Central Tien Shan
The Central Tien Shan is the highest and most majestic part of the Tien Shan mountain system. This is a huge “knot” of mountain ranges with a total length of about 500 km from west to east and 300 km from north to south. This is the most picturesque region of the Tien Shan, representing complex system intertwined mountain ranges (Terskey-Ala-Too, Sary-Jaz, Kui-Liu, Tengri-Tag, Enilchek, Kakshaal-Too, Meridional Ridge, etc.), crowned by the majestic peaks of the northernmost of the highest mountains on the planet - Lenin Peak (7134 m ), Pobeda Peak (7439 m) and the fantastic Khan Tengri Pyramid (7010 m, probably the most beautiful and difficult peak of the Tien Shan to climb). In the north, the Boro-Khoro ridge connects the Tien Shan with the Dzungarian Alatau system. Almost the entire territory of this region is located above 1500 m above sea level, and the mountain peaks are covered with centuries-old snow caps, giving rise to many dozens of glaciers, rivers and streams. There are over 8,000 ice fields and glaciers here, the most representative of which are the Southern (length about 60 km) and Northern (35 km) Inylchek (Enilchek, “The Little Prince”), Jetyoguz-Karakol (22 km), Kaindy (26 km) , Semenova (21 km) and others, whose total area exceeds 8100 sq. km.
The relief of most of the Tien Shan ridges is high-mountainous, strongly dissected by numerous valleys (the northern slopes are much more rugged than the southern ones), with highly developed glacial forms. There are many screes on the slopes, there are glaciers, on glaciers there are moraines, and at the foot there are numerous alluvial cones. Mountain river valleys have a large difference in height and a clearly visible stepped profile with flat swampy terraces - “sazs”. Many large valleys are surrounded by high-mountain plateaus - "syrts", whose height sometimes reaches 4700 m. On the plateaus and highlands of the mid-altitude part of the ridges there are high-mountain pastures "jailoo", covered with forbs and alpine meadows. At altitudes from 1000 to 2000 meters, the foothills of the ridges are bordered by foothill adyrs. There are about 500 lakes here, the largest of which are Song-Kol (Son-Kul - “disappearing lake”, 270 sq. km) and Chatyr-Kol (Chatyr-Kul, 153 sq. km).
The Central Tien Shan is a real Mecca of international mountaineering, therefore it is the vicinity of the seven-thousanders that is the most studied part of the Tien Shan. The most popular points of attraction for climbers and trekkers are the areas of the Tengri-Tag ridge and Khan Tengri peak ("Lord of the Sky", 7010 m), Tomur Pass, Pobeda Peak (7439 m) and the Inylchek glacier, the basin of the unique Merzbacher Lake in the eastern part of the mountain systems, Semenov-Tien-Shansky peak (4875 m), Free Korea peak (4740 m) and the famous Crown (4855 m) as part of the Kyrgyz ridge, Communism peak (7505 m) and Korzhenevskaya peak (7105 m, this is already the Pamirs, but few climbers would agree to pass by these great mountains), the ice walls of the Kakshaal-Too (Kokshaal-Tau) ridge, which includes three peaks with a height of more than 6000 m and about a dozen peaks with a height of more than 5000 m, the Ak-Shyyrak massif and many other, no less attractive regions.
Despite the harsh climate and mountainous landscape, the territory of the Tien Shan has been inhabited since ancient times, as evidenced by numerous stone sculptures, rock paintings and burial grounds scattered in abundance throughout this territory. mountainous country. Historical and cultural monuments of the medieval period are widely represented - fortified settlements like Koshoy-Korgon, which arose on the basis of nomadic camps, khan headquarters and on caravan routes from the Fergana Valley through the Tien Shan. One of the most famous and popular tourist sites in this region is the Tash-Rabat caravanserai (X-XII centuries), built in the inaccessible but picturesque Kara-Koyun gorge. Also widely known are Saimaluu-Tash or Saimaly-Tash (“Patterned Stones”) - a whole gallery of rock paintings in the gorge of the same name (more than 107 thousand petroglyphs of the 2nd-3rd millennia BC) not far from Kazarman, stone sculptures of Kyr-Dzhol (VI -VIII centuries) on the shores of Lake Song-Kol, petroglyphs of the Chumysh rocks (III-I thousand years BC, Fergana Range), numerous rock carvings of the Issyk-Kul, Naryn and Talas regions. The ancient caravan route through the Torugart pass (height 3752 m) is also worthy of attention. This long (total length about 700 km) route from Central Asia to Chinese Kashgar (Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region) passes through cold gorges and narrow passes of Terksey-Ala-Too, Moldo-Too, At-Bashi and Maydantag, through spectacularly beautiful landscapes and the most ancient caravan routes of the Great Silk Road.
