The highest mountains of the Tien Shan. Tien Shan - heavenly mountains of seven thousand meters in Kyrgyzstan

The territory of the mountain system is dominated by a sharply continental climate. Rare precipitation, dry air, weak winds and significant temperature changes - these are the features of the area. The winter period is unusually severe for the local latitudes. In the summer months it is hot in the foothills and valleys, and fresh and cool in the mountains.

Tien Shan lazily basks in the sun - there is enough light here. Average mountain system per year it receives from 2500 to 2700 hours of sunlight. For comparison, Moscow accounts for only 1,600 hours. In March and April, the picturesque picture is complemented by cloudiness. In August and September, the sky, on the contrary, is clear - not a single cloud. The Tien Shan mountains welcome guests most cordially from May to October: with the intoxicating aromas of plants, a flowering carpet and a generous scattering of berries.

Exploring a mysterious mountain system

Mentions of the Tien Shan range are found in ancient writings and notes. Descriptions of expeditions to these places have been preserved, but they are more reminiscent of fiction than reliable facts. The Russian explorer Pyotr Semenov discovered the mountain “country” and spoke in detail about it.

Until this point, European information about the Tien Shan remained scarce. For example, the German encyclopedist and geographer Alexander Humboldt believed that the main part of the mountain system was fire-breathing volcanoes. Chinese sources did not fill the gaps in knowledge. One of them, which dates back to the 7th century, mentioned: in the famous local lake Issyk-Kul, “dragons and fish live together.”

Semenov began to think about the Tien Shan when he took up serious work - translating into Russian the book “Earth Science of Asia” by the German scientist Karl Ritter. The task was assigned to the young researcher by the Russian Geographical Society. Semenov approached the task creatively: he not only translated the text, but also provided additional materials from scientific sources. There was little information about the vast expanses of Asia, but I really wanted to see the mountains with my own eyes.

The researcher prepared the expedition for three years. Humboldt himself blessed the scientist for this risky undertaking, asking him to bring fragments of Tien Shan rocks as a gift. In the spring of 1855, the explorer set off. The artist Kosharov went with him, whose images complement the memories of the Russian geographer. The expedition ascended from Almaty to Lake Issyk-Kul. The book “Travel to Tien Shan” is filled with impressions from the trip.

After returning home in 1857, Semenov proposed to the Geographical Society to conduct another expedition, but there were no funds for it. Subsequently, his ideas encouraged other researchers to study Central Asia. For Semenov’s contribution, half a century later he was officially given an additional surname - Tyan-Shansky.

"The Grumpy Giant"

The dreams of many climbers are to conquer Pobeda Peak, which is located on the border of Kyrgyzstan and China. This pinnacle beauty has serious moral and physical training daredevils. Despite the enormous height of 7439 meters, the peak for a long time went unnoticed.

In 1936, a group of climbers enthusiastically set out to conquer Khan Tengri. It was believed that this was the highest peak of the Tien Shan. During the expedition, the group noticed a nearby mountain that rivaled Khan Tengri in height. A few years later, climbers under the leadership of Leonid Gutman went to her. The famous Tien Shan explorer August Letavet joined the group. In 11 days, with almost complete absence of visibility, we managed to reach the top. The exact height was determined only in 1943.

From the outside, Pobeda Peak resembles a huge, gloomy giant who has decided to rest. But the pampered appearance is deceptive: climbers face inclement weather. Only occasionally does the northern seven-thousander change its anger to mercy. Severe frosts and snow storms, avalanches and freezing winds - the mountain tests all the endurance of the daredevils who dare to climb it. The best type A cave made of snow remains a temporary shelter. It’s not for nothing that Pobeda Peak is called the most impregnable and formidable seven-thousander.

But it is difficult to accurately determine the top of the peak - it is smoothed and stretched, so the summit tour was located in different places. In the early 90s, a group of Minsk residents was not even counted for the ascent: there was severe bad weather and they could not find the mark of the previous team.

