Kok Zhailau, Protected area in Almaty region, Kazakhstan.
Kok Zhailau is a protected area in the Almaty region that sits between 1450 and 1740 meters in elevation. The landscape consists of mountain meadows, pine forests, and varied vegetation covering the slopes.
The area gained protection in 2019 when authorities abandoned plans to build a ski resort there. This decision prevented large-scale development and kept the landscape in its natural state.
The name Kok Zhailau comes from Kazakh and means 'Celestial Pasture', reflecting how mountain lands shaped traditional Kazakh life. Visitors experience this connection when they walk through the open meadows and forests that define the area.
The area is accessible via a hiking trail that covers approximately 4.6 kilometers and climbs steadily uphill. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the path passes through mountainous terrain.
The area is home to many rare plants and animals listed in Kazakhstan's Red Book. These species are found mainly in the mountain regions of the Ile-Alatau range and are difficult to spot elsewhere.
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