Western Tien Shan
The Western Tien Shan mountain system lies on the very edge of the Tien Shan mountainous country, reaching out with its spurs to the hot sands of the deserts of Central Asia. The relief of these places is somewhat lower than in the central part of the mountain system, the leveling surfaces are more extensive, and the elevated plateaus are less numerous (Palatkhon, Angrenskoye, Ugamskoye and Karzhantau - all in the west of the region). The highest points of the Western Tien Shan are Chatkal Peak (4503 m) in the ridge of the same name, Manas Peak (4482 m) in the Talas Alatau and Mount Baubash-Ata (4427 m) in the western part of the Fergana Range. Glaciation is insignificant, the snow line runs at altitudes of 3600-3800 m on the northern slopes and 3800-4000 m on the southern ones. The rivers of the Western Tien Shan (Angren, Akbulak, Itokar, Karaunkur, Koksu, Maydantal, Maili-Suu, Naryn, Oygaing, Padysha-Ata, Pskem, Sandalash, Ugam, Chatkal and others) have rapids, are fed by glaciers and snow, and flow along narrow gorges (in the upper reaches), in the middle reaches they usually have wide valleys, but in the lower reaches they again form canyon shapes. Best places for rafting and rafting than local rivers, it is simply difficult to find.
The vegetation of the Western Tien Shan, despite the low amount of precipitation that falls here, is quite diverse - steppes and deciduous forests in the lower belt, shrubs and meadows in the middle, as well as alpine meadows and high-mountain heaths closer to the peaks. It is home to about 370 species of animals and approximately 1,200 species higher plants, and the complex terrain leads to the formation of numerous local ecocenoses inhabited by unique species of plants and animals. Therefore, the mountainous regions of the Western Tien Shan, although developed by tourists to a much lesser extent than the eastern regions, have their own undoubted set of attractions. The level of difficulty of the hikes carried out here is much lower, so less prepared tourists can take part in them, and their relatively short length makes it even easier. The easiest routes are laid through the Keksuysky, Kuraminsky, Sargardon-Kumbel, Ugamsky and Chatkalsky ridges. Somewhat more difficult, II-III categories, go through the Talas Alatau, Pskem and Maydantal (Maidantag) ridges, along the Baubash-Ata, Isfan-Dzhaylyau, Kekirim-Tau (Fergana ridge) mountains, and the most difficult routes pass in these same areas, capturing the surroundings of the peaks Chatkal (4503 m), Manas (4482 m) and Kattakumbel (3950 m) and Babayob (3769 m), fortunately the terrain here is so diverse that it allows you to pass sections of all difficulty levels within one route.
The most favorable time for trekking in the mountains of the Western Tien Shan is from the end of April to the end of October, but already in March-May there is a huge number of both organized groups and “wild” tourists.
The Tien Shan Mountains excite the imagination of many, many travelers. How I want to come here, look at the snow caps with my own eyes, and feel the power and strength of this place!
To be honest, not everyone succeeds in this. Why? As a rule, there may be several reasons, but among the main ones I would like to highlight the following. Remember where the Tien Shan is located. Agree, this is far from the center of the intersection of the main tourist routes of the planet, which means getting to this point on the planet is both long and expensive. Only the most desperate can afford this. Secondly, in order to set off to conquer the Tien Shan mountains, considerable physical training. For a beginner, such a journey can actually be dangerous.
However, this article will not only tell you where the Tien Shan is located. In addition, the reader will receive valuable information about many other things. For example, about the characteristic features of a given object, its climate, legends and myths, flora and fauna.
Section 1. General information
Tien Shan Mountains, photos of which can be found in almost any atlas telling about geographical features of our planet, are located in Central Asia on the territory of several states (Kyrgyzstan, China, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan).
A significant part of the western ridge is located in Kyrgyzstan, the eastern half extends into China, the northern and western ends are in Kazakhstan, and the southern extreme points- within the borders of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
It should be noted that the Tien Shan ridge lies mainly in latitudinal and sublatitudinal zones. These are some of the highest mountains in the world, among which there are many peaks over 6.0 thousand meters high.
The highest points include Pobeda Peak (about 7,440 meters), rising on the border of Kyrgyzstan and China, and Khan Tengri (almost 7,000 meters), located in Kyrgyzstan near Kazakhstan. It’s difficult for residents of lowland areas to even imagine what it’s like to live at the foot of giant mountain giants, the peaks of which rise far above the level of cloud formation.
In general, the mountain system is divided into several regions: Northern, Western, Southwestern, Eastern, Internal and Central.
Section 2. Blue Mountains, or Tien Shan. Mountain climate
The climate of this system is mainly of the sharply continental type, characterized by hot and dry summers with little precipitation.
Winter is characterized by severity and high temperature changes, little cloudiness and excessive dry air. In the mountains there is a significant duration sunshine, which amounts to up to 2700 hours per year. Of course, such data hardly means anything to an ordinary person, so for comparison we note that, for example, in Moscow the annual average is only 1,600 hours. Changes in these values are influenced by high mountain clouds and landscape complexity.
The amount of precipitation depends on zonation and increases with elevation. The least precipitation falls on the plains (150-200 mm per year), and in mid-mountain areas this figure reaches up to 800 mm per year.
Most of them occur in the spring and summer. High dry air affects the formation of snow cover, which differs in different areas. For example, the Tien Shan mountains in Kazakhstan (northwestern slopes) have a snow line formed at an altitude of 3600-3800 meters, in the Central part - at an altitude of 4200-4500 meters and 4000-4200 meters in the Eastern regions. That is, altitude largely determines the conditions for the formation of the climate of a particular area.
Large accumulations of snow and ice on the slopes of the Tien Shan Mountains with the onset of heat can lead to dangerous avalanches. This is why travelers should be extremely careful.
