Akkurum: The Mushroom Stones of Altai
Akkurum (Ak-Corum) is located on the right bank of the river Chulyshman, Altai region of Russia. Akkurum translates as the “white rockslide.” Generally, “kurums” are large boulders formed by erosion and weathering. One of the interesting facts about the kurums is that they are slowly moving down the slope.
These unusual formations, strikingly resembling the mushrooms, are results of weathering and water erosion. Mushrooms are formed of solid rock served as a kind of umbrella for its foundation. Over time, the softer rock around the base erodes and “mushroom” grows.
Up to 5 meters (16 foot) high, the rocks attract many visitors. Unfortunately, these stone formations continue to gradually disintegrate. During the earthquake of 2003 several “hats” fell off. Geologists believe that our grandchildren may no longer see the wonders of Chulyshman valley.
Location: Altai, Ulaganskiy rayon, Russia
51° 6′ 37.90″ N 87° 58′ 29.83″ E
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Stone Mushrooms of Akkurum, Karasu Gorge, Chulyshman Valley, Ulagan District, Altai Republic, Russia
- Coordinates
- 51.110556, 87.976111
- Access
- The Altai Republic tourism portal places the Stone Mushrooms inside Altai Biosphere Reserve and describes a route via Katu-Yaryk Pass, a river crossing and a steep exposed scree slope. Reserve rules prohibit entry without a special pass and allow only authorized ecological routes. Before travelling, confirm with the reserve or operator that Akkurum is on a currently authorized route and arrange any required permit. This is not open walk-in access; wear sturdy footwear, carry water and avoid the loose slope in unsafe weather.
- Admission
- No current Akkurum-specific ticket price was confirmed. The Altai Reserve says visitors need a special pass and may use only authorized routes. Contact the reserve or tour operator before travel to confirm eligibility and any current fee; do not assume free open access.
- Time needed
- Allow about 1 hour uphill and nearly 1 hour back on the steep scree slope, plus the boat crossing; a local route guide recommends setting aside about half a day from a valley base.
- Best season
- June–August is identified as the most favorable season by the Altai Republic tourism portal; access and weather conditions can vary.
- Opening hours
- No daily visitor hours are published. Access is controlled by reserve permission and authorized route conditions. The Altai tourism portal identifies June–August as the favorable season; confirm current authorization, weather and daylight logistics before setting out.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-25
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-21
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