Rhododendron blooms on the bank of the Katun River

Postcard

The Katun River is one of the last large, dam-free wild and scenic rivers in Russia. Flowing for over 680 kilometers, the Katun is famous for its glacier-blue waters, alpine valleys, and world-class kayaking and rafting. Katun River is the main water artery of the Altai Mountains.

‘The word “Katun’,” in Turkic languages, means “woman,” “mother,” “lady”; and so it is considered a sin to throw a rock into the river.’

Stamps

From a set of two stamps Fauna of Russia: Whales (2012).