Section 3. Geographical features
The Tien Shan Mountains are located in Central and Central Asia and are among the highest mountains of alpine folding on the entire planet. At an altitude of 4000 m, traces of ancient leveled surfaces have been preserved.
It should be noted that the Tien Shan mountains, photos of which literally amaze with their magnificence, are still under tectonic and seismological activity.
It is difficult to imagine that over thirty peaks of the mountain range have a height of more than 6000 meters. Of these, the highest are Pobeda Peak (7439 m) and Khan Tengri Peak (almost 7000 m). The length of the system from west to east is 2500 km.
Formed from igneous, and intermountain depressions - from sedimentary rocks. The height of the Tien Shan mountains, of course, leaves its mark on their features. The main part of the slopes has high-mountainous terrain with glaciation forms and screes rocks.
It has been established that at an altitude of over 3000 m the belt begins permafrost. Between the mountain systems there are intermountain basins (Issyk-Kul, Naryn and Fergana).
To date, mineral deposits have been discovered in the depths of the Tien Shan: cadmium, zinc, antimony and mercury. And in the depressions there are oil reserves. Lots of glaciers and avalanche-prone snowfields. If you imagine where the Tien Shan is located from an economic point of view, it immediately becomes clear how great the role of this mountain system is in the well-being of the surrounding states.
In addition, it should be noted that Chu, Tarim, Ili, etc.) and lakes (Issyk-Kul, Chatyr-Kul and Song-Kel) belong to reservoirs of internal flow, and therefore have a significant impact on the climate of the Tien system -Shan. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China and Uzbekistan have long learned to profitably use these features for industrial purposes.
In general, the mountain range consists of the following orographic regions:
- Northern Tien Shan, including the Kyrgyz, Ketmen, Kungei-Alatau and Trans-Ili Alatau ridges;
- Eastern Tien Shan - Borokhoro, Boglo-Ula, Kuruktag, Sarmin-Ula, Iren-Khabyrga, Karlytag Halyktau;
- Western Tien Shan - Talas Alatau, Karatau, Ugam, Pskem and Chatkal ranges;
- Southwestern Tien Shan: the southwestern part of the Fergana Range and the mountains surrounding the Fergana Valley;
- The Inner Tien Shan is located within the Kyrgyz ridge, the Fergana ridge, the Issyk-Kul depression, the Kokshaltau ridge and the Akshiyrak mountain range.
West of Central regions Three mountain ranges are formed, separated by intermountain depressions and connected by the Fergana Range. The eastern region of the Tien Shan consists of two mountain ranges up to 5000 m high, separated by depressions. Typical for this area are flat hills up to 4000 m - syrts.
The Tien Shan Mountains have a glaciated area of 7300 sq. km. The largest glacier is South Inylchek. A significant territory is occupied by mountain steppes and semi-deserts. The northern slopes are covered mainly with coniferous forests and meadow-steppe, which above turn into subalpine and on the syrts - a landscape of cold deserts.
Section 4. The height of the Tien Shan mountains: myths, legends and features of the origin of the name
Many inquisitive travelers know that translated from Chinese language this name means “Heavenly Mountains”. According to the information of the Soviet geographer E.M. Murzaev, who studied geographical terminology Turkic language, this name is borrowed from the word Tengritag (“Tengri” - “divine, sky, God” and “tag” - “mountain”).
The Tien Shan, photos of which are found quite often in periodicals, are famous for many legends associated with the description of certain places, most likely representing local attractions. Both the first and second stories given in this section, tell about the Alatoo mountain range, located in the Northern Tien Shan region.
Manchzhypy-Ata
One of the world-famous attractions of Alatoo is the beautiful valley of the sacred springs of Manchzhypy-Ata, which is a popular place of pilgrimage. Here is the mazar of the great teacher of Sufism and the holy disseminator of the Islamic faith among the nomadic Kirghiz. Manchzhypy-Ata is not the name of a person. This is how in various Turkic languages they called a respectable person, the patron of the area and wanderers, the righteous person or the owner of fertile pastures. The valley consists of many gorges, from the ground of which miraculous springs flow. Each of them is considered healing, and their unusual properties proven by several leading experts on the planet.
Of course, in ancient times these springs could also serve as a watering place for animals. But over time, the preacher of Islam was endowed with the miraculous powers of the owner of the springs.
Those who have visited the Tien Shan mountains in Kyrgyzstan, the photos of which are especially breathtaking, have probably heard the statements of local experts that the springs endow those in need with the gift of family well-being, bestow knowledge and insight, and relieve infertility.
Fairytale of Alatoo
This tale includes a picturesque place located in the seasonal channel of rain mudflows flowing from the foothills of Terskey-Alatoo to Lake Issyk-Kul. Despite the fact that the clay cliffs of the gorge, overgrown with bushes, look sad at first, if you take a closer look, you will be surprised at how much they change their appearance and appear in all their splendor.
Thanks to this, the name of the canyon “Fairy Tale” appeared. A fantastic world opens up here: multi-colored rocks of bright shades frozen in unusual forms, and natural sculptures from limestone and sand rocks grow out of the ground, looking like prehistoric inhabitants or ruins of castles.
