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Altai, literally Golden Mountains, is one of the most beautiful places in Central Asia where old traditions are still alive. The name is derived not only from bounties of gold in the mountain streams, but also from the indescribable beauty and wealth of nature that is replete with fascinating colours, smells and sounds. According to an old legend, the imposing three peaks of the snow-capped summit of Mount Belukha (4,506 m) represent a three-headed cursed beauty, symbolizing the unity of three religions – Christianity, Buddhism and Islam. It is a sacred mountain to the Altai people, one of the places believed to hide the promised land of Shambala – the place of eternal peace and happiness. In the 1920s the area was explored by the great painter and philosopher Nicholas Roerich who travelled in the region during his epic Asian expedition. His followers meet regularly at Akkem Lake under the glaciers of Belukha.
Over thousands of years this melting pot of cultures, languages and nations has not lost its splendour, generosity and hospitality of its people. Altai folklore maintains the traditional knowledge and the amazing wisdom of Altai people. They consider themselves guests in nature and according to their rules it is a sin to cut more trees and hunt more than necessary to survive. To kill a swan, crane or shelduck (ogar) is perceived to be a mortal sin, for which one will be punished by Mother Nature. The respect of mountain spirits is so deep-rooted that is not only forbidden to climb the mountains, but also to look at them for long in order not to disturb the spirits. Similarly, as in the neighbouring Khakassia and Tuva, Altai is full of ancient monuments, rock drawings and statues.
Altai is one of the most fantastic places on our planet. Whether you are looking for pristine wilderness, spectacular countryside, captivating cultural heritage, friendly people, good food, comfortable tourist facilities and unforgettable experiences, you can find them all in the Golden Altai. One of these places is the one and only Altaisky Zapovednik.
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