Ukok Plateau, Chulyshman River valley and Teletskoye Lake. Off-road trip to the places of power of Altai

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The most mystical, the most mysterious, the most inaccessible place in Altai. The Ukok Plateau is the border of four states: Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and China. This is a region surrounded by the highest mountains of Altai, where snow does not melt even in summer. This is the place of the oldest megalithic complexes and thermal springs. It was here that scientists found the legendary mummy of the Altai Princess. Grandiose views and nature, which has not yet been touched by civilization, will leave the brightest impressions. The roads in this area are a separate attraction, we will ply mountain rivers, pass the most difficult passes. You will make an exciting journey and touch the secrets of the Great Altai.

Location

Novosibirsk, Barnaul, Gorno-Altaysk

from

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Weekdays: 8am - 8pm
Weekends: 8am - 7pm (GMT +3)

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Tour highlights

Gallery of the Ancients

We will visit the Kalbak-Tash archaeological complex, where there are more than 5,000 rock carvings from various eras

A walk on Altai Mars

The cosmic landscapes attract travelers from all over the world

The Mystical Ukok Plateau

Let's take an incredible journey through the mysterious Ukok plateau

Unforgettable fishing

Grayling fishing awaits us in the purest waters of the Altai rivers and lakes

The largest waterfall in Altai

Let's go to the largest cascading waterfall in Altai – Uchar – Chulchinsky

Itinerary

Day 1 - Getting to know Altai. The Seminsky pass. Karakol Valley
From 8:30 to 10.00 Meeting at the airport of Gorno-Altaysk (parking).
Stop for breakfast at a cafe (self-paid), explore Altai, explore the Seminsky Pass, visit the Karakol Valley - the Uch Enmek Natural Park, which is a sacred place for the Altai people.
Sightseeing tour.
Supper.
Getting to know the band.
Accommodation at an eco-campsite.
Accommodation: Ongudai eco-village Hotel (or similar), double-triple, room facilities. Incl. meals: dinner.

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Day 2 - Sights of the Chui tract. Geyser Lake
Breakfast.
Today we will see the main sights of the Chui tract (the most beautiful road in Russia).
We will see 2 cardinal changes of landscapes and landscapes.
During this day you will be able to enjoy the beauty of turquoise rivers, snow-white caps of glaciers, the power of mountains and the ancient culture of the Altai peoples.
On the way, we will explore the Chike-Taman pass, a fragment of an ancient road, the confluence of two great rivers of Altai – Chui and Katuni, the Kalbak–Tash archaeological complex, where there are more than 5,000 rock carvings of various eras, visit the geyser lake, meditate with views of the panorama of the North Chui Ridge.
Supper.
Accommodation at the campsite.
Accommodation: campsite, double, room facilities. Incl. meals: breakfast, dinner. By car: 280 km, on foot: 3 km.

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Day 3 - Altai Mars. Megalithic complex and thermal springs
After breakfast, our journey continues, in the morning rays of the sun we will see a magnificent panorama of the South Chui ridge and the Chui steppe.
Then we will go for a walk on Altai Mars, whose surreal landscapes attract travelers from all over the world.
Then we go to the market of cheap Mongolian goods "Rahat" and through the village of Kosh-Agach we will go out onto a dirt road, the winds of Mongolia are already blowing here, which is very close.
The path passes through the famous Chui steppe, where rare grey vultures and camels live.
We will visit the fascinating valley of the Tarkhata river.
It is this river that will become the guiding thread leading us to the Ukok plateau.
We will explore the famous megalithic structure - the Tarkhata Circle with the Throne Stone ("Cradle").
According to scientists, this mystical creation was created for astronomical observations.
Then we will have a road to the Jumala hot springs and the Kalgutinsky mine, an inspection of the Scythian and Turkic mounds, which are more than 3000 years old!
Overnight under the Teply Klyuch pass.
Accommodation: tents for 2-3 people, 4-bed accommodation is possible on request, wooden toilet outside. Meals included: Breakfast, dinner (campfire meals). By car: 160 km On foot: 3 km.
Day 4 - A journey through the Ukok Plateau
The program for days 4, 5 and 6:
Breakfast.
On the morning of the fourth day, we will overcome the Teply Klyuch pass, which is difficult for a car, and pass through several fords.
Behind another hill, a stunningly flat valley between high snowy mountains suddenly opens up in front of us.
It is from here that the mystical and mysterious Ukok Plateau begins.
Within a few days we will make an unforgettable journey across the plateau.
We will visit the former outpost, shrouded in mystical legends, the Ak-Alakha-3 mound, in which the "Altai Princess" was buried more than 2500 years ago, look at the wonderful panorama of the peaks of Tabyn-Bogdo-Ola, see the Chinese Kanas mountain. Also, you will find: grayling fishing in the purest waters of the Kalguty river, Lake Kaljin-Kol and Kaljin-Kol-Bas, magnificent views to the south, towards the snow-covered peaks of Sailugem and Southern Altai.
On the final day of our trip, we will make an easy trekking trip to one of the peaks of the Sailugem ridge (3400m), where we will admire the amazing landscapes from a bird's eye view.
Accommodation: tents for 2-3 people, 4-bed accommodation is possible on request. Incl. meals: Breakfast, lunch (dry rations), dinner (campfire meals). On foot: 14 km By car: 250 km.

