Unique Sights of Kazakhstan: Assy Plateau and Its Observatory
The Assy Plateau in Almaty has historically served as a summer grazing ground for sheep and has witnessed the passage of caravan routes connecting Europe, Central Asia, China, and India. This expansive intermountain valley, perched at elevations between 2,200 and 2,600 meters, boasts breathtaking meadows adorned with vibrant blooms.
Geographical Features
Situated 100 kilometers southeast of Almaty in the Enbekshikazakh district, the Assy Plateau lies between the picturesque Turgen Gorge and the Bartogai Reservoir, part of the Chilik River basin. Stretching 30 to 40 kilometers from west to east and framed by the northern Tien Shan mountain ranges, the plateau's intermountain valley measures 5 to 7 kilometers wide, offering a spectacular display of natural beauty.
Assy-Turgen Observatory
One of the Assy Plateau's standout features is the Assy-Turgen Observatory, located at its highest point, 2,750 meters above sea level. Surrounded by mountains that rise to 3,450 meters, this observatory was strategically established here to take advantage of the plateau's clear skies and exceptional atmospheric conditions. With minimal turbulence and crystal-clear air, it serves as an ideal site for astronomical research. The observatory is equipped with the Zeiss-1000 and AZT-20 telescopes for monitoring celestial objects.
While the observatory itself is not open to the public, the surrounding landscape is a popular destination for tourists. Visitors are treated to stunning views of the expansive Assy Plateau and the gorge below, framed by lush fir trees, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The observatory’s futuristic telescope tower adds an otherworldly element to this already captivating landscape.
Assy Plateau tours
We offer exciting tours to Assy Plateau from Almaty in comfortable jeeps, guided by knowledgeable professionals. Along the way, you'll uncover fascinating stories and secrets about this remarkable region, making your journey both educational and unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit
The Assy Plateau is enchanting in every season, but summer is the most popular time for tours. Late autumn also draws visitors eager to witness the gorge’s beauty dusted with the first snow of the season.
Interesting Facts
A river named after the plateau flows along its eastern edge, flanked by ancient mounds and rock carvings — home to one of the Republic’s highest-altitude collections of petroglyphs. The Turgen Valley serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Assy Plateau, renowned for its numerous waterfalls of varying heights.
Many of these waterfalls offer refreshingly cool waters, perfect for a dip on hot days. After soaking in the valley's beauty, the Assy-Turgen Observatory awaits, standing as Kazakhstan’s only observatory with such optimal astroclimatic conditions. For those in search of a unique and educational adventure, a tour to the Assy Plateau promises to be a truly memorable experience.
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Vacation in Kazakhstan will be an unforgettable adventure filled with new vivid impressions. Tourists will be able to enjoy the beauty of unique natural landscapes, feel the cordiality of local residents and taste the variety of flavors peculiar to the national cuisine. Being at the junction of Europe and Asia, the country has absorbed the influence of different cultures, on the basis of which traditional values have emerged. Kazakhstan travel agency Silktravel will do everything possible to make your trip bring a lot of positive emotions. We hope you will have a desire to visit our picturesque region again.
Kazakhstan is rich in beautiful places, natural attractions and historical sites. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come here on vacation every year. Our tourist agency will help you decide on the type of tour, take over its organization, and guarantee complete safety of the trip.
Why is it profitable to travel through travel agency Silktravel:
1. The experienced travel agent is responsible for organizing a comfortable trip. Becoming a customer of Kazakhstan travel agency, you will not have to worry about anything. The main task will be to tune in for a pleasant vacation. 2. By cooperating with our company, you can be sure of high-quality service at all stages of your journey, regardless of the chosen destination. 3. Our staff will provide all the necessary information about the excursions upon request. You will know in advance what you need to be prepared for at every stage of the journey. Travel agency Silktravel finds an individual approach to each client. We will be glad to arrange an interesting trip taking into account your personal preferences.
The unique sights of Kazakhstan will be able to impress even those tourists who have extensive travel experience in different countries. Our region is rich in original cultural traditions and spectacular natural landscapes, against which you can take beautiful photos.
The country is a mountainous region located in the south-east of the country. Almaty is a modern city with many amusement parks, bazaars, shopping malls and museums. No one will be bored in it, and everyone will be able to spend several busy days full of exciting trips here. Outside the former capital of Kazakhstan, travelers who prefer active recreation will find many locations for summer hikes or winter sports.
If you want to see the picturesque nature in its pristine form, purchase tours with visits to the national parks of Central Asia. There you will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding space and enjoy the magnificent landscapes that open from all sides. In natural conditions, tourists will be able to get to know the flora and fauna of the region better. There are 13 national parks on the territory of the country, so regardless of the chosen destination, you can visit several of them. Book excursions at Kazakhstan travel agency Silktravel and enjoy an exciting vacation.
Why should you contact us
WHY SILKTRAVEL?
Individual approach
Travel comfortably without noisy groups.
Experience
Explore hidden gems and capture stunning moments in secret locations for the best pictures.
Safety first
After every tour, we diligently conducttechnical inspections on our vehicles.
Presents
That’s a good tradition in Silk Travel. We try our best to make every visit to Kazakhstan memorable. It can be horse riding, drone videos or sweet gifts.
Flexibility
Our guides can choose the difficulty level of the tour for you.
Attainments
Our expertise extends to tire repair even in the heart of the steppe.
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