Where are the Altai Mountains located?
The Altai Mountains rise where Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan meet. This single range spans from 45° to 52° north latitude and stretches across 84° to 99° east longitude.
Questions about Altai Mountains
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What is the highest point in the Altai Mountains?
The highest point is Belukha which reaches 4,506 meters above sea level. Its double-headed summit gives origin to several glaciers that feed the region's rivers.
When was the Denisova hominin discovered in the Altai mountains?
Scientists discovered the Denisova hominin in the Denisova Cave of the Altai mountains in 2008. DNA evidence dates the remains to approximately 40,000 years ago.
Who were the earliest herders of East Asia associated with the Altai Mountains?
The Afanasievans were the earliest herders of East Asia who established a long tradition of pastoralism in Mongolia. Their population descended from people who migrated across the Eurasian Steppe between 3700 and 3300 BCE.
What major earthquake struck the Chuya Basin area south of the Altai Mountains on the 27th of September 2003?
A large earthquake measuring MW 7.3 struck the Chuya Basin area south of the region on the 27th of September 2003. It caused $10.6 million in damage and wiped out the village of Beltir.