The Chundzha hot springs are located in the picturesque region of southeastern Kazakhstan, nestled in the foothills of the Tien Shan mountains near the small village of Chundzha. This area is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring stunning mountain landscapes, lush greenery, and clear blue skies. The hot springs are easily accessible, making them a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and therapeutic benefits.

The climate in Chundzha is characterized by a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers can be warm, with temperatures often reaching into the 30s Celsius (mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit), while winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below freezing. This seasonal variation means that visitors can enjoy the hot springs year-round, but the best time to visit is generally in the spring and autumn months. During these periods, the weather is mild, allowing for pleasant outdoor activities and comfortable soaking in the hot springs.

Getting to Chundzha is relatively straightforward. The nearest major city is Almaty, located about 200 kilometers (124 miles) away. From Almaty, travelers can take a bus or rent a car to reach Chundzha, with the journey typically taking around 3-4 hours. The route offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and mountains, enhancing the overall travel experience. Once in Chundzha, visitors will find various accommodations and amenities to make their stay enjoyable, from cozy hotels to natural wellness retreats. The welcoming atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make Chundzha a perfect getaway for those looking to rejuvenate and connect with nature.

Air temperatures drop in the fall, signaling the start of a new season for hot spring getaways! Here, you can relax and rejuvenate not only in summer’s cool pools but also in autumn, winter, and spring. This ranking of locations is based on Google search statistics from the well-known internet service Ahrefs.com, with the top spots going to the resorts most frequently searched for by people.

If you are planning to celebrate winter holidays on the hot springs, make sure to book your stay early - typically New Year bookings start in September!

Composition of Water

The water in the Chundzha thermal springs is weakly mineralized and slightly alkaline with a high concentration of silicic acid. Its mineral composition and physical characteristics vary slightly depending on the location of the spring.

In 1986, the Jetysu Party of the Almaty Hydrogeological Expedition drilled well No. 43, located 5 km from the 91 km mark of the Chundzha–Koljat highway. During the work, hot water accumulations were found at depths of 700 to 500 meters. The well's output is 15 liters per second.

Table: Organoleptic and Physico-Chemical Indicators of Water

Таблица

The water in the well is classified as sodium chloride-bicarbonate-sulfate, containing potassium, calcium, magnesium, iodine, and other elements.

Silicic acid is an active balneological factor, providing sedative, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. It is beneficial for the skin. Bicarbonates help to alkalize the body. Sodium, along with chlorine, normalizes the water-salt balance. Sulfates aid in detoxification. Samples of water have been taken from all springs in the recreation areas. A detailed report on the analysis results can be requested from the management of the wellness complexes.

Therapeutic and Preventive Effects of Water

The range of applications for the thermomineral water from the Chundzha springs is broader compared to the mineral water "Sary-Agach." It is recommended for both internal and external use in the treatment of several conditions.

Chronic Diseases of the Digestive System (GIT):

• Gastritis with increased secretion, acid-forming, and motor function.
• Functional secretory and motor disorders of gastric tone.
• Exacerbation of gastroduodenal ulcers.
• Diseases of the operated stomach.
• Pancreatitis during non-exacerbation.
• Cholecystitis of various etiologies.

Metabolic Disorders:

• Gout (uric acid diathesis).
• Oxaluria.
• Phosphaturia.
• Obesity of all degrees.

Kidney and Urinary Tract Diseases:

• Pyelonephritis, nephrosonephritis.
• Cystitis.
• Urolithiasis during non-exacerbation.

Skin Diseases:

• Eczema of various etiologies.
• Limited psoriasis (mineral baths combined with sunbathing).
• Dermatoses, dermatitis, allergic manifestations.

Chronic Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System:

• Joint and muscle diseases in remission or above 1 degree (except for joint tuberculosis).
• Inflammatory and degenerative diseases of the spine.

Thermomineral water has a strong therapeutic and preventive effect; therefore, its use is best avoided during exacerbations of diseases. Hot baths are not recommended for pregnant women or individuals suffering from oncological diseases and severe heart disorders. For any individual contraindications, it is advisable to consult with your treating physician.

Top 10 hot springs resorts

1. Mirage Resort – Last Year’s Top-Ranked Resort

The name of the popular Mirage complex is the most frequently searched on Google. In 2023, it continues to lead among the best hotels near the Chundzha hot springs. The courtyard, paved with tiles, is surrounded by greenery, creating a striking contrast with the steppe desert landscape. Nearby, guests can find billiards, free parking, playgrounds, and a sauna. Grills and fish-cooking equipment are available for rent.

