Life in Remote Kazakhstan Taiga on the Outskirts of the Civilisation

The village of Aksu in eastern Kazakhstan was founded by Russian Old Believers seeking refuge from religious persecution following a schism in the Russian Orthodox Church in the 17th century. Fleeing reforms they opposed, these communities migrated to remote areas, including parts of Kazakhstan, to preserve their traditional beliefs and practices. The flat valley of the Belaya River was ideal for settlement amidst the endless ridges of the Altai Mountains.

Over time, Aksu became a sanctuary where Old Believers preserved their religious and cultural heritage, contributing to the diverse cultural palette of the region.

Currently, Aksu has a predominantly Kazakh population, and since 2009, the village was renamed by local authorities from Beloye to Aksu, which literally translates from Kazakh as "white water". Let's enjoy together the atmospheric, cozy Altai village on the outskirts of civilization.