Kazakhstan, also known as the land for wanderers, has been gaining popularity as a tourist destination in the recent past. It is one of the most underrated countries in the world but you will be surprised to know that Kazakhstan has everything you want in a travel destination. This lesser known destination appeals to different people in different ways. Be it the stunning natural landscapes, unique architecture, the ice-cold winters or the many places to visit in Kazakhstan, there is something magical about this place. Here’s all that you need to know about this less-explored destination.
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Essential Information
Geographical Details: 9th largest country in the World. It shares its borders with countries like Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.
Total Area: 2.725 million km²
Population: Approximately 1.99 crores
Capital City: Astana (new name Nur-Sultan)
Terrain: Mountains, flatlands, deserts, taiga, canyons and hills.
Official Languages: Kazakh and Russian
Currency: KZT – Kazakhstani Tenge
Weather In Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan experiences hot summers and very cold winters. The temperature can drop to -20°C in the winter and soar to +30°C during summers. The best time to visit Kazakhstan mainly depends on the experience you are looking for.
April-May: mild temperature and great for exploring the outdoors.
June-August: summer time, also a great time for outdoor activities as the weather is warm.
September-October: The autumn months also experience pleasant temperatures.
November-March: Extremely cold, great for winter sports.
How To Get Here
Kazakhstan is well connected by air from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The major two airports are at Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Kazakhstan is also well connected by rail from countries like Russia and China.
Getting Around Kazakhstan: There are frequent flights and train services that connect major cities. Long-distance buses, rental cars and shared taxis are common modes of transportation for intercity travel.
12 Beautiful Places To Visit In Kazakhstan
This guide provides a comprehensive overview into the best places to visit in Kazakhstan.Read on to know what makes each of these places so special.
1. Astana – Futuristic Capital
Astana has served as Kazakhstan’s capital since 1997, making it a popular destination. This dynamic metropolis may be the most modern in all of Central Asia, with its many skyscrapers and futuristic-looking structures. Every year, Astana undergoes a transformation as massive landmark structures, each more spectacular than the previous, spring up on its streets. As a result, Astana has a lot of interesting things to see and experience.
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2. Almaty – Cultural Heart
The Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains rise over Almaty, Kazakhstan. It offers both urban pleasures and scenic beauty, combining modernism with traditional Kazakh culture. The Medeu Skating Rink, Kok Tobe Hill, and Almaty Central Park are the main attractions. Big Almaty Lake and Charyn Canyon are the nearby Kazakhstan tourist places. Almaty has one of the best nightlife in Kazakhstan.
3. Shymkent – Fusion Of History And Vibrancy
Shymkent is a city of contrasts, fusing a vibrant modern vitality with its ancient origins. The city’s markets, historical landmarks, and cultural festivals have earned it international recognition. Ordabasy Square, Shymkent Zoo, and the Regional Museum of Fine Arts are the main attractions here. The Arystan Bab Mausoleum and Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve are nearby tourist destinations. This is one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan if you love history.
4. Turkestan – Ancient Wonders
Turkestan has a rich history that dates back to the days of the Silk Road. The venerated Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi makes it an important Muslim pilgrimage site. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and the Arystan Bab Mausoleum are the main attractions. The Otrar Archaeological Site and Sauran Fortress are nearby tourist destinations.
5. Karaganda – Mining Heritage
Karaganda’s mining legacy is entwined with its history. With theaters, museums, and monuments honoring its Soviet past, it is now a center of culture. Dolinka Settlement and Spassk Lake are two nearby tourist destinations. Do visit the main attractions like Karaganda Regional Museum, Karaganda State Theatre, and City Park while here.
6. Pavlodar – Riverside Retreats
Along the Irtysh River, Pavlodar offers lush areas and picturesque riverbank vistas. The city is a great place for urban explorers because it successfully combines modernism and environment. The Irtysh River Promenade, the Mashkhur-Jusup Mosque, and Central Park are the main attractions. The Pavlodar Zoo and the Pavlodar Regional Museum are the nearby tourist attractions. A must-see place to visit in Kazakhstan.
7. Oskemen – Stunning Scenery
With its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, Oskemen serves as the eastern entry point to the Altai Mountains. It is a unique location because of its natural beauty and cultural fusion. The East Kazakhstan Regional History Museum, Zaisan Memorial, and Ust-Kamenogorsk City Park are the main attractions. Altai Nature Reserve and Bukhtarma Reservoir are the nearby tourist destinations.
8. Balkhash – Natural Serenity
Named for the large lake it surrounds, Balkhash provides recreational opportunities and tranquil lakeside vistas. For individuals who enjoy the outdoors, particularly those who are exploring Kazakhstan’s interior waters, it is a sanctuary. Balkhash Lake Beaches, Sary Esik Cave Paintings, and Central Park are the main attractions. Karatal-Japyryk State Nature Reserve and Charyn Canyon are nearby tourist attractions.
9. Lake Kaindy – Lake Views
Another stunning natural wonder in Kazakhstan is Lake Kaindy. The distance between it and Almaty is 129 kilometers to the east-southeast. Therefore, getting there is not as difficult as getting to some other tourist destinations in Kazakhstan. This 400-meter-long lake descends to a depth of around 30 meters in the center. Regarding elevation, it is roughly 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) above sea level. This is one of the best places to go in Kazakhstan.
10. Charyn Canyon – Adventure Sports
People from all over the world are drawn to this area by its stunning foliage, vegetation, plants, and wildlife. In addition, you can engage in a variety of adventure sports activities here. In this area, the most popular and frequently participated sports include kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and rafting. There are many locations for photography where you can get the greatest shots. Without a doubt, Charyn Canyon tour is one of the best things to do in Kazakhstan.
11. Ile Alatau – National Park
It is situated south of Almaty in the mountainous area. The park’s wildlife, which is unquestionably its soul, is breathtakingly gorgeous. The Ile-Alatau National Park is home to 300 different types of animals and birds. In this national park, you may easily see a variety of animals and birds, including golden eagles, Tian Shan brown bears, snow leopards, and Central Asian lynx. A must-see place to visit in Kazakhstan.
12. Shimbulak – Ski Resort
With an abundance of excellent winter sports facilities that are typically open from November to May, Kazakhstan tourism turns into a winter wonderland. Shimbulak Ski Report is one of the top destinations in the republic of Kazakhstan. Just 25 kilometers south of Almaty is the Shimbulak ski resort, which is situated between 2,200 and 3,300 meters above sea level. There are excellent hotels, a number of eateries, and more than 20 kilometers of pasted ski routes here.
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FAQ’s
The most well-known Kazakh cuisine is etqamyr, also known as besbarmaq, which is made with boiling horse or mutton meat and is the country’s national dish. It is also known as “five fingers” due to the manner in which it is consumed. The best street food of Kazakhstan is samosas, which are puff pastries stuffed with cheese, meat, or potatoes. Tandoor Nan, a common yeast bread served with every meal, is baked in a clay oven called a tandoor.
Kazakhstan is best known for its stunning landscapes, historical sites, natural wonders and the fusion of modern and traditional architecture.
For first time visitors at least a weeks’ time is required to explore Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, history and culture.
Almaty, the largest city of Kazakhstan, is the most visited city. Almaty is the cultural hub of the country and its natural beauty and rich history is what draws travelers.
