Akmeshit cave
Akmeshit cave
Situated 90 kilometers from Shymkent, nestled at the base of the southern stretches of the Karatau Range, this location emerges as a principal sacred destination in southern Kazakhstan. The Baidibek Cave, marked by a sinkhole sporting a 30-meter diameter entrance, remains inconspicuous from a distance of several dozen meters. The landscape on both sides of the road is dominated solely by mountains, devoid of any trees in the cave’s proximity.
This locale bears immense significance for the local populace. In bygone eras, the cave served a religious purpose as a mosque or a shrine of earlier religions, earning the name “Ak Mechet Aulie,” translated from Kazakh as the “Sacred White Mosque.” Pilgrims fervently seek out the cave to offer prayers and beseech the fulfillment of their desires.
Inside Ak Meshit cave
A vast hall spanning 200 square meters awaits, preceded by a captivating underground mulberry grove. The cave boasts a distinctive microclimate, with trees extending beneath the rift, where sunlight intermittently filters through. The air inside is remarkable, differing from the surface atmosphere, and stays usually between 18-20 degrees. Despite scorching heat during the summer, it maintains a refreshing coolness, while in bitter cold, it emanates warmth. The ground is adorned with a unique carpet composed of sand, bird droppings, feathers, and dust, accumulated over centuries.
Ak Meshit Legends
Mythical tales abound in this enigmatic location. One legend narrates that in ancient times, the cave was the abode of a dragon – a formidable creature that would soar from its nest, attacking both people and livestock. As the dragon unfurled its wings, it brushed against the rift’s edges, gradually expanding its diameter. None could conquer the tail-wielding menace until the arrival of the prophet Solomon, who subdued the ominous creature. The elevated area in the cave’s central part, beneath the rift where sunlight penetrates, is said to be where the dragon slept, giving rise to another moniker – the “Dragon’s Cave.”
Another legend recounts a historical narrative wherein the cave served as a refuge during Jungar invasions, offering sanctuary to village residents for extended periods.
Ak Meshit healing properties
A popular rumor claims this place having supernatural properties. Many tourists pile stones in pyramids and make wishes while some tie their wishes written on a cloth to the trees or just leave white handkerchiefs, hoping that such rituals would help their wishes to materialize. This place of power is rumored to be able to treat many diseases with stories of infertile couples having children, someone’s blood pressure being normalized, someone cured of diabetes and so on. In order to recover for sure, many people crawl through a 7-8-meter long crevice located inside the cave, keeping their desire in mind.
Travel to Akmeshit Cave
From Shymkent, the cave can be reached by taxi or car in just over an hour (approximately 80 km). However, embarking on the journey within a group and under the guidance of an instructor is recommended.
The modern road traverses through steppe expanses covered with dried grass in the summer. In the vicinity of Kenestobe village in the Turkestan region of Kazakhstan, the monotonous steppe landscape transforms into picturesque foothill scenery. Parking the car at the base of a low mountain, adorned with sporadic trees, continue on foot. The goal is within reach when you see the green metal ladder to the opening at the upper part of the mountain.
From Almaty, it is a full day drive to the cave.
Other sights & destinations near Akmeshit cave
Page updated 22.1.2024
