top 10 tourist attractions in kazakhstan

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• Top 12 Kazakhstan Tourist Places To Explore The Best Of Central Asia In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

From the Altai Mountains in the East to the Caspian Sea in the west and Russia in the north to China in the south, Kazakhstan in Central Asia is also termed as the world’s largest landlocked country . An array of majestic canyons, seamless deserts, arid plains, colossal glaciers, and ancient structures account for popular Kazakhstan tourist places making it a year-round destination. For the kind of subdued vacation paradise that it is, Kazakhstan must be on your bucket list soon.

Being the ninth largest country in the world, Kazakhstan is wide to an extent that it encompasses 5 climate zones and has 2 time zones. Having said that, it is the geographical diversity of the country that accounts for ultimate travel experiences. As you plan on making an extensive itinerary, you must jot down all the popular places to visit in Kazakhstan that are significant historically and offer a multitude of activities. Some of the major division in Kazakhstan are Almaty, Astana, Central Kazakhstan, Eastern Kazakhstan, Northern Kazakhstan, Southern Kazakhstan, and Western Kazakhstan . Head to these popular Kazakhstan points of interest and experience Central Asia like never before!

12 Best Kazakhstan Tourist Places

Here is a list of some of the top Kazakhstan tourist places that you might not want to miss out. There is some or the other famous places in Kazakhstan  for everyone and anyone. Take a look and note them down:

• Astana – The Changing Face Of Central Asia
• Almaty – Kazakhstan’s Biggest Cultural Hub
• Aktau – Pretty Town By The Caspian
• Taraz – Welcome To The Ancient City In South Kazakhstan
• Lake Balkhash – The 15th Largest Lake In The World
• Baikonur – City Of Spaceport, Rockets, And Spaceships
• Semey – An Ancient & Historical City
• Turgen Gorge – Amazing Place For Trekkers
• Lake Kaindy – A Natural Dam
• Tamgaly-Tas – A Sacred Sanctuary
• Nomad’s Land – Abandoned Film Set
• Shymkent – Getaway To The Heartland Of Kazakhstan

1. Astana – The Changing Face Of Central Asia

The wonderful capital city of Kazakhstan stands as the living example of the modernized nation and presents popular Kazakhstan tourist attractions. With plenty of corporate business centers and multi-storey buildings around, the architecture of this city will mesmerize you for sure, making it a brilliant location for Kazakhstan sightseeing . Catch the magnificent panoramic view of the Astana city from the top of the 105-meter tall Bayterek Tower or visit Duman Recreational Complex which is the ultimate pit-stop for all the art lovers, there’s a lot to do in Astana.

Museum of Miniatures and Seaquarium is the ideal place of attraction for all nature enthusiasts where over 2000 species of sea animals from different parts of the world can be spotted. Don’t forget to cover Ak Orda Presidential Palace and Astana-Arena Stadium on your day trip.

Popular tourist attractions in Astana: Bayterek Tower, Khan Shatyr, Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, National Museum of Kazakhstan, Nur-Astana Mosque, City Park, Independence Square and Kazak Eli Monument, Assumption Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Hazrat Sultan Mosque

Must Read: Trans Siberian Railway: World’s Longest Rail Network That Crosses 8 Time Zones Across 9300 Kms!

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2. Almaty – Kazakhstan’s Biggest Cultural Hub

Set in the foothills of Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, Almaty is known for its gorgeous setting and picture-postcard outdoor. One of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan, the snow-capped mountains guard the city and make for the best backdrop ever! Moving on to the city attractions, the Central State Museum here holds special importance because of the rich cultural heritage it houses. Until 1997, the city was capital of Kazakhstan but still remains a hot favorite with top Kazakhstan tourist places.

You can spend a day sipping on nature’s grandeur or go around shopping at Zelyony Bazaar or Dostyk Plaza if at all you are keen on exploring the local specialties of Almaty. The Green Market is the popular place to procure fresh fruit, meats, clothing, and household goods. Moving on, there is a lot of art galleries around for those who are really into history and art.

Popular tourist attractions in Almaty: Beatles Statue of Almaty, Charyn Canyon, The Last Wild Apple Forests, Big Almaty Lake, Kok-Tobe Hill, Kolsai Lakes, Almaty Central Park, Lake Issyk, Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, Panfilov Park, and The Arasan Baths

Suggested Read: 8 Kazakhstan Travel Tips That You Should Know Before Planning Your Trip!

3. Aktau – Pretty Town By The Caspian

The almost 40-year-old city overlooking the great Caspian Sea is a fascinating beauty and among the most serene visiting places in Kazakhstan . It is here in Aktau that one can spot some of the rare Kazakhstan tourist attractions and more of ancient architectural ensembles. Cultural centers, concert hall, cinemas, and libraries from ancient times are spread all over the city and must be explored for a local feel of the place.

You can also stroll Aktau city streets for hours admiring the architectural ensembles, green alleys lined with poplars and acacias, emerald-green lawns, and parks. Got more time to spare? Fill it with some fun-filled moments at the Skating Rink and Puppet Theatre .

Popular tourist attractions in Aktau: World War II Memorial, Botanical Garden, Regional Museum, Costa Cafe, seafront, Taras Shevchenko Statue, multi-colored mountains in Altyn-Emel National Park

4. Taraz – Welcome To The Ancient City In South Kazakhstan

Image Source If you are into ancient sites, mysterious places, and admire ruins, head to Taraz, which happens to among the famous Kazakhstan tourist spots . The place holds plenty of secrets from the past century and is indeed one of the popular Kazakhstan tourist attractions worth your time.

Visit Babaji-Khatun Mausoleum for its distinct sixteen-ribbed conical dome or plan an excursion to Talas River in the south near the border with Kyrgyzstan. Taraz is a historical city and one of the popular places to visit in Kazakhstan for every tourist.

Popular tourist attractions in Taraz: Akyrtas, Stonehenge, Mausoleum is Sha-Mansur, Aisha Bibi Mausoleum, Aisha Bibi village, Taraz Regional Museum, Shakhristan Market

Suggested Read: Delhi to London By Road: These 3 Indian Super Moms Drove Across 17 Countries in Just 95 Days

5. Lake Balkhash – The 15th Largest Lake In The World

Located 600 miles to the east of Aral Sea, the lake is a major source of hydroelectric projects in the country and a notable Kazakhstan places to visit. The lake is high and rocky towards the northern banks and one can spot plenty of ancient rock-cut traces there. Lake Balkhash once was a prominent place of breeding for marine life that included as many as 20 species of fish.

Over the period, some of the species died owing to the depreciating quality of lake water over the period. Sazan, sturgeon, eastern bream, pike, and Aral barbel are of the fish species reintroduced into the lake.

Qaratal, Aqsū, Ayagoz, and Lepsi rivers feed the eastern part of the lake. The water of the western part of the lake has been comparatively better than that of the eastern part which is salty. Visit this place to find the ancient rock miniatures in the low lying areas.

Popular things to do near Lake Balkhash: Camping and winter fishing

Suggested Read: 13 Best Things To Do In Almaty, Kazakhstan That No One Told You About!

6. Baikonur – City Of Spaceport, Rockets, And Spaceships

Administered by Russian Federation, Baikonur is the world’s oldest and largest space launch facility. Baikonur Cosmodrome was one a secret missile testing site that happened to be a strategically important place for Russians.

The desolate desert steppe of Kazakhstan was once the launchpad for Vostok 1 spacecraft in which Yuri Gagarin first set for the moon. If you a history and space technology buff this place has plenty of attractions that would excite you.

Popular tourist attractions in Baikonur: Cosmonaut Grove, Baikonur Cosmodrome, Yuri Gagarin statue, Tribute to Yangel, and Nedelin catastrophe

7. Semey – An Ancient & Historical City

Image Source Semipalatinsk , now known as Semey, is another one of the renowned  historical places in Kazakhstan eastern region that presents popular tourist attractions. The city is also epitomized by the fascinating architecture and the monuments that it has preserved from ages ago. In fact, there’s a lot of places with architectural and historical monuments around and must be visited during a trip to Semey.

The best of Russian art can be seen at the Museum of History and Local Study and Nevzorov’s Art Museum . Places like these make for popular Kazakhstan point of interest for history enthusiasts.

Popular tourist attractions in Semipalatinsk: Dostoevsky Museum, Nevzorov’s Art Museum, Tarnybai Kaukenov mosque, Orthodox Resurrection church, and ‘Stronger than Death Monument’ – in memory of victims of Semipalatinsk nuclear testing ground.

Suggested Read: Astana Nightlife: 7 Places You Must Not Miss On Your Trip To The Capital Of Kazakhstan

8. Turgen Gorge – Amazing Place For Trekkers

Image Credit: Tom_aaa by pixabay

A part of the famous Ile Alatau National Park, Turgen Gorge is a real beauty for trekkers. It has dense forests, lakes, alpine meadows and seven waterfalls. You can explore the beauty of this place by opting for a hike or ride on a mountain bike or horseback. This paradise is not far from Almaty and can be accessed through buses or taxis.

Popular tourist attractions in Turgen: Turgen Waterfalls, Church of Archangel Mikhail and Kairakskiy Waterfall.

Suggested Read: What Makes Summer In Kazakhstan A Great Time To Take A Trip To The Exotic Land

9. Lake Kaindy – A Natural Dam

Image Source

Situated at an altitude of 2000 m, Lake Kaindy is a 400 m long lake. Due to an earthquake in 1911, an enormous landslide led to the formation of this lake. The natural calamity caused the occurrence of a natural dam in the gorge amidst spruce trees. The forest submerged as water started to flood in the basin. The temperature of the lake goes up to 6 degrees celsius maximum in summer. This lake is one of the best tourist places in Kazakhstan and should be included in every explorer’s bucket list.

Popular tourist attractions in Turgen: Charyn National Park, Altyn Arashan, Dungan Mosque and Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Suggested Read: 8 Chic Restaurants In Almaty To Savor Lavish Meals When Holidaying In Kazakhstan!

10. Tamgaly-Tas – A Sacred Sanctuary

Religious rituals in Kazakhstan were held in an open-air sanctuary, Tamgaly-Tas. It literally means ‘written rocks’ as the rocks here are inscribed with beautiful images of Tibetan scriptures and Buddha. You will be amazed to find around 5,000 petroglyphs from the Bronze Age. If you are a history buff and looking for ancient tourist places of Kazakhstan, then you must include Tamgaly-Tas in your check-list.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kazakhstan: A Location Wise Break-up Of Must-dos In The Country

11. Nomad’s Land – Abandoned Film Set

Nomad’ Land is situated in the middle of the Kazakh steppe and beside the Ili River. It is a famous film set which was left abandoned after the shooting of the French/Kazakh movie, ‘Nomad’. You can visit this place to click some historical pictures and selfies at the place.

12. Shymkent – Getaway To The Heartland Of Kazakhstan

If you are looking for a secluded place in Kazakhstan which is not crowded with tourists, then you must spend some time in Shymkent. You will find some of the cheapest places to stay which are away from the hustle and bustle on the streets.

Popular tourist attractions around Shymkent: Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, Aisha Bibi Mausoleum, Arystan Bab Mausoleum, The Lost City of Sauran, and Turkestan.

How To Get There

Air Astana has resumed daily operations, and with the launch of 2 additional flights starting 2nd September 2019, they will now be operating 11 times a week offering even more onward connections. You can now make the most of this special offer by Air Astana and plan your trip to the biggest metropolitan city of Kazakhstan. Transit passengers can also visit Nur – Sultan and Almaty hassle – free in their journey with Kazakhstan’s 72-hour transit visa-free regime . You can now also apply for an e-visa before traveling to Kazakhstan. The process is very simple!

Further Read: Dare To Embark On These 20 Electrifying International Road Trips From India

From the angling and crisscrossing skyscrapers to age-old monuments, and from gothic buildings exuding colors to the dreamy setting of town by the Caspian, every popular tourist attraction in Kazakhstan is so photogenic. Don’t miss to treasure the beauty of Kazakhstan tourist places nestled in the heart of Asia! Plan a trip to Kazakhstan for a soothing vacation to this amazing land.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kazakhstan Tourist Places

What are some interesting places to visit in Almaty?

Big Almaty Lake, Kok-Tobe Hill, Kolsai Lakes, Almaty Central Park, Lake Issyk, and Central State Museum of Kazakhstan are some of the interesting places to visit in Almaty.

What is the best time to visit Kazakhstan?

April-October is the best time to visit Kazakhstan.

What is famous in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is one of the top 10 largest countries in the entire world. It is known for its architectural marvels, the Caspian Sea, and the wild horses.

Is Kazakhstan worth visiting?

With plenty of experiences to offer and impeccable attractions to witness, Kazakhstan is surely worth visiting, especially for those who are seeking for roads less traveled.

Is Kazakhstan a safe country?

Yes. Kazakhstan has been placed in Level 1 by the US Department of State which indicated that it is one of the safest countries in the world.

Is Kazakhstan expensive?

The tickets and products are set at reasonable rates. It is neither expensive nor a cheap place to visit.

What can I buy in Kazakhstan?

Some unique things that you can buy from Kazakhstan are chocolates, honey, products Empire, caviar, and many more things.

Do I need a visa for Kazakhstan?

Apart from the US Citizens, every traveler requires a visa to travel to this destination.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

The ninth-largest country in the world, Kazakhstan covers a vast swathe of territory in Central Asia. While many people imagine it to be solely made up of endless, featureless steppe, dramatic mountains, canyons, lakes, and valleys can be found dotted about here and there.

Despite its size, Kazakhstan is very sparsely populated, with the main cities of Almaty and Astana (its capital) being home to the majority of its population – which is the wealthiest in the region thanks to its large oil and gas reserves.

Map of the best places in Kazakhstan

Often overlooked by tourists, the country has a wealth of incredible sights for you to check out. As you’ll often be the only foreigner there, you’re sure to experience the locals’ welcoming nature and hospitality, as they are keen to share Kazakhstan’s many wonders with you. Explore this Central Asian country with our list of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan.

10. Tamgaly Petroglyphs

Depicting epic hunting scenes, majestic standalone figures, and a wide variety of different animals and wildlife, the Tamgaly Petroglyphs are fascinating. There are remarkably more than 5,000 of them for you to check out.

With many of them dating all the way back to the Bronze Age, the site really is a special place to visit. Clambering around the scenic canyon’s many boulders and rock formations only to find yet another well-preserved and intricately carved petroglyph is an amazing feeling.

Long a ritual site for nomads, the canyon’s peaceful confines certainly convey the spiritual importance of the location, and coupled with the impressive petroglyphs themselves, the beautiful setting makes it well worth a day trip from Almaty.

A human-made ecological disaster of the highest order, the Aral Sea dramatically decreased in size from 1960 onwards. Disastrous Soviet-era state plans saw its waters diverted to cotton fields in the desert, where it immediately evaporated or seeped below ground.