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Day 5 - A journey through the Ukok Plateau
Meals included: breakfast, lunch (dry ration), dinner (campfire meals).
Day 6 - A journey through the Ukok Plateau
On the final day of our trip, we will make an easy trekking trip to one of the peaks of the Sailugem ridge (3400 m), where we will admire the amazing landscapes of the valley from a bird's eye view.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch (dry ration), dinner (campfire meals).
Day 7 - The way back. Viewing platforms
Today our day will be spent on the road.
We will go back to civilization in the already familiar way.
We will make short stops in all beautiful and interesting places, and those who wish will be able to swim in the thermal springs.
In the village of Kosh-Agach, we will definitely visit a cafe with excellent Kazakh cuisine (not included in the price).
Let's stay in a special place where you can take a very epic picture of the snow-capped peaks against the background of the road going into the distance.
In the village. Aktash, we will stop at the supermarket, which everyone will miss after the Ukok plateau.
In the late afternoon, we will stay at the campsite with all the amenities.
Accommodation: Rasul/Nomad/Shavlo campsite/"Aktash Village"/ "River lands" in Aktau, double room, shower and toilet in the room. Incl. meals: breakfast, dinner. Car: 250 km.
Day 8 - The Valley of a thousand Lakes. The Pazyryk mounds. Katu-Yaryk Observation Deck
After breakfast, we will set off again.
Today our route lies along a narrow gorge between the rocks towards the border of Altai with Tyva and Khakassia.
On the way, visit the red gate, mercury lake, Kidel Lake, Ulagan pass, sacred grove.
After lunch, we will see the legendary Pazyryk burial mounds, shrouded in a veil of secrets – the valley of burial of noble and outstanding Pazyryk leaders, warriors, shamans.
According to scientists, the age of some mounds is more than 2500 years old.
Next, you will come very close to the valley of the Chulyshman River, the entrance to which opens the spectacular Katu-Yaryk pass.
The Katu-Yaryk observation deck is considered one of the most beautiful places in the Altai Mountains.
Standing on the edge of a precipice, almost one kilometer deep, when the emerald river bends below, and waterfalls flow down from the rocks, you experience an incredible feeling of delight.
After exploring the pass, the group walks down the serpentine down to the campsite, all things go in the car.
Those who wish can make a descent by car.
Accommodation in national villages or Russian-style houses.
Supper.
Accommodation: campsite "Stone mushrooms", double house, toilet in the house, outdoor shower on site. Meals included: breakfast, dinner. Car: 100 km. Walking distance: 4 km.
Day 9 - The largest waterfall in Altai is Uchar. Tracking
Breakfast.
Today we are going to the largest cascading waterfall in Altai – Uchar – Chulchinsky (160 m).
The road to the waterfall is majestic and beautiful.
We are going to have a mountain trekking (hike) 11 km long (one way).
The tour takes the whole day, comfortable shoes are needed.
Supper.
Overnight at the base.
Bathhouse.
IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO VISIT people suffering from cardiovascular diseases, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, suffering from phobias (fear of heights), having poor health on the day of the hike.
Accommodation: campsite "Stone mushrooms", double house, toilet in the house. Meals included: breakfast, lunch (dry ration), dinner. Car: 60 km. Walking distance: 22 km.
Day 10 - Stone mushrooms and Lake Teletskoye
After breakfast, you will see an extraordinary creation of nature - stone mushrooms.
These are rocks of bizarre shapes, in the form of mushrooms, reaching sizes of 15-20 m.
Then we go to the south of Lake Teletskoye.
This is one of the deepest lakes in the world, with incredibly clear and cold water.
On the shore, we will transfer to a speedboat, which will take us to the northern part of the lake (78 km by water).
On the way, we will visit all the main attractions of Lake Teletskoye.
Farewell dinner, exchange of impressions and photos.
Accommodation: camp site "Manul-Kel"/ "Manor in the mountains"/ "Artybash", double room, shower and toilet in the room. Incl. meals: breakfast, dinner. By car: 80 km On foot: 4 km By water: 78 km.

