Tamgaly Tas
Tamgaly Tas is a petroglyph site located in Kazakhstan, approximately 170 kilometers northwest of Almaty. The site is renowned for its collection of ancient rock engravings, or petroglyphs, that depict various scenes, including hunting scenes, animals, and symbolic imagery. Tamgaly Tas has cultural and historical significance, representing a tangible connection to the past.
Key Features:
1. Petroglyphs: The main attraction of Tamgaly Tas is its extensive collection of petroglyphs, which are estimated to date back to the Bronze Age and early Iron Age. The engravings provide insights into the beliefs, lifestyle, and artistic expressions of ancient cultures.
2. Symbolic Imagery: The petroglyphs at Tamgaly Tas include depictions of animals, humans, hunting scenes, and abstract symbols. Some of the images are believed to have ritual or spiritual significance, offering a glimpse into the worldview of the societies that created them.
3. Cultural Heritage Site: Tamgaly Tas has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage candidate and holds protected status within Kazakhstan. Its importance lies not only in the rock art itself but also in the cultural and historical context it provides.
Preservation Efforts:
  • UNESCO Recognition:
    While Tamgaly Tas is not yet designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been proposed for consideration. This recognition emphasizes the site's global cultural and historical significance and can lead to increased international awareness and support for its preservation.
  • Protected Area Status:
    Tamgaly Tas is protected as a cultural and historical monument within Kazakhstan. Protective measures are in place to prevent vandalism, illegal excavation, and other activities that could harm the site.
  • Site Management:
    Management plans are developed to regulate visitor access and activities at Tamgaly Tas. This includes the establishment of pathways, signage, and designated viewing areas to minimize impact on the petroglyphs and their surroundings.
  • Scientific Research:
    Ongoing archaeological and scientific research is conducted at Tamgaly Tas to better understand the cultural context, dating, and meaning of the petroglyphs. This research contributes to the development of preservation strategies.
  • Visitor Education:
    Educational programs are implemented to inform visitors about the historical and cultural significance of Tamgaly Tas. This includes guided tours, interpretive materials, and outreach efforts to promote responsible tourism.
Legend:
The most "beautiful" legend is about a Buddhist mission, which back in the 10th century, traveling to Semirechye, made a break on the bank of the Ili River. However, the forces of nature did not let the travelers enjoy their rest - the earth shook, trembled and the formidable rocks could not keep their equanimity and majesty - a huge stone block with a rumble collapsed to the ground. Wise Buddhists decided that it was not for nothing, and, taking it as a sign, considered it necessary to return back to their native India. And on the splintered part of the rock they left behind images of Buddhas and bodhisattvas. What, however, this legend still does not explain the purpose for which these rock carvings were carved.
The second hypothesis attributes the authorship of the petroglyphs to the Kalmyks, who made drawings and inscriptions on the rocks in todo bichig - a language created in the middle of the 17th century by the Buddhist monk Zaya Pandita. Nikolai Pantusov's research is also in favor of this version. He makes such an assumption, referring to the stories of nomads wandering through these places, who retold him what they had heard from their ancestors. However, this information was also scanty and insufficient, so that the "Kalmyk" version remains in the category of assumptions and unconfirmed hypotheses.

Tourism Impact:
The increasing popularity of Tamgaly Tas as a tourist destination can pose challenges related to visitor impact. Managing tourism in a way that minimizes disturbance to the site is an ongoing concern.
Environmental Factors:
Natural elements, such as weathering and erosion, can affect the preservation of the petroglyphs over time. Monitoring and mitigating these environmental factors are important for the site's long-term conservation.
In Summary:
Preserving Tamgaly Tas involves a combination of protective measures, site management, scientific research, and educational initiatives. The site's proposed UNESCO World Heritage status underscores its significance on a global scale, and ongoing efforts aim to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from this unique cultural treasure.
Route:
There are two ways to get to Tamgaly Tas: by tour bus and by your own car. In the first case, you will only have to take care of buying a tour. And if you decide to go to Tamgaly Tas on your own, then the question "how to get there?" will be in the first place.
Tamgaly Tas tract is located on the bank of the Ili River. It takes 2 hours to get there from Almaty (the route length from the city limits is about 85 km)

You should leave the city on the Kapchagai highway (Almaty-Taldykorgan highway). Drive straight north towards the region (about 64 km). The road goes past the town of Kapchagai, the traffic police post and across the bridge to the other side of the Ili River. After the sign that it is 500 m to the fork of Bakanas-Taldykorgan, you need to change to the left lane.
At the traffic junction turn to the exit, passing through the ring, turn left and follow the road for another 12.5 km along the highway A355 (the necessary road is shown by the sign to the training ground of the Ministry of Emergency Situations).
When you see a green building and concrete slabs (on the left side), turn left onto the country road, after 750 m turn smoothly right and after 3 km (almost to the river) turn sharply right and drive along the bank of the Ili. An additional reference point for turning is the sign to the training ground of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
After about 3 km you will see rocks. This is the Tamagly Tas tract.
Sustainable Practices and Recommendations for Visitors of Tamgaly Tas:
  • Respect Petroglyphs:
    Avoid touching, scratching, or attempting to enhance the petroglyphs in any way. Physical contact can accelerate their deterioration. Observe from a respectful distance.
  • Stay on Designated Paths:
    Stick to designated paths and trails to avoid trampling on vegetation and disturbing the surrounding ecosystem. Follow established routes to minimize impact.
  • Educational Signage:
    Support the installation of educational signage that informs visitors about the historical and cultural significance of the petroglyphs. Increased awareness leads to greater respect.
  • No Littering:
    Carry out all litter, including small items like cigarette butts. Dispose of waste responsibly in designated bins to maintain the site's cleanliness.
  • Camping Regulations:
    If camping is allowed in the vicinity, adhere to designated camping areas and follow Leave No Trace principles. Minimize campfire impact and pack out all waste.
  • Photography Etiquette:
    Use photography responsibly. Avoid using flashes, which can contribute to the deterioration of petroglyphs. Respect the privacy and wishes of other visitors when taking pictures.
  • Contribute to Conservation Efforts:
    Contribute to local conservation initiatives supporting Tamgaly Tas. Participate in community-driven projects aimed at preserving and restoring the site
  • Pre-Visit Research:
    Conduct research about Tamgaly Tas before your visit. Understand its historical and cultural significance, enabling a deeper appreciation during your exploration.
  • Visitor Limits:
    Support and adhere to visitor limits imposed by authorities. Sustainable tourism involves managing visitor numbers to prevent overcrowding and minimize impact.
  • Local Artisans and Souvenirs:
    Purchase souvenirs from local artisans or community-run shops. This ensures that the economic benefits of tourism reach the local community.
  • Transportation Choices:
    Choose eco-friendly transportation options when traveling to Tamgaly Tas. Carpooling, public transit, or low-emission vehicles can help reduce the environmental footprint.
  • Respect for Local Communities:
    Interact respectfully with local communities. Learn about their customs and traditions, and seek permission before entering private lands.
  • Report Vandalism or Unauthorized Activity:
    Report any instances of vandalism, looting, or unauthorized activities to local authorities or site management. Be a responsible steward of cultural heritage.
  • Environmental Awareness:
    Foster environmental awareness by participating in educational programs or workshops that highlight the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage.
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