Once the fourth-largest body of fresh water in the world, the Aral Sea now stands at just a fraction of its former size, and it is only in recent years that a slow recovery has been made.

Due to all this, the town of Aral is a fascinating place to visit. The former fishing port, which was renowned around the Soviet Union for its large catches, now lies next to endless desert, as the sea’s waters have long since retreated over the horizon.

For people interested in seeing what remains of the Aral Sea, the town of the same name makes for a great base from which to visit ‘one of the planet’s worst environmental disasters’ and learn about the successful government project that is slowly seeing its water levels increase every year.

8. Charyn Canyon

Breathtakingly beautiful, Charyn Canyon in the southeast of Kazakhstan certainly warrants a visit. When approaching from across the endless, featureless steppe, it is hard to imagine the incredible sight that awaits you. Snaking its way through the rock, the canyon stretches around 90 kilometers in length, with some parts reaching a depth of up to 300 meters.

Its ruddy walls and rock formations are reminiscent of the landscapes found in Utah and Arizona in the States. Many people who visit Charyn Canyon say it is just as spectacular as the world-famous Grand Canyon.

Walking through the Valley of Castles, the most impressive stretch of the canyon, certainly is a majestic experience as its humongous walls tower above you. Charyn Canyon is equally bewitching from above as the canyon plunges away dramatically. Hardy adventurers can go whitewater rafting or canoeing along the fast-flowing Sharyn River that runs through part it.

7. Turkestan

Lying in the south of Kazakhstan surrounded by the Kazakh Desert, Turkestan is a unique city to visit, seamlessly blending traditional nomadic culture with the sedentary city life of nearby Uzbekistan. This makes it a captivating place to explore.

The undoubted highlight is the gorgeous 14th-century mausoleum of Kozha Akhmed Yasaui, which looks like it would be more at home in one of Uzbekistan’s ancient Silk Road cities than in Kazakhstan.

Built by Timur to honor the great Sufi Sheikh, the mausoleum is one of the most impressive and important historical sights in the country. Besides this, the main attractions that visitors to the city enjoy are the ruins of the ancient cities of Otrar and Sauran that lie in the surrounding desert. Other than these historic sights, there is not all that much to do in Turkestan other than wander around its main bazaar and take in the lively atmosphere.

6. Baikonur Cosmodrome

One of the only places in the world that you can watch a rocket being shot into space, the Baikonur Cosmodrome is well worth visiting if you are interested in the cosmos. Even if you aren’t, seeing a spacecraft take off really is an unforgettable experience.

The largest space launch facility in the world, Baikonur is jointly run by the Kazakh and Russian governments. It was from here that Sputnik 1 and Vostok 1 – the first crewed spaceflight – were launched. As such, there is loads of history on show. Visitors can take a tour around the facility as well as the accompanying museum that has lots of captivating exhibitions, models, and memorabilia for you to enjoy.

5. Karkaraly National Park

Located in Kazakhstan’s Central Highlands, Karkaraly National Park will delight nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike. Covering a huge expanse of territory, the national park is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora, with foxes, deer, and wolves all residing within its endless forests.

Tucked away among its many amazing landscapes are glistening lakes, gaping caves, and distinctive rock formations, with breathtaking views wherever you go. Due to its wide range of incredible natural sights, Karkaraly National Park is a delight to explore, with hiking, bouldering, and camping all popular outdoor activities.

4. Kolsai Lake

Lying around 250 kilometers away from Almaty, Kolsai Lake actually has three lakes to visit. Strung out along the Kolsay River that weaves its way among the forest-coated Tian Shan Mountains, the shimmering lakes are often referred to as the ‘Pearls of Tian Shan.’ There is an absolutely gorgeous but strenuous hike you can do that takes you all the way from the lower to the upper lake.

A very popular tourist destination amongst local Kazakhs, the region surrounding Kolsai Lake has lots of great campsites and homestays for you to stay at, and many people go horseback riding between the lakes. Boasting some of the most dramatic scenery in the country, the lakes really are worth visiting if you have the chance.

Recently renamed Nur-Sultan in early 2019, Astana – as many Kazakhs still call it – is the nation’s ever-changing capital. Each year, enormous landmark buildings spring up, with each new addition more impressive than the last. Lying amid the country’s featureless northern steppe, Astana is one of the most modern and futuristic cities in Central Asia, with lots of towering skyscrapers.

Wandering around its large boulevards is an interesting experience, as Soviet, Kazakh, and Western influences can be seen wherever you go. The main attraction is undoubtedly the stunning Bayterek Tower that lies at its heart.

In addition to this, the humongous Khan Shatyr is well worth visiting for its wealth of shops, restaurants, and unique design – as is the city’s fantastic national museum.

As Astana continues to develop and grow, lots of young people from around the country are pouring into the capital, so there is a very dynamic and youthful feel about its streets.

2. Aksu-Zhabagly

Established all the way back in 1926, Aksu-Zhabagly is the oldest nature reserve in the whole of Central Asia. Encompassing everything from lofty, snow-capped mountain peaks and glaciers to gushing rivers, sweeping valleys, and, of course, endless steppe, Aksu-Zhabagly really is a treat to explore.

Full of incredible vistas, the nature reserve is home to a plethora of amazing wildlife. Its myriad of trails and paths take you past some breathtaking natural sights, with Stalactite Cave, Aksu Gorge, and the twinkling waterfalls of Kshi-Kainy counting among its most impressive sights.

The capital of the country until 1997, Almaty remains Kazakhstan’s largest city, as well as its cultural and commercial heart. As such, there is a very wealthy and sophisticated air about the place, with lots of trendy restaurants and bars for you to try out.

With some great museums and historic sights dotted about here and there, there is a lot for you to see and do, and many people use it as a base from which to explore the region.

Almaty truly is blessed when it comes to the outstanding nature that lies at its doorstep. Its scenic setting at the foot of the gorgeous Tian Shan mountain range makes it exceedingly photogenic. Home to Medeu, the highest skating rink in the world, Shymbulak, a wonderful ski resort, and the stunning Big Almaty Lake, the mountains have a wealth of amazing sights to discover. One could easily spend a week or two seeing all that Almaty and its surroundings have to offer.

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The 26 most beautiful places to visit in Kazakhstan in 2024

Kazakhstan tourism: Is Kazakhstan worth visiting? What is there to see and what are the things to do in Kazakhstan? Here are the 26 best places to visit in Kazakhstan: from the most beautiful landscapes and natural wonders to the best cities and most remarkable historical sites.

Although Kazakhstan is one of the 10 largest countries in the world, it’s still a destination that many travelers haven’t put on their bucket list.

After spending nearly 6 months on and off in the country , I can tell you that Kazakhstan is definitely worth visiting! 

There are many hidden treasures in the country that will leave you in awe, whether it’s because of their beauty or their weirdness. And the best thing of all, tourism in Kazakhstan isn’t so big yet so you won’t have to share these beautiful places with many other travelers!

If you’re an intrepid traveler and like to explore cool, beautiful and unusual sites that people haven’t heard about before, then you should add this huge Central Asian country to your bucket list!

So what are the places to visit in Kazakhstan? Where should you go and what are the things to do in Kazakhstan?

With the help of 4 of my favorite friend-bloggers – who’ve also spent quite some time in the country – I made a list with all the points of interest and the must-see places in Kazakhstan.

Here are the best cities to go to, the most beautiful landscapes to see, the best national parks to hike in, and the most remarkable cultural and historical sites worth visiting.

Tip: See my Kazakhstan Travel Page for a complete overview of all my travel guides about Kazakhstan!

Join the 10-day Best of Kyrgyzstan-Kazakhstan Adventure and visit Almaty, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy, Karakol, Son Kul lake, and many more! 

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Kazakhstan Travel Essentials & Resources

• 18 useful things you should know to visit Kazakhstan
• Plan your trip:  Itinerary Planning for Kazakhstan
• Tours & Experiences:  City Tours, Adventure Tours
• Visa:   Check the required Kazakhstan travel documents!
• Getting there:  Search for flights to Almaty or Nur Sultan
• Where to stay :  Find a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or homestay in Kazakhstan
• Travel Insurance:   Choose the best travel insurance for Kazakhzstan
• Getting around :  Rent a car in Kazakhstan  or  travel by train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

11 beautiful places near Almaty (Southeast Kazakhstan)

The Almaty region is the most visited region of the country.

Almaty is very often the first city where travelers arrive and the majority of them don’t go beyond this part of the country – which is, to be honest, a shame as there are some incredible places in other parts of the country. You’ll find out when you continue reading this article.

The natural diversity of the Almaty region is amazing – from arid deserts and scenic canyons to lush valleys, snowcapped mountains, beautiful glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

Here’s an overview of the most beautiful and coolest places to visit near Almaty and in the Southeast of Kazakhstan. You’ll need about 10 to 15 days if you want to visit them all. 

For every place, I added info on how to get there by public transport but the easiest way is by driving there yourself. If you wanted to rent a car, check your options with Rental Cars.

The Complete Travel Guide to Kazakhstan: 18 things to know before you go

Almaty is the former capital of Kazakhstan and the largest city of the country. It’s the gateway of many travelers who start their journey in the country or travel to the neighboring country Kyrgyzstan.

Almaty is a surprisingly modern city. It’s the scientific, cultural, historical, industrial and financial center of the country and by the looks of the number of banks, shopping malls and modern designs of the buildings, you can tell that there’s money invested in this city!

I often visited Almaty whenever I had to renew my visa for Kyrgyzstan , and I always enjoyed spending a couple of days here.

Fun fact: The name Almaty means comes from the Kazakh name ‘Alma-Ata’, which means ‘father of apples’. It is believed that the Almaty region is the birthplace of the first apple on earth.

A l m a t y C i t y G u i d e : T h e 1 9 b e s t t h i n g s t o d o i n A l m a t y

According to a legend, the Garden of Eden was located somewhere in the city and the place where Adam picked the forbidden fruit.

Whether or not this Kazakhstan city was the Garden of Eden, Almaty surely has a spectacular beauty, being surrounded by the beautifully snow-capped Tian Shan mountains where you can find the last wild apple forests in the world .

5 Best Hikes near Almaty, Kazakhstan

How to get to Almaty:

Almaty is the Rome of Kazakhstan as all the roads in the country lead to this city. You can get there by train , minibus or by plane .

You can also travel from Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) to Almaty by minibus .

Read all the practical information about traveling to and around Almaty in  The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kazakhstan

Where to stay in Almaty:

There are many lodging options in Almaty that can be used as a great base to visit nearby places, varying from budget hostels to high-end hotels.

Recommended budget hostels in Almaty:

• Evergreen Hostel
• AQ Capsule Hostel

Recommended mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Almaty:

• Garden Park Inn
• Guest House on Sadovaya

Recommend high-end hotels in Almaty:

• Kazzhol Park Hotel
• The Ritz – Carlton Almaty

Things to do in and around Almaty:

• Visit the Ascension/ Zenkov Cathedral
• Go people-watching at the Green Bazaar
• Enjoy a stroll through Panfilov Park
• Take a cable car to Kok Tobe
• Go on one of the many  beautiful day trips and hikes around Almaty
• Top Tip:  Go on a   guided city walking tour to visit all the places of interest  in Almaty!

2. Ile-Alatau National Park

The Ile-Alatau National Park is a beautiful national park located in the Trans-Ile Alatau mountains south of Almaty. The park was created in 1966 and is home to approximately 300 species of wildlife, including the snow leopard.

There are lots of hiking trails in the National Park that will bring you through woodlands and alpine meadows towards beautiful waterfalls, glaciers, and lakes.

The park is the perfect place to do some beautiful one-day hikes and treks if you want to get out of the city for a while.

Hiking in Almaty: The 5 Best Hikes

The world’s largest outdoor ice-skating rank Medeu and Central Asia’s top skiing resort Chymbulak are located on the edge of the Ile-Alatau National Park in the Malaya Almatinka Valley.

Both are open from November to March and are very popular places for local winter sports lovers.

A Beginner’s Guide to Sk iing in Kazakhstan

How to get to the Ile-Alatau National Park from Almaty:

If you want to go skiing or ice-skating in Medeo and Shymbulak or you’d like to do a couple of hikes in the National Park , you have to take bus #12 from the center of Almaty to Medeu.  I usually took the bus at Dostyk Plaza . You can also go on a  guided day trip to Medeo and the National Park

A bus ticket costs 150 tenge (€0.50) and it only takes 20 minutes to reach Medeo and the start of the hiking trails.

If you’re planning a multiple-day hike, you’re allowed to camp in the National Park. Bring warm clothes, proper trekking, and camping gear and don’t leave any traces (take your trash with you!!)

3. Big Almaty Lake

Another beautiful spot in the Ile-Alatau National Park is Big Almaty Lake.

Big Almaty Lake is easily the most famous and recognizable lake in Kazakhstan. Situated extremely close to Almaty, it can strangely feel like worlds away from city life when you arrive in the mountains to the lake.

Known for its ever-changing blue and teal hues, the lake is located very close to the border of Kyrgyzstan- a border that you used to be able to cross on foot but is now off-limits to trekkers. Big Almaty Lake supplies drinking water to the residents of Almaty and you are prohibited from swimming in its vivid waters.

There are several hiking opportunities in the area , including Big Almaty Peak, a pyramid-shaped mountain that protrudes from behind the lake and is visible within the city, as well.

The Big Almaty Lake is a can’t-miss for those visiting Almaty and want to see some of the city’s best nature.

How to get to Big Almaty Lake from Almaty:

Getting to the lake is fairly easy if you have money and the means to order a taxi, otherwise, you will need to book a tour to get up there .

If you are traveling with others, you can split the costs. A taxi one-way to Big Almaty Lake from Almaty is about 3000 tenge ( $9-10).

Bring your passport, some water and snacks, and proper hiking boots when going to Big Almaty Lake.

4. Issyk Lake

Photo by Megan Starr

Nestled in the mountains, the picturesque Issyk Lake is also part of the Ile-Alatau National Park and is fed by the Issyk River. The lake is often confused with Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan , which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.

The lake was created by an ancient natural landslide damming the valley and then was covered up by another natural landslide destroying it in 1963.

Eventually, man stepped in and created the lake again. The mountain views, pristine nature, and Soviet relics in the area make this lake a can’t miss in Kazakhstan.

Read: Lake Issyk: A Turquoise Slice of History and Pleasure Near Almaty

How to get to Issyk Lake from Almaty:

Issyk Lake can be reached by taking a bus from Almaty to Esik and catching a taxi from there into the mountains or by private vehicle.

If you have an off-roading vehicle, you can drive around the lake to the river on the backside of it and there are some cozy picnic spots and views.

It takes about 2 hours to reach the lake. You can also book a day tour to Issyk Lake.