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Day 11 - Souvenir markets. Return transfer
Breakfast.
Visiting souvenir markets, final photos of the lake.
Return check-out.
On the way, check in at the Gorno-Altai Museum of Local Lore. Anokhina (entrance fees are paid additionally).
Arrival in the city Gorno-Altaysk at 13:00 (local time).
Arrival in Barnaul at 18:30 (local time).
Arrival in Novosibirsk at 22:30 (local time).
Length: by car – 620 km to Novosibirsk, 420 km to Barnaul, 160 km to Gorno-Altaysk.
Meals included: breakfast.

Difficulty

Does not require specific skills, but one must be in good health

Accommodation

Camp Site

6 nights
Tent

4 nights

Comfort

Basic
Basic+
Midscale

The tour provides accommodation at camp sites along the way, as well as overnight stays in tourist tents.

Possible placement options:

Ongudai eco-village Hotel, double-triple, room facilities – 1 night (1st day);
Rasul campsite in Kosh-Agach, double room, room facilities – 1 night (2nd day);
tents for 2-3 people, 4-bed accommodation is possible on request, wooden toilet outside – 4 nights (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th days);
Rasul campsite/Nomad/Shavlo/"Aktash Village"/ "River lands" in Aktau, double room, shower and toilet in the room – 1 night (7th day);
campsite "Stone mushrooms", double house, toilet in the house, outdoor shower on site – 2 nights (8th, 9th days);
camp site "Manul-Kel"/ "Manor in the mountains"/ "Artybash", double room, shower and toilet in the room – 10th day.

Be sure to ask the manager in advance which camp sites you will be staying at on your arrival dates.

Double-triple accommodation, room facilities.

Rasul Tourist Complex

It is located in the village of Aktash, Ulagan district of the Altai Republic. It offers a wellness center (sauna, steam room, hammam, swimming pool, herbal sauna, herbal bar), free Wi-Fi, gazebos and barbecues, a children's playground.

Cedar houses, a Kazakh yurt or an Altai village, as well as comfortable rooms in a hotel and a cedar cottage are offered for accommodation.

The one- and two-storey cedar houses have double rooms, each of which: one double or two single beds, TV, kettle, toilet, sink (no shower). The rooms have a private entrance, and some have a refrigerator. There are winter rooms.

The hotel and cedar cottage have a spacious equipped kitchen where you can prepare your own meals. Five steps from the complex there is a cafe where you can have a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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Another option

Eco-tourist complex "Nomad"

It is located in the Ulagan district of the Altai Republic, 2 km from the village of Chibit, at the confluence of the Chuya and Chibitka mountain rivers. A grocery store is a 10-minute walk away in the village of Chibit, a convenience store is located 15 km away in the village of Aktash. The territory has everything you need for a comfortable stay.

The coastal area is equipped for safe swimming and active water activities. It offers a paintball club, a wellness complex, a tennis court, a football field and basketball and volleyball courts. On paved paths, you can ride a longboard or roller skates, and forest paths are suitable for cycling.

Guests are offered 3 accommodation options: a tent camp, summer and winter houses, as well as comfortable rooms in a detached building. The cabins are located on the banks of the Chuya River and provide accommodation for up to 6 people. Gazebos and campfires for self-cooking are located next to the houses.

In the summer houses for 2 people there is one 1.5-double bed and one 1-bedroom, table. electric heater, electricity. Shower, WC on site. It is possible to accommodate up to 3 people by accommodating 2 people in a 1.5-double bed.

In the summer houses for 4 people there are 4 single beds, a table, chairs, a set of dishes, a washbasin, an electric heater, electricity. Shower,WC on site. The rooms are located on the first or second floor of a two-storey building.

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Another option

Campsite "Shavlo"

Double occupancy, shower and toilet in the room.

Another option

Aktash Village Camp Site

Double occupancy, shower and toilet in the room.

Another option

Campsite "River lands"

Double occupancy, shower and toilet in the room.

Tour conditions

Group

up to 6 tourists

Minimum age

8 years old

Duration

11 days 10 nights

Group meets at

Novosibirsk, Barnaul, Gorno-Altaysk

Included in price

transfer from Novosibirsk, the entire itinerary of the program;
off–road car - 490 km;
Meals: 10 breakfasts, 10 dinners, 4 lunches (dry rations);
accommodation at camp sites – 6 nights;
accommodation in tents – 4 nights;
the work of a guide - 1-2 people;
public equipment rental;
recreational fees;
entrance tickets, except those marked, are paid additionally;
boat rental (156 km);
payment for river crossings.

