TAMGALY-TAS

Located just 100 kilometers from Almaty, the Tamgaly-Tas tract is an extraordinary open-air Buddhist sanctuary. This stunning area is adorned with petroglyphs depicting enigmatic deities and features intricate Buddhist inscriptions etched into the rocks. Visitors from around the globe come to marvel at the images of the Buddha and sacred Sanskrit texts that bestow blessings upon the lotus-born.

The Tamgaly-Tas tract sits along the banks of the Ili River, the largest waterway in the Semirechye region, positioned 100 kilometers north of Almaty. To the left, the endless steppe gradually transitions into the Moyinkum Desert, while the Malaysara Ridge rises majestically to the right. Each spring, locals flock to the area to forage for white steppe mushrooms, adding to the region’s allure.

For over 150 years, researchers have sought to unravel the origins of the inscriptions found on the Tamgaly-Tas rocks. One prevailing theory suggests that these symbols were crafted by the Kipchak people during the late 8th to early 9th centuries. The significance of these ancient markings remains a captivating topic of study and exploration.

Tamgaly-Tas is celebrated for its remarkably preserved petroglyphs, images of deities, and Buddhist inscriptions. Among its most notable features is the depiction of Bodhisattva Arya Avalokiteshvara, a revered figure in Buddhism, prominently displayed on the central rock. Nearby, an inscription translates to "worship of the holy deity," further enriching the site’s spiritual significance.

This mesmerizing area offers breathtaking views throughout the year, but spring and autumn are considered the best seasons to experience the enchanting atmosphere of this ancient natural wonder.

The name "Tamgaly-Tas" translates from Kazakh as "stones with signs." The images and inscriptions date back to the 14th to 16th centuries, encompassing a complex of 18 rocks adorned with mysterious markings. Notably, three Buddha images are carved on one rock, with two more found on others. Tamgaly-Tas is regarded as both a Buddhist sanctuary and an open-air museum. Local legend tells of a caravan that experienced a powerful earthquake while passing through, causing massive boulders to tumble down the cliffs and create a natural river crossing. This event was seen as a divine sign, leading locals to honor the Almighty by carving unusual drawings into the rocks. Evidence of the earthquake and the natural crossing can still be observed near the site.