The legend about this miracle of nature appeared quite recently. It says that the beauty of the gorge is unique, and if you come back here again, the gorge will look different every time. That is why excursions are organized here with enviable regularity, and the flow of travelers has not dried up for many years.
By the way, not everyone knows that in addition to Alatoo, the name of the ridge has several other variants - Atatau, Altai and Alai, which means “Motley Mountains” in Turkic. Most likely, this is a description of the entire territory of the Northern Tien Shan, which is famous for its inconstancy and diversity. Here, green meadows intertwine with rivers, snow-white peaks are adjacent to multi-colored rocks covered with coniferous forests and bright foothill steppes.
Section 5. Inland waters
The Tien Shan Mountains in Kyrgyzstan, as indeed in all other countries, are the territory of drainage formation, where many rivers originate from glaciers and snowfields of the glacial-nival zone and end in drainless and inland lakes or form “dry deltas” when water is absorbed into the sediments of the plains and used for irrigation.
All the main rivers that have their sources in the Tien Shan mountains belong to the basins of the Syr Darya, Talas, Ili, Chu, Manas, etc. The rivers are fed by snow or glaciers. The peak flow is observed in the spring-summer period. The waters are used to irrigate not only the interior valleys and depressions, but also the neighboring plains.
Large lakes of the mountain system are located at the bottom of intermountain basins and belong to the tectonic period. Such reservoirs are the salt lake Issyk-Kul and the high-mountain lakes Chatyr-Kul and Son-Kul, which are almost always covered with ice. There are also tar and periglacial lakes (Merzbacher). The largest body of water Eastern region Tien Shan - Bagrashkel, connected to the Kanchedarya River.
There are many small reservoirs, most of which are deep with steep banks and have a dammed origin (Lake Sary-Chelek).
Section 6. Glaciation area
The number of glaciers in the mountain system is more than 7,700. Among them there are valley, hanging and cirque types.
The total area of glaciation is quite impressive - over 900 square meters. km. The Terskey-Alatau ridge is characterized by glaciers of flattened peaks, consisting of underdeveloped moraine formations.
The Tien Shan Mountains are forming glaciers at a continuous pace. This means that the slowly receding part is replaced by others at the same speed.
Worldwide glacial period the entire surface was covered with a thick layer of ice. Until now, in different mountainous regions of the world you can find the remains of general glaciation - ridges, moraines, cirques, troughs and high-mountain glacial lakes.
Let us note that all river systems of Central Asia, without exception, have their sources from the famous Tien Shan glaciers. One of them is the large Naryn River (Kyrgyzstan). The Tien Shan Mountains are the highest here, which means they may well contribute to the formation of such powerful waterways.
Smaller glaciers feed mountain rivers - tributaries of the Naryn. Descending from the peaks they overcome huge way and gain gigantic strength. A whole cascade of large and medium-sized hydroelectric power stations has been built in Naryn.
The pearl of the Tien Shan Mountains is considered to be the picturesque Lake Issyk-Kul, which ranks 7th on the list of the largest and deepest reservoirs. It is located in a giant tectonic basin between mountain ranges. Both locals and numerous tourists love to relax here, coming with whole families or noisy groups of friends.
The area of the lake is 6332 square meters. m, and its depth reaches more than 700 m. You can add here other large lakes of the Inner Tien Shan - Song-Kel and Chatyr-Kel.
In high mountain areas there are many small reservoirs of glacial and periglacial type, which have virtually no effect on the climate of the area, but are considered favorite places for recreation.
It is unlikely that anyone will dispute the fact that, say, the Tien Shan mountains in Kyrgyzstan, pictures of which are quite common, are a place that is worth visiting at least once in your life. The same trend is observed in other countries. Every year, more and more travelers from different parts of the world come here on vacation.
Section 7. Features of the local fauna
If you think about where the Tien Shan is located, you can assume that its fauna is certainly represented by the inhabitants of the desert and steppe fauna.
The most numerous representatives of the local fauna include goitered gazelle, ground squirrel, stomp hare, gerbil, jerboa, etc.
Among the reptiles there are snakes (patterned snake, copperhead, viper) and lizards.
The most common birds are larks, bustards, partridges, and imperial eagles.
But in the mid-mountain regions live representatives of the forest fauna - wild boar, brown bear, lynx, wolf, fox, roe deer, etc. The predominant birds here are nutcracker and crossbill.
Higher in the mountain ranges live marmots, voles, argali and stoats. The most beautiful and rare predator is the snow leopard (irbis). Birds include eagles, vultures, lark, alpine jackdaw, etc.
Waterfowl species (ducks, geese) live on mountain lakes. During the migration period, you can see swans in Issyk-Kul, and cormorants and black storks in Bagrashkel. There are also a lot of fish in the lakes (chebak, marinka, osman, etc.).
Section 8. Pobeda Peak - history of conquest
Many argue that the Tien Shan mountains in Kazakhstan, whose height often exceeds 6000 meters, give the impression of giant giants that reach almost to the sky. However, the highest point is still not here.
Pobeda Peak ( Chinese name Tomur) is located in Kyrgyzstan near the borders of China. It is included in the list of the highest peaks (7439 m).
Presumably, the peak was first conquered by a group of Soviet climbers in 1938. Although there are doubts that they have reached the top. In 1943, in honor of the victory over the Germans at Stalingrad, the USSR government poisoned a team to Pobeda Peak.
