There’s no need to travel as far as New Zealand to experience the atmosphere of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, as Kazakhstan offers its own magical landscapes. The county is home to many stunning places where you can feel like a character from «The Hobbit» or «The Lord of the Rings.»
Three of these locations are situated near Almaty.
Hobbit’s waterfall in the Ayusay Gorge
The mysterious Ayusay Gorge attracts visitors with its waterfalls and picturesque trails. One of them is Hobbit’s waterfall, dubbed for the surrounding fairytale atmosphere that resembles a place in the Shire, where Bilbo once lived.
The spot is so popular that you might encounter lines of tourists as early as 6 a.m.
But if you’d rather avoid the crowds, there’s an alternative — Burkhan-Bulak Falls in the Zhetysu region, the highest in Kazakhstan. Its cascades reach 168 meters in height, with 114 meters visible, stunning visitors with their power and majesty, reminiscent of the falling waters of Esgaroth or Rivendell.
Hobbit-style houses at the Ya Tut recreation camp
This place is styled with northern and Hobbit-inspired motifs: semicircular doors, picturesque roofs and wooden paths, all nestled in greenery. It feels especially cozy in the evening, when the soft glow of lanterns creates the atmosphere of an Elven or Hobbit village.
Located near Talgar, this spot is perfect for photo shoots, quiet relaxation and family walks.
An Elven forest around the Kolsay Lakes and Lake Kaindy
Tall spruces, semi-transparent turquoise water and mist over the Kolsay Lakes and Lake Kaindy evoke the atmosphere of Lothlórien (the Elven forest) and its lakes. These places are also steeped in magical silence, with light filtering through the treetops and water sparkling in the soft twilight. This view is especially breathtaking at sunrise over the middle and upper Kolsay Lakes.
A trip to the Kolsay Lakes is one of the best options for a scenic drive near Almaty. The route features Kazakhstan’s most distinctive natural landscapes — canyons, forest-fringed lakes and mountains.
For those who want more of Tolkien than Kazakhstan can offer, a great option would be a short trip to Singapore for «The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale.»
The grand musical, based on Tolkien’s legendary trilogy, will be on stage from August 12 to 13.
Claim your flight ticket at the best price with Freedom Travel.
Previously, Kursiv.media explored other places in Kazakhstan that let you step into a different fantasy universe — Harry Potter. And if you’ve ever wondered what those characters might look like as Kazakhs, click here.
