Ile Alatau National Park is a protected area located in Kazakhstan, specifically within the Almaty Region. Here’s a detailed overview of the park:
Overview of Ile Alatau National Park
- Location: The park is situated in the Ile Alatau mountain range, which is part of the larger Tian Shan mountain system. It lies near the city of Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, making it easily accessible for visitors.
- Established: Ile Alatau National Park was established in 1996 to protect the unique ecosystems and biodiversity of the region.
Geography and Landscape
- Area: The park covers approximately 200,000 hectares (around 490,000 acres), encompassing a variety of terrains, including mountains, valleys, and forests.
- Elevation: The elevation ranges from around 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) in the lowland areas to over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) in the higher mountain peaks.
- Landforms: The park features stunning landscapes, including alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and rugged mountain peaks. The Big Almaty Lake, located at an altitude of about 2,510 meters (8,200 feet), is one of the park’s main attractions.
Flora and Fauna
- Biodiversity: Ile Alatau National Park is known for its rich biodiversity, hosting more than 1,200 plant species and over 250 animal species. The park features a variety of ecosystems, including forests, alpine meadows, and tundra.
- Flora: Dominant plant species include spruce, fir, and juniper trees in the forested areas, with a range of wildflowers and shrubs in the alpine regions.
- Fauna: The park is home to various wildlife, including snow leopards, ibex, wild boar, and numerous bird species such as golden eagles and choughs.