Also in 1955, two teams went to the summit. The route of one of them ran from the Chon-Ton pass in Kazakhstan, and the other along the Zvezdochka glacier in Uzbekistan. Because of weather conditions the team from Kazakhstan, having reached 6000 m, was forced to descend back. Of the 12 people in the group, only one survived. Since then the mountains have had a bad reputation. The ascent continues to this day. These are mostly daredevil climbers from Russia and the CIS.
Section 9. Heavenly Lake of the Tien Shan
Hidden 110 km from Urumqi, high in the mountains of China, is the purest lake Tianchi (“Heavenly Lake”), shaped like a crescent. The surface area of the reservoir is about 5.0 square meters. km, depth - over 100 m.
Residents call the lake the “Pearl of the Heavenly Mountain.” It is fed by meltwater mountain peaks. In summer, the reservoir saves people from the heat with its coolness. Tianchi is surrounded by snow-white peaks, the slopes of which are covered with coniferous forests, and flower meadows. One of the peaks is Bogdafeng Peak, more than 6000 m high. Eagles soar in the sky above the lake.
Yours former name the lake received it in 1783. It was formerly called Yaochi (“Jade Lake”). Tradition says that the reservoir was the font of the Taoist goddess Xi Wangmu, the keeper of springs and the fruits of immortality. A peach tree grows on the shore, whose fruits give people eternal life.
Section 10. Mountain tourism
Many travelers, especially fans of sports recreation, try to visit the Tien Shan at least once in their lives. Photos taken by travelers who have already been here will help someone decide on a new vacation destination. And someone will look at them, anticipating the next trip.
The main area of all the above-mentioned countries consists of mountainous areas. It is not surprising that these regions are ideal for the development of ski tourism. On mountain slopes There are many resorts open, the slopes of which are suitable for both professionals and beginners. For convenience, there are equipment rental points, and experienced instructors will help you master your riding skills.
For example, in Kyrgyzstan the ski resorts Oru-Sai, Orlovka, Kashka-Suu and Karakol are very popular.
The ski season opens in December and ends at the end of March. The best months for descents are February and March. In high mountain areas, snow does not melt on glaciers even in summer. Fans of freeride can use a helicopter or car to climb to higher elevations. For climbers, ascents to peaks and glaciers and descents are organized. The mountain slopes are suitable for skiing and snowboarding.
“Heavenly Mountains” are well known to any Chinese. This is what the Tien Shan mountain system is called in China. China is not the only country, where the heavenly mountain ranges stretch. The rocky formation crosses countries such as Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan. The ridge stretches across all of Central Asia.
Features of high mountains
The Tien Shan system has many peaks reaching heights of 6000 meters or more. The unique mountains also have an amazing ecosystem. Their appearance and views are indescribably beautiful, and the pits between them are replete with lakes. There are also fast rivers at the foot of the mountains.
The total length of the ridge is 2500 km. The entire mountain system is divided into the following areas:
- Central;
- Northern;
- Oriental;
- West;
- Southwestern.
The highest point of the ridge is Pobeda Peak. Its total height is 7439 meters. At one time, Pyotr Semenov and Thomas Atkinson were involved in research on the system. Subsequently, these figures published books about the Tien Shan mountain system, describing their travels and observations in them. They made many discoveries that helped to better understand the ecosystem of the Tien Shan range.
Famous mountain lake
Lake Tianchi is a natural landmark of China. It is located in the Tien Shan mountain system, 100 km from Urumqi. The height of the lake above sea level is 1900 meters. This is the same jade pond, the waters of which in ancient times were endowed with magical properties.
Legends say that the Goddess Sivanmu herself once washed herself in the watery surface of the lake. The reservoir is fed by mountain glaciers, so the water in it is very clean. The nature around is untouched by man and incredibly beautiful.
In summer, tourists relax near the shores of Tianchi, but the water in the lake is not suitable for swimming, as it still remains too cold even on the hottest days.
Tianchi is a lake, looking into which you can see its sandy bottom, as well as reflections of snow-white peaks.
Climate around the Chinese mountains
The arid and sharply continental climate of the Tien Shan is characterized by snowy winters and hot summers.
The higher the mountain peaks are, the more precipitation there is. Some mountainous areas are subject to strong winds. The lowlands of the mountain range receive little rainfall and are most suitable for tourism.
Wildlife of the Tien Shan
The mountain range is listed as a UNESCO heritage site. Its territory is inhabited by ferrets, hares, jerboas, gophers, mole voles, mice, rats and poisonous snakes.
Birds are represented in the form of larks, sandgrouses, eagles, bustards and partridges. Of the large animals, the ridge is favored by brown bears, lynxes, wild boars, wolves, foxes, badgers, martens, squirrels and roe deer.
Sometimes you can see a snow leopard in the highlands. This predator is listed in the Red Book, so they are a rare guest in all their habitats.
Tulips and irises grow on the slopes of the Tien Shan. Tansy trees, cedars, spruces, and aspens grow tall. These places are full of herbs and valuable medicinal plants. During the flowering period of various herbs mountain range turns into a colorful fairy tale.
Tien Shan and tourism
The main type of tourism on the territory of the ridge is hiking and mountaineering. Near mountain range There is a Confucian temple in Kufu. At some bases there are ski slopes.
