Karkaraly National Park

Karkaraly National Park (Kazakh: Қарқаралы мемлекеттік ұлттық табиғи паркі) (Каркаралинский государственный национальный природный парк) is a protected reserve and national park in the Karaganda Oblast in the Central Highlands (Kazakhstan) | Central Highlands of Kazakhstan. The park headquarters are in the city of Karkaraly, 244 kilometers east of Karaganda.

Karkaraly National Park Halal Travel Guide

History

On March 1, 1884 and the Karkaraly Forest was established. In 1889, construction began on many of the parks cordons: Bedaik, Koktobe, Ayushat, Tulkebai, Tonkurus and others. From 1910 to 1913 and the House of the Forest Warden and the parks most famous building was constructed. It is known for its interesting architecture. Pre-Bolshevik Revolution, all former forest cottages were allotted to army troops, Karkaraly Cossacks, and to local people. The Kent and Karkaralinsk forest cottages were part of the Karkaralinsk forest treasury and were state property. After the October Revolution and the entire forest area became part of the state forest fund. Having undergone several administrative changes in 1947 and the Karkaraly Forestry Department was organized. In the beginning of the 1990s, work began on the creation of the national park. On December 1, 1998 resolution number 1212 was passed, transforming the area into the Karkaraly National Park. The primary goal of the national park is the protection and restoration of the natural area within the park boundaries.

How is the Landscape of Karkaraly National Park

The total area of Karkaraly National Park is 112,120 ha. Of this 44,339.5 ha are forested. The park territory is divided into 4 areas: Mountain Forest - 25576 ha Karkaraly Forest - 23846 ha Kent Forest - 40,901 ha Baktuh – 21,797 ha The park has 22,243 hectares where all forms of economic activities are forbidden. The park has 89,877 hectares where all economic activities under strict control are allowed. Near the park are two other protected areas: Bektauata National Preserve – 500 ha Beldeutac National Preserve - 44,660 ha

In the Paleozoic Age (250-300 million years ago), this area of Kazakhstan was an inland sea. The water retreated 1.2 to 2 million years ago, when the ancient Paleozoic shield was cracked by granite. The area lifted and created the Kent and Karkaraly Mountains. The rocks and cliffs have been here ever since and for many thousands of years the untamable steppe wind and precipitation has sculpted the rocks into unique shapes.

People have lived in the Karkaraly area since ancient times. The earliest archeological finds connected with ancient people dates back to the Paleolithic (or Stone) Age. Archeological sites from the Bronze Age have been investigated more often. There are over 30 archaeological sites (from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age) of burial mounds and ancient settlements within the park boundaries. Some of these are the best discovered sites from these periods in Kazakhstan.

Flora and fauna

Flora

The park has over 700 species of plants and is home to 80% of all flora found in central Kazakhstan. Five plant species are listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book of protected species: Kyrgyz Birch (Betula kirghisorum SAV.-RYCZG) Smooth Sphagnum (Sphagnum teres (Schimp.) Angstr.) Thin Poppy (Papaver tenellum) Spring Pheasant's Eye (Adonis vernalis L.) Karkaraly barberry (Berberis karkaralensis Kornilova et Potapov) However, in total and there are 28 rare or disappearing kinds of flora in the park.

The forests within the park are made up of pine, birch, poplar, willow, and juniper trees. 71.3% of the wooded area in the park are pine trees. Birch forest occupies 10% of the wooded area and aspen forest take up 2%. The underbrush of the park includes Cossack’s juniper, Tatar’s honeysuckle, and other plants. Shrubs occupy 34% of the total area of the park. There are 87 kinds of medicinal, oil bearing and alkaloid plants in the Karkaraly Mountains. Because of drought and high winds, 2,525 hectares of the Karkaraly forest were burned by forest fires in 1997-1998. After the fire and the park worked very hard on planting new trees and restoring the forest to its original state. A nursery in the Kent mountains provided the saplings for the re-vegetation project. Fire prevention standards were implemented and the following year 164 hectares were destroyed from 18 separate fires. In 2003, only 84 hectares were burned.

