Parau Bibi Shrine

Parau Bibi is a small white shrine set into the rock high on a cliff above the plain near Gyzylarbat, reached by a long flight of steps, and it is one of the most visited pilgrimage places in the country, particularly by women, who come to ask for children. The story attached to it tells of a young woman who prayed to be hidden from an approaching army and was taken into the rock. Ribbons are tied at the site.

What you'll find

• The cliff setting - a white shrine built into the rock high above the plain.
• The stairway - the long flight of steps climbing to the shrine.
• The pilgrimage - the steady flow of visitors, particularly women.
• The plain view - the country spread out below from the shrine platform.

When to go

April to May and September to October are the comfortable months. Fridays are the busiest for pilgrims. Summer heat makes the climb hard.

Before you go

The climb is long and steep with no shade. This is an active place of pilgrimage and photography of worshippers needs care. Facilities at the base are minimal.

Nearby

Gyzylarbat is below, and Nokhur is east in the mountains.