Ili River

The Ili River is a major river in Central Asia, rising in the Tian Shan mountains of China and flowing for 1,439 kilometers before emptying into Lake Balkhash in Kazakhstan. It is the main tributary to the lake and is crucial for its hydrological balance. In Kazakhstan, the river forms a wide and fertile plain, which is an important agricultural region. One of the main attractions along the Ili is the Tamgaly-Tas site, where petroglyphs and Buddhist inscriptions from the medieval period can be found, including impressive images of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Further downstream, the Ili has created the Kapchagay Reservoir, a huge artificial lake that supplies the city of Almaty with electricity and water and is a popular recreational area. The delta where the Ili flows into Lake Balkhash is an extensive wetland of international importance (Ramsar site), providing habitat for countless waterbirds and a rich wildlife. However, the water level of the Ili is decreasing due to increasing water abstraction for agriculture in both China and Kazakhstan, posing a serious threat to Lake Balkhash.

Nature

Kolsai Lakes

A system of three deep blue mountain lakes strung like pearls in a forested gorge.

Lake Kaindy

A surreal natural wonder created by an earthquake in 1911.

More places

Ili River Delta

This huge inland delta on Lake Balkhash provides a refuge for pelicans and the rare Bukhara deer.

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Anyrakay Battlefield

On this vast plain, the united Kazakh tribes fought for their survival and freedom.

Tamgaly Petroglyphs

A significant archaeological site featuring thousands of ancient rock carvings depicting pagan rituals, hunting scenes, and sun deities.

Trans-Ili Alatau

The Trans-Ili Alatau is a mountain range in the northern Tian Shan, rising south of the city of Almaty.

Ile-Alatau National Park

Bordering Almaty, this alpine park provides habitat for snow leopards and wild apple trees.

Ile-Alatau National Park

A picturesque park in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, framing the city of Almaty to the south.

Issyk Kurgan

One of the most important archaeological treasures in Central Asia was unearthed in this ancient burial mound.

Ili Valley

The Ili Valley is a fertile region along the Ili River that played an historically important role on the Silk Road.