were built, some of which are still used as guest houses for tourists. Today, Bektau-Ata is a popular recreational area among tourists and pilgrims from all over the world.
Where to stay for tourists
If fate has brought you to this remarkable place, you can stay in a tent, at a children’s camp, or a sanatorium. In the center of the massif, there is a small village where you can stay. There are also several summer camps and sanatoriums. While they are not fully developed resorts, they offer basic accommodations. The camps are clean and have areas for barbecuing and relaxation.
Many visitors bring their own tents. There are picturesque water bodies and small forests where you can set up camp. Alternatively, you can stay in the small settlement of Chubar-Tyubek near Balkhash and travel to the massif on your own.
Although options for accommodation in Bektau-Ata are limited, it does not diminish the experience. Being here, you enter a completely different world where earthly problems take a backseat. It’s just you and your mind.
Conclusions
If you are looking for still-undiscovered, hard-to-reach places with virtually no crowds, a stay at the Bektau-Ata Uplands is exactly what you need. You can easily get here and appreciate the vastness of the local beauty. Here, you will experience a wide range of emotions from indescribable awe to complete zen and inexplicable fear with shivers down your spine. The local residents are open and friendly towards tourists.