Dzungarian Alatau, Mountain range between Kazakhstan and China
The Dzungarian Alatau is a mountain range between Kazakhstan and China with parallel ridges of granite and alpine meadows. The highest peaks reach approximately 4464 meters.
The Dzungarian Gate at the eastern end of the range was an important trade route during the Silk Road era. Caravans and armies crossed this strategic pass over many centuries.
Petroglyphs in the lower and middle sections show that ancient peoples lived here and created artistic works. These rock carvings tell the story of rich settlements in this mountain region.
Visitors can take buses from Almaty to Taldykurgan and then use local transportation to reach the mountain foothills. The town of Tekeli serves as the main jumping-off point for explorations.
The mountains hold over a thousand glaciers, including well-known formations like Abai, Kora, and Balakora. These ice masses feed major rivers like Lepsy, Sarkand, and Aksu that support farming in the region.
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