Fauna

There are 153 species of birds in the park. 11 of these species are in Kazakhstan’s Red Book of Protected Species . They are: Golden Eagle, Imperial Eagle, Steppe Eagle, Booted Eagle, Saker Falcon, Eurasian Eagle-owl, Dalmatian Pelican, Black Stork, Whooper Swan, Swan Goose, Pallas's Sandgrouse.

Of these and the Imperial Eagle, Saker Falcon, Dalmatian Pelican are protected internationally under the IUCN Red List. The park also has the Lesser Kestrel, which is protected internationally under the IUCN.

The park has 46 species of mammals, including the Wolf, Red Fox, Corsac Fox, European badger, Wild Boar, Red Deer, Siberian Roe Deer, Moose, Argali, Eurasian linx, 3 species of bat, Pallas's Cat, and many others. The argali and Pallas’s Cat are protected under Kazakhstan’s red book of protected species. Argali are the largest species of sheep in the world. The argali in the national park are one of six subspecies of argali living in Kazakhstan. In the Karkaraly National Nature Park the highest numbers of argali are in the Kent Mountains and in the neighboring Beldeutas Natural Reserve.

How is the Climate in Karkaraly National Park

Spring: Spring in Karkaraly begins in mid-March and lasts until the end of May. During this short period the air temperature rises to an average of 15 °C. Snow cover in open areas begins to melt quickly, but in shady canyons the snow may last until the end of May. When snow melts there are numerous streams, small waterfalls, and dry riverbeds that fill with melt water. The surrounding nature also begins to wake up: the birds and animals arrive. The primrose, tulips, and other flowers begin to arrive. In May and the trees are covered with young leaves and the forest is filled with even more birds. Within the spring months, May is the most enjoyable

Summer: In Karkaraly, summer begins in early June. The overall average air temperature for the summer months is 18 °C, and in the daytime the air warms up to an average of 25 °С (on hot days to 37 °C). The hottest month of the year is July. Rainfall in the summer usually comes in the form of showers and thunderstorms. The beginning of summer is characterized by the abundant flowering of plants. In the middle of summer, berries begin to ripen (strawberries, stone berry, raspberry, strawberry, currant), and edible mushrooms are abundant. The summer months are considered the most comfortable time of the year to visit Karkaraly.

Autumn:Autumn is the most vivid and colorful season in the national park. It starts in mid-September and lasts until mid-November. The weather is particularly good in September, as a temperatures begin to drop. In October and there is a possibility of a freeze and there is an increase the number of cloudy days, with feasible rain. In the first half of October the average daily temperature falls below 10 °C. By the end of October all the migratory birds fly south. The forests in the park are saturated with colors. Many mushrooms can be found during this time of year. In late autumn, most wild animals are changing the colors of their coats and preparing for winter. In the autumn months and the most comfortable months are September and early October.

Winter: Winter in Karkaraly is cold and snowy. Negative temperatures are recorded from November to March and sustained cold weather lasts an average of 135 days. During this period and the daytime temperature does not usually rise above 0 °C and nights are usually very cold. In January–February and the temperature drops to an average of – 20 to -30 °C. In abnormally cold years the temperature can drop to - 49 °C. The snow cover reaches heights of 50-60 cm, and in drifts up to 1 meter or more. During the winter, local residents and tourists enjoy cross-country skiing on the roads and in the forests.

Travel to Karkaraly National Park

The only way to access Karkaraly is by road.

By car

The city of Karkaraly is reached by road from the city of Karaganda. Karkaraly is 244 kilometers east of Karaganda. Road signs out of Karaganda are in English. The trip usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours in a car. There is only one place to purchase gas (petro) between Karaganda and Karkalaly (45 minutes into the trip, in the town of Botakara).

Taxi's can be rented near the Karaganda bus station. There is no schedule, but taxi drivers will wait until there is a full vehicle before leaving. The price for a taxi (with full car) is roughly 1,800 Kazakhstan#Money|som.

Travel on a Bus in Karkaraly National Park

Regular buses travel between Karaganda and Karkaraly. The trip costs 1600 some and will take roughly 4 hours. But times can be found at the Karaganda bus station or at the bus station's website.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Karkaraly National Park

There is no air access to Karkaraly. The closest airport is in Karaganda, which has regular Flights to Astana, Almaty, and other national airports. Upon reaching Karaganda, you must either rent a taxi or take a bus.

