Bayanaul National Park
One of Kazakhstan's protected areas and the country's first national park, this stunning area of natural beauty lies in the northeast of the country, in Pavlodar Province. Enjoying a continental climate, temperatures soar to nearly 90 degrees fahrenheit in the summer and while they drop well below freezing in winter, the park is something of an oasis, without the dust storms common in the rest of the province.
Bayanaul National Park was opened to maintain the natural vegetation and animal species of the surrounding mountainous region. There are more than 450 species of tree to be found in the park, including indigenous species such as Black Alder and Bayanaul Pine. In the meadows, strawberries grow in abundance when they're in season, meanwhile the forests are full of mushrooms. What's more, the park is inhabited by a myriad of birds and animals, delighting the visiting nature enthusiasts. With four lakes, watersports are popular, while geologists and climbers flock to Bayanaul National Park to gaze at its interesting rock formations.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Animal and bird watching
Nature lovers are spoiled for choice among the flora and fauna in Bayanaul. In the forests are roe deer, squirrels and badgers not to mention its protected herd of endangered argali. The park, with its lakes, trees and skies, is also home to eagles, kestrels, herons and cranes among many others.
Fishing
Lake Toraygir was named for the Kazakh poet Sultanmahmut Toraygir and it attracts many fishermen with its ample stocks of carp in particular. The banks of Byrzhankol, the park’s smallest lake, are home to a small fishing village and many spend the day here, angling for a distinct species of carp.
Holy Cave
One of Bayanaul’s most popular destinations is the Holy Cave. Accessed by a hike including a steep wooden staircase, visitors flock to take part in the cave’s legendary rituals. These include a rite performed by parents who wish to conceive and a superstition that asks visitors to make wishes with their hands on the walls of the cave.
Rock climbing
Climbers flock to the park to take on the park’s three mountains, Naizatas, Bold Peak and Akbet, the latter of which is the highest point in Bayanaul. At the top lie several seasonal lakes that dry out during the warm summer months.
Stones
Centuries of water and wind erosion have created rock formations with fascinating shapes, and people come from all over to photograph and give the shapes their own designations. Among the most famous are a rock that resembles an old lady’s head and one that has been euphemistically named ‘masculine dignity’.
Water recreation
Visitors flock to the park’s two biggest lakes to enjoy the waters. Bayanaul Village is located on the banks of Lake Sabyndykol with its legendary soft waters, said to feel almost soapy to the touch. The smaller Jasybay boasts a beach lapped by clear, clean waters - perfect for swimming.
Kazakhstan Regions
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
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