Natural and cultural historical sights of the Altai Territory. Beautiful places of Altai

Altai is a vast region with mountain peaks covered with never-melting snow and glaciers. Mountain country rich in hundreds of thousands of karst caves. These are more than 200 thousand deep lakes and rivers with the purest water and frequent rapids. Primordial natural resources Altai constantly attracts tourists and climbers - lovers of outdoor activities. There will be a story about some of the beauties of Altai.

Lake White

The rounded lake located in a mountain hollow reaches a depth of seven meters. Its gentle shores abound sandy beaches, and the steep ones descend to the water in pebble placers. In the center of the reservoir rises a granite island overgrown with tall bushes, where in Elizabethan times the industrialist Demidov secretly minted coins.

The lake is rich in fish (roach, perch, ruff) and crayfish. The most ancient picturesque burial mounds are located not far from it, and the Sinyukhi Mountain is only 5 km away.

Mount Sinyukha

Its height is over 1200 meters. Fir trees that cover it look blue from a distance, and nothing grows on the rocky summit, where the wind often blows. Thanks to its destructive work, the mountain is replete with bowl-shaped granite grooves in which water, considered holy, accumulates.

At the foot of the mountain there is a place of constant Orthodox pilgrimage - worship cross, to which, after the Trinity, believers from the surrounding places flock. A lush pine forest grows on granite here. The ascent to the mountain, from where the view of the Kulundirskaya steppe opens, is not difficult, a convenient path leads to the top.

Mountain Charming

The rocky peak of the mountain resembles a bird's head 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 cliff there is a natural turret that served the pagans at the same time to observe the surroundings and the heavenly bodies.

At the foot of the Charming, there is a clear lake with a brownish tint of a rocky bottom. And dense forests grow on its slopes.

Mount Semipeschernaya (Seven brothers)

It is a 150 meter high limestone cliff overhanging the Ini River. The mountain is interesting for its seven caves. One of them - Struna - a tunnel 75 meters long, rising 40 meters.

The second - Gloomy - is equal in size to her, but almost flat. In it, about 250 years ago, archaeologists found the remains of ancient people, suggesting that this is 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 cone-like mountain has risen almost 800 meters. For the convenience of tourists, a lift runs to its top, and the walking path is an hour and a half. From it you can admire the resort of Belokurikha and the Biyskaya Valley.

Here you will find all the delights of a civilized rest - a cafe, a comfortable path, benches for rest.

At the top of the mountain there is a rock that resembles a spire with a dome. There is a cross here. The lured birds are constantly resting near the rock, and they are not afraid to sit on the palm.

Mountains Big and Small Monastery

Snow-white rocks with caves, grottoes and arches are located in the valley of the Charysh River.

The one-hundred-meter mountain Big Monastery abounds in caves. The uppermost one - Bastion - is the site of people of the Stone Age. Ancient arrowheads were found in it.

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, Vodyanaya, is located near the waters of Charysh. It has a tiny lake with healing water.

The legend says 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 a passage underground, joining the river. This place is popular with lovers.

Denisova Cave

The famous cave is located on the Anui River. It is believed to be 800 thousand years old. Nature took care of creating a natural refuge for the Neanderthals who lived here 300 thousand years ago. Water streams, in addition to a vast cavity, washed three more entrances in the stone. The larger one, located at the top, became a light source and a chimney.

The name of the cave is associated with the monk Dionysius who lived in it more than two centuries ago. She also has another name - bear mountain or stone. According to belief, a stone is buried in its thickness, into which the evil shaman has turned, thanks to the intercession of a good sorcerer. This cave has long served as a refuge 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 him, the museum includes a former school - the literary museum of Shukshin and the house where he spent his childhood and youth.

The exposition includes books with his autographs, works of famous contemporaries, whose life somehow came into contact with his life. There are also portraits of all those close to Shukshin, theatrical 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 river Shinok (a tributary of the Anui), which falls from an almost two-kilometer height and flows through a rocky cedar gorge, means “inaccessible”. There are more than a dozen waterfalls along it. Their height ranges from three to 72 meters. The largest waterfall, the Giraffe or Sedoy, is also the leader among the Altai waterfalls. No less stormy Double jump, three times inferior to the leader in height.

Each of the waterfalls ends with a corresponding bathtub and continues with a rocky gorge of the following river stream. 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 reservoir located near Zmeinogorsk is famous for its picturesque rocks. They resemble 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 fluctuations in the waters of the ancient sea.

About how much pure water in Kolyvanovskoye Lake, one can judge by the fact that the rarest chilim nut, preserved from the preglacial era, grows in it. The lake is replete with picturesque corners of uncivilized recreation, where rugged trails lead.

Lake Mokhovoe

The lake, two meters deep, is framed by bizarre granite rocks interspersed with bright green 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 to those who are not afraid of the leeches that live in it in abundance. Here, the expanse for fishing, muddy lake backwaters were chosen by crucian carp.

Lake Yarovoe

The bitter-salty water (rather brine) of this closed reservoir is fed by underground springs. Its banks are almost treeless. The lake mud is curative, and together with the warm and dry climate of the region, this fact 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 Picket

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 the three-hundred-meter-high mountain, an overview of the Katun and those places that are immortalized by the writer and film director Shukshin opens. The monument to Shukshin was presented to his homeland by the author, the national artist Klykov. And he insisted that the sculpture be installed not on the Chuisky tract, but on the writer's favorite resting place - Mount Piket.

Foot and mouth cave

Exploration of the cave with a heart-shaped grotto and various stalactites dates back to the second half of the last century. Narrow passages go from the grotto to the mountain depths.

Scientists suggest that a giant lizard once lived in this area at an altitude of 500 meters. Its frozen remains have grown into cave stones.

Caves Pound and Bat

The driven cave, consisting of limestone coral fossils, is famous for the remains of animals that lived in the Paleolithic era (rhinos, bears, tigers). The inhabitants of the cave hunted them, and at the entrance they roasted them on bonfires, having previously cut them up with stone tools.

And in the cave of the Bats, located a little higher than the Zagonnaya cave, there is a rare species of Egyptian Hymenoptera - the sharp-eared bat. This is the only place where heat-loving animals have climbed so far to the north, hiding in the winter cold in the depths of the cave. There was also a Paleolithic site.

Scary Caves and Hyena's 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 from these eras.

The hyena's lair is a small cave with a flat inner platform. It is a vast storage facility for the bones of Ice Age wild animals. They clearly show the imprints of the teeth of large predators. The telling name of this karst reservoir is connected with this.

Altai cave

It is one of the most extensive 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 a hole in a funnel near a ravine stream, which, hiding in a small lake, then reappears inside the cave.

The journey 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 arches of tunnels and halls.

Rock Four Brothers

At the time of the emergence of the resort of Belokurikha (almost two centuries ago), a natural composition of rocky towers in the form of four ten-meter similarities of people, which was nicknamed "Four Brothers", became known. A path has been laid to it, where squirrels and chipmunks can jump without fear of a person.

This harmony of man and nature is completed by rare birds living near the path. The "brothers" are overgrown with legends. One of them says that these are indeed brothers who sacrificed themselves to save their only sister from the 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 deck and about a dozen miniature lakes, full of fish and waterfowl. Rare medicinal and ornamental herbs and shrubs grow here.

Tsar's mound

The two-meter 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 burial mound, the construction of which was led by the priests.

It is believed that astronomical observations were also carried out from this site. The monolithic structure was once desecrated by the barbarian conquerors.

The main attractions of Gorny Altai are represented by natural rare objects. We will try to give a small overview of attractive places to visit.

Museums and man-made objects

House-Museum of Roerich. Located in the village of Verkhniy Uimon. The main exhibition is dedicated to the work of the famous artist, scientist and thinker. In addition, you can watch themed films, visit the exhibition pavilion and the bookstore. Temporary exhibitions are periodically held here.

Monument to V. Shukshin. The bronze 8-meter monument stands in the historical homeland of the famous actor. In a simple pose of a person who crouched down to rest and think, it is as if he is on the top of a mountain. The monument opens to the view gradually and in a very interesting way. A popular location for taking photos and videos.

Monument "Altai - the heart of Eurasia"... One of the most characteristic objects of Gorno-Altaysk is located on the Chuisky tract. The world tree, the North Star, the symbolic image of a yurt - a dome and a hearth - all this carries universal world symbolism. The object is located in a place that has long been considered the center of the World. It also contains messages to descendants in several languages.

Tourists are attracted not by the station itself, but by the water amusement park, which is organized here in summer. In addition, you can visit unusual springs with "living" and "dead" water. If you didn't have time to buy souvenirs, you will find a large number of them here, from popular pine nuts and natural honey to exclusive minting, which will be done right in front of you.

Botanical Garden ... The sight of Kamlak literally represents the pages of the "Red Book" - there are so many rare and unique plants.

Republican Museum of Local Lore... Located in Gorno-Altaysk and is the oldest museum in the area of. Even in its form, it organically fits into the surrounding space, resembling one of the ancient burial mounds. The museum contains several tens of thousands of exhibits, including one of the main historical values ​​of these places - the mummy of the "Altai Princess". There is a souvenir shop at the museum. You can dine at a local cafe.

Reserve "Katunsky"... The place near the village of Ust-Koksa strikes with its beauty wildlife... It is located in the highest mountainous region of Altai and includes the main attraction - Mount Belukha, the highest point in all of Siberia. Here you can find for yourself interesting programs in the ethnomuseum, ecological camp. Interesting for both children and adults.

It is famous not only for its unique beauty and special atmosphere. People come to the miraculous icons with their requests. Tourists far from faith simply enjoy the opportunity to walk through the old suspension bridge and admire the scenery. The Church of St. John the Evangelist is worth visiting.

Natural unique

Lake Aya... It is the oldest body of water in its origin. You can swim here in the middle of summer, as the water temperature reaches 25 degrees. Interesting to visit nature Park on the shore. It is worth visiting an excursion along the Katun River valley and taking a photo at the Devil's Finger Mountain.

Korbu waterfall... It belongs to the largest waterfalls in Lake Teletskoye. Very popular due to its special effect of falling from great height drops of water. They create a kind of "wind out of water". The surrounding steep cliffs, covered with a mysterious forest, are no less attractive. Nearby there are animals listed in the Red Book.

A special place on the Anui River has become a place of pilgrimage not only for archaeologists from all over the world. Since the end of the 20th century, tens of thousands of historically valuable items have been discovered here - evidence ancient civilization... The place is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Chike-Taman pass... It will delight those who prefer interesting climbs and rare natural beauty. The difference in height creates breathtaking landscapes. Sheer cliffs alternate with valleys. There is an excellent observation area. And nearby there is an ancient shamanic tree - larch. On its branches, visitors tie pieces of white cloth for good luck.

Teletskoe lake... One of the cleanest and deepest reservoirs in the Russian Federation. Exploration of its waters and surroundings is still ongoing. Lake Teletskoye is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges. There is a large nature reserve on its shore. There are many tourist centers nearby. A wide variety of excursions and routes are available. You can even go fishing.

The twelve-meter two-stage natural object will make you feel like the heroes of an action adventure. After all, you will have to go to him along the most real suspension bridge in the thicket. You can even swim in the streams of the waterfall. And on the way, the guide will tell you an interesting legend about the name and origin of the Altai natural unique.

Kur-Kechu... The ancient tract has become a striking sight of the town of Kupchegeni. Here two rivers merge - Katun and Bolshoi Ilgumen. Mystical place addictive for hours. You can wander for a long time among the old ruins, burial mounds, the remains of religious buildings and rock paintings.

