Ulytau District: Petroglyphs and Steppe History

The official routes in Ulytau District pass through striking natural landscapes and explore the history of the Great Steppe. The sites described include sacred mountains, mausoleums, rock art, and archaeological sites. This makes it possible to tailor your trip to your interests: one route combines a climb up Aulietau with visits to the mausoleums of Alash Khan and Jochi Khan; other insights are offered by rock art and the cultural history of the village of Ulytau.

Routes and Directions in Ulytau

Aulietau is described as the highest point in Ulytau: the mountain stands 1,135 meters above sea level and is revered as sacred. Allow about five hours for the Ulytau excursion, including the drive; the duration may vary. The educational route through the village of Ulytau is eight kilometers long. Some sections run over uneven terrain, through the steppe, and along riverbanks. There may be no places to buy water or food along the way, so bring both with you.

An official Ulytau route starts in Zhezkazgan. It covers 130 kilometers along a highway with paved and dirt-road sections, as well as around three kilometers of easy off-road driving through the steppe. Road conditions may change. The official Ulytau visitor information presents routes with distances, difficulty levels, suitable seasons, and recommendations. Check current road conditions and seasonal access before setting out.

Petroglyphs and Archaeological Traces

Terekti-Aulie is an ancient rock art site in central Kazakhstan. It is located in Ulytau District, 18 kilometers northeast of Terekti railway station and within the Ulytau National Park Museum. Wind-sculpted, domed granite ridges shape the landscape; petroglyphs have been preserved on their peaks and slopes. Around 300 rock images are spread across 27 granite surfaces. They depict horses, camels, goats, deer, and birds, as well as symbolic signs.

The archaeological evidence at Terekti-Aulie spans the Bronze Age, the Early Iron Age, and the Middle Ages; the collection includes more than 50 archaeological objects. A sacred spring is traditionally associated with healing properties. At the Zyngyrtas petroglyphs, there are also six stone burial mounds with diameters of four to twelve meters. Check access and road conditions in the Terekti-Aulie area in advance.

Mausoleums and Architectural Forms

The Mausoleum of Alash Khan measures approximately 9.73 by 11.9 meters and is ten meters high. It is built mainly of fired bricks. Its geometric brick patterns are designed to resemble an Alasha carpet. In Kazakh historical tradition, Alash Khan is regarded as a legendary figure who united nomadic tribes and founded a large state. The mausoleum was first scientifically investigated in 1946 by an archaeological expedition to central Kazakhstan led by Alkey Margulan.

The Dombaul Monument also combines a distinctive form with tradition: a dome-like shape reminiscent of a yurt rises above a square base. The base measures 8.9 by 7.9 meters. The monument is traditionally associated with Dombaul, also known as Dobyn Mergen, a military leader connected with the Oghuz.

Baskamyr and Other Traces

Baskamyr is a historical and cultural monument of republican significance dating from the 9th to the 12th century. The fortified settlement measures 90 by 90 meters and includes defensive walls, ditches, and a citadel. The inhabitants of the time are associated with metalworking, livestock raising, and trade. Excavations uncovered pottery and objects made of iron, copper, and bronze. Living quarters, hearths, and remains of fired-brick kilns were also unearthed.

Archaeological work at Altynshoky revealed remains of smelted slag. A stone slab found there in 1935, bearing an inscription associated with a campaign against Tokhtamysh, is now held at the State Hermitage Museum. The sites’ historical connections and distinct architectural forms lend the region’s cultural history different chronological and architectural dimensions.

The Village of Ulytau and Its Visitor Attractions

Stops along the village walking route include stones bearing ancient inscriptions and drawings, as well as stone sculptures and monuments. An old poplar stands on the riverbank on Imanzhan Street. The route also includes a man-made mound several millennia old, as well as an ancient settlement on the riverbank whose existence has been confirmed by archaeological excavations. In the center of Ulytau, an avenue dedicated to members of the Alash movement commemorates their struggle for the freedom and self-determination of the Kazakh people.

The Ulytau Nature Reserve Museum presents the region’s flora and fauna, archaeological finds, and history from the Bronze Age to the present day. An ethno-village on the riverbank at the edge of Ulytau is designed to offer insights into Kazakh culture and traditional ways of life. Check which programs are offered and whether it is currently operating before your trip.

The Jochi Khan Historical and Cultural Complex in Ulytau District includes a museum, the Mausoleum and Monument of Jochi Khan, a tent camp, and a hotel. Visitor services may change, so confirm in advance what is currently available. Discover more destinations: Zhezkazgan, Bukhar-Zhyrau District.

For the broader travel overview: Qaraghandy.