ASTANA—Almaty is one of Kazakhstan’s most captivating destinations, and for good reason. Just a couple of hours of driving from the country’s greenest city takes you to diverse natural wonders, from the rocky towers of Charyn Canyon to the enchanting lakes of Kolsai and Kaindy. Charyn River.
Photo credit: The Astana Times Charyn Canyon: the Valley of Castles The Valley of Castles. Photo credit: The Astana Times. Often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States, Charyn is unique on its own.
Now it is hard to imagine that this place was once completely submerged in water. Over millions of years, the combined effects of water and weathering processes on sedimentary rocks created bizarre formations such as pillars, towers, and chapels, collectively known as the Valley of Castles. This valley stretches 2.
7 kilometers, a distance that tourists can explore on foot while enjoying the stunning views. The entire canyon extends for 154 kilometers. Among the fascinating spots within Charyn is the mysterious Witches’ Gorge, where witches, according to legends, held their sabbaths.
They supposedly threw lingering tourists from the stone pillars into the abyss. However, these are merely tales, and this part of the valley is distinguished only by its black rocks. Another interesting place, known as the Arch of Love, is tied to a legend about the clash of love and money.
Visitors often make wishes as they pass under it. Tour guides suggest the Charyn River, flowing at the canyo.