1999 Trip To Zalanash (1 of 2)

back to Heinz Homepage Year 1998 Trip to the Village of Zalanash
In October 1999 Kevin and Noah travelled to Zalanash and Satuh to visit Noorken's family and Kairat's sister. Noorken's mom was seriously ill while we were there. She is dong fine now, after spending 2 weeks in an Almaty hospital.
Village of Zalanash Zalanash in the distance at the foot of the mountains. About 300 km from Almaty. This is a sheep ranching and wheat farming area. Although half of the population has moved away, the evidence of a once thriving area can still be seen. See link at the end of this page to "More Text on Zalanash". (7/98)
Noorken's Brother and His Wife. Noorken's brother Yerbol and Yerbol's wife. Yerbol played chess with Noah during our visit and discussed the Shaministic beliefs he holds. He offers prayers to deceased family members in order to receive blessings and protection from evil spirits. See link on Folk Islam at the bottom of this page. (In the village of Zalanash (3.5 hours east of Almaty. 10/99)
Village of Sauh Village of Satuh about 40 minutes past Zalanash in one of the mountain valleys. Satuh is warmer and wetter than Zalanash. Apples and Apricots are raised here as well as wheat, cattle, sheep, and horses. There is also a small tourist industry due to the small mountain lake resort (Lake Kolsai) nearby. (7/98) back to homepage 1999 Zalanash Visit Part 2 of 2 More Text on Zalanash Folk Islam religion of Kazakhs