5. Turgen Gorge

The Turgen Gorge is also part of the Ile Alatau National Park. This beautiful gorge is a real paradise for hikers and is home to dense forests, alpine meadows, lakes, hot springs, and seven waterfalls.

You can go on some stunning hikes or visit the gorge on a mountain bike or on horseback. Here’s a great hiking guide to the Turgen Gorge .

How to get to Turgen Gorge from Almaty:

The Turgen Gorge is located 80km east of Almaty. You can get there by taking a bus from Almaty to Esik and catching a taxi to the village of Turgen.

The entrance to the Gorge is near the village. Here’s a great detailed guide on how to get there .

You can also go on a guided day tour to Turgen Gorge .

6. Kolsai Lakes

The Kolsai Lakes are a system of three lakes, nestled among the hills of the Northern Tien Shan Mountains, approximately 300km east of Almaty.

They are also called “The Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan” and after visiting the lakes, I totally get why! They are definitely some of the most beautiful places to visit in Kazakhstan!

The 3 lakes are so clear that, when the sun is out, the surrounding forests, hills, and snowy mountain peaks are mirrored in the water.

The two lower lakes, Kolsai 1 and Kolsai 2 are surrounded by spruce trees, alpine meadows, and mountain pastures. Kolsai 1 is at an altitude of 1000m while the second lake lies at an altitude of 2500m.

Grassy slopes replace the spruce forests on the hills surrounding the third lake, which is at an altitude of 2700m. The three lakes are connected by a hiking trail.

The Complete Travel Guide to the Kolsai Lakes

How to get to the Kolsai Lakes:

It’s a 6-hour drive from Almaty to the Kolsai Lakes National Park.

For a detailed description and map on how to get there by public transportation or with your own vehicle, read the Complete Travel Guide to the Kolsai Lakes .

The easiest way to get there is by going on a 2-day tour to the Kolsai Lakes, combined with a visit to Lake Kaindy and Charyn Canyon (see below).

Where to stay near the Kolsai Lakes:

You can camp in the Kolsai Lakes National Park or stay at Saty Guesthouse in the nearby village of Saty. 

7. Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy is at an altitude of 2000m and geologically very young. This 400m long lake was formed in 1911 after an earthquake triggered an enormous limestone landslide, which formed a natural dam in the gorge that was covered by spruce trees. Water started flooding the basin and submerging the forest.

The dried-out trunks of the trees rise above the surface of the water, looking like the masts of sunken ships.

The lake is almost 30 m deep and if you look underwater, which is very easy because the water is very clear, you can still see the needles on the submerged trunks. Due to the cold temperatures, the trees were naturally frozen and well preserved in the water.

You could go diving in this lake to see its unique beauty, but brace yourself for the cold! The temperature of the lake is a maximum of 6ºC in summer!

How to get to Lake Kaindy:

Lake Kaindy is only 36 kilometers away from the Kolsai Lakes National Park so you can visit both if you have your own transport.

For a detailed map and description of how to get there by public transport or with your own vehicle, read my Travel Guide to Lake Kaindy .

The easiest way to get there is by going on a 2-day tour to Lake Kaindy, combined with a visit to the Kolsai Lakes and Charyn Canyon (see below).

Where to stay near Lake Kaindy:

There’s a designated camping spot near Lake Kaindy. If you don’t have a tent, you can stay at Saty Guesthouse in the nearby village of Saty. 

8. Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is part of the Charyn National Park and stretches 154km along the Charyn River, one of the deepest rivers of the Northern Tien Shan mountains.

For more than 12 million years, wind, water and sand sculpted Charyn’s red sandstone to form the wonderful shapes and shades that vary from deep orange to light brown.

Some of the cliffs resemble fantastical figures, the reason why some parts of the canyon are also called the Valley of Castles, the Devil’s Gorge and the Ghosts Gorge.

The Charyn Canyon consists of 5 different canyons: the Valley of Castles, the Temirlik Canyon, the Yellow Canyon, the Red Canyon and the Bestamak Canyon.

The Valley of Castles is the most famous part of the Charyn Canyon that you can visit in one day but if you can spare an extra couple of days, you can hike around or explore them all with a 4×4 vehicle.

Blown Away by the beauty of Charyn Canyon – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

How to get to Charyn Canyon:

It’s a 4-hour trip from Almaty to Charyn Canyon.

For a detailed description and map on how to get there by public transportation or with your own vehicle, read my Travel Guide to Charyn Canyon.

The easiest way to get there is by going on a 2-day tour to Charyn Canyon, combined with a visit to the Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy .

Where to stay in Charyn Canyon:

You’re allowed to camp in the canyon but be careful not to pitch your tent on a cliff!

9. Altyn-Emel National Park

The Altyn-Emel National Park is a huge place with unusual landscapes like the white, red and orange Aktau hills and archaeological attractions such as the Terekty Petroglyphs and the 31 Scythian tombs.

The most famous part of the National Park are the Singing Dunes , huge sand dunes that make the low vibrating sound of an engine when the wind moves the sand.

You can visit the Altyn-Emel National Park in one day but you can also take 2 days to explore the area.

How to get to Altyn-Emel National Park:

The Altyn-Emel National Park is a 4-hour drive from Almaty. If you don’t have your own transport, you could try to hitchhike there or pay for a taxi (which can be quite pricey).

Another option is to go on a guided tour to Altyn-Emel National Park or on a tour combined with a visit to Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy.

Where to stay in Altyn-Emel National Park:

There are 5 guesthouses in the park, ranging from 2500 tenge ($7) to 5000 tenge ($14) per person. You’re also allowed to pitch your tent for free at a designated camping spot in the park.

10. The sacred sanctuary of Tamgaly-Tas

Tamgaly-Tas was an open-air sanctuary where religious rituals were held. People used to come here to recharge themselves with energy and health and it was also a sacred place where Buddhists came to pray and meditate.

Tamgaly-Tas means ‘written rocks’ and is named after the series of rocks and boulders that are carved and painted with incredibly beautiful images of Buddha, bodhisattvas and Tibetan scriptures.

The Buddhas of Tamgaly-Tas can’t be mistaken with the petroglyphs of Tamgaly, a historical site with ancient carvings from the Bronze Age. The Tamgaly Petroglyphs can be found 150km west of Almaty while Tamgaly-Tas is located 170km to the northwest of Almaty.

How to get to Tamgaly-tas:

It’s a 4-hour drive to get from Almaty to Tamgaly-Tas. However, you can’t get there by public transport.

You can only reach the place with your own (off-road vehicle), by renting a car and/or driver, or by booking a day-tour from Almaty . You can also combine your visit to Tamgaly- Tas with Nomad’s Land (see below).

11. Nomad’s Land

Nomad’s Land is an area in the middle of the Kazakh steppe that sits along the Ili River.

From photos and at first glance, people may not realize what the place is as it looks like a historical find in the middle of the barren landscape, but it is actually a film set that was left abandoned from the Kazakh/French movie “Nomad”.

The epic movie is from 2005 and its plot is centered around 18th-century Kazakhstan. The movie was apparently a little lackluster, but the area that it was set in is anything but!

The film set never gained much recognition and still is relatively unknown, but Instagram photo opportunities have brought it a bit of attention in recent years.

It isn’t easy to reach, on the other hand. You will need private transportation (or an organized tour) and an off-roading vehicle to get out to it.

Once you arrive, there is a small tent selling plov and other local delights and someone who charges for entrance to the film set. The fee is minuscule and worth paying.

You are able to peruse the set and take photos, but the real gem is the scenery. The Ili River is quiet, clean, and clear and completely breathtaking.

I loved the drive out there and the scenery once there far more than the film set, but both are worth a visit. Pack a nice picnic, put on some sunscreen, and take a trip to Nomad’s Land!

How to get to Nomad’s Land

It’s a 4-hour drive to get from Almaty to Nomad’s Land but you can’t get there by public transport.

You can only reach the place with your own (off-road vehicle), by renting a car and/or driver, or by booking a day tour to Nomad’s Land and Tamgaly- Tas (see above).

Need help planning your itinerary to Kazakhstan? Check out my tour & itinerary planning services!

6 cool and remarkable places to visit around Shymkent (South Kazakhstan)

The southern part of Kazakhstan is very different from the other regions in the country. It’s the most Kazakh part of Kazakhstan so this is the region where you can experience the Kazakh culture at its best.

One of the largest trade routes of the Great Silk Road used to pass through this area so it’s also a region of Kazakhstan where you can visit the marvelous constructions that were built during the years of the silk trade.

There’s also a big influence from the Uzbek culture as South Kazakhstan shares a border with Uzbekistan. Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan is only 120 km away from Shymkent so many travelers briefly stop in Shymkent before continuing their overland travels to Uzbekistan.

I’d say it’s worth it to take at least 4 days to explore Shymkent and the beautiful mausoleums and unique sites in the Turkestan Region.

1. Shymkent

Shymkent was the city where I took a little break from the road after a 2-week road trip through the Kazakh steppes. Shymkent is the gateway to the heartland of Kazakhstan’s spirituality: Turkestan.

Although Turkestan’s Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is the main draw for most people, Shymkent offers a surprisingly pleasant stopover for people willing to linger.

To see, walk through the main bazaar. Once word gets out that foreigners are afoot, jolly ladies will pull you into their stall to ask you a million and one questions.

Beware, these ladies can be cheeky (in a good way): one woman inquired as to the availability of my grandfather!

I recommend you take some time to just wander around the bazaar and other areas of Shymkent or book a city tour to see the highlights of Shymkent.

How to get to Shymkent:

You can reach Shymkent by plane from Almaty or Astana and by (overnight) bus or train from any city in Kazakhstan.

The bus is the cheapest way of getting around but I’d say that the train is the most comfortable way to travel in Kazakhstan. You can check the train schedules and book train tickets here .

Where to stay in Shymkent:

There are many lodging options in Shymkent that can be used as a great base to visit nearby places, varying from budget hostels to high-end hotels.

Recommended budget hostels in Shymkent:

• City Hostel Shymkent
• Art House Sweet Home

Recommended mid-range hotels in Shymkent:

• Aidana Plaza Hotel
• FM Hotel Shymkent

Recommended high-end hotels in Shymkent:

• Megapolis Hotel
• Rixos Khadisha Hotel

2. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve

The Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve is the oldest nature reserve in Central Asia. It is named after the river that runs through it—the Aksu—and the Zhabagly mountain range.

The park offers gorgeous golden fields, steep gorges, crystalline blue waters, and some interesting rock formations.

“Aksu” means “white water” in Kazakh, so named for the blue glacial water fueling the river. The river is icy cold most of the year, but brave souls can find places to swim if they so choose.

The park is quite large, and it’s possible to visit for several days. If you want to attempt this, though, it’s best to do so with a guide; there are no well-marked trails.

How to get to the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve from Shymkent:

You can get from Shymkent to the park by taking a mashrutka (minibus). They leave once a day in the morning (around 9 am) from the Aina Bazaar in Shymkent to the village of Zhabagly.

It’s a 2-hour ride and you’ll arrive near the entrance of the park. However, you can’t enter the park on your own.

You have to book a ranger at Zhabagly, which costs around $20 per day, including transportation.

3. The Aisha Bibi Mausoleum

The Aisha Bibi is a beautiful 11th or 12th-century mausoleum in the village of Aisha Bibi. It is the only monument in Central Asia that is fully covered with carved terracotta tilework and is admired for its unique construction and decorative art.

Aisha Bibi is the subject of a popular legend in Kazakhstan. An ancient ruler constructed the monument for a young woman named Aisha with whom he fell in love. She was killed by a snake while attempting to go against her parents’ wishes to be with him. It’s basically a ‘Romeo & Juliette’ story.

This mausoleum became the local monument for faith and eternal love and is seen as a sacred talisman. Many young couples come here on their wedding day to attract good luck and eternal love in their lives. If you visit the mausoleum, you’ll see many wedding couples being photographed here.

How to get to Aisha Bibi from Shymkent or Taraz:

Aisha Bibi is located at 8km from Taraz, on the main road to Shymkent. You can take the minibus from Taraz to Shymkent and tell the driver that you want to stop in Aisha Bibi or you could take a taxi.

If you’re coming from Shymkent, take the minibus to Taraz and get off in Aisha Bibi.

4. Arystan Bab Mausoleum

Legends tell that the mystic Arystan Bab was the mentor of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and by tradition, a pilgrimage to Yasawi’s mausoleum in Turkestan should be preceded by a visit to the mausoleum of Arystan Bab.

It’s an impressive building, originating from the 14th-century. It’s framed by two domed minarets and the carpet-draped tomb of Arystan Bab is in a small room to the left of the entrance. The room is constantly filled with praying believers and pilgrims.

The mausoleum is surrounded by hundreds of tombs of devout Muslims who wished to be close to Arystan Bab. It’s important that when you visit the site, you stay quiet and respectful and you should dress modestly (no shorts or tops).

How to get to Arystan Bab:

The Mausoleum is close to the village of Kogam but you can only get there by car.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you could take a taxi from Shymkent or Turkestan or try to hitchhike.

Where to stay in Arystan Bab:

There’s a hotel across the road from the mausoleum. The Arystan Bab Hotel offers very cheap accommodation if you don’t mind sleeping on the floor in one of the yurts. There are also basic bedrooms.

5. Turkestan

Turkestan was one of the most important commercial centers of the Silk Road. The city was founded over 15 centuries ago and is now the historical center of Kazakhstan’s culture.

Turkestan is now known for the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a Turkic Sufi saint who was the first man to introduce the Islam religion in Central Asia.

His mausoleum attracts yearly thousands of pilgrims. It was designed by Amir Timur, who also has other spectacular architectural creations in Uzbekistan .

Tur kestan, the spiritual and historical center of Kazakhstan

How to get to Turkestan from Shymkent:

Turkestan is about two hours away by mashrutka (minibus) from Shymkent. Here’s a detailed description on how to get from Shymkent to Turkestan by public transport .

Where to stay in Turkestan:

It’s hard to find any hostels or guesthouses online so I’d recommend you visit Turkestan as a day trip from Shymkent.

6. The Lost City of Sauran

My good friend and world traveler João Leitão from Nomad Revelations  recommended me to visit Sauran, also known as Sawran or Sawran, an ancient city about 45 km north from Turkistan city along the road to Kyzylorda.

The original walls surrounding the old town are still in excellent conditions, almost intact, and in some places, it is even possible to climb to the top and enjoy the view.

The first historical reference of Sauran dates from the tenth century, but the ruins we see today were established between the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries.

It gained fame to be one of the most magnificent castles of Kazakhstan, having escaped the Mongol destruction and having even served as capital to the Horde of the White Mongol.

Later, Sauran became a fortress of Timur. It was from Sauram that the building materials of the famous Yasavi Mausoleum came. It was abandoned gradually, and consequently entirely desertified by the year 1515.

How to get to Sauran:

You can get to Sauran from Turkestan by taxi. It’s about 3000 tenge to get there and back.

If you leave from Kyzylorda, you can take a minibus and ask the driver to drop you off at the site. You can also return to Kyzylorda by bus or hitch a ride towards Turkestan.

Another option is to take a multi-day guided tour and visit Sauran together with Turkestan and other great Silk Road places in Kazakhstan.

9 Other remarkable, weird and unusual places to visit in Kazakhstan

Like I’ve mentioned in the introduction, Kazakhstan is a huge place with many scenic places and it would take weeks, if not months, to visit all the points of interest that are scattered around the country.

The two regions that are mentioned above – South Kazakhstan and Southeast Kazakhstan – are the most popular regions for travelers as the top places in these areas aren’t too far away from each other so you can visit them in a couple of weeks.

However, if you have more time or if you’re on a road trip with your own vehicle, it’s also worth visiting the more off-the-beaten-path regions like North, East and West Kazakhstan.

Here’s an overview of some other remarkable and unusual places that you can find in these regions of Kazakhstan.

1. Nur-Sultan (previously known as Astana)

Nur-Sultan, previously known as Astana, is the futuristic capital city of Kazakhstan.

The city was granted capital city status in 1997 as it was moved north from Almaty. As of March 2019, the name of the capital changed from Astana to Nur-Sultan in honor of the ex-president.

Located in the middle of the vast and barren Kazakh steppe, the city is now home to over one million residents and is the second coldest capital city in the world!

The planned city was designed and built by several world-class architects and can be a little confusing to tourists who are not enamored by modern architecture, however.

On the other hand, new businesses, museums, and entertainment centers are opening constantly and the development in Nur-Sultan is remarkable.

The city even held the EXPO in 2017 and has garnered a lot of attention since.

When in Nur-Sultan, don’t miss visiting the Baiterek , the city’s symbol, where you can ride to the top and get a glimpse over the city. Also be sure to take a trip to Khan Shatyr , a transparent tented entertainment center and mall that opened in 2016.

There are a lot of things to do in Nur-Sultan and the city is ever-changing- so definitely add it to your Kazakhstan itinerary!

I would also highly recommend going on a guided city tour in Nur-Sultan !

How to get to Nur-Sultan:

As Nur-Sultan is Kazakhstan’s capital, you can get there by every means of transportation. The easiest and fastest ways to get there are by airplane or by train .

Where to stay in Nur-Sultan:

There are many accommodation options in Nur-Sultan, from budget hostels to high-end hotels.

Recommended budget hostels in Nur-Sultan:

• Hostel Forum
• The Place Astana Hostel

Recommended mid-range hotels in Nur-Sultan:

• Ramada by Wyndham Nur-Sultan

Recommended high-end hotels in Nur-Sultan:

• The Veil Hotel
• Rixos President Hotel

2. Karaganda

Karaganda is a city in central Kazakhstan that has around 450,000 people residing in it.

The city may not be on the radar of most travelers, but that doesn’t mean that it should be ignored if you are really interested in learning more about Kazakhstan’s history and its role in several 20th-century events.

Karaganda is industrial and known for its regional coal mining. In order to maintain this prosperous coal mining industry, Soviet gulags were established in Karaganda.

One of the most renowned gulags was in Karaganda and it shaped the city’s history and today’s modern society.

The city is brimming with ethnic Germans as a result. While many left as Germany allowed them to repatriate decades later, the city is still known for its German history and the gulags the Germans were placed in under Stalin.

This history aside, the city is presently a fascinating place and there is an abundance of Soviet architecture to keep travelers occupied and enthralled for days.

Read more : Karaganda, a fascinating city in Kazakhstan

How to get to Karaganda:

You can reach Karaganda by marshrutka, car, plane , or train .

You can also go on a 2-day guided tour from Nur-Sultan.

Where to stay in Karaganda:

Recommended hotels in Karaganda:

• Ro sa Roze Luxe House
• AS Inn Hotel

3. Kostanay

Kostanay is a city located in the far north of Kazakhstan and is as remote as it is cold (during the winter, of course).

I went there in 2013 on a very long overnight train from Astana and had a blast despite not really knowing too much about the city of just over 200,000 people.

Located close to the Russian border, Kostanay’s population does appear to be more ethnic Russians than Kazakhs. The city is sleepy and there is not much going on there despite the fairly sizeable population.

During the winter months, the city builds an entire entertainment area out of ice, including a large slide that kids and adults both enjoy playing on.

There are several newer buildings in the city and there is also a mosque and synagogue located across the street from each other which stand peacefully.

One of the most famous sites in the city is this one in the photo of a girl on her laptop on a bench.

It is common to see locals (or tourists like myself) taking selfies and pictures with it.

Kostanay is truly off-the-path Kazakhstan. You will be hard-pressed to find someone who has been there, let alone heard of it.

How to get there:

You can reach Kostanay by marshrutka, car, plane , or train .

Where to stay in Kostanay:

There are some nice hostels and hotels in Kostanay.  Check them out here.

There are also some very unusual towns and places of interest in West & Central Kazakhstan :

4. The abandoned seaport of Aralsk

During our road trip through the endless featureless deserts of Kazakhstan, we came across Aralsk, a small and dusty town in the middle of nowhere.

Looking at its dry surroundings, it was hard to imagine that this sleepy town used to be a booming fisherman town. As far and wide we could look, we didn’t see anything that resembled a sea or even a small lake.

However, 60 years ago, Aralsk was located on the coast of 4th largest lake in the world – the Aral Sea.

Some ambitious Soviet planners wanted to turn Central Asia into the world’s largest producer of cotton. They diverted the two rivers that were feeding the Aral Sea in such a way that the water would irrigate the desert where cotton could be grown for future exports.

As a result, the Aral Sea started drying up and now there’s barely 10% left of it.

What happened to the Aral Sea -The Ship Graveyard in Kazakhstan in photos

What was once a flourishing seaport was now a sad and abandoned place, a reminder of a plan that had gone wrong.

You can still visit this abandoned seaport, although it isn’t a place that will make you feel happy.

We also tried to visit the ship graveyard near Zhalanash, a small town 65km away from Aralsk but in the last two years, most of the ships have been almost completely dismantled for scrap metal.

The only place where you can still find a proper ship graveyard is in Moynaq, Uzbekistan .

How to get to the ship graveyard in Aralsk:

You can reach Aralsk by car or train . You can only get to the ship graveyard in Zhalanash if you travel with your own vehicle.

Where to stay:

There are about 4 hotels in Aralsk but you can’t book them online. I paid $13 for a private room.

5. Baikonur

Located in the steppe of Kazakhstan, right in the middle of nowhere, Baikonur is a very Soviet town, pretty ugly in my opinion, with one peculiarity: it is where the Russian Cosmodrome was built.

For those who don’t know, the Cosmodrome in Baikonur is like the Russian NASA. Here is where the famous dog Laika came from and also, where the first man to space was sent from.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, when Kazakhstan became an independent republic, as a part of a monetary agreement, Baikonur became under Russian administration.

That is why, today, in Baikonur, they use the Russian ruble, most cars have Russian license plates and most people living there are ethnically Russian.

However, visiting the Cosmodrome requires a special permit which is very expensive to obtain and, unfortunately, you can’t visit Baikonur town without this permit.

To be honest, there is not much to see in Baikonur Town, besides a couple of astronaut statues and a real, old rocket! But, if you like real off-beat stuff, the experience is really worth it!

How to get to Baikonur:

You can reach Baikonur by car or by train but you can only visit the town and the Cosmodrome on a guided tour with prices starting at $700 .

Located in the most Western part of Kazakhstan and, practically, only visited by those travelers overlanding to or from Russia , Atyrau is a very strange town.

Atyrau was my first stop coming from Uzbekistan, after a 4-month trip through Central Asia, so when I saw all those modern buildings and fancy hotels, it was sort of a cultural shock to me…

The reason is that Atyrau is an oil-rich town, very wealthy, and home to some of the largest oil reserves in Kazakhstan, hence in the world.

From modern cafés to expensive Irish pubs filled with expats, this was not the idea I had of an off-the-beaten-track city in Kazakhstan. But this was not all.

Atyrau is one of the main towns that the Ural River goes through, the third-longest river in Europe, after the Danube and the Volga.

However, the cool thing about the Ural River is that it is the official border between Europe and Asia, so in Atyrau, you can cross from Asia to Europe in a matter of seconds, over the many bridges that you will find across the city.

How to get to Atyrau:

You can reach Atyrau by plane, by car or by train .

Where to stay in Atyrau:

Check out the different hostels and hotels in Atyrau  here .

Aktau was the first city in Kazakhstan I stayed in after crossing the Caspian Sea from Azerbaijan by cargo ship .

I had a very similar experience as Joan had in Atyrau – it was a very strange city!

Aktau, located in the South West of Kazakhstan, was built in the 1960’s in the desert of Mangyshlak, a very harsh, dry and dusty place for an urban settlement.

It was built from scratch and somehow they managed to make it into a very modern city.

It’s impressive when you realize that it took many years to grow some vegetation in the city when it used to be a desolated and waterless desert. The only way that the people were able to plant a tree or plants was by drilling the earth and watering them every day for many years before the plants even took root and grew.

Aktau is also the only city in the world that lives entirely on seawater, which gets desalinated with the help of a nuclear reactor…

There are a few things to see here as Aktau has several cultural centers, a concert hall, and some interesting architectural ensembles. There are also some sandy beaches where you can relax, although they aren’t the cleanest.

How to get to Aktau:

You can reach Aktau by plane , by train , and by car. Most travelers end up here before or after crossing the Caspian Sea by boat .

Where to stay in Aktau:

Aktau has a small variety of hostels and hotels. Check them out here.

8. Mount Sherkala & The Valley of Balls

There are 2 very special natural wonders close to the town of Shetpe in West Kazakhstan.

The first one is Sherkala , also called Lion Rock, a 200-meter high mountain in the middle of a flat desert. Another thing that makes this mountain so special is that looks different when you look at it from different points of view. On one side it resembles a yurt, from the other side a lion’s head.

There are many legends told about this mountain and old local people won’t recommend you to climb this mountain or go inside its caves as they believe that spirits dwell there.

Another natural phenomenon close to the town of Shetpe is the Valley of Balls . This Valley earned its name thanks to the numerous ball-like rocks that are spread across the valley. The balls range in size from tiny marbles to huge boulders the size of a car.

I tried to visit these two natural wonders but somehow I couldn’t find them. Instead, I came across another special cliff formation.

I have no idea what it’s called or if it even has a name, but these white cliffs that suddenly rose from the flat surrounding steppes were quite something to see!

How to get to Mount Sherkala and the Valley of Balls:

You can only reach these places by car. Mount Sherkala is about 22km North West of Shetpe while the Valley of Balls should also be near. I recently found a road description on Tripadvisor .

According to Lonely Planet, you can also reach Mount Sherkala by taking a taxi from Shetpe.

8. The Underground Mosque of Beket-Ata

Beket-Ata was an important Sufi who chose to live in seclusion in the desert of West Kazakhstan.

He built 4 underground mosques and a madrassa in the Mangistau region and the underground mosque Beket-Ata became his last refuge and burial place.

The Beket-Ata underground mosque is a spiritual, historical and architectural monument. Beket-Ata used to be a healer and his burial place became an important pilgrimage site for Kazakh Muslims. It is said that after visiting his grave and mosques, you’ll be cured of all your illnesses.

I didn’t visit the mosque as it was out of my way. It’s also not so easy to reach and you literally travel to the middle of nowhere. However, it does sound like a very unique place and you’ll also get to meet the Kazakh people and get a look into their daily lives on the steppes.

Caravanistan has a detailed description of how to get to the underground mosque by car.

I wish you an amazing time in Kazakhstan! I’m always happy to hear about your experiences and if you came across a special or beautiful place that you think should be added to this list, please let me know in the comments below or contact me !

Related Posts:

Best Tips and complete Packing List for Traveling in Central Asia in 2024 – When to go and what to wear when visiting Central Asia

The Complete Hiking Guide to Sayram Ugam National Park, one of the most beautiful Kazakhstan National Parks

19 Best Things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan  – The Complete Guide to visit Almaty City

The Best Guide to Travel in Kazakhstan: 18 things you should know to visit Kazakhstan in 2024

How to visit the Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy, The most beautiful lakes in Kazakhstan

Blown away by the beauty of Charyn Canyon – The Complete Travel Guide

More kazakhstan travel resources:.

• The Travel Guide to Kazakhstan: 18 things you should know before you go
• The 26 most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Kazakhstan
• Is it safe to travel to Kazakhstan: 15 useful safety tips
• Almaty City Guide: The 19 best things to do in Almaty
• The 5 best and most beautiful hikes in the mountains near Almaty
• Charyn Canyon Travel Guide
• Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy Travel Guide
• Sayram Ugam National Park Travel Guide
• Turkestan Travel Guide: discover the spiritual center of Kazakhstan
• Visiting the ship graveyard of the Aral Sea in Kazakhstan
• Trekking in Kazakhstan: 5-day hiking itinerary in the Northern Tian Shan Mountains
• A beginner’s guide to skiing in Shymbulak, Almaty

29 thoughts on “The 26 most beautiful places to visit in Kazakhstan in 2024”

Hi, thank you so much! I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed the article and photos!!

Great article – Thanks for the tips Cynthia!

Thank you Zandy!

Very much helpful as I’ve started exploring places to visit in Kazakhstan. However I was hoping to get some info about the North easter side of the country. Have you been to karkaraly national park?

Hi Sourav, no, I haven’t been to the Karkaraly National Park yet so unfortunately I can’t provide any info on that.

FOund this to be such an informative guide as I’m planning my solo trip on the silk road journey. Thank you for keeping it updated it’s so useful.

Hi Ghaz, thanks so much! 🙂

Visit us! in Korgalzhin this summer promises to be overloaded with birds

Once we’re allowed to travel again, we’ll return to Central Asia and Kazakhstan 🙂

It is so interesting for Kazakh people also. I am traveling in our country but you go everywhere. Congrats. Thank you for sharing to the world Kazakhstan. I am living in Almaty. If you will come again please call me +77760000585 Rauan

Thank you Rauan, it’s my pleasure 🙂

Thank you for sharing.

Thank you for reading Jewel! 🙂

Beautiful pictures. Looks like heaven on earth…..

Thank you Jili! The landscapes of Kyrgyzstan are definitely heavenly!! We’re looking forward to returning there next week!

Great writing…Love from Brussels!

Thank you!! 🙂

Very nice list. And overall a nice journey. But I miss the Altai Region in the North-East of Kazakhstan. We have currently been around Ridder and did some hikes…. So beautiful and less touristic. And you do not need a border permit for West Altai.

Wish you a lot of fun on your journey. Maybe we’ll met in Kyrgyzstan, since I’ll be there from the 7th of September

Greetings David

Hi David, thanks for your recommendation! I haven’t been to the Altai Region myself but heard that it is indeed very beautiful! And yes, maybe we’ll meet in Kyrgyzstan! Wishing you a beautiful trip!!

Simply GREAT ! I’m planning to reach my daughter who lives in Sydney AU, traveling overland as you are doing. I found you searching for a boat trip to cross Caspian Sea. I can’t wait to start my journey from Turin-Italy. maybe we will meet somewhere in Eastern Asia as I travel faster than you do because of my job. I will follow you from now on you Journal Of Nomads. Have a great journey, take care and enjoy it.

Thank you Andreas!! When are you starting your journey and how are you going to travel overland? By car? Already wishing you a great journey and who knows, our paths might cross!!

What a awesome post and article you shared.. This place looks really incredible and you shared awesome list to go in Kazakhstan. So stunning pictures. Thank you so much for sharing this post..

Hi, thank you so much! I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed the article and photos!!

If i have to select which one is best among 25 places, i would go for all of them. Seriously each place is having own beauty and i just lived the destination through your blog. If i get opportunity to travel overseas i am definitely going to visit Kazakhstan.

Hi! Thank you so much for your nice comment! I’m so glad to hear you’re feeling inspired to visit Kazakhstan!

These photos are just stunning! I’m not really familiar with the place, but looking at these photos makes me think about the middle east. I went to Egypt at couple of years ago, and the weather was unbearably hot. How’s the weather there? Having stayed in the UK all my life, has really given me so little perspective even if I do work at the escorts gallery at the Museum of London culture and art can only go so far, hopefully I’d be able to experience adventures like this soon.

Hi Rebecca, thank you!! Kazakhstan is very hot during the summer, especially in the steppes (+ 40 degrees Celcius) but it snows and gets really cold in winter. it’s a destination worth visiting, and I’m sure you’d be mesmerized by the culture you find in Central Asia 🙂 I hope you can visit this beautiful part of the world as well!

So amazing! Love the story and the pictures are incredible.

Thank you Lucyann! Are you planning on visiting Kazakhstan soon?

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The most breathtaking places to visit in Kazakhstan 

As the planet’s ninth-largest country, it comes as no surprise that Kazakhstan is teeming with spectacular landscapes, from mountains to salt pans, crystalline lakes to abundant forests and ancient cities bursting with arts and culture. We’ve rounded up some of the top destinations in this fascinating corner of the world that has long been under the radar. Each one alone is worth the trip. 

The Almaty region

With turquoise glacier lakes , waterfalls and epic gorges, this part of the country is widely known to have the best of the country’s national parks. Hike or horse ride to off-the-beaten-path local guesthouses, trek through the Ice Age ash-tree grove in Charyn Canyon, splash through the purest birch-fringed waters of Kaindy Lake or listen to the Singing Dunes of the sands in Altyn-Emel National Park . 

Burabay National Park

Often referred to as the Kazakh Switzerland, Burabay boasts mountains, lakes and miles of towering evergreen forests that are home to over 305 different animal species. Beautifully unspoilt, the park is a hikers’ and swimmers’ heaven and is noted for its dramatic contrasts, from snow-capped peaks to verdant plains. If you enjoy bird watching you can spot a huge variety, from sandpipers to flamingoes.

With ultra-modern architecture, lots of museums and a bustling city centre, vibrant Astana is one of the world’s fastest-growing capitals. Visit the pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace and Reconciliation by globally renowned architect Norman Foster, spend the day in the MEGA entertainment centre, with its expansive range of cinemas and boutiques, or amble through the resplendent Astana Grand Mosque, the largest in Central Asia and one of the biggest in the world. 

A trip to this region will make you feel as if you’re in the film  Dune.  In the country’s southwest, Mangystau is a labyrinth of desert lands, mountain ridges and sweeping plateaus. With a rich history dating back to the ninth century AD, you’ll have much to ponder on your trip to the sacred Otpan mountain, the region’s highest point, or along the Mangyshlak Peninsula, which borders the Caspian Sea, and where chalk mountains and underground mosques – notably the stunning Shopan-ata – are waiting to be discovered.

Turkistan Province

Widely known as the Pearl of the Great Silk Road, this region’s ruins and Western Tien-Shan mountains continue to draw discerning explorers from across the nation and the world. With the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 12th-century Mausoleum of Khoja, the ancient settlements of Sauran and Otyrar – one of Central Asia’s oldest cities – and the dramatic canyons of Sairam-Ugam National Park and Karatau Nature Reserve, this is one for history and geography enthusiasts alike. 

East Kazakhstan

With Lake Alakol’s striking black beaches and glassy waters, Katon-Karagay National Park’s meditative waterfalls, and the three-peaked Belukha massif, the highest point in the Altai Mountains, the diversity of this region is something to behold. Deserts, steppes, glacier-dotted mountains and snow-covered taiga forests make East Kazakhstan a must-visit, and with Oskemen – one of the region’s largest cities – offering convenient access, you can easily reach its wonders. 

In the southwest of the Kazakh Upland steppe, you’ll find one of Sary Arka’s oldest mountain ranges, with over 630 monuments dating back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic eras. Take a tour of ancient Ulytau on the Silk Road, where you can immerse yourself in history by exploring ancient sites and rock carvings, either walking or on horseback. 

Visit https://kazakhstan.travel/ for more information.  

Must-see attractions in Kazakhstan

Some 285km east of Aktau, Beket-Ata is an important and extremely popular place of pilgrimage for those wishing to visit the underground mosque and final…

National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Nur-Sultan (Astana)

This huge blue-glass-and-white-marble museum covers the history and culture of Kazakhstan from ancient to modern times. Themed halls comprise interactive…

Charyn Canyon

Over millions of years, the swift Charyn (Sharyn) River has carved a truly spectacular 150m- to 300m-deep canyon into the otherwise flat steppe some 200km…

Yasaui Mausoleum

This astoundingly beautiful, tiled mausoleum with a turquoise dome is home to Kozha Akhmed Yasaui. The main chamber is capped with an 18m-wide dome, above…

KarLag Museum

Housed in the old KarLag headquarters building, this poignant museum walks you through KarLag's role in the Soviet Gulag Archipelago. The repression of…

Khan Shatyr

Nur-Sultan's most extraordinary building (so far), the Khan Shatyr is a 150m-high, translucent, tentlike structure made of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene …

Kolsai Lakes National Park

Located around 12km by paved (from 2018) road from Saty village, these three spruce-and-mountain-hemmed lakes are Alpine-esque beauty at its best and a…

Palace of Peace & Reconciliation

This beautiful glass-and-steel pyramid was opened in 2006 as the home for the triennial Congress of World and Traditional Religions, hosted by Kazakhstan…

Shakpak-Ata

Perhaps the most intriguing of all Mangistau’s underground mosques, 10th-century Shakpak-Ata is a cross-shaped affair with three entrances and four…

A trip to the slowly replenishing Aral Sea is the main – the only! – reason to come to Aral. Near its northern shore rise the sculpted rock formations of…

Kaiyndy Lake

Created by a major earthquake in 1912, this deep, cerulean lake is fed by a glacial river and is notable for its forest of drowned spruces, the branches…

ALZhIR Museum-Memorial Complex

During the Stalin years, Akmol, 35km west of Nur-Sultan, housed ALZhIR, a notorious camp for wives and children of men who were interned elsewhere as …

Right on the border between Kazakhstan and Russia, the myth-rich, snow-tipped peak of Mt Belukha (4506m) – Altay's highest – attracts true mountaineers…

Semipalatinsk Polygon

Between 1949 and 1989, 456 nuclear tests were conducted on the territory of the Polygon, the Soviet Union's primary nuclear test site, both above and…

Central State Museum

Almaty’s best museum takes you through Kazakhstan’s history from Bronze Age burials and nomadic culture to WWII sacrifices, telecommunications and the…

Bayterek Monument

Nurzhol bulvar's centrepiece is this 97m-high monument, a white latticed tower crowned by a large glass orb. This embodies a Kazakh legend in which the…

Aysha-Bibi & Babazha-Katun Mausoleums

In Aysha-Bibi village, 16km west of Taraz, are the tombs of two 11th- or 12th-century women, legendary protagonists of a local Romeo and Juliet tale. The…

This 1100m hill on the city’s southeast edge is crowned by a 372m-high TV tower visible from far and wide, and affords great views over the city and the…

Levoberezhny Park

This large park on the south bank of the Irtysh contains several interesting exhibits and is well worth a couple of hours of your time. Moving west from…

Big Almaty Lake

This picturesque turquoise lake, 1.6km long, rests in a rocky bowl at 2500m altitude, reflecting the Tian Shan mountains and the giant fir trees in its…

Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve

With more than 200 steppe lakes in and around the reserve, the area is a vital stop on major bird migration routes from Africa, the Middle East and India…

One of the most important Golden Horde settlements, the medieval town of Saraychik lay along the caravan route to the Golden Horde capital of Sarai, on…

Museum of Victims of Political Repression

This small museum documents Soviet oppression in Kazakhstan, from the dekulakisation (Soviet campaign of political repression from 1929 to 1932) and…

Kazakhstan Museum of Arts

This is the best art collection in the country, with Kazakh, Russian and some Western European art and a room of top-class modern Kazakh handicrafts, with…

Museum of the Armed Forces

The yurt-shaped museum showcases beautifully presented exhibitions on weaponry and warfare, with striking murals greeting visitors. On the ground floor,…

Turgen Gorge

Part of the Ile-Alatau National Park and located 70km east of Almaty, this beautiful, densely forested gorge, carved out of rock by the whitewater of…

Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments

In a striking 1908 wooden building (designed by cathedral architect Zenkov) at the east end of Panfilov Park, the city’s most original museum is a must…

Soviet Grain Silo

This rare relic of the 1950s may be gone in a few years' time, banished by the relentless wrecking ball, but for now you can see this enormous, decaying…

Lake Markakol

This gorgeous lake is a thriving habitat of over 200 different bird species. Apart from its attraction for birdwatchers and general scenic beauty, there…

Singing Dune

A couple of hours' drive from the settlement of Basshi that's part of the Altyn-Emel National Park, this sand dune emits a rumbling sound not unlike an…

Lenin Statues

A curious collection of 15 communist busts and statues, mostly Lenins – including Kazakhstan's tallest Lenin! – stands in a small park behind Hotel Semey…

Panfilov Park

This large and attractive rectangle of greenery is one of central Almaty's most popular strolling and hangout places for all ages. At its heart stands the…

Respublika Alany

This broad, Soviet-created ceremonial square provides a panoramic view of the snowcapped mountains on a clear morning and is surrounded by several…

Lovers of mysterious, remote ruins should venture out to Akyrtas – Kazakhstan's Stonehenge – on the steppe 6km south of Aksholak village. What you'll find…

Some 48km northwest of Turkestan stand the best preserved and most atmospheric ruins of all the many ruined Silk Road cities in the Syr-Darya valley. Its…

Around 22km northwest of the town of Shetpe, this awe-inspiring, 332m-high, 1km-long chalk outcrop that resembles a lion's head looms over the desert. To…

Tamgaly Petroglyphs

The World Heritage–listed Tamgaly Petroglyphs are the most impressive of many petroglyph groups in southeastern Kazakhstan. Set in a lushly vegetated…

Regional Museum of Southern Kazakhstan

In its shiny new quarters on the northern outskirts of the city, this regional museum has well-presented, trilingual displays on local geology, Iron Age…

Green Market

This large, two-level market has a true flavour of Central Asia, and is worth putting on your itinerary even if you're not really food shopping. It's been…

Ploshchad Poyushchykh Fontanov

The eastern half of Nurzhol bulvar starts with this plaza, which springs to life with music-and-water shows at 9pm on summer evenings. Further east stand…

More destinations you need to see

Dive Into Central Asia

Top 11 Things To Do In Kazakhstan: Your Bucket List!

Considering a trip to Kazakhstan? Wondering what to do in Kazakhstan?  What are the best places to visit in Kazakhstan? Want to make sure you don’t miss the top things to do in Kazakhstan?

You are in the right place!

If you are asking yourself, is Kazakhstan a good place to visi t? The answer is yes! Kazakhstan is a great country to visit. 

Despite being little known among even avid travellers, this big country in Central Asia has many great things to do and an interesting culture and history to explore. In fact, one of the great parts about visiting here is that Kazakhstan is not on the main tourist trail. In my opinion, this makes it so much fun to explore and have an amazing trip that exceeds all your expectations. It can feel like a real adventure.

Before planning my first trip here, I had no idea just how many great Kazakhstan places to visit there are and I was very excited as my planning progressed. Finding great resources online is hard though which is why I want to help here! There are some Kazakhstan attractions you won’t want to miss – and I have them here!

Below, you will find my list of the top places to visit Kazakhstan. I hope it will help you feel very excited to visit this amazing destination and your experiences are as positive as mine.

Whether you are interested in the top Kazakhstan tourist places or getting away from it all at the most beautiful places in Kazakhstan, we cover it all in the best things to see in Kazakhstan below!

• 1.1 1. Explore The Futuristic Capital, Nur-Sultan
• 1.2 2. Hang Out In Almaty
• 1.3 3. Go Skiing At Shymbulak
• 1.4 4. View Glaciers In Tian-Shan
• 1.5 5. Trek At The Kolsai Lakes
• 1.6 6. Explore Charyn Canyon
• 1.7 7. Visit Kazakhstan’s Holiest Site In Turkestan
• 1.8 8. Go Horse Riding At Aksu-Zhabagly
• 1.9 9. Watch A Space Launch At Baikonur Cosmodrome
• 1.10 10. Experience The Infamous Aral Sea
• 1.11 11. Explore The Desert, Canyons And Ancient Necropolises In Mangistau
• 2 Map Of The Best Places To Visit In Kazakhstan

Top 11 Best Things To Do In Kazakhstan

1. explore the futuristic capital, nur-sultan.

Welcome to Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan’s new capital that has risen from the northern steppe like a glimmering sculpture garden.  Previously known as Astana, in 2019 the city was renamed Nur-Sultan after the former president.  A showpiece for the 21st-century, the Kazakh city’s skyline grows by the year, with plans scheduled for expansion through to 2030 when it will be home to over a million people.  

Landmark buildings spring up faster than we can keep track of.  Designed by leading international architects in all manner of styles – Asian, Western and Soviet – along with the odd futuristic design.  It’s not hard to see why the city is often referred to as the “Singapore of the steppe”.  Wide open boulevards, international shops, English signage and a young, forward-thinking vibe, the city is full of interesting Kazakhstan tourist attractions.

Start your city exploration at the very centre at the Bayterek Tower, the most famous attraction in Nur-Sultan.  Soaring high, the monument is shaped like an oversized vase, with a sphere at its very tip.  Not only a beautiful building, it also holds important meaning for the culture and history of the Kazakh people, with the tower said to resemble a mythological tree and a large golden egg from the magical bird of life, Samruk.  Discover more about this nomad fable at the on-site museum or visit the observation deck for splendid city views. 

Next stop is at The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, nicknamed The Pyramid.  Representing humanity and religious equality, it was built in 2006 on behalf of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.  Representing Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, Christianity and more, try to catch a show in their 1500-seat auditorium or take the 30-minute tour, keeping an eye out for the gorgeous stained glass doves.

Spend the afternoon at the National Museum of Kazakhstan, the newest and largest museum in Central Asia.  The building itself embodies the city’s futuristic design with large blue glass windows and a white marble interior.  There’s a lot to discover here as the museum covers the history and culture of Kazakhstan – from ancient to modern times – through nomadic eras, Russian domination and independence. 

In the evening drop by the Astana Opera, on the left bank of the Ishim River.  Opened in 2013, this vast complex is the third largest opera in the world and is inspired by Italian theaters of the 19th century mixed with elements of national heritage.  Home to more than opera, you can also catch a ballet or orchestra performance.

A second day of exploring the city, and there’s nowhere better to start than at the Hazret Sultan Mosque, a highly regarded and beautiful place in Kazakhstan.  Recently built in 2012, the mosque is often noted as one of the most beautiful buildings in Nur-Sultan.  Resembling a large palace, it can hold up to 10,000 people.  Don’t miss a stop here to see the outstanding architecture.

Other sights worth a visit include the Kazak Yeli Monument – 91-metres high and topped by a golden eagle – it’s intended to symbolise the historic destiny of Kazakhstan’s people.  And, in a yurt-shaped building, The Museum of the Armed Forces.  This splendid museum showcases exhibitions on weaponry and warfare, beautifully presented with chainmail armour, swords and heroic statues.  Check out their Hall of Ancestry with it’s interesting look at weapons through the ages and the cavalry tactics of Turkic, Mongol and Kazakh armies. War historians will find this at the top of their list of “Kazakhstan best places to visit”.

For those interested in renewable energy, drop by the Museum of Future Energy, The Nur Alem.  This eight-story building was designed by prominent American architects to represent Kazakhstan at the International Specialised Exhibition EXPO 2017.  Following the exhibition, the pavilion was transformed into the country’s first technological museum that focuses on ideas for the world’s future energy sources.  Each floor of the museum represents a different type of renewable energy – ie. wind, sun, water, etc. 

End your day at the Khan Shatyr – an enormous tent-like shopping mall and perhaps one of Nur-Sultan’s most extraordinary buildings.  Boasting a variety of designer stores, entertainment,  and arcades with a drop tower, flume ride and 500m-long monorail, it will keep you busy for hours.  Also, don’t forget to check out the climate-controlled Sky Beach Club waterpark with a real beach on the top floor!

Not in the mood for shopping?  Hit the city park at the south side of the Ishim River.  You’ll find the Atameken, a 200 metre walk-around country map with models of major buildings  – children find this one of the best places in Kazakhstan.  Also nearby is another treat for families, the Duman Recreational Complex.  This amusement centre houses an oceanarium holding over 2000 creatures from the world’s oceans and an exciting shark tunnel.

We also recommend you visit the Nur-Sultan Circus – the building itself deserves to be visited, designed as a giant UFO spaceship that is brilliantly lit up at night.  Inside, the Circus arena is equipped with modern mechanisms that allow the stage area to magically change.  The award-winning international troupe of more than 300 put on a stunning show, including clowns, acrobats, trapeze acts, gymnastics, illusions, plus horse-riding and ice skating exhibitions.  

One of the best places to go in Kazakhstan is to the Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve  – included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The largest reserve in Kazakhstan, at over half million hectares, it’s only 30km south-west of the city.  Visit towards the end of July or in August as its nesting time for birds – pink flamingos, pelicans and more – or in early May to catch dramatic tulip fields.  Start at the onsite Birds Paradise centre, then on to eco-routes for park tours.  You can drive an old Soviet off-road jeep (provided by the Reserve), or join an organised group day-tour from Nur-Sultan.  Don’t forget binoculars as you’ll be observing from some distance.     

Reach the city by flying into Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport or connect on the A17 Highway from Tashkent. 

We suggest staying at the Ritz Carlton, Astana .

2. Hang Out In Almaty

This former capital is still the largest city in Kazakhstan, set in the foothills of the Trans-lli Alatau mountains in the extreme southeast.  A bustling city, it’s remained the country’s centre of commerce, home to the largest stock exchange in Central Asia and all the main banks. 

Almaty means “City of Apple Trees” and a traditional story links the taking of the apple from the tree in the old testament to Almaty.  Whether or not close to the Garden of Eden, the city is certainly  breathtaking, with the constant backdrop of the mountains against the city’s tall buildings and close to many places of interest in Kazakhstan.

Republic Square is a great starting point for discovering the history of Almaty and the world’s ninth largest country, Kazakhstan.  This large Square is home to the Akimat House of Almaty, the official Government building, and also the Monument of Independence, both interesting places in Kazakhstan.  

Nearby you’ll find the Central Mosque, a truly magnificent building constructed in the Timurid style of architecture, and also the equally splendid Russian Orthodox church, St Nicholas Cathedral.  Visit the Central State Museum with its comprehensive history of Kazakhstan display, and the State Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan to appreciate works of art from around the world.

We hear mixed reports about Almaty Zoo, home to a collection of unique Kazakhstan wildlife, thus you might choose to skip a visit here.  Instead, have some fun at the  Interactive-Entertainment Park EVRIKUM, where you can explore the world of rocket science.  Families participate in science, physics and gravity experiments.  Another favourite for children is the Kazakh State Circus, combining horsemen and acrobatics in stunning displays, along with clowns, trapeze artists, tumblers and more!

You’re bound to notice the dominating TV mast that stands out like a huge minaret on top of the highest point of the city – The Kok-Tobe Park.  Located at the top of the mountain of the same name, this is a regular tourist stop.  From downtown Almaty take a cable car up to the mountain, and enjoy the amusement park attractions – including ferris wheel and roller coaster – petting zoo, ponds, and restaurant.

Spend an hour at the Zelioni Bazaar, one of the most famous local markets and then head to Panfilov Park.  Here, you’ll find one of the stranger tourist attractions of Kazakhstan, the Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments.  A high-tech and interactive look at local folk music instruments, it’s definitely worth a visit.  Also inside the park, check out Zenkov Cathedral, possibly the world’s only wooden cathedral.  Another popular park very nearby is Central Park (Gorky Park), with amusements for the young at heart.

Many visitors use Almaty as a base to explore the country’s wild southern landscapes.  Head to the Ile-Alatau National Park – a spectacularly diverse natural area with 300 species of animals and birds, including the famed snow-leopard, Central-Asian lynx and Tian-Shan brown bear, set in woodlands, alpine meadows, glaciers and lakes, including the Big Almaty Lake, a stunningly turquoise reservoir set at 2500 metres.  All possible to visit by bus or car, in any season, on day trips from Almaty.

Reach the city by flying into Almaty International Airport, 25 km outside of the city.  From Nur-Sultan travel 14 hours by train.  

We suggest staying at the Rixos Almaty Hotel .

3. Go Skiing At Shymbulak

A cheap alternative to European ski destinations and at the forefront of tourist places in Kazakhstan, Shymbulak is Central Asia’s largest ski resort.  Only 25km from Almaty, it offers diverse slopes for all levels, whether skiing or snowboarding.  Located in a picturesque valley of the Ile-Alatau Mountains at an altitude of 2510 metres, the resort is noted for its mild climate, sunny wintery days and constant snow levels.

As the mountains are fairly high there’s a long ski season, from early December until late March.  Lift passes can be purchased from the Cable Car Station, with a selection of options based on age, family and the number of lifts you plan on using.  

For a roundtrip – from the bottom of the mountain to the base of the ski resort and up to the top of the mountain at 3200 metres – you’ll need to purchase a combi-pass covering three cable car rides (including the 1 ride back down).  The lifts usually open at 10am until 6pm on weekdays, sometimes with an hour’s extension for the weekends.  Night skiing is available on sporadic days, with lifts open until midnight.  Check locally for the latest information. 

Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available, with English-speaking instructors.  Group and private classes, with prices dependent on your length of package.

With over 20km of slopes you’ll find a good split of courses – approx. 4km for beginners, 10km for intermediate level skiers and snowboarders, and 6km for advanced skiers.  There’s a half-pipe for snowboarders and extreme bends for the pros, and most years a special mogul track. 

Also, don’t forget to check out the off-piste skiing around the Shymbulak area – but best to have a guide with you for this.  And head to the yurt bar at the Talgar Pass, the highest point of the ski resort, for a fabulous lunch time stopover.

Most people choose to stay in Almaty and drive in 30 mins to reach the slopes or take the bus towards Medeu and jump off one stop earlier at the Cable Car Station.  However, if you’re a fan of fresh mountain air you’ll find accommodation options at the first cable car level, around 2260 metres.  Luxury and budget hotels, and cheap hostels are available, along with fancy restaurants, ski and snowboarding schools and a handful of bars. 

Not in the mood for skiing?  This winter wonderland has some great day hikes – namely the Four Peaks Trail, taking you across four mountain peaks, approximately 11km and usually completed in 7-8 hours.  

Starting at Medeu, the trail winds uphill to 3000 metres at Peak Furmanov.  You can choose to turn back at this point, or continue along past Peak Panorama and Peak Bashuta, ending at Peak Shymbulak at 3450 metres.  Return by taking the ski lifts and cable car down to the bus station. 

A more leisurely hike is to Butakovskiy Waterfalls, starting at the same point as the Four Peaks Trail.  Refer to the map at the start of the trail, and don’t forget that it’s winter so the sun drops early. 

Needless to say, if you’re visiting in summer there are numerous splendid hikes.  Take the cable car up for alpine walks along high mountain trails.

Still have energy?  Head to Medeu for the world’s highest ice-skating rink. Built in 1949, it was one of the top speed skating venues during the Soviet era.  10,500 sqm of ice, at 1691 metres above sea level, it’s great fun!  

Stay in Almaty or at the Shymbulak Resort Hotel .

4. View Glaciers In Tian-Shan

The Tian Shan mountains cover a massive 2500km, spanning across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and China.  Known as Tengri Tagh – Mountains of Heaven – in Kazakhstan, the mountain range is a mixture of lakes, gorges and valleys with stunning panoramic scenery, flora and fauna, local nomads and more. 

There are 370 glaciers in the central part of the Northern Tian Shan and hiking to these are one of the top activities in Kazakhstan.

The easiest to reach within a day is from Almaty, the 4-km long Touyuk-Su Glacier, located in the upper part of Maloalmatinsky gorge.  To reach here, take a bus from Almaty up to the Shymbulak Ski Resort by cable car.  From the top of the cable car, it’s a 3.5 hours trek along the Touyuk-Su gorge passing Molodezhny Glacier (3500m) to Touyuk-Su Glacier (3600m).  Surrounded by snowy 4000 metre mountain peaks it’s a magical place. 

On average the hike can be completed within a roundtrip of 6 hours and is thus possible as a long day trip from Almaty.  Available all year round, if you wish to spend longer to discover other nearby glaciers, look at booking accommodation at Shymbulak, where you’ll find a mixture of hotels and hostels. 

In total there are 12 glaciers in the upper reaches of the Small Almaty River, with the central and main Touyuk-Su Glacier being a valley type surrounded by fan-shaped smaller ones located only on the northern slopes.  Popular day hikes – all possible from Almaty – include to the Bogdanovich Glacier (3600m) offering views of hanging glaciers Til and Ayak, or to the Manshouk Mametova Glacier (3550m) which slides down in the form of a fantastic solid waterfall.

5. Trek At The Kolsai Lakes

Kazakhstan beautiful places don’t come much grander than this!  Kolsai National Park is perhaps the ultimate haven for nature lovers, with the trek to the Kolsai Lakes usually a winner in top-10 most beautiful places in Kazakhstan lists. 

Wild strawberries, dancing flowers and spectacular sapphire lakes are the prize for anyone who makes the arduous journey to the Kolsai Lakes region.  Breathe in the healthy mountain air, slosh through muddy trails, hike through alpine forests and learn about the simple life in the Kazakh countryside. 

Kolsai Lakes is a series of three glacial lakes in the Tian Shan Mountain Range.  The first being reachable by taxi from the nearby village of Saty, and from there you can trek or horse ride to Kolsai 2 (8km) and Kolsai 3 (5km).  Choose to hike to the first two lakes within a day – staying overnight in Saty at a homestay –  or trek to all three across a multi-night stay camping or sleeping in yurt camps. 

Horses are available at Kolsai 1 which can also take you around all three lakes in the same day.  Alternatively, an ideal option for riders with basic horse-riding skills, is a 4-day trek.  Offered from May to October, the route takes you to all three lakes, unexplored remote places, quiet local villages, and overnights at rustic mountain huts with breathtaking views of the snowy peaks of Kungey-Alatau.

Try to also include a visit to Lake Kaindy, another bright turquoise lake famed for the forest that seems to rise out from its cold waters.  Formed in the early 20th century after the damming of the Kaindy River, water levels in Lake Kaindy have slowly risen.  These days, the water almost covers the forest of schrenk spruce trees in the valley, which now poke out from the lake in eerie fashion, resembling masts of sunken ships.  

You’ll need a 4WD to reach the lake, and from the car park it’s a steep ten minutes hike.  Of course, if you have a few days you can combine both hikes and see all four lakes. 

The Kolsai Lakes are approximately 300kms from Almaty, and Lake Kaindy another 36km south.  Reaching the area by public transport can be tricky and we recommend taking a shared taxi from Almaty or, ideally, rent a 4WD in Almaty and self-drive.  Private and group tours can also be arranged from Almaty.  

A minimal fee is charged for entering Kolsai Lakes and secondly for Lake Kaindy, with additional costs for camping.  Campfires are allowed next to the lakes to help get through the chilly nights, but do go prepared for the weather.  Visit between June and September for ideal conditions or mid-late May and late September to miss crowds but expect some snow.  Yurts and homestays are closed at Kolsai from October to early May, with trails covered in snow and the lakes mostly frozen over. 

6. Explore Charyn Canyon

If you’re staying in Almaty you also shouldn’t miss a visit to the Charyn Canyon (Valley of the Castles), one of the most famous places in Kazakhstan.  Definitely one of the more popular attractions in the region, it’s best to avoid the busier weekends when locals descend for an overnight stay.

Known as the Mini Grand Canyon, the Charyn Canyon appears as if from nowhere amongst the almost monotonously desolate rolling steppe.  Suddenly, the deep amber crack appears, carved through the heart of the Kazakh desert.

The history of the Charyn Canyon stretches back 12 million years, when the river started to slowly erode the surrounding stone. Older, darkest layers at the base of the canyon are volcanic lava rocks, on top of which debris has slowly accumulated to form natural sculptures. 

Lizards, snakes, steppe hares, foxes and groundhogs thrive here.  Endemic fish, the naked Osman, swim in the cold fast-flowing waters of the Charyn river. 

The walk to the river is approximately 4km (about an hour) from the entrance.  Pay the minimal entrance fee and elect to follow the steep path downwards to experience the canyon from below or walk along the rim for stunning gorge views.

An eco-park sits beside the river, with yurts and wooden bungalows available for an awesome night’s stay, allowing you to explore longer and away from the daytime crowds.  Here you’ll find a small restaurant selling Kazakh basics or bring your own picnic. 

We highly recommend staying overnight as at both dawn and dusk sun rays dart around the canyon, turning the cliffs magical golds and ambers.  You will not regret it.

Up for a real adventure?  Equipped with your own 4WD or if you’re a keen hiker, set off to discover the other three rarely-explored canyons in the area.  Along the way look out for companies offering rafting on the Charyn River.

Termirlik Canyon is of the reddest iron red and children tend to love this canyon, playing on the towers and overhangs.  Set up camp here and enjoy a cozy fire, whilst waiting for the awesome night sky.  No tent?  Head to nearby Chundzha offering a number of guest houses built around hot springs.

Yellow or Moon Canyon – Uzunbulak Canyon – is another cozy canyon with a great picnic spot beside the river.  You’ll find more nature here in bright steppe colours.

Lastly, Bestamak Canyon is over 6km and has wide u-shaped valleys mixed with narrow passages.  Constantly changing, this canyon throws off pink and orange glows as you walk the dry riverbed. 

To ensure you really experience the beauty of the area we recommend making this a minimum 2-day visit.  The Kazakh steppe is freezing (down to -30) in winter and sizzling (up to +40) in summer, so dress appropriately and ensure to hydrate in summer!   Take snacks, water, sun hats and lotion, and warmer clothes for the evening.

Day tours are available from Almaty, but be prepared for the 4-hour drive in and out.  Alternatively, rent a 4WD and explore more canyons freely.  Extend your stay by connecting through to Saty (1h30m) and trek to the Kolsai Lakes.

7. Visit Kazakhstan’s Holiest Site In Turkestan

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yesevi can be found in the north-eastern part of the modern-day town of Turkestan.  Once an ancient centre of caravan trade, and named Khazret, it is located in the southern part of Kazakhstan. 

The mausoleum was commissioned in 1389 by Timur, who ruled the area as part of the expansive Timurid Empire.  However, with his death in 1405, construction was halted.  Though it was never completed the building has survived centuries and is one of the best-preserved Timurid constructions. 

Innovative architectural ideas for the vault and dome and unique ornamentations using glazed tiles – showing Iranian influences – made the mausoleum a prototype which spread across the empire culminating in the famous monuments of Samarkand.

Including the central hall, there are 36 rooms in the Mausoleum, covered by what is still the largest existing brick dome in Central Asia at 18 meters in diameter and towering up to 44 metres.  A monumental building.

Inside, discover the huge ritual bowl that weighs over two tons and the bronze lamp which was a gift from Tamerlane.  You’ll discover the Grand Palace, with the khan’s throne and scepter, and the Small Palace with the pantheon of 43 tombstones of the Qazaq khans.  Also explore  Hoja Akhmed Yassaui’s tomb and the Small Mosque – the main prayer area – along with many ancillary rooms.  

Next, explore the underground mosque – Hilvet – of the Mausoleum, considered a sacred Sufi underground structure.  Located 150 metres from the Mausoleum, the Hilvet was home to the followers of the Yassaui school who for more than five centuries conducted their ritual ceremonies here.  A semi-underground extensive structure with prayer rooms, sleeping rooms for pilgrims and rooms for ritual ceremonies, now only a small part of the original structure has remained intact.

Pilgrims from across Central Asia continue to visit these attractions in Kazakhstan, paying their respects.  The buildings have come to embody the Kazakh national identity and were protected by UNESCO in 2003 as possibly the top historical places of Kazakhstan.  Turkestan remains the cultural heart of modern Kazakhstan and the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yesevi at its centre, one of the Islamic world’s greatest mausoleums. 

There are also many other Islamic Kazakhstan places to see in the historical center of Turkestan: the Zhuma Mosque Museum (XVIII century), the Oriental Bath Museum and the Turkestan City History Museum, the Museum of Archeology and Ethnography and the Rabia Sultan Begim Mausoleum of the XV century. 

There are always a lot of people in Turkestan, mainly tourists from all over Qazaqstan and Central Asia, because the three-time pilgrimage to Turkestan is recognized among Muslims of Central Asia as Hajj to Mecca. 

Reach Turkestan by flying into Shymkent and taking a 3-hour taxi.  By rail, there’s a connection from Almaty to Shymkent, and directly on a high speed link from Nur-Sultan to Turkestan. All involve lengthy travel across this vast country.  

We recommend staying at the  Boutique Hotel Silk Way .

8. Go Horse Riding At Aksu-Zhabagly

Aksu-Zhabagly Reserve is located in South Kazakhstan, covering part of the Talasskyi Alatau ridge in Western Tian-Shan.  Starting from 1,100 metres at Zhabagly village the reserve stretches to 4200 metres at Sairamskyi Peak as the steppe disappears and the mountains begin.

The reserve is noted for its splendid flora, with over 1200 species including many tulips.  More than 51 species of mammals inhabit the region, including the notoriously shy snow leopard, Tian-shan white-clawed bear, lynx, mountain goat and hundreds of furry marmots.  A hot-spot for birdwatchers, keep your binoculars at easy reach for eagles, storks, cranes and bee eaters.

Discovering the foothills by horseback is a favourite activity for many visitors and we recommend as a highlight of Kazakhstan things to do. One or two-day rides, through immersive ten-day treks are available on tame and well-trained horses, all possible without prior riding experience. 

Knowledgeable guides lead you to the grandiose 500-metre-deep canyon Aksu and assist as you make an ascent of mountain passes at more than 3000 metres.  Visit a stalactite cave at the peak of Kaskabulak, famed for its ancient petroglyphs of wild animals and horsemen etched into the rockface.  

See glaciers, mountain lakes and waterfalls as you ride through alpine forests and learn myths and legends of the region.  Overnight in established summer camps or set up tents in high meadows filled with summer wildflowers. 

Enjoy meeting locals as you stop off at local villages along the route, or learn the ways of nomadic herders in the pastures as you relax after a day’s ride.

From Almaty or Nur-Sultan take a train to any city near to Shymkent.  From there it’s approximately 30 minutes by road to Aksu Zhabagly.  It’s best to organise a pick-up by your guest house as there are almost no taxis in the Shymkent region.

Overnight buses run between Almaty City (Sairan Bus Station) and Shymkent City, approximately a 12-hour journey.  Alternatively, self drive taking approximately a whole day from Almaty Airport to Aksu Zhabagly.

Within the national park you will need to be accompanied by a ranger or guide (rarely English-speaking).  Jeep safaris to the Aksu Canyon are available and if within your budget we thoroughly recommend.

If staying in the area, a number of homestays and guesthouses are available in Zhabagly.  Note there are currently no restaurants in the village, and guests eat at their guest houses dining on classic central Asian dishes such as plov.  Visit between July and September for ideal conditions.

9. Watch A Space Launch At Baikonur Cosmodrome

There aren’t too many internationally known Kazakhstan famous places, but the stand out is definitely the Baikonur Cosmodrome launch site complex.  You’ll discover where Sputnik 1 – Earth’s first artificial satellite – and Yuri Gagarin – the first human in orbit – launched from.  Since then, all Russian-crewed missions have been launched from Baikonur – including those to the Space Station – along with lunar, planetary and ocean surveillance missions.

In an era when the Soviets wanted to hide the location, the complex was purposefully named after a small mining town that sits over 322 km away.  Actually based at Tyuratam in Kazakhstan, the launch complex is still referred to as Baikonur.

A remote area, this semi-arid zone, is approx. 2100 kms southeast of Moscow.  The complex includes an airport, the town of Leninsk, an oxygen and nitrogen plant, various international and Russian military launch pads, and a military airfield.

In recent times international crews blast off to space only twice a year from Baikonur, with the dates being determined by the State Commission at meetings held approximately one month prior to launch.  

Baikonur Cosmodrone Space Launch Tour Programmes are available here . 

Arrive at Kyzylorda Airport, where you’ll be met by a representative and transferred to Baikonur.  Accommodation and transfers are included in the packages, along with hangar and launch pad experiences.  Guests have the opportunity to learn about the history of the complex and previous missions at the onsite Museum.  VIP packages for small groups are also available.  

Don’t miss this chance to watch the next space mission as the roaring engines light up the sky!  A highlight of places to see in Kazakhstan.

Fly in to Kyzylorda Airport, with direct flights from Moscow, Almaty and Nur-Sultan.

10. Experience The Infamous Aral Sea

Once the world’s fourth largest freshwater lake, covering an area of some 67,000 sq km, the Aral sea became the victim of the Soviet Union’s agricultural policies in the 1950’s.  Water from two rivers was intentionally diverted for cotton cultivation, causing a decrease in water flow into the sea.  A rise in salinity caused many freshwater fish species to die out.  By the 1980’s the fishing industry in Aralsk, Kazakhstan was destroyed and a mass migration of people moved away from the area.  

Nature took its revenge, with the dried-out Aral seabed causing extreme weather and bringing increasingly bad health to the remaining population.  Marked as one of the world’s worst ecological disasters, the sea today is only a tenth of what it was.  Broken into two bodies – the North and South Aral Seas – the Uzbekistan South is completely desiccated, with only a small strip of water remaining.  However, Kazakhstan’s North Aral Sea has had a happier outcome. 

An $86 million dollar project, almost entirely financed by the World Bank, has helped restore the area.  Repairs to existing dikes around the basin and an eight-mile dam have helped to increase the water levels by over 11ft.  Fish stocks have slightly returned, injecting new life into the local communities and commerce back to Aralsk.  

Visit Aralsk and you may be surprised at this desolate, extremely remote place, with very little tourism infrastructure.  Definitely an extreme travel destination!

The town itself is very poor, almost forgotten but remains the only realistic base for exploring Kazakhstan’s North Aral Sea area.  Low, single-storey residential housing is spread out along a grid of dusty streets.  You’ll randomly find camels, cows and donkeys strolling in the roads, along with lots of young children.  A town bazaar and a few bars are dotted around but there is little to keep you amused.

Do check out the Soviet-era propaganda remnant, celebrating the glory days of Aralsk.  A mosaic inside the train station building depicts how the local fishing industry answered Lenin’s cry for help and supplied trainloads of extra catch to the hungry population in the Soviet Union after the revolution.

An old museum covers the town’s better days, with photos and charts showing the full extent of the shrinkage of the Aral Sea.  Unfortunately all labels are in Russian, thus it’s difficult to follow some of the exhibits.

The rest of the town is made up of a few Russian monuments, the wide-open plaza of Central Square and the rusting cranes of the former freight train station and an abundance of abandoned industrial buildings.  

Aralsk’s salt flats and its former harbour are usually the main reason for tourists to visit.  Remnants of rusting ships litter the edges, some having almost rusted completely away with only the engine block still showing out of the remaining shallow waters.  A few stranded fishing boats have been turned into a memorial.

Previously tourists would head out of Aralsk to the iconic ship cemetery at Zhalanash, but the last few rusting stranded fishing trawlers have been dismantled, and only the scorching desert and camels fill the void.

Aralsk can be reached by train but is very remote at over 1000 km from Nur-Sultan and 1400 km from Almaty.  Alternatively fly into Kyzylorda and travel on by bus.  

This “dark tourism” destination has only a handful of small hotels, with our recommendation to stay at Gostinitsa “Keruyen Sarayy” .

11. Explore The Desert, Canyons And Ancient Necropolises In Mangistau

Stretching 400km east from Aktau to the Uzbekistan border, the stony deserts of the Mangistau region are a magical labyrinth of dramatic canyons, eroded and multicoloured rocky outcrops, underground mosques and ancient necropolises.  

Kazakhstan historical places such as Mangistau are only today being explored by archaeologists, hindered by the inhospitable wilderness.  Once a minor part of the Silk Road, the region is littered with centuries-old sacred sites.  Discover plateaus, lowlands, mountains and deserts, coloured in shades of green, yellow and red.

Join an organised multi-day tour or rent a 4WD with a knowledgeable driver, and head off across the desertscapes – home to only a few camels or sheep – to discover this western part of Kazakhstan, on the shore of the Caspian sea.  

A billion years ago the region was at the bottom of the Tethys Ocean and the land is still littered with ancient shells.  Over 11 thousand historical monuments have been recorded on this desolate hinterland, stunningly surrounded by white limestone escarpments and isolated mountains that rise up from the plains.   

Shakpak Ata is the most architecturally impressive of the underground mosques, dated between the 10th and 13th centuries.  The plan of the mosque, strikingly, takes the form of a cross.  A central square is covered by a domed ceiling with a hole in the top for light and ventilation.  Check out the etchings of horses, goats and handprints in the walls of the mosque and learn the legends of the Sufi followers that hid in the cave to practice healing magic.

Nearby is one of the noted historical places of Kazakhstan, the Beket Ata underground mosque, honouring one of the greatest religious teachers, scientists and philosophers in the history of Central Asia. 

Other sites we recommend visiting include The Seisem Ata necropolis – a cluster of ancient mausoleums made from pink limestone – Mangyshlak Peninsula, and the awesome Ustyurt Plateau – a clay and stony desert with rocky sand cliffs that rise more than 300 metres across the plateau.

Fly into Aktau Airport, with flights from Moscow, Almaty, Nur-Sultan and Atyrau. 

We recommend staying at Caspian Riviera Grand Palace Hotel .

Map Of The Best Places To Visit In Kazakhstan

To help you plan your trip to Kazakhstan, find all the top 11 Kazakhstan best places to visit on the map below.

We hope you enjoyed this list of the top 11 tourist attractions in Kazakhstan and it’s answered your questions about what are the most popular places tourists visit in Kazakhstan. Looking for more inspiration and help with planning your trip to Kazakhstan? Find all our guides here .

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is an Australian who loves Central Asia. She loves sharing her love of this region here so you can have great travel experiences in this part of the world.

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15+ Interesting Things To Do In Kazakhstan

Table of Contents

Table of Content

• Feel The Magic at the Medeo High Mountain Skating Rink
• Witness the Architecture of Zenkov Cathedral
• Visit Grand Canyon’s ‘Little Brother’, Charyn
• Take a Ride to the Stunning Shymbulak Ski Resort
• Listen to the Whistling Barkhan
• Visit the World’s Biggest Tent, The Khan Shatyr
• Take a Scenic Walk by Spectacular Lake Kaindy
• Go on a Road Trip to the Eurasian Steppe
• Discover the Kazakh Wild at the Altyn Emel National Park
• Visit the Great Baikonur Cosmodrome
• Visit the Iconic Baiterek Monument
• Witness the Beauty of the Big Almaty Lake
• Ride on Horseback to Visit The Last Wild Apple Forests
• Say Cheers with Kumis
• Go on a Stunning Hike to the Turgen Gorge
• Admire the Gorgeous Aisha Bibi Mausoleum

Kazakhstan, a country in Central Asia has numerous attractions from mountainous skating rinks to exploring astonishing architecture. Visit Kazakhstan, the former Soviet Republic that extends from the Caspian Sea in the west to the Altai Mountains in the eastern border. We explore the 15+ top things to do in Kazakhstan to make your holiday extraordinary. The huge country in the north of the Central Asian Republic is famous for its ‘black gold’ and vast mineral resources. Here are the many awesome things to do and see with Kazakhstan tourism.

Top Things To Do In Kazakhstan

1. feel the magic at the medeo high mountain skating rink.

Take your holiday to a new level with ice skating in the wondrous outdoors with Kazakhstan travel. A popular thing to do in Kazakhstan is experiencing the Medeo High Mountain Skating Rink. Located at 1700 metres above sea level, this is the highest skating rink in the world. This was used as a training centre for Soviet Olympic skaters and is an exciting winter sports venue. The picturesque ice-skating rink was built in 1972 in honour of the nomad Medeo. The rink boasts of about 120 world records by renowned sportspeople.

Timings: 12.00 pm to 5.00 pm (Morning session) | 5.00 pm to 10.00 pm (Evening session)

Average Price:

$4.28 (adult aged between 24 and 65 years)

$1.90 (youth aged between 13 and 23 years)

$0.95 (children aged between 7 to 12 years)

Pro Tip: The ice rink is near Kazakhstan’s former capital Almaty and boasts of mild valley climate and pure glacial water.

2. Witness the Architecture of Zenkov Cathedral

Stay fascinated by the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, a century-old architectural wonder. A must-visit for a Kazakhstan tourist, stare amazed at the brightly coloured wooden building that was made without using a single nail. The cathedral is a top Almaty tourist attraction. Witness intriguing art and furnishings in the interior of the building and have a perfect day out. Witness the eye-catching kaleidoscopic colour scheme of the Kazakhstan tourist attraction and the golden domes. The cathedral is also known as The Ascension Cathedral and has survived many earthquakes.

Timings: 7.00 am to 6.00 pm

Average Price: Tour cost

Pro Tip: Do cover your head with a scarf that is available at the entrance.

3. Visit Grand Canyon’s ‘Little Brother’, Charyn

An amazing thing to do in Kazakhstan, this natural wonder is the second largest canyon in the world. Charyn Canyon with its orange rock formations and amazing views is a top reason to visit Kazakhstan as a tourist. Take a guided tour and join in the hiking trails if you are an outdoor adventure sports lover. Get up close to the many rocky formations for amazing views, but always keep a safe distance. You can also try white water rafting and canoeing on the Charyn River.

Timings: Day tour

Average Price: $15 onwards 

Pro Tip: Please note that the guided tours follow a strict schedule.

4. Take a Ride to the Stunning Shymbulak Ski Resort

Skiing is a beautiful thing to do in Kazakhstan on the slopes of the Zailiyskiy Alatau Mountain Range. Chimbulak is located in the upper part of the spectacular Medeu Valley. It is the largest ski resort in Central Asia after exploring Almaty tourism. Enjoy a ride up the elevation in the mountain range that is at 2200 metres above sea level. The resort area is about 25 km south of Almaty down Medeo Road.

Timings: 8.30 am to 6.00 pm | 7.00 pm to 12.00 am (included timings on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday)

Average Price: $19.04 (weekends) | $13.09 (weekdays)

Pro Tip: A good time to visit is between November until May with a large number of sunny days and snow.

5. Listen to the Whistling Barkhan

This astounding Kazakhstan tourist attraction is in the Altyn Emel National Park and is one of the most unique places to visit in Kazakhstan. The Singing Dune is a mountain of sands that stretches across 4600 square kilometres of the desert. At an impressive height of 150m high, the dune makes a whistling sound when the wind skims the sands. Take a drive on a 4*4 into the park, a wonderful Almaty tourist spot. Beware of the whistling sounds as it can get as loud as 105 decibels.

Timings: All Day (best during sunset or sunrise)

Average Price: $3.62 (entry price)

Pro Tip: Try and climb the dunes on foot, an exciting thing to do in Kazakhstan.

6. Visit the World’s Biggest Tent, The Khan Shatyr

Visit Kazakhstan’s most famous building, the Khan Shatyr, a keen part of Astana tourism. It is the world’s biggest tent designed by Norman Foster. The iconic landmark has an indoor beach resort, shopping mall, concert hall, and a boating river. It has been visited by international leaders during the opening, such as the Presidents of Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Belarus. Also called the Royal Marquee, it is a giant transparent tent built in a neo-futurist style.

Timings: 10.00 am to 10.00 pm

Average Price: Based on the purchase

Pro Tip: The beautiful interiors are temperature controlled so you are free to layer down.

7. Take a Scenic Walk by Spectacular Lake Kaindy

Visit the Tien Shan Mountains and witness the turquoise blue crystal waters of the lake. Lake Kaindy is a spectacular Kazakhstan tourist attraction made by a landslide in 1911. The watercolour shifts from turquoise to emerald depending on the sunlight rays. Take a day trip to the lake and stay amazed at the beauty of nature. Watch out for the Siberian roe deer that graze on the lakeshore. Smell the sweet scent of vanilla in the air and witness the beauty of wildflowers and strawberries sprinkled in the fields near the lake.

Timings: All Day

Average Price: $1.31

Pro Tip: You could enjoy trout fishing as you witness abundant birdlife along the lake.

8. Go on a Road Trip to the Eurasian Steppe

Enjoy peculiar beauty in this endless expanse of grassland in the steppe. Witness plants, people and animal life as you drive straight for hours with nothing changing along the horizon. Feel a sense of solitude as perhaps you may be the only person for miles. Stay in a tent and wake up to the morning skies out in the Eurasian Steppe, a unique thing to do in Kazakhstan. It is also called the Great Steppe due to its vastness of shrublands, savannahs, and grasslands. Look out for the grey wolf, saiga antelope, Mongolian gazelle, and the brown bear that roam the steppe.

Timings: based on the tour operator

Average Price: based on the tour operator

Pro Tip:  Get astounded by the emptiness of the vast ecoregion of Eurasia. Steppe is a Russian word for grasslands.

9. Discover the Kazakh Wild at the Altyn Emel National Park

Experience a unique landscape in Kazakhstan’s safari destination. The Altyn Emel National Park is home to a number of rare hoofed mammals and relic forests. This famous Kazakhstan tourist attraction is 260 km north of Almaty. Witness the spectacular Aktau and Katutau Mountain Range, a geologists dream. Take out at least 8 hours to traverse the park in a jeep style car to manoeuvre the tracks and explore the wilderness. Spot a lone arkhar, giant rhino, a herd of kulan (wild donkeys) among other wildlife.

Timings: 24 hours

Pro Tip:  This is not like an African safari experience and you need to get lucky to spot the wild animals.

10. Visit the Great Baikonur Cosmodrome

The Baikonur Cosmodrome in the Kazakhstan Desert steppe is used by the Soviets to launch space flights. It is still used as an International Space Station. Visit the on-site museum with information and collections of space crafts and launch data. It is an interesting Kazakhstan tourist attraction for a science and technology lover. If you are on a tight budget or bureaucratic permits hassle you, then park your vehicle some distance away and still see the spectacle of the drome unfold.

Timings : Day tour

Average Price: $700 (one day guided tour of Baikonur)

Pro Tip:  The Sputnik 1 was launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome.

11. Visit the Iconic Baiterek Monument

The famous emblematic monument of the capital city of Nur-Sultan has an observation tower. The Kazakhstan tourist attraction became popular when Nur-Sultan became the capital in 1997. It is at a height of 97 metres above street level. The trophy-like structure was built between 1996 and 2002. Appreciate the fabulous interiors and spectacular views from the tower. A must visit Kazakhstan attraction, this is a good outing with kids in tow. The top-level features a gilded handprint of the first president of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Timings: 9.00 am to 9.00 pm

Average Price: $2 

Pro Tip: Take the lift to the observation deck at 97 m above ground level. Notice there are two levels, the second level you can take by stairs.

12. Witness the Beauty of the Big Almaty Lake

This spectacular Kazakhstan tourist attraction is an alpine lake with its surreal beauty. The  Big Almaty Lake is a natural reservoir up in the Ili Alatau Mountains, an essential part of Almaty tourism. It is more than 8000 feet above sea level. The colour of the lake water changes depending on the time of the year. The lake water is the brightest turquoise from September to early October, a good time to visit Kazakhstan. During spring, the lake turns a spectacular milky blue due to the melting snow. This is one of the brilliant blue lakes of Kazakhstan like Kaindy Lake and Issyk Lake.

Pro Tip: We recommend you book your Big Almaty Lake tour in advance. A 24-hour prior cancellation facility is usually available.

13. Ride on Horseback to Visit The Last Wild Apple Forests

This apple grove outside Almaty is in the Ile-Alatau National Park. The domestic apple grows wild here in the Tian Shan Mountains. It was first traced in the early 20th century by the biologist Nikolai Vavilov. He was astounded to find apple trees grow wild that were densely entangled and unequally spaced. Ride horseback through the wild apple groves, a fun thing to do in Kazakhstan. The Tian Shan apple seeds were transported by birds long before humans began cultivating them.

Pro Tip: Visit the Big Almaty Lake that is just 4.29 mi from the grove.

14. Say Cheers with Kumis

This fermented mare’s milk is your modern-day Champagne mixed with sour cream. Notice how people transported the milk in leather bags often hanging on horsebacks. Roaming warriors like Genghis Khan and Attila the Hun drank the fermented beverage. Nomads used to drink the staple beverage that perfectly fit their lifestyle. Mare milkers nowadays culture the liquid to make it drinkable. Mare’s milk is known for its laxative effect and is a nourishing daily staple.

Timings: Available all-day

Average Price: $2.00 for 1 litre (approx.)

Pro Tip: You can easily find the commercial version of kumis especially during festivals such as Naadam.

 15. Go on a Stunning Hike to the Turgen Gorge

Join a hiking trip to the gorge or visit the stunning Kazakhstan attraction on a mountain bike. This is a real paradise for hikers with alpine meadows, lakes and seven waterfalls. You also experience en route hot springs and dense forests. The Turgen Gorge is part of the famous Ile Alatau National Park, a must-visit Kazakhstan spot. You could also ride on horseback to explore the beauty of the gorge. Look out for thermal wellness resources and enjoy the descent to Turgen basecamp along the river.

Average Price: $1.00 (entrance fee to the gorge) 

Pro Tip: The Turgen Gorge is situated 80 km east of Almaty. Camping is also possible near the gorge.

16. Admire the Gorgeous Aisha Bibi Mausoleum

This beautiful 11th or 12th-century mausoleum is in the village of Aisha Bibi. Witness the artistically carved terracotta tilework and the decorative art of the monument. This is the only monument in Central Asia. Aisha Bibi is a young woman who was killed by a snake during her attempt to meet the ancient ruler. He fell in love with Aisha against her parent’s wishes. The ruler constructed the mausoleum in her honour and now is a place of faith and eternal love.

Timings: 8.30 am to 8.00 pm

Pro Tip: Take a photograph with your loved one when you visit the mausoleum.

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Kazakhstan’s Tourist Attractions

Main cities, places of interest and popular tourist destinations.

The numerous and highly diverse attractions of Kazakhstan include:

• Unique natural objects : boundless steppes, most beautiful Tien Shan Mountains , grandiose Charyn Canyon with the Valley of Castles, Ustyurt Plateau, Aral and Caspian Seas, a number of picturesque lakes (Balkhash, Issyk-Kul, Kok-kol, Markakol, Big Almaty), Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve and Altyn-Emel national park with the famous Singing Sand Dune .
• Objects of historical and cultural heritage: Tamgaly-Tas rock carvings, royal Saka burial mounds of Beshatyr Saka, Arystan Bab Mausoleum, underground Beket-ata Mosque and Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
• Monumental modern structures : Independence Palace, Bayterek monument, Palace of Peace and Concordance, Astana Mosque, Hazrat Sultan Mosque, huge shopping and entertainment complex Khan Shatyr in Astana; Ascension Cathedral and Kok Tobe television tower in Almaty .
• Numerous museums in different cities across Kazakhstan: Astana, Almaty, Karaganda.
• Famous Medeu sports complex - the world’s highest stadium located in a gorge with the same name.
• The world’s first and largest spaceport - the Baikonur cosmodrome , from which the first artificial satellite was launched and the first man flew into space .
• Resorts : Bayanaul, Kokshetau, Muyaldy and Borovoe resorts.

Tourist Attractions in Almaty

Almaty  ( Alma-Ata , translates as ‘the father of apples’) is the largest city in  Kazakhstan  with a population of about 2 million people, which before 1997 was the country’s capital and to this day retains the status of its historical, cultural and economic centre. Almaty is now often referred to as the ‘ southern capital ’ of Kazakhstan.

Almaty  is situated at the foot of Trans-Ili Alatau, which accounts for the unpredictable weather in the city, with sharp temperature drops occurring even within one day. 

view all Sightseeings of Almaty »»

Charyn National Park

Altin emel national park, oasis of otrar, tian shan mountains.

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Attractions in Kazakhstan

The top 10 attractions in kazakhstan.

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Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Chan Szatyr

Khan Shatyr (literally - "Khan's tent") - a transparent tent in Nur-Sultan, the capital of Kazakhstan, the largest entertainment and shopping center in Central Asia. It is described as "the … read more

Erholungspark "Kok Tobe"

In the summer of 2005, the expansion of the streets and the reconstruction of the Kok Tobe park began. The access roads were paved and work was carried out to … read more

Christi-Himmelfahrt-Kathedrale

The Ascension Cathedral or Zenkov Cathedral is one of the most important monuments of the Orthodox Faith in Kazakhstan. The doors of the Ascension Cathedral opened for the first time … read more

Tip by Matto

Lower Kolsai Lake

Here you can start your trip. There is a parking there and superb view for the lake. Unfortunately we didn't have a good weather

Mountain railway station COMBI-2

Mountain railway station at an altitude of 3,200 m above sea level The cable car is of good quality and it is safe to get there.

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Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

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Kazakhstan Tourist Places

Here is the list of best places to visit in kazakhstan:.

After Turkestan and Nur-Sultan, Taraz is the third fastest growing country in Kