Things to do in Ulytau Mountains
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ulytau Mountains has to offer
Historic Monuments
Ancient traces of civilizations that have shaped the Ulytau landscape, from Bronze Age sites to trail remains along historic routes.
Saka Kurgans of Ulutau
Ancient burial mounds scattered across the foothills, remnants of Bronze Age cultures that once thrived in the region.
Ulutau Petroglyph Sites
Rock carvings along canyon walls offering glimpses into early nomads and traders in the mountains.
Ancient Trade Route Ruins
Ruins along historic caravan paths that once connected distant markets and communities.
Museums
Small regional museums reveal the area's archaeology, ethnography and the nomadic heritage of central Kazakhstan.
Taraz Regional Museum of Local History
Exhibits tracing the region’s archaeology, ethnography and traditional life.
Taraz Ethnographic Center
Displays folk costumes, crafts and daily life of Kazakh communities in the area.
Regional Archaeology Museum of the Kazakh Steppe
Highlights local Bronze Age sites and nomadic heritage through artifacts.
Religious Monuments
Historic places of worship and spiritual sites that echo the religious life of local communities.
Uzynkol Old Mosque
A historic mosque reflecting regional religious architecture and community life.
Sufi Shrine near Ulutau foothills
A quiet sanctuary visited by locals for contemplation and traditional prayers.
Nomad Prayer Sites on the Plateau
Outdoor spaces used by nomadic campers for daily prayers during migrations.
National & Theme Parks
Protected landscapes that showcase the rugged beauty, steppe, and panoramic views of the Ulutau range.
Ulytau National Nature Park
Protected landscapes preserving rugged peaks, steppe ecosystems and spectacular panoramas.
Ulutau Canyon Scenic Reserve
Steep-walled canyons and rock formations ideal for hiking and photography.
Ulytau Summit Trails
Marked routes connecting viewpoints and shepherd camps for an immersive mountain experience.
Neighborhoods
Small settlements and foothill communities that serve as gateways to the Ulutau range.
Uzynkol Village
Base village offering guesthouses and a starting point for Ulutau treks.
Shyghylyk Settlement
Rural community with a mix of traditional and modern Kazakh life.
Pole Mountain Lookout Area
Cluster of hillside homesteads and viewpoints popular with trekkers.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to experience Ulutau’s scenery and atmosphere on a budget.
Sunrise hike to Ulutau viewpoints
Start early to catch the morning light over the mountains and plains.
Stargazing under clear Kazakh skies
Remote locations offer vivid night skies away from city lights.
Picnic by mountain streams
Pack a bite and enjoy the sounds of nature at a tranquil spot.
Photography walk along foothill trails
Capture the interplay of light, rock textures and sweeping panoramas.
Gastronomy
Kazakh flavors showcased with hearty staples and regional ingredients.
Beshbarmak
Classic Kazakh noodle dish with boiled meat and onion sauce.
Kumis tasting
Fermented mare’s milk offering a traditional tang and aroma.
Shubat and tea pairing
Fermented camel milk enjoyed with a warm cup of tea.
Nightlife
Evenings that celebrate nomadic heritage through music and communal warmth.
Traditional nomad campfire with folk songs
Evening performances around a fire under the stars.
Guesthouse evening of Kazakh dances
Live folk dance and music sessions in village guesthouses.
Moonlit camp evenings
Relaxed nights with stories, tea and shared memories.
Entertainment
Hands-on and cultural activities that bring Kazakh traditions to life.
Horseback riding demonstrations
Learn basic horsemanship and try a short ride along trails.
Kazakh dance evenings
Group lessons and performances featuring traditional moves.
Archery demonstrations
Watch or try traditional Kazakh archery with guidance.
Sports
Active pursuits to soak in the rugged terrain and vast skies.
Hiking to Ulutau summits
Day treks with varied terrain and rewarding views.
Rock climbing on canyon walls
Challenging routes suitable for different skill levels.
Horseback riding along ridge trails
Scenic rides with panoramic mountain and steppe scenery.
Off the Track
Remote and adventurous routes for a more solitary Ulutau experience.
Backcountry trekking across the plateau
Untouched landscapes and quiet trails away from crowds.
4x4 off-road expeditions through remote valleys
Adventure routes across rugged terrain and scenic byways.
Cave exploration in limestone caverns
Exploratory trips to hidden caverns and formations.