Source Kara-Kebek... It is interesting not only for its healing water with a high content of iron and silicon. Here you can observe unusual animals and birds that live in the wild. The variegated butterflies and the Red Book plants of the surrounding area are also delightful. Access to the key in the vicinity of Ongudai is absolutely free.

Tugaya and Komsomolskaya mountains... If you prefer an active holiday, this is the place for you. Popular climbing trails vary in difficulty. Fantastic views surround the road. Rare species of flora grow here. And the mountains themselves are hundreds of millions of years old.

What else to see in Altai

Love stone... Check in at the legendary stone on the banks of the river. Biya - everyone who is in these places considers it a must. The history of the village of Turochaka speaks of 2 lovers, bewitched for admiring each other, and not the beauty - the river. The place is also popular with newlyweds and everyone who only dreams of finding love.

The place is worth a visit for all history buffs. The ancient rock paintings found here are very well preserved and accessible for inspection. Petroglyphs will turn your understanding of history and make you think about the many secrets of the universe.

Mineral spring in the village of Manzherok... Known for his medicinal properties... Its waters contain a large amount of silver. Water can be drawn directly from the key. It is especially recommended for those suffering from diseases of the stomach and kidneys.

Build your own unique route along the numerous sights of Altai!

The Altai Republic is a wonderful and amazing land, where majestic mountains side by side with beautiful lakes. In the caves here you can find traces of ancient civilizations, and on the rocks you can see mysterious drawings... 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 action plan.

General information about the Altai Republic

Altai Republic - subject Russian Federation... The unofficial name is Gorny Altai. Part of the Siberian federal district... Occupies an area of ​​92 thousand km 2, the population is 218 thousand people. The capital is the city of Gorno-Altaysk.

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:

How to get there

The Altai Republic can be reached in the following ways:

Sights of the Altai Republic

The sights of the Altai Republic are fascinating and varied. Here extreme lovers conquer mountain peaks, lovers of picturesque landscapes strive to see beautiful lakes, history lovers 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 called "Golden Mountains of Altai". The protected area has an area of ​​over 16 thousand km 2.

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. The total area of ​​the Aktru valley is 16 km 2.

The mountain glacier basin includes 5 glaciers:

The decoration of the mountain glacial basin is the Blue Lake, located on the Bolshoi Aktru glacier. The lake got its name from the sky-colored water. V summer time many tourists come here to admire the beauty of the natural reservoir.

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 you can find accommodation for every taste: from stationary tents to two-story cottages. The base works all year round.

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

Sacred mountain Belukha

It is the highest mountain in the Altai Republic, located in the east of the Katunsky ridge. Absolute height the mountain is 4409 meters. It has three peaks: Eastern Belukha, Delone peak and Western Belukha. The peaks are always covered with snow, which is why the mountain got this name.

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

The Belukha slopes are covered with numerous glaciers, thanks to which the Katun, Kucherla, Akkem rivers were formed. These rivers are fleeting and often create extraordinary beauty waterfalls. Thus, the right tributary of the Katun formed the beautiful Rasypnaya waterfall.

Siberian spruce, fir, birch and mountain ash grow on the mountain. Shrubs are dominated by honeysuckle and lingonberry. Of the animals, shrews, voles, and mountain goats live. The order of birds is represented by grouse, alpine jackdaws, choughs. There are also rare species of birds listed in the Red Book: lentils and golden eagles.

Many people strive to “conquer” Belukha and climb to the top, but this is not easy to do. Here all year round cold and strong wind blowing. The surface of the mountain is covered thin ice, making it difficult to climb. The most dangerous area is the Akkem wall, located in the northern part of Belukha. Near the mountain is the Belukha camp site, as well as the 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 the state border of Russia and Kazakhstan. If you are a citizen of Russia, be sure to have a passport in order to travel on a tourist route. Citizens of other states must additionally provide permission from the border guards, which is issued by the FSB department of Gorno-Altaysk. To climb the Belukha peaks, all categories of citizens must have a permit.

