In the south of Karachay-Cherkessia is a picturesque Dombayskaya glade. However, not only flowering meadows, fir forests, gorges and mountain rivers attract travelers here. The main object of attention of tourists in the region is Alibek Falls, a photo and description of which we will consider later in the material.
What is a waterfall?
Alibek waterfall is formed by glaciers and water flows of the Dzhalovchatka river. Its height is about 25 meters. This is a mighty stream that shimmers in the sun with all the colors of the rainbow. The amount of water in winter and summer changes significantly. With the arrival of heat under the first morning rays of the sun, here you can see only small streams that run from the rocky peak. In the evening, the flow becomes large-scale when the melting of the ice cap reaches its maximum.
What is interesting waterfall?
At the beginning of the last century, Alibek Falls did not exist. The rocky ledge, from which water flows today, was covered with a thick ice cap. There were huge non-melting blocks, the length of which along the ridge was about 5 kilometers. According to environmentalists, the Alibek waterfall appeared as a result of melting ice under the influence of global warming. According to observations of environmental organizations, the glacier retreated about 1 kilometer annually. Its melting continues to this day, which leads to the formation of water flows flowing from the mountain top.
Alibek waterfall is formed from several streams. As you approach the natural phenomenon, you can hear the strongest rumble that is carried throughout the gorge. This effect delights even the most experienced travelers. Alibek waterfall attracts tourists with its stones. The mighty rock formations, turned by streams of water, are called by the inhabitants of the region only as โlamb foreheadsโ.
What is required to freely pass to the waterfall?
Alibek Falls is part of the Teberda Nature Reserve. The passage here is paid. In the summer, tickets are sold at a price of 200 rubles, in winter the cost is reduced to 100 rubles. You can buy them at the gatehouse located on the outskirts of the city of Dombay. Only in this place is control.
Alibek Falls, Turie Lake, which is located close to it - all this is included in the border zone. Tourists who are going to this place must have a pass with them. Be sure to capture an identity card. The pass can be obtained free of charge by contacting the city of Cherkessk or Teberde. This issue is recommended to pay attention in advance. Otherwise, troubles may arise on the way to the waterfall.
Alibek waterfall - how to get there?
The path to the waterfall is quite simple. The first part of the route to the Alibek climbing camp can be overcome by car. The plot, several kilometers long, passes through the picturesque fir massifs. Therefore, nature lovers are recommended to reach it on foot. Then you need to go to the reserve through the barrier. Starting from the cage with deer, which will be located to the right of the gatehouse, you must move up along the ski lift without turning off the main road.
After about one and a half kilometers, the border zone will begin. Here you will need to present documents and a pass. Immediately after the checkpoint, the road will go to Lake Tourier. To reach the waterfall, you need to overcome a distance of 400 meters, after turning left from the road, and then following down. In order not to get lost, it is worthwhile once again clarifying the route at the border guards.
A mountain river may turn out to be an obstacle to the waterfall in the summer. The very path to the reservoir passes between steep cliffs. The river is shallow. If desired, it can be crossed over stones. However, doing this without outside help is extremely risky. Therefore, to ensure complete safety on the way to the waterfall, it may be worth using the services of a guide.
Finally
The strength, beauty and incredible power of Alibek Falls is able to conquer every traveler. This is one of the main natural attractions of the Caucasus. The place is definitely recommended to visit at least once in a lifetime. It will certainly remain in memory for a lifetime.