There are tourist areas and hotels around the mountains. There are restaurants, nearby cities have everything necessary for a person infrastructure.
In some places you can ride a cable car. The most popular hiking trails are equipped with parking lots for tourists. Sometimes on high altitude There are campsites and hotels with private rooms. The Tien Shan is so vast and unpredictable that it does not tolerate a rash approach. It is best to go to the mountains with a trusted instructor, observing safety precautions, and notifying the relevant Chinese authorities about your route.
Tien Shan has stunning views, rare nature, fresh air and healing energy floating in the atmosphere. These mountains have always been considered one of the pearls of China, of which, by the way, there are quite a few in the country. They beckoned and beckoned tourists to their heights, opening up unprecedented places for the bravest of them, etched in their memory like the best memories.
Stunningly beautiful Tan Shan mountains surrounded by pristine nature. ( 30 photos)
To the Dzhukuchak pass.
We begin our journey from the shore of Issyk-Kul. The water of the lake cannot be called anything other than crystal; it seems that all the cosmic energy accumulated by the surrounding glaciers, the power of the sun and wind, is concentrated in this giant sapphire in the silver frame of the mountains. Here is the village, with interesting name- Tamga. The name comes from a stone lying among the hills south of the lake. The stone is engraved with an inscription from the 12th century - “OM MANI PADME HUM” - translated: “glory be to the lotus jewel”, this is an old Buddhist prayer.
Northern slope of the Terskey Ala-Too ridge. Early morning, grass wet with dew, blue geraniums in the shade of fir trees. The Silver River rustles in the gorge. Clouds quickly pass over nearby peaks. The greenery is very bright in the dazzling white light of the sun's rays. The paints just beg to be applied to the canvas. The going is hard, the climb is steep. Suddenly the trees part and a wide valley opens up in front of us. Ahead on the left bank are the Tseban tents.
They are very hospitable people, treating passers-by to tea, flatbreads with butter, and other things. It is noteworthy that you can pay for help with an ordinary rope. All those who have traveled through Central Asia will confirm that rope is the greatest value in these parts.
Meanwhile, clouds obscured the sky, rare snowflakes appeared, and gusts of cold wind flew from the glaciers. Altitude 3,400 meters, cold, arms and legs go numb.
Petrov Glacier.
Ahead, all white, from the foot to the base, is the Ak-Shyirak massif, translated as White Shin. The peaks of the mountains on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul are visible behind. This majestic massif is so beautiful that it looks like magic castle snow queen. There is a village nearby, there is at least some kind of civilization here. Cars are driving, and on one of the dump trucks we reached the base of mining prospectors who intended to mine gold here. We go to visit them, intending to get food.
Cars are driving, and on one of the dump trucks we reached the base of mining prospectors who intended to mine gold here. We go to visit them, intending to get food.
The discipline at the mine is very strict, they work in shifts for ten hours a day, for 2-3 weeks, during the shift there is prohibition, there is no alcohol at all. We were pleasantly surprised by the dining room; we were given delicious food and set on our way.
We had to climb the Petrov glacier, 15 km long, to the Jaman-Su pass (4,600 meters) and descend to cross the massif in the middle.
walk along flat ice, lightly sprinkled with pebbles - just a pleasure! Our Tibetan bell enlivened the crystal landscape around us.
Rising higher, we see rivers cutting their way through the ice, icicles, stone mushrooms (the cap is a stone 2-3 meters, and the base is made of ice). The blinding light makes you dizzy.
But then a difficult section of the road began. The legs begin to sink into the crust, and the excess carbon dioxide in the blood forces one to stop. The sun burns your skin. And here is the pass. From here you can see glaciers, small lakes in sinkholes, sheer walls and crevasses, broken peaks and hanging glaciers.
All passes have some amazing property: when passing them, it’s as if you stop your entire previous life behind you, and something completely new opens up in front of you.
Panorama of the Tien Shan.
The power lines told us where to go. The ascent is gentle; the road above, which was good at first, turned out to be destroyed and washed away. Hour after hour we rise, the rain gives way to pellets. Then grass appeared, but not for long; it was replaced by an impassable embankment of small stones. Finally, completely exhausted, we climbed up and were more than rewarded for the torment of the climb.
All around you can see glaciers and ribbons of rivers sliding into the valley. A golden eagle circles overhead.
The spaces that open up are simply incredible! Only in the mountains can you take in hundreds of kilometers at a glance! A very strong wind blows tightly, without gusts, it seems that you can lie down on it.
On the borders of five countries of Central Asia there are beautiful and majestic mountains- Tien Shan. On the Eurasian mainland they are second only to the Himalayas and Pamirs, and are also one of the largest and most extensive Asian mountain systems. The Heavenly Mountains are rich not only in minerals, but also in interesting geographical facts. The description of any object is built from many points and important nuances, but only complete coverage of all directions will help to create a complete geographical image. But let's not rush, but let's dwell in detail on each section.
Figures and facts: all the most important things about the Heavenly Mountains
The name Tien Shan has Turkic roots, because the peoples of this particular language group inhabited this territory since time immemorial and still live in this region. If translated literally, the toponym will sound like Heavenly Mountains or Divine Mountains. The explanation for this is very simple, the Turks from time immemorial worshiped the sky, and if you look at the mountains, you get the impression that their peaks reach the very clouds, most likely that’s why geographical feature received this name. And now, some more facts about the Tien Shan.