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

This largest lake Altai Republic, as well as one of the deepest on the planet. It was named Teletsky IV century ago by the Russian pioneers, because at that time the Teles tribe lived on the shores of the lake. Locals they call the reservoir Altyn-Kol, which means “golden lake”. The northern part of the lake has long been mastered by tourists, the southern part 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 tourist centers and campings. These places are popular with fishermen as well as hobbyists. beautiful nature... The water in the lake is cold and not suitable for swimming, but this is compensated by the clean air and beautiful landscapes.

From the capital of the Altai Republic, you can get to Lake Teletskoye by car along the route: Choya-Artybash-Teletskoye Lake.

For many millennia, the beautiful Belukha has been admiring her reflection in the mirror waters of the Akkem lakes. These lakes have an amazing property of changing color depending on the viewing angle: they can be pale blue, dark blue, light gray, as well as dull milky. The fabulous beauty of the local landscapes attracts tourists like a magnet.

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 were formed on the surface of the earth, in which the lakes were located. One of them is Lower Akkemskoe, 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 meteorological station - one of the oldest in Altai. For 80 years, the meteorological station has been monitoring local natural sites... 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 can rather be called a river - the water arrives in the basin and runs on.

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

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:

Big Chulchinsky waterfall

This is the largest waterfall in the Altai Republic. It is located on the Chulcha River, therefore it will receive such a name. However, the Altai call this natural monument Uchar, which translates as "unapproachable". Indeed, getting to the waterfall is not easy:

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

Mysterious Katunskie terraces

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

But the reason for the origin is known by the indigenous Altaians, who willingly tell curious tourists ancient legend... Once upon a time all rivers were in captivity Altai mountains and could not get out of there. Both 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 thus created deep cracks in them, through which joyful streams ran. After that, the strong man drew a bow and sent a huge arrow into the largest mountain. The mountain split in half, freeing main river... The rubble of the mountain created flat terraces.

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

Ukok sacred plateau and Altai princess

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

Natural monuments on the Ukok plateau:

In the 90s of the last century, archaeologists made a sensational "find": the 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 a noble birth. 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 kept in the National Museum of Gorno-Altaysk. Part of the population of the Altai Republic believes that the body of Ak-Kadyn must be returned to the burial site, because it is after the removal of the mummy from the burial chamber that natural disasters hit Gorny Altai one after another.
Kurgan Al-Alakha - the burial place of the "Altai Princess"

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

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

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

You can get from Gorno-Altaysk to the Ukok plateau by car along the route: Ongudai - Kosh-Agach - Dzhazator. You can also get to the village of Ongudai by bus, which starts from the bus station of Gorno-Altaysk. Then a minibus will take you to Jazator.

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

The botanical garden is located on the 503rd kilometer of the Chuisky tract, 77 km from Gorno-Altaysk. Address: c. Kamlak, Shebalinsky district. You can get there from the bus station of Gorno-Altaysk 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

There are historical monuments in the Altai Republic that must be seen.

Mounds are the burial places of tribal leaders, built in the III-V centuries BC. e. Discovered during archaeological site in the 30s of the last century. Burial chambers, each with an area of ​​about 50 m 2, were located under a thick layer of stones. Sarcophagi with embalmed bodies of men and women were found in the cells. An interesting fact is that the bodies of men were decorated with numerous tattoos. Near the sarcophagi were luxury items: 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.

You can get there by car along the route: Gorno-Altaysk - Inya - Balyktuyul - Pyzyryk burial mounds. Free inspection.

Mysterious Altai Stonehenge

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

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

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

Translated into Russian, the name of the attraction means “rock with an inscription”. Indeed, there are ancient Mongolian and Chinese inscriptions and drawings on this rock. Some images date 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 Mongolian troops led by Sonak repeatedly raided the Altai lands. The cruelty of the Mongols knew no bounds: Altai men were exterminated, women and children fell into slavery and taken to Mongolia. But one day the Altai prepared for a meeting with the enemy: they built a stone fortification near the Bichiktu-Kaya cliff. The fortress held out for the whole summer, but Sonak bypassed the Altaians from the rear and took the fortification.

