The Altai region is experiencing a surge in tourism, as revealed by traveler Alexey Kotelnikov following his recent expedition. Kotelnikov visited remote locations, including the Sofia Glacier and the Chikhachev Range.

The journey began in Gorno-Altaisk, the starting point for venturing into Altai’s remote corners. Kotelnikov highlighted the blooming of maralnik, turning the mountains into a “lilac sea,” attracting numerous tourists.

The traveler witnessed Kok-boru competitions, a traditional Altai game. The game involves riders competing for a goat carcass, showcasing skill and courage. The game has evolved with structured teams and goals. After the competition, the goat is cooked and enjoyed in a celebratory feast.

Venturing further into the Altai Mountains, Kotelnikov visited the Sofia Glacier. The glacier, located in the Kosh-Agach district, spans approximately 18 square kilometers. The glacier’s ice tongue extends for eight kilometers, with an ice thickness reaching 150 meters, making it one of the region’s largest. Kotelnikov noted that the glacier is melting, losing an average of almost 19 meters per year.

Kotelnikov explored a mountain range in Central Altai, part of the Chuyskiye Belki mountain system. The South Chuysky Range features an average height of 3,000 to 3,500 meters, with Mount Irbistu reaching 3,967 meters. The slopes are characterized by meadows and dwarf birch thickets, offering extensive panoramic views.

The Chikhachev Range reminded the traveler of Switzerland. The range, located at the junction of Russia and Mongolia, stretches for one hundred kilometers, with peaks exceeding 4,000 meters. Parts of the range are protected by the Altai Reserve. Another notable location was the Kurai Range, situated between the Bashkaus and Chuya rivers, reaching a height of 3,446 meters.

Kotelnikov emphasized the rapid development of the tourism industry in Altai, noting the welcoming atmosphere in even the smallest villages and anticipating continued growth in tourist numbers.