- Where does the description of any object usually begin? Of course, from numbers. The length of the Tien Shan mountains is more than two and a half thousand kilometers. Believe me, this is a pretty impressive figure. To compare, the territory of Kazakhstan extends for 3,000 kilometers, and Russia extends for 4,000 kilometers from north to south. Imagine these objects and appreciate the scale of these mountains.
- The height of the Tien Shan mountains reaches 7000 meters. The system has 30 peaks with a height of more than 6 kilometers, while Africa and Europe cannot boast of a single such mountain.
- I would especially like to highlight the highest point of the Heavenly Mountains. Geographically, it is located on the border of Kyrgyzstan and the Republic of China. There has been a very long debate around this issue, and neither side wants to give in. The highest peak of the Tien Shan mountains is the ridge with the triumphant name - Victory Peak. The height of the object is 7439 meters.
Location of one of the largest mountain systems in Central Asia
If we transfer the mountain system to political map, then the object will fall on the territory of five states. More than 70% of the mountains are located in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and China. The rest comes from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. But the highest points and massive ridges are located in the northern part. If we consider geographical position Tien Shan mountains from the regional side, then it will be central part continent of Asia.
Geographical zoning and relief
The territory of the mountains can be divided into five orographic regions. Each has its own unique topography and ridge structure. Pay attention to the photo of the Tien Shan mountains, which is located above. Agree, the grandeur and stateliness of these mountains evoke admiration. Now, let’s take a closer look at the zoning of the system:
- Northern Tien Shan. This part is almost entirely located on the territory of Kazakhstan. The main ridges are Zailiysky and Kungey Alatau. These mountains are distinguished by their average height (no more than 4000 m) and highly rugged terrain. There are many small rivers in the region that originate from glacial peaks. The region also includes the Ketmen Ridge, which Kazakhstan shares with Kyrgyzstan. On the territory of the latter, there is another ridge of the northern part - the Kyrgyz Alatau.
- Eastern Tien Shan. Of the most large parts The mountain system can be distinguished: Borokhoro, Bogdo-Ula, as well as medium and small ranges: Iren-Khabyrga and Sarmin-Ula. The entire eastern part of the Heavenly Mountains is located in China, mainly where the places of permanent settlement of the Uyghurs are located, precisely because of this local dialect the ridges got their names.
- Western Tien Shan. This orographic unit occupies the territories of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. The largest is the Karatau ridge, and then comes the Talas Alatau, which got its name from the river of the same name. These parts of the Tien Shan mountains are quite low, the relief drops to 2000 meters. This is because this is an older region, the territory of which has not undergone repeated mountain building. Thus the destructive force exogenous factors did its job.
- Southwestern Tien Shan. This region is located in Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. In fact, this is the lowest part of the mountains, which consists of the Fregan ridge, framing the valley of the same name.
- Central Tien Shan. This is the highest part of the mountain system. Its ranges occupy the territory of China, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. It is in this part that almost all six-thousanders are located.
"Gloomy Giant" - the highest point of the Heavenly Mountains
As mentioned earlier, the highest point of the Tien Shan Mountains is called Victory Peak. It’s easy to guess that the toponym got its name in honor of a significant event - the victory of the USSR in the most difficult and bloody war 20th century. Officially, the mountain is located in Kyrgyzstan, near the border with China, not far from the autonomy of the Uyghurs. However, for a long time The Chinese side did not want to recognize the ownership of the object by the Kyrgyz, and even after documenting the fact, it continues to look for ways to take possession of the desired peak.
This object is very popular among climbers; it is on the list of five seven-thousanders that must be conquered to receive the title “Snow Leopard”. Near the mountain, just 16 kilometers to the southwest, is the second highest peak of the Divine Mountains. We are talking about Khan Tengri - the highest point of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Its height is only slightly less than seven kilometers and is 6995 meters.
Centuries-old history of rocks: geology and structure
In the place where the Tien Shan Mountains are located, there is an ancient belt of increased endogenous activity; these zones are also called geosynclines. Since the system has a fairly decent height, this suggests that it was subjected to secondary uplift, although it has quite a ancient origin. Research shows that the base of the Heavenly Mountains is composed of Precambrian and Lower Paleozoic rocks. The mountain strata were subjected to long-term deformation and exposure endogenous forces, which is why the minerals are represented by metamorphosed gneisses, sandstones and typical limestone and shale.
Because most of This region was subject to flooding in the Mesozoic, the mountain valleys are covered with lacustrine-type sediments (sandstone and clay). The activity of glaciers also did not pass without a trace; morainic deposits stretch from the highest peaks of the Tien Shan mountains and reach the very border of the snow line.
The repeated uplift of the mountains in the Neogene had a very significant impact on their geological structure; relatively “young” volcanic-type rocks are found in the parent basement. It is these inclusions that are the mineral and metallic minerals in which the Divine Mountains are very rich.
The lowest part of the Tien Shan, which is located in the south, has been exposed to exogenous agents for thousands of years: the sun, winds, glaciers, temperature changes, and water during flooding. All this could not but affect the structure of the rocks; nature greatly battered their slopes and “exposed” the mountains to the very parent rock. Complex geological history influenced the heterogeneity of the Tien Shan relief, which is why high snowy peaks alternate with valleys and dilapidated plateaus.