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 about 710th km of the Chuysky tract. It is easier to get there by car. Free inspection.

Altai Republic museums

The museums of the Altai Republic will acquaint you with the traditions, history and culture of these lands.

National Museum named after A.V. Anokhin

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

Location: Gorno-Altaysk, st. Grigory Choros-Gurkin, 46. Working hours: Wednesday-Saturday - from 10.00 to 18.00, Sunday - from 10.00 to 17.00.

Ten-pen

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, making 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.

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.

Nikolai Roerich is not only a famous artist and writer, but also a researcher. In the 20s of the last century, he organized an expedition to Asian regions, including Gorny Altai. One of stopping points became the village of Upper Uimon, where the members of the expedition stayed for about two weeks. After visiting these places, Roerich painted many stunning 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.

The village of Verkh-Uimon also deserves the attention of tourists. Old Believers have lived 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: village Verkh-Uimon, st. Embankment, 22. Working hours: from 9.00 to 19.00 seven days a week. Entrance fee: adults - 100 rubles, children - 50 rubles. If you are traveling by car, then you can get to the village of Verkh-Uimon from the capital of Gorny Altai along the route: Maima-Dubrovka-Souzga-Manzherok-Barangol-Kamlak-Baragash-Kyrlyk-Oktyabrskoe-Verkh-Uimon. And also many tourist routes pass through the village.

What to see if you came with a child

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

City Park of Culture and Rest of Gorno-Altaysk. Various attractions, a cinema, cafeterias work here. There is a large playground in the park. There is a bicycle and electric scooter rental service. Address: Gorno-Altaysk, st. Socialist, 24.
The city park of culture and recreation of Gorno-Altaysk is equipped with a playground

Bison reserve, where there are currently 47 individuals of these rare animals. The reserve includes three picturesque parks with meadows, springs and streams. Coordinates: Chuisky tract, 169 km, Cherga. Distance from Gorno-Altaysk - 80 km.
Children will see beautiful bison in the reserve

Water park located at the Tursib recreation center. The entertainment complex is equipped water slides and attractions. Address: Chemalsky district, with. Tourist base Katun. Working hours: from 10.00 to 21.00, closed on Monday.
Aquapark of the recreation center Tursib is equipped with water slides

How to plan your trip

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

Stop at the Ak-Kem mountain shelter, 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 camping with tents, a bathhouse, and a volleyball court. On the territory of the estate, you can stop with your own tents. From here start excursions to the Valley of Seven Lakes, to the Akkem lakes, to Mount Belukha. 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 Tyoply Klyuch area, not far from which there are cozy houses where you can stay for several days. Thus, it is possible to combine rest, recovery and sightseeing of the Ukok plateau.
Near Tyoply Klyuch there are simple wooden houses where you can stay for rest

Choose for a stopover one of the recreation centers on Lake Teletskoye. 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 the amenities. On the territory of the estate there is a bathhouse, swimming pools, gazebos. Location: Turochak region, tourist region - Priteletskiy.
The estate "Pearl" is located on the shore of Lake Teletskoye

Go to the resort of Manzherok, where the longest chair-lift in Siberia, numerous hotels and recreation centers are located. Park-hotel "Manzherok" is popular, 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. The location of the hotel: 470 km of the Chuysky tract, Maiminsky district, the village of Manzherok.

Manzherok resort is equipped with the longest cable car in Siberia

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

When is the best time to come to the Altai Republic

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

The address ski complex: Turochak district, with. Artybash, st. Cedar, 1.

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

Dyylgayak is a carnival. On this day in all settlements In the Altai Republic, festivities are held, fairs are organized, and 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 Altai people, during which ritual bonfires are burned

Folk holiday El Oyin, which is celebrated every two years. The holiday is nomadic and is held in a different place each time. In 2018, El Oyin 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: sporting events - archery, horse racing; theatrical performances; performances of dance and folklore groups; fairs and exhibitions.
Horse races are held during the El Oyin holiday

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

Tourist card