Central Asia's Spectacular Canyons
A Journey into Time: Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Charyn Canyons
Charyn Canyon is situated within the Charyn National Park, which was established to preserve its unique natural and geological features. Founded on February 23, 2004, the park is home to numerous rare and endangered animal species listed in the Red Book. One of the park's most notable areas is the Sarytogai natural
boundary, where protected forests grow, including the remarkable Sogdian ash trees that have existed since the Palaeogene epoch. What makes Charyn unique? The park boasts an extraordinary aspen
grove, one of only two in the world, with its counterpart located in North America. This ancient grove, a natural monument, is approximately 5 million years old and is protected under the aegis of UNESCO.
What makes Charyn Canyon interesting ?
The most famous area of unique interest in the park is undoubtedly Charyn Canyon. This picturesque locale impresses with its stunning
landscapes. The canyon depth reaches 200 meters, with the height of the bluff mountains ranging from 150 to 300 meters. The canyon itself is a natural monument formed from sedimentary rocks over 12 million years old. The landscapes are virtually miraculous, especially at sunset when Charyn Canyon turns scarlet, pink, and orange as the sun disappears behind the horizon. The quietude is only interrupted by the gentle bubbling of the Charyn River as it washes against the cliffs below. This sight leaves no one indifferent. One of the canyon's major attractions is the so-called "Valley of Castles," a formation of rock deposits resembling towers created by unfathomable giants. The Valley of Castles spans over 2 kilometers in length, with a width ranging from 20 to 80 meters in certain places.
Fairy Tale Canyon: Where Dreams and Reality Intertwine
Nestled on the southern shores of Issyk-Kul, Fairytale Canyon, also known as Skazka Canyon, is a mesmerizing natural wonder renowned for its vibrant red clay rock formations. This captivating gorge lies approximately 120 kilometers from Balykchy, near the village of Tosor.
Fairytale Canyon has become a magnet for tourists drawn to its easily accessible location and breathtaking landscapes characterized bystriking contrasts.
Thousands of years of relentless erosion have sculpted the canyon's terrain into a mesmerizing array of whimsical rock and clay figures. The canyon's composition of multicolored clays, minerals, and rocks further enhances its picturesque appeal.
Among the canyon's many natural sculptures, some have earned their own distinct names. The most recognizable is the aptly named "Chinese Wall," bearing an uncanny resemblance to the iconicarchitectural landmark.
Interestingly, Fairytale Canyon experiences minimal snowfall during the winter months, making it a year-round destination to witness its splendor.Conveniently situated near both the road and the lakeshore, Fairytale Canyon serves as an ideal spot for camping, picnics, or simply basking in the beauty of its surroundings.