The spring is 1.6 meters deep, with sand at the bottom, and the clear water is maintained at 40-45°C. The resort features three pools – an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and a children's pool. Dining is available in the cafeteria, but guests are allowed to bring their own food. Pets are not permitted in the rooms. Wi-Fi, internet, and phone service are limited. Suites and standard rooms accommodate 2 to 5 guests, with prices starting from 20,000 KZT for a double room, including breakfast. Children under 6 stay for free, though no extra bed is provided.

https://www.instagram.com/mirazh_zo/

 

2. Izumrud – One of the Best Resorts at the Springs

This comfortable and clean hotel, featuring a mini-market, landscaped green grounds, and courteous staff, has been one of the most searched-for locations on Google over the past month. Guests can enjoy health benefits in three pools, filled directly from a well with 52°C water. During the day in summer, the water is cooled. Swimmers can move from the indoor pool to the outdoor pool.

Although the Chundzha hot spring complex is still under construction, the owners provide top conditions for relaxation. There are tables, benches, grills available for rent, and an on-site cafeteria. Rooms are clean and well-maintained, featuring heating, fresh bedding, bathrooms, refrigerators, and TVs. Prices for a double room start at 14,000 KZT per night per person.

https://www.instagram.com/izumrud_thermal_spa/

 

3. Tumar – For Family Relaxation and Wellness

The Tumar resort has dropped one position in the ranking. This popular vacation spot is known for its excellent environment and fresh, clean air. It features artesian springs with radon-rich water. The large, quiet complex has a secure, landscaped courtyard with flowerbeds and coniferous trees.

The grounds include three pools – a children’s pool, an indoor pool, and an outdoor pool – along with lounge chairs, gazebos, and grills. The water is warm, and there is a large waterslide, playground, café, table tennis, and free parking. Rooms for 2, 3, 4, and 6 guests are equipped with air conditioning, a kitchen with a refrigerator, TV, and private bathroom, while some cottages include a billiards room. Internet service is stable, and the food is tasty, though a bit pricey. Prices start at 7,000 KZT per person on weekdays and 9,000 KZT on weekends. Prices may increase during autumn and winter holidays, so it’s best to book in advance.

https://www.instagram.com/tumar_hot_springs

 

4. Eco Park – For Family Recreation

The "Eco Park" entertainment complex resembles a European resort. The green grounds include two stores, a café, a bar, a children’s playroom, basketball and tennis courts, and a barbecue area. Water temperatures reach up to 30°C in summer and 40°C in winter. Five pools, each 1.5 meters deep, are cleaned daily. Guests also have access to a sauna, hammam, bicycles, and ATVs. Pleasant, relaxing music creates a cozy ambiance, and Wi-Fi is reliable.

Guests can stay in VIP cottages or 2, 3, and 4-person cabins. Secure parking areas are monitored by surveillance cameras. The eco-park is very popular among visitors, though it has received some negative reviews, including high prices, a limited cafeteria menu, restrictions on bringing personal food, and occasional plumbing issues.

https://www.instagram.com/hot.ecopark/

 

5. Chundzha Hot Springs – Dolphin Hotel

The comfortable Dolphin resort has notably risen in the rankings. Its cozy courtyard includes a shop, café, bar, children’s playground, wood-fired sauna, and parking. The water is clean and warm.

The hotel offers "Standard" and "Economy" rooms with heated floors, bathrooms, and toilets, and rooms are equipped with split air-conditioning systems, refrigerators, and TVs. However, guests are advised to bring their own toiletries. Reviews highlight the courteous staff and delicious cuisine.

https://www.instagram.com/dom_otdiha_delfin

 

6. Derevushka – A Favorite Spot for Relaxation in Chundzha

The alpine-style Derevushka complex has dropped in the rankings but continues to attract many tourists. Cottages are set around a courtyard with well-kept flowerbeds, trees, statues, and fountains. The secure grounds include a shop, free gazebos, lounge chairs, grills, and fish-cooking equipment. Guests can enjoy the karaoke club, wood-fired sauna, and horseback riding.

