Belukha Mountain

Belukha Mountain

Belukha Mountain, also called Beluga Mountain or Icemount Peak, is the tallest mountain in the Altai Mountains in Russia. It is the highest point in the South Siberian Mountains system. This wonderful mountain is part of the Golden Mountains of Altai World Heritage Site, a place picked for its natural beauty and importance.

Because Belukha Mountain is so special, people need special permission to visit it. Since 2008, anyone who wants to go there must get a special border zone permit. If you are from another country, you should ask for this permit at your local FSB border guard office two months before you plan to travel. This helps keep the area safe and well-protected for everyone.

Geography

Belukha Mountain is a tall mountain with three peaks. It is located in the Altai Republic. The mountain is near the border between Russia and Kazakhstan, close to where it meets China. Belukha has small glaciers, including one called Belukha Glacier. The eastern peak of Belukha is taller than the western peak.

History

Belukha Mountain was first climbed in 1914 by the Tronov brothers. Many climbers today use the same route they took.

In the summer of 2001, scientists visited the Belukha Glacier. They collected pieces of ice to study. These ice samples might tell us about the weather and environment from up to 5,000 years ago. A team from Switzerland and Russia also studied the glacier.