Serektas Petroglyphs

Located deep in the rolling hills of the Almaty Region, far from paved roads and passenger buses, lie the Serektas Petroglyphs. It is one of Kazakhstan’s quietest yet most moving archaeological treasures. This remote site holds hundreds of ancient rock carvings, some believed to date back over a thousand years. Among them are striking images of traditional yurts, tribal tamgas (symbols of family or clan identity), and 19th-century Arabic inscriptions gently weathered by time.

Serektas petroglyphs date back to the Late Bronze Age and are found on basalt rock surfaces at elevations ranging from 752 to 840 meters above sea level. The site is relatively modest in size, with only three to four rock faces bearing carvings, but it holds a significant amount of archaeological importance. 

The petroglyphs are situated about 125 km northwest of Almaty. There’s no official entrance, no signs, just wide-open land, stone, silence, and sky. It feels like stepping into a space where the past is still present, where nomadic peoples once paused and marked the land with memory. Reaching the petroglyphs requires a 4×4 vehicle and a guide who knows the terrain. The journey winds through quiet valleys and grassy plains, adding to the sense of discovery. Because of its remoteness, Serektas is rarely visited, which only deepens its charm. There’s no crowd here, no rush. Just a raw, peaceful connection to history. Serektas is not just a destination; it’s an experience, one that lingers long after you’ve left. Perfect for those who seek meaning in their travels, who value heritage, silence, and authenticity.