Natural wonders of Altai Republic

The Altai Republic contains diverse geological and archaeological sites, including the UNESCO-listed Katun Nature Reserve and the Denisova Cave, where a distinct branch of early hominins was discovered. The region's topography features the Severo-Chuysky Range glaciers, the erosion-formed "stone mushrooms" of the Chulyshman Valley, and the vibrant red clay hills of the Kyzyl-Chin valley. Visitors can observe the confluence of the Chuya and Katun rivers and navigate high-altitude passes like Chike-Taman and Katu-Yaryk.

Natural Wonders of Altai — Map

A

Katun Nature Reserve

Katun Nature Reserve is a Russian zapovednik located in the highlands of the central Altai Mountains of south Siberia.

ЧуваевНиколай / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Denisova Cave

Denisova Cave is a cave in the Bashelaksky Range of the Altai Mountains in Siberia, Russia.

Alexei Rudoy / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Malyj Aktru

A valley glacier located within the Severo-Chuysky Range, reaching altitudes over 2,200 meters. It is a primary site for glaciological research and mountaineering in the Altai Mountains.

D

Vid na vodopad i dolinu r.Culysman

Overlooks the deep canyon of the Chulyshman River and the Kurkure waterfall. The viewpoint provides a panoramic perspective of the valley's steep sedimentary walls.

E

Mars-1

Known for its high concentration of iron oxides, this site features multi-colored clay hills in shades of red, orange, and yellow. The unique geological layers date back to the Neogene period.

F

Ukok

A remote high-altitude plateau and UNESCO World Heritage site. It is significant for its Pazyryk culture burial mounds and as the discovery site of the "Siberian Ice Maiden" mummy.

G

Vid na serpantin Katu Aryk

Offers a view of the steep, nine-turn mountain pass that descends 800 meters into the Chulyshman Valley. The pass is a critical transport link carved into the canyon wall.

H

Kamennye griby

These geological formations in the Ak-Kurum tract are the result of selective weathering. Massive stone "caps" sit atop softer rock stems, reaching heights up to seven meters.

I

Slianie Cui i Katuni

The point where the turquoise Katun River meets the muddy waters of the Chuya River. The confluence creates a visible boundary between the two currents against the mountain backdrop.

J

Vodoskat Ucar

A massive 160-meter cascade on the Chulcha River, formed by a rockfall less than 200 years ago. It is considered one of the largest waterfalls in the Altai region.

K

Korbu waterfall

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Teletskoye within the Altai Nature Reserve, this 12-meter waterfall drops from a sheer cliff into a rocky basin.

L

Retranslator v Aktase

A high-altitude radio relay station situated at 3,038 meters. The location provides 360-degree views of the North Chuya Range and the Kurai Steppe.

M

Vid s pervala Cike-Taman

A viewpoint atop a mountain pass on the Chuysky Trakt highway. It reaches an elevation of 1,295 meters and features sharp turns and steep slopes.

N

Certov palec

A distinctive rock pillar resembling a finger, located near Lake Aya. It serves as a natural observation point overlooking the Katun River valley and the surrounding foothills.

Other Lists

Altai Republic Essentials Altai Peaks and Passes Altai Lakes & Waterfalls Mountain Huts & Campgrounds Cultural Heritage