Gifts of the Heavenly Mountains: minerals
A description of the Tien Shan Mountains cannot do without mentioning mineral resources, because this system brings very good income to the states in whose territories it is located. First of all, these are complex conglomerates of polymetallic ores. Large deposits are found in all five countries. Most of the minerals in the depths of the mountains are lead and zinc, but you can find something rarer. For example, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have established antimony mining, and there are also separate deposits of molybdenum and tungsten. In the southern part of the mountains, near the Fregan Valley, coal is mined, as well as other fossil fuels: oil and gas. Rare elements found include strontium, mercury and uranium. But most of all the territory is rich building materials and semi-precious stones. The slopes and foothills of the mountains are strewn with small deposits of cement, sand and various types of granite.
However, many mineral resources are not accessible for development, because the infrastructure is very poorly developed in mountainous regions. Mining in hard-to-reach places requires very modern technical means and large financial investments. States are in no hurry to develop the subsoil of the Tien Shan and often transfer the initiative to the private hands of foreign investors.
Ancient and modern glaciation of the mountain system
The height of the Tien Shan mountains is several times higher than the snow line, which means it is no secret that the system is covered by a huge number of glaciers. However, the situation with glaciers is very unstable, because in the last 50 years alone, their number has decreased by almost 25% (3 thousand square kilometers). For comparison, this is even larger than the area of the city of Moscow. The depletion of snow and ice cover in the Tien Shan poses a serious threat to the region. environmental disaster. Firstly, it is a natural source of nutrition for rivers and alpine lakes. Secondly, this is the only source fresh water for all living things that inhabit the mountain slopes, including local peoples and settlements. If changes continue at the same pace, then by the end of the 21st century, the Tien Shan will lose more than half of its glaciers and will leave four countries without a valuable water resource.
Non-freezing lake and other water bodies
The highest mountain of the Tien Shan is located near the highest lake in Asia - Issyk-Kul. This object belongs to the state of Kyrgyzstan, and is popularly called the Unfreezing Lake. It's all about low pressure at high altitude and water temperature, thanks to which the surface of this lake never freezes. This place is the main tourist area of the region; on an area of more than 6 thousand square kilometers, there is a huge number of high-mountain resorts and various recreational areas.
Another picturesque water body of the Tien Shan is located in China, literally a hundred kilometers from the main trading city of Urumqi. We are talking about Lake Tienshi - this is a kind of “Pearl of the Heavenly Mountains”. The water there is so clean and transparent that it is difficult to realize the depth because it seems that you can literally reach the bottom with your hand.
In addition to lakes, the mountains are cut by a huge number of river valleys. Small rivers originate from the very tops and are fed by melted glacial waters. Many of them are lost on the mountain slopes, others unite into larger bodies of water and carry their waters to the foot.
From picturesque meadows to icy peaks: climate and natural conditions
Where the Tien Shan Mountains are located, natural zones replace each other with height. Due to the fact that the orographic units of the system have heterogeneous relief, different parts Of the Heavenly Mountains, different natural zones can be located at the same level:
- Alpine meadows. They can be located both at an altitude of more than 2500 meters and at 3300 meters. The peculiarity of this landscape is the lush, hilly valleys that surround bare rocks.
- Forest zone. Quite rare in this region, mainly in inaccessible high mountain gorges.
- Forest-steppe. The trees in this zone are low, mostly small-leaved or coniferous. To the south, the meadow and steppe landscape is more clearly visible.
- Steppe. This natural area covers foothills and valleys. There is a huge variety of meadow grasses and steppe plants. The further south the region, the more clearly visible is the semi-desert and in some places even desert landscape.
The climate of the Heavenly Mountains is very harsh and unstable. He is influenced by opposing air masses. In summer, the Tien Shan Mountains are under the rule of the tropics, and in winter, polar currents dominate here. In general, the region can be called quite arid and sharply continental. In summer there are often dry winds and unbearable heat. In winter, temperatures can drop to record levels, and frosts often occur in the off-season. Precipitation is very unstable, with most of it occurring in April and May. It is the unstable climate that influences the reduction in the area of ice sheets. Also abrupt change temperatures and constant winds have a very negative effect on the topography of the region. The mountains are slowly but surely being destroyed.
An untouched corner of nature: animals and plants
The Tien Shan Mountains have become home to a huge number of living beings. Animal world extremely diverse and varies significantly by region. For example, the Northern part of the mountains is represented by European and Siberian types, while the Western Tien Shan is inhabited by typical representatives of the Mediterranean, African and Himalayan regions. You can also safely meet typical representatives of mountain fauna: snow leopards, snowcocks and mountain goats. The forests are inhabited by common foxes, wolves and bears.
The flora is also very diverse; fir and Mediterranean walnut can easily coexist in the region. In addition, there is a huge number of medicinal plants and valuable herbs. This is a real phyto-pantry of Central Asia.
It is very important to protect the Tien Shan from human influence; for this purpose, two reserves and one national park have been created in the region. There are so few places left on the planet with untouched nature, so it is important to devote every effort to preserve this wealth for posterity.