The harmony of the fallen land in Zhygylgan, West Kazakhstan

In West Kazakhstan, there is a fallen land with a shape reminiscent of a large basin and an almost-perfect circumference. The diameter of this depression is not less than 10 kilometers. This is the Zhygylgan Depression, which in the Kazakh language means “fallen”. This place is full of interesting attractions to see. Every person fullfills oneself on the way to find the harmony of the fallen land in Zhygylgan. 

What does the Zhygylgan land hold? 

Can you imagine that once upon a time the dinosaurs and sabre-tooth tigers roamed freely around this land? The traces of their long lost lives are still visible on the rocks. If you do not have a guidebook, where you can learn more about the ancient wild inhabitants of the Zhygylgan Depression, it is recommended to book a tour with a guide. At the very top of the Zhygylgan Depression, the view makes you feel as if you were on some other planet. It is possible to go down the stone rubble and wander around the lower parts of the depression. This is a genuinely worthwhile and unusual travel experience.

A legend about the Zhygylgan Depression

Kazakhstan is full of unusual places and legends. Many people from all over the world are excited to learn the secrets of these mystic lands. Some say that a million years ago, the Zhygylgan Depression was exposed to meteorite rain, and scientists have come to believe that this is the result of karst phenomena, formed due to the dissolution of rocks. Locals are telling the legend that the prophet once visited this area, and the moment he was praying, the steppe nomads stole his horse. At the moment of the prophet’s grief about his loss, the ground shook, opened, and swallowed the thieves. And, right there, the Zhygylgan Depression was formed. Which story you would rather believe is up to you.

A piece of romance 

Several kilometers away from the Zhygylgan Depression, there is a salt lake Kuzdakary. The water in the lake is so salty that it keeps the body afloat. The most exciting thing is that depending on the water levels, and the weather, you could find the lake in the shape of a heart. If you do, do not forget to make a wish, take a swim, and leave your marks on the shore, as it is believed to bring you good fortune. Some go as far as believing that snakes guard Kuzdakary Lake. The main thing is to be careful, just like always, and you will be able to touch the heart and even plunge into it.

This place is a paradise for tourists seeking adventure and excitement. You can swim in the heart-shaped lake, but also if you walk a little further, you will get to see an incredible view of the azure-colored sea. 

Magic sky at the Zhygylgan Depression

You can stay overnight in the Zhygylgan Depression. At night, it truly feels like the sky stretches to space and pulls in from there all the stars to illuminate the lands of Zhygylgan. It's a truly memorable experience, breathing in the air and feeling the smell of grass, listening to the wind's song, and falling asleep under the million of stars. This place will hold a special chapter in the book of your memory, and it should be called the "Harmony of the fallen land of Zhygylgan".

Zhygylgan Depression, West Kazakhstan

JR29+G5 Dzhigalgan, Kazakhstan