The three pools are filled with mineral water from wells, with temperatures up to 39°C. In summer, the water is cooled to a comfortable 28–30°C. Cozy rooms accommodate 2, 3, 4, or 6 people. In winter, cottages stay warm with heated floors and radiators. Daily cleaning is provided. Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks, and the café serves Kazakh, Chinese, and European dishes. Prices for a double room start at 8,000 KZT.

https://www.instagram.com/derevushka2

 

7. Raduga – Comfortable Family Getaway

This hot springs resort with a secure area and cottages offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, including Standard rooms with a toilet, TV, and refrigerator. The pools are filled with 40–45°C water, and the reservoir is regularly cleaned and disinfected.

A shared shower room is located near the pool. Guests can use the grill for free and bring their own food, with firewood available upon request at reception. Accommodation at this popular spot is affordable, with rates starting at 6,000 KZT.

8. Nawat – A Unique Wellness Complex

The cozy NAUAT hotel is well-maintained, though it has limited greenery. This resort is renowned for its healing air and underground thermal spring with 55°C water, which aids in treating hypertension, angina, rheumatism, and polyarthritis. December and the off-season are considered the best times to visit Nawat.

Guests have access to four pools: two communal and two indoor pools (separate for men and women). Cottages accommodating 2 to 12 guests are situated around the pools. The rooms are cozy, furnished with a shower, toilet, TV, refrigerator, and electric kettle. Meals are not included in the stay; guests can cook on grills or dine at the café, which serves Halal dishes. Alcohol is prohibited, as the resort is designed for quiet family relaxation.

https://www.instagram.com/nauat_arasan/

 

9. Zhemchuzhina – A Family Wellness Retreat

The new complex features its own mineral spring, with beneficial water suitable for strengthening the nervous system and treating musculoskeletal disorders. The hot water allows guests to visit the hotel year-round, filling two pools with a children's area. Additionally, there are three more pools with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 47°C.

Bringing your own drinks and food is not allowed, except for meat for barbecues. The on-site restaurant offers a great variety of dishes for guests. The courtyard includes secure parking. Hotel rooms come with free Wi-Fi and include a TV, premium furniture, shower amenities, and a tea/coffee set. Rates for a double room start at 10,000 KZT per person, including breakfast. Children under 5 stay for free, though no bed is provided. Discounts are also available for children up to 10 years old.

www.instagram.com/zhemchuzhina_chundzhi/

 

10. Kashgar – A Favorite Getaway

The Kashgar complex has dropped to the last position in the rankings, although the number of visitors remains steady. This quiet place features an ancient eastern style with a clean and well-maintained area. The water temperature in the three pools varies by season, ranging from 28°C to 54°C. There is evening lighting, furnished gazebos, and secure parking available.

The well-kept courtyard includes separate rooms with access to the outdoor pool. The hotel offers cozy accommodations for 2, 4, 6, and 12 guests, equipped with air conditioning, a refrigerator, TV, beds, and a toilet. The VIP cottages feature built-in jacuzzis. Mobile phone reception is good, and soft background music enhances the atmosphere. The café serves dishes from national and Uyghur cuisine. Prices for a double room during the week start at 8,000 KZT per guest.

https://www.instagram.com/kashgar_zona_otdyha

 

Possible problems

Planning a trip to a tourist base can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience, especially when it comes to securing your accommodations. Picture this: after days of anticipation and a long drive of 350 kilometers, you arrive only to be told, “Sorry, there seems to be a misunderstanding; we’re fully booked.” This scenario is all too common during school holidays, weekends, and festive periods, particularly at popular hot springs like Chundzhi, where the limited number of available spots—around 50 bases for 2 million people in Almaty—quickly fills up. To avoid this disappointing situation, it’s crucial to find a reliable place, book your spot in advance with a deposit, confirm your reservation a day or two before arriving, and, if possible, avoid traveling during peak holiday times.

Once you arrive at your destination, you may encounter unexpected issues that can tarnish your experience. Noisy neighbors, for instance, can ruin a peaceful evening; imagine finally settling in after a day of relaxation, only to be disturbed by a loud group or a family with restless children. Additionally, many bases lack soundproofing, making it difficult to escape the din. Other frustrations include unwelcome animal guests in your cabin, unpleasant dining experiences, dirty pools, and poorly maintained rooms. All of these factors can contribute to a disappointing stay. To safeguard against these inconveniences, consider asking about noise levels and cleanliness while booking, reading reviews, and bringing your own food to avoid unpleasant meals. Most importantly, prioritize your health by checking in with a doctor before indulging in the hot springs, as the combination of hot water, cold air, and alcohol can put a strain on your body.