Paid extra

air and railway tickets to Novosibirsk / Barnaul / Gorno-Altaysk and back;
meals during the transfer (at roadside cafes);
lunch at the cafe;
entrance tickets to the Museum of Local Lore. Anokhina in Gorno-Altaysk – 250 rubles.;
payment for passage to the Jumala springs is 200-400 rubles.;
rent a backpack, sleeping bag.

It's important to know

shoes: trekking boots, trekking sandals, sneakers, crocs or slates for sauna/rafting. Or sneakers with thick soles, polyurethane boots with a warm insert, sandals or moccasins for hot weather, crocs or sandals for bathing/rafting;
for traveling along the route: trekking pants, running leggings, long sleeve T-shirt (to protect against burns), shorts, light T-shirt, swimsuit, underwear, headdress (from the sun), socks;
weatherproof: waterproof windbreaker, jacket, fleece jacket, sports hat, warm socks, thermal underwear. Or a waterproof raincoat, a warm tracksuit, a jacket, a padded vest, a hat, wool socks;
personal hygiene items: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, washcloth, comb, towel;
individual medicines;
a small backpack for excursions (put water, a jacket, sunscreen, glasses, etc.);
basic items can be carried in a sports bag, backpack or a convenient drive bag with handles;
Do not take extra things with you. The trunks of vehicles are not very large in size and are designed according to the principle of 1 guest = 1 travel backpack or bag + 1 hand luggage.;
sunscreen with a protection level of 50;
sunglasses (optional);
headlamp;
a city set of clothes that you will change into after traveling on the day of your return flight (optional).

For a tour to the Ukok plateau - tents, mats, sleeping bags, burners, cooking equipment, a supply of provisions will be provided from the company, camping utensils.

It is very important to tell about the ticks that scare tourists.

The peak, when there are a lot of ticks, is May and until mid–June. Not every tick is encephalitic. That is, many of them are completely harmless. But it is possible to distinguish a vector from a regular one only in the laboratory.

How to minimize the risk of tick-borne encephalitis?

A few points:

Don't let the ticks bite you. Look around when hiking in the forest, take off your clothes on time. It is not difficult to notice a tick on the body. If you hit a bush, you looked at your feet, if there is a tick, just throw it off. In practice, this is a very, very effective way (and I am writing about what I have tested, the advice is extremely practical). Additionally, it is advisable to treat clothes with a repellent.
Vaccination. It is done in a polyclinic. If you do a full course of three vaccinations, then immunity can last up to 3 years. I will not dissuade from vaccinations, but in practice, vaccination does not always work. A lot of people, hoping for a vaccination, get sick. Maybe that's why neither I nor my friends make them. This is a big topic for discussion, many people believe that there is a lot of harm from these vaccinations, etc. Everyone makes their own choice.
After a tick bite, carry out emergency prevention. Within 72 hours, you need to get an injection of immunoglobulin and take iodantipyrine. This is not a vaccination, but a fight against an infection that has already been received. Such an injection is quite expensive (about 1000 rubles per 10 kilograms of body weight).

But there is a method of protection that is used for the unvaccinated, and which allows you not to force your immune system unnecessarily. It consists of three stages:

we insure ourselves in case of a tick bite in an insurance company, which allows us to compensate for the cost of an immunoglobulin injection. You need to send us an application for tick bite insurance now if you have purchased a ticket for April-May;
in case of a tick bite, we pull it out and take it to the laboratory for analysis for the presence of infections (Gorno-Altaysk, 17 Kommunistichesky Ave.). It is better to take it right away, since there are only 72 hours for everything about everything;
if the tick is "clean", then we sleep peacefully. If the tick-borne encephalitis virus is found, then we proceed to emergency prevention, then we reimburse the costs for insurance.

This method minimizes unnecessary medical interventions. I repeat, everyone is responsible for their own health, someone can just rely on "maybe", pull out the tick and move on.

Dates and Prices

The tour dates are not confirmed yet. Please, for clarification

Individual dates available on request

1 Jun – 31 Aug, 2025

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$1,075

7 – 17 Jul, 2025 11 days 10 nights

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$1,075

21 – 31 Jul, 2025 11 days 10 nights

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11 – 21 Aug, 2025 11 days 10 nights

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Ukok Plateau, Chulyshman River valley and Teletskoye Lake. Off-road trip to the places of power of Altai

Location

Tour highlights

Itinerary

Accommodation

Tour conditions

Included in price

Paid extra

It's important to know

Dates and Prices

Similar tours