"Lord of the Skies"

The neighbor of Pobeda Peak is the formidable Khan Tengri (6995 meters). It is called one of the most beautiful peaks in the world. The regular pyramidal shape and the mysterious name “Lord of the Skies” fascinate climbers. The Kazakhs and Kyrgyz have their own name for the peak - Kan-Too. During sunset, the surrounding mountains are plunged into darkness, and only this peak takes on a reddish hue. The shadows of the surrounding clouds create the effect of flowing scarlet streams. This effect is created by pink marble, which is part of the mountain. The ancient Turkic peoples believed that a supreme deity lived on a hill.

Khan Tengri was first conquered in 1936. The classic route for climbers along the mountain peak passes along the Western Ridge. It’s not that simple: if you only have a few easy routes in your track record, you shouldn’t even try to defeat the “Lord of the Skies.” Northern part the mountains are steeper compared to the south. But there is less likelihood of ice collapses and avalanches. Khan Tengri is also preparing other “surprises”: bad weather, low temperatures, hurricane winds.

Khan Tengri and Pobeda Peak belong to the Central Tien Shan. From the center to the west there are three mountain ranges, which are separated by intermountain basins. They are united by the Fergana Range. Two parallel mountain ranges stretch to the east.

“Thinner” glaciers of the Tien Shan

The high mountain part of the mountain system is covered with glaciers. Some of them are hanging, which pose a danger to climbers. Glaciers benefit local peoples - they fill the rivers of four countries and are a source fresh water for the population. But ice reserves are beginning to dry up. Over the past fifty years they have decreased by almost a quarter. The area of ​​glaciers decreased by 3 thousand square meters. km - a little more than Moscow. Since the 70s, the ice part began to disappear more actively. According to scientists, by the middle of the 21st century, the “Heavenly Mountains” will lose 50% of their reserves. Changes may be left without water resource four countries.

Flowers at the foot of the mountains

In spring, the mountain slopes are filled with life. Glaciers melt, and water goes to the foot of the mountains. Semi-deserts boast ephemeral grasses, steppes – wild onions, shrubs and tulips. There are coniferous forests and meadows in the Tien Shan. Junipers are common. There is a lot of golden root and blackberries here. There are dangerous “residents” - Sosnovsky's hogweed. If you touch it, you may get burned. The Greig tulip, whose petals reach 75 mm, also grows here.

In the vicinity of the mountains there are many species of plants and animals that live only here. These include the saker falcon, the red wolf, and the Menzbir marmot. Another difference of the Tien Shan is the proximity of animals and plants of different latitudes. South Indian porcupine and northern roe deer, walnut and fir live together. There are representatives of steppes, deserts, forests, mountains... Thanks to this, several nature reserves have been created within the mountain system.

The unfrozen lake and its “neighbors”

They feel comfortable in the territory of the mountain system and lake. The largest is Issyk-Kul. It is located in a deep depression between two ridges on the territory of Kyrgyzstan. The water in it is slightly salty. The name is translated from the local language as “warm”. The lake lives up to its name - its surface never freezes.

The reservoir occupies more than 6 thousand square meters. km. Along it there is a tourist area: hotels, boarding houses, guest houses. The southern shore is less developed, but more picturesque - silence, mountain air, snow-capped peaks, hot springs nearby... The lake is so transparent that you can see the bottom. The coast reminds seaside resort– there is something for everyone. You can bask on the beach, go fishing or take an excursion to the mountains.

Lake Tianchi is also located in the Tien Shan Mountains, a hundred kilometers from Urumqi (China). Local residents nicknamed it the “Pearl of the Heavenly Mountain.” The lake is fed by melt water, which is why it is crystal clear. The most spectacular mountain in the area is Bogdafeng Peak, whose height exceeds 6 thousand meters. Favorable time visits – from May to September.

Hiking and cycling routes

Hiking in the Tien Shan Mountains often includes exploring Issyk-Kul. Several days of passes surrounded by five-thousand-meter peaks, emerald mountain reservoirs, acquaintance with the most famous local attractions - all this includes a walking route. Travelers admire local blue spruces and juniper thickets, an abundance of flowers and waterfalls, swim in hot springs and relax on the shores of a healing lake. Sometimes the routes involve getting to know the simple life of nomadic shepherds.

Tourists are especially interested in the Northern Tien Shan and the Kyrgyz ridge. Both areas have convenient access. They are sparsely populated and untouched by civilization. You can take simple hikes or choose challenging routes. Comfortable time for travel is July-August. Experienced tourists advise to be careful in trusting information that is 20 years old or more. Due to the melting of glaciers, some routes were easier, others became more difficult and dangerous to overcome.

Residents of Russia do not require foreign passports to travel to Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival, you must register. The attitude towards tourists is hospitable, and there are no language problems. Transport accessibility mountains are different. The easiest places to get to are those located near Almaty: Western Dzungaria and Trans-Ili Alatau. There is also excellent access to the mountains located near Tashkent and Bishkek. You can also get to the picturesque places that are located near Lake Issyk-Kul. The remaining areas of the Kyrgyz and Chinese Tien Shan are inaccessible.

Bicycle tours are also conducted in the Tien Shan mountains. There are opportunities for cycling, cross-country, and road pedaling. The sultry Asian summer, sands and off-road conditions will test the traveler's strength. Landscapes change: semi-deserts, deserts, mountain ranges. After the bike tour, you can stop at Lake Issyk-Kul and visit the cities of the famous Silk Road along the way.

Mountain People

The Tien Shan attracts not only adventure seekers. For some people, mountain slopes are their home. At the end of spring, local nomadic shepherds install the first yurts. In such mini-houses everything is thought out: kitchen, bedroom, dining room, living room. The yurts are made of felt. It's comfortable inside even during frosts. Instead of beds there are thick mattresses laid on the floor. Semenov also observed the economy and life of the Kazakhs and Kyrgyz in the vicinity of the Tien Shan. In his personal reports, the scientist described visits to Kyrgyz villages and individual meetings with local residents during the expedition.

Before the revolution, the yurt was considered the main type of housing among the Kirghiz. Today, the design has not lost its significance, since livestock farming continues to receive a lot of attention. It is placed near ordinary houses. In the heat, the family relaxes there and greets guests.

Tien Shan or " Heavenly Mountains» - one of the highest and most visited mountain systems by tourists throughout the CIS countries. This grandiose mountainous country located mainly in the western part Kyrgyzstan a and on eastern China. Its northern and northwestern ranges reach Kazakhstan a, and the southwestern spurs ran through the territories Uzbekistan a And Tajikistan a. Thus, throughout the post-Soviet space, Tien Shan mountains stretched in a kind of arch, more than 1200 km in length and almost 300 km in width.

Scientists attribute Tien Shan to fairly old mountains of the Caledonian and Hercynian folding period, which underwent subsequent uplift in the Alpine era.

However, it must be said that the tectonic activity of this mountain system continues today, as evidenced by its high seismic activity.

Many glaciers give rise mountain rivers - tributaries of Naryn like a river going down a huge staircase from Tien Shan, covering 700 km of travel and gaining gigantic power. It is not surprising that the number of large and medium-sized power plants built on Naryn e, exceeds ten.

Remarkable in beauty Tien Shan lakes, and its main pearl - Issyk-Kul, which occupies a giant tectonic depression between mountain ranges Kungey- And Terskey-Alatau. Its maximum depth reaches 702 m, and the water surface area is 6332 sq. m. The lake is the seventh largest and third deepest natural reservoir in the entire post-Soviet space.

The most significant lakes of the Inner Tien Shan are also Song Kel And Chatyr-Kel, by now, considered to be drying up. On the territory of the Syrts and in the zone of low moraine relief there are quite a lot of small lakes; in the highlands there are glacial and subglacial reservoirs, they are interesting in themselves, but of no serious significance for the climate Tien Shan don't imagine.

Mountaineering potential of the Tien Shan.

Central Tien Shan.

Two areas stand out here - glacier areas South Inylchek And Kaindy.

South Inylchek.

It is located in the extreme eastern part of the country, on the border with Kazakhstan om And China, and includes eastern slopes of the Kokshaltau ridges, Inylchek-Tau, Saryjaz, and Tengri-Tag ridges And Meridional. This area is home to one of the largest glaciers in the world - South Inylchek, the length of which is 62 km, and the width reaches 3.5 km, with an average thickness of ice up to 200 m. There are also two " seven thousandths» peaks- Pobeda Peak And Khan Tengri Peak, 23 peaks over 6000m and about 80 peaks with a height of 5000-6000m. There are more than 70 routes in the area, but two “ six thousandths"tops and about 20" five thousand meters"remained unconquered.

The marked mountain areas have practically not been visited by climbers and still contain great prospects for pioneers.

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. There is also a village with an 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, cakes with butter, and other things. It is noteworthy that you can pay for help with an ordinary rope. All those who traveled 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 the magical castle of the 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.

Discipline at the mine is very strict, they work on a rotational basis ten hours a day, for 2-3 weeks, during the shift - prohibition, 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.

Walking on flat ice, lightly sprinkled with pebbles, is simply 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 kind of amazing property: by going through them, it’s as if you stop your entire previous life behind you, and something completely new opens up before 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 - the 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 linguistic group have 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 with their peaks they reach the very clouds, most likely that is why the geographical object received such a 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 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 you transfer the mountain system onto a political map, 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 the Tien Shan mountains from the regional side, then this will be the central part of the 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 different 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 largest parts of the mountain system, we can distinguish: Borokhoro, Bogdo-Ula, as well as medium and small ranges: Iren-Khabyrga and Sarmin-Ula. All East End The Heavenly Mountains are located on the territory of China, mainly where the places of permanent settlement of the Uyghurs are located; it is from this local dialect that the ranges received 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 power of 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 is 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 of the 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. It's about 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 subject to secondary uplift, although it has a rather 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 deformations and the influence of endogenous forces, which is why the minerals are represented by metamorphosed gneisses, sandstones and typical limestone and slate.

Since much of this region was flooded during the Mesozoic, the mountain valleys are covered with lacustrine 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 effect on their geological structure, in the parent basement there are relatively “young” rocks of the volcanic type. 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. The 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 semiprecious 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 in the mountainous regions the infrastructure is very poorly developed. 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 threatens the region with a serious environmental disaster. Firstly, it is a natural source of nutrition for rivers and alpine lakes. Secondly, this is the only source of 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 slopes of the mountains, 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's a huge variety here meadow grass 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. It 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 period Very often there are 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, a huge number of medicinal plants and valuable herbs are found here. 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. There are so few places left on the planet with untouched nature, therefore, it is important to direct all efforts to preserve this wealth for posterity.

website- Over 90% of the territory of our homeland is covered with mountains, it is not for nothing that Kyrgyzstan is called the country of heavenly mountains. Their uniqueness lies in the fact that the highest seven-thousander peaks, low altitudes, and incredibly beautiful landscapes are concentrated in a small area. In total, on the territory of Kyrgyzstan there are 14 peaks over 6000 m high and 26 peaks higher than Mont Blanc (4807 m), the highest point in Europe. Our mountains belong mainly to the Tien Shan mountain range, a relatively smaller part is located in the Pamirs.

The name "Tien Shan" is translated from Chinese as "Heavenly Mountains"

The first mentions of the Tien Shan range appeared in ancient times. According to ancient writings and notes from travelers, expeditions to these places have been made since ancient times, but all of them are now more like legends than reliable facts. For the first time, the Russian explorer Pyotr Semenov spoke about the secrets of the Tien Shan in the mid-19th century, thanks to which he received his second surname, Tianshansky. The name "Tien Shan" is translated from Chinese as "Heavenly Mountains". The Tien Shan ridge is the longest ridge (2800 km) not only in Kyrgyzstan, but throughout Asia, in the central part of which the highest peaks of our country are located - Pobeda Peak (7439 m) and Khan Tengri Peak (6995 m) . In addition to them, there are 40 more peaks on the ridge with a height of more than 6000 meters.

Pobeda Peak is the highest peak of the Tien Shan

The highest point of the Tien Shan is Pobeda Peak (7439 m), discovered in 1943, the northernmost seven-thousander on the planet, located on the Kyrgyz-Chinese border, in the Kokshaal-Too ridge, east of Lake Issyk-Kul. It is called the most inaccessible, most formidable seven-thousander - this peak makes very high demands on the physical and moral preparation of climbers. The history of the conquest of Pobeda Peak is complete interesting facts. In 1936, a group of climbers climbing Khan Tengri, then considered the highest peak of the Tien Shan, noticed that another mountain rose nearby, rivaling Khan Tengri in height. Two years later, an expedition of climbers headed by the famous explorer of the Tien Shan, Professor A. A. Letavet, headed to her. The leader of the expedition’s assault group was Leonid Gutman, a participant in the ascent of Khan Tengri in 1936.

