Chemal village of Gorny Altai

100 km from Gorno-Altaisk is the village of Chemal — a place of amazing beauty and color. In one day spent here, you will experience the harmony of the island of Patmos. Walk the trails of the gorge Th-Ckas, see ancient petroglyphs and the dragon’s Teeth, protruding from the rapid Katun.

Sacred Island of Patmos

From Chemal, we will go to one of the most spiritual corners on the shore of the clear — eyed Katun-the island of Patmos with the Church of St. John the Theologian built on it. You will hear the stories of the mysterious island, once inhabited by monks, walk along the suspension bridge and admire the unusual color of the main river of Altai.

Altai places of Power

Then, along the “goat trail”, skirting the steep slope of Mount Beshpek, we will walk to the point of confluence of the two rivers — in Altai, such places are considered sacred. Along the way you will explore the stunning observation deck and hear the legends of Altai hero Cartake. Then go to the gorge Th-Ckis, which is called the Valley of the mountain spirits. Here you will find a simple trekking among 500-meter rocks and ancient petroglyphs to a panoramic point with an incredible view of the river valley, framed by strict mountains.

“Dragon’s Teeth” and wild river

The legends and legends of Altai will come to life on a large suspension bridge, from which you can see the “Dragon’s Teeth” – pointed islands rising from the turbulent streams of the Katun River. Natural magic that gives you the creeps!