This beautiful reserve in the Talassky Alatau range of the western Tian Shan Mountains is the perfect place to experience Kazakhstan’s rugged beauty. It’s known as the home of the tulip and in spring the meadows are full of these colourful flowers. The western side has the more dramatic scenery while the eastern region has more bird and plant life. The reserve is home to 42 species of animals including the rare snow leopard and the Tian Shan Brown Bear as well as over 230 different bird species.

This is a great area for walking and several different hikes can easily be arranged. It is also possible to visit Asku Canyon, one of the deepest in Asia. The region is making efforts to retain its traditional culture and as well as a tulip festival in May there is a horse festival in autumn and regular concerts throughout the year.