Kazakhstan’s Mangystau Stuns World in BBC Feature on Alien Landscapes

Kazakhstan’s Mangystau region has gained international attention following the release of a BBC Reel titled “The Alien Lands Once Hidden Beneath the Ocean.”

The video vividly captures the region’s surreal geological formations and ancient marine history, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Described as resembling a landscape from another world, Mangystau is home to vast plateaus, deep canyons, and striking rock formations sculpted over millions of years. According to the video, this area of western Kazakhstan was once submerged beneath a prehistoric ocean, a fact that explains its extraordinary terrain and geological diversity.

In addition to its natural wonders, the BBC feature highlights the region’s growing appeal as a cultural and eco-tourism destination. Mangystau is increasingly popular among international travelers, offering a unique combination of untouched nature, rich historical heritage, and expanding modern tourism routes.

The BBC’s international coverage marks a significant milestone for Kazakhstan’s tourism sector, elevating global interest in the country's lesser-known yet breathtaking landscapes.

In support of this growing momentum, the Kazakh Government approved a comprehensive development strategy in July 2025 to guide tourism growth in Mangystau through 2029. The plan includes nine strategic focus areas and 102 specific action items. These include enhancing visitor access to iconic locations such as Bozzhyra, Tamshaly, Zhygylgan, Torysh, Shakpak-Ata, Saura, and Kyzylkup.

A key priority is the development of the Kenderli resort zone and the expansion of essential infrastructure-such as new roadways, utility networks, a regional airport, and a bus terminal-to support increased tourist flow.

Further raising the region’s profile, UNESCO is set to consider the inscription of Mangystau’s Underground Mosques on the World Heritage List in July 2026. If approved, the designation would recognize the cultural and spiritual significance of the unique subterranean sites and further position Mangystau as a world-class travel destination.