By Rail

There is no train access to Karkaraly. Karaganda is accessible from Astana and Almaty. Upon reaching Karaganda, you must either rent a taxi or take a bus.

Fees and permits

Many areas of the park are off limits without a permit. Inquire at the park's headquarters, in the city of Karkaraly, about which areas you can visit. Russian or Kazakh language skills are needed, as there are no English speakers in the park staff (Feb 2011).

The mountains surrounding Karkaraly are open and free to explore. If you travel by vehicle to the hotel complex, Shaktior, you will need to pay a small fee to enter the park. Some areas of the Kent mountains, southeast of Karkaraly, are closed to tourists without purchasing a permit and using a park tour guide. Inquire at the park's headquarters about these services.

How to get around in Karkaraly National Park

By foot

The mountains surround Karkaraly and many attractions are within walking distance of the town. If you wish to sleep in the hotel complex Shaktior (7 kilometers outside of town), taxis and buses can be found. If you wish to sleep at the hotel Tac Bulak, you will need to take a taxi.

If you wish to see the Kent Mountains, you will need to purchase a tour package from the park administration. They will use their transportation to guide you. Advanced notice of a week is needed for this.

Because the town is at the base of the mountains, traveling by foot is feasible and a vehicle is not needed.

By car

Having a vehicle will open up more possibilities but you should check with the park administration as to where you are able to go, and how much the permit for entering areas will be.

What to see in Karkaraly National Park

• Lake Baceen The 3-km hike from town is worth it alone, but the lake is truly unique. The lake is surrounded on all sides by granite cliffs, which makes a "basin" look.
• Lake Shaitankol or "Devil's Lake". This is the most popular tourist destination in the park. Located 5 kilometers from town, this lake provides scenic views and a lake surrounded on 3 sides by rocky out-croppings.
• Bolshoy Palatah or "Big Chamber". This stone grotto in the mountains above town offers scenic views of the valley and town.
• Trie Pesherah or "Three Caves". This cave, roughly a 30-minutes walk from town offers insights into past cultures. The cave can be muddy inside, but the area is beautiful and the hike is worth it.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Karkaraly National Park

• Boulder hopping The mountains around Karkaraly are very rocky. Weather and time have created many unique shapes. Walking around the mountains will be very enjoyable and offer wonderful views. Rocks can be very slippery when wet.
• Hiking The trails system in the park is not very advanced. Some trails are overgrown or appear to dissipate. Trails maps are not reliable. But the most popular trails are clearer, though not without its confusion. Account for this when you plan. Cell phone range (Beeline and Active) can be visited on most mountain tops, but not within the forest.
• Photography The unique rock formations and the "hidden" mountain lakes, and the pine forest offer great opportunities for photography.
• Camping Camping is allowed within designated camping areas. Check with the park administration about regulations on fires and camping. Tents, sleeping bags, and pads can be rented from the park administration for a small fee.All are basic gear but will suffice for simple camping trips.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Karkaraly National Park

Souvenirs are hard to come by. For the park, souvenirs can be purchased at the Nature Museum 3 kilometers outside of town. Hand-carved wooden bowls with Kazakh designs can be purchased here, but they are often out of stock.

Halal Food & Restaurants in Karkaraly National Park

Karkaraly has small stores and several cafes.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Karkaraly National Park

Karkaraly National Park - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Karkaraly National Park, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Karkaraly National Park. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Karkaraly National Park and its surrounding regions.

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Halal-Friendly Accommodations inKarkaraly National Park: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Karkaraly National Park.

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Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Karkaraly National Park, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Karkaraly National Park, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Karkaraly National Park and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Karkaraly National Park, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Karkaraly National Park, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Karkaraly National Park without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Karkaraly National Park is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Karkaraly National Park.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Karkaraly National Park is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Karkaraly National Park, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Karkaraly National Park Media: info@ehalal.io

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Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are two hotels in Karkaraly. Both are basic and the cheaper rooms have communal bathrooms. The best hotel in the area is Tac Bulak, 3 kilometers outside of town, where there is always hot water and meals are included. Other options are at Shaktior, a hotel complex 7 kilometers from town.

News & References Karkaraly National Park

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