On September 19, 1938, three from the group of Professor A. A. Letavet climbed the mysterious peak and gave it the name of the peak of the 20th anniversary of the Komsomol. Experts compared photographs taken in 1938 by Gutman and in 1958 by V. Abalakov, and established that they were taken from the same place. Thus, it was possible to prove that the climbers from Gutman’s expedition were the first to conquer Pobeda Peak. This is how Pobeda Peak, the highest peak of the Tien Shan, was discovered.

Khan Tengri: “Bloody Mountain” or “Lord of the Skies”

Not far from Pobeda Peak rises Khan Tengri Peak (6995 m). Its name translated from Turkic means “Lord of the Sky” or “Lord of the Heavens”. Until recently, the height of Khan Tengri was 6995 m above sea level, but according to the latest data, the height is 7010 m, however, some people are suspicious of this. Some argue that given height determined taking into account the thickness of the ice, others see the reason in the title of “Snow Leopard”, because in order to get it you need to conquer five peaks, not four, above 7000 meters in Central Asia.

Buried on the peak of Khan Tengri (Kan-Too means “Bloody Mountain”) is a capsule that contains a message from previous climbers who conquered the mountain to future ones. Each new climber who climbs to a height digs up a capsule and writes his message in pencil - it is impossible to write in ink - writes his name, date of ascent and buries it again. Despite a large number of accidents, many climbers are still trying to climb Kan Too Peak.

Pamir-Alay - seven-thousander mountains of Kyrgyzstan

Pamir - “Roof of the World”, the highest mountain system in the entire post-Soviet space, spreads over an area of ​​60,000 square meters. km and is a highly branched network of ridges covered with eternal snow and endless intermountain valleys that make up the Pamir Highlands. However, Kyrgyzstan owns only the most extreme region - the northern slopes of the Trans-Alai Range and the northern parts of the Pamir-Alai, which includes the Alai Valley, as well as the Turkestan and Alai Ranges.

Sacred mountain Sulaiman-Too

The sacred mountain in the city of Osh, which in June 2009 became the country's first monument World Heritage. The mountain is a five-domed limestone outcrop, stretching from west to east. Its length is more than 1140 m, width - 560 m. Since ancient times it had a sacred meaning, as evidenced by preserved petroglyphs. Today, Mount Sulaiman-Too is a kind of Mecca, which is the last hope for many of its visitors. The majority of whom are women. Someone asks Sulaiman-Too for well-being for the family, someone for health, someone for procreation. People believe in the magical properties of the ancient sanctuary.

Mountain peaks:

Aitmatov Peak
A mountain peak in Kyrgyzstan, located in the central part of the Kyrgyz ridge, in the area of ​​the Salyk glacier. The height of the peak is 4650 m. The mountain received its name in 2000 in honor of the outstanding Kyrgyz writer Chingiz Aitmatov. Until this moment she was nameless.

Vladimir Putin Peak
The peak is located in the Tien Shan mountain system. Located in the Chui region. Named in 2011 in honor of the second president Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin.

Boris Yeltsin Peak
The peak is located on the Terskey Ala-Too ridge of the Tien Shan mountain system. Located on the territory of the Issyk-Kul region. Renamed in 2002 in honor of the first President of the Russian Federation Boris Nikolaevich Yeltsin.

Lenin Peak
Mountain peak located on the border of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. One of the “seven thousand meters” - the highest peaks former USSR. One of the highest peaks in Central Asia, located in the Pamir mountain system.

Free Korea
A peak located in the Tien Shan mountains in the Kyrgyz range, in the Chui region, on the territory of the Ala-Archa National Park. Its height, according to various sources, is 4740-4778 meters.

Semenov Peak
Mountain peak in the Central Tien Shan. The highest point of the Saryzhaz ridge (5816 m). Rising above the valley with the Northern Inylchek glacier. The peak was named after Pyotr Petrovich Semyonov, who explored the Central Tien Shan in 1857.

Corona Peak

Corona Peak (4860 m) is located on the territory National Park Ala-Archa. From afar, the six peaks resemble a crown, which explains their name. The mountain slopes reach a height of 600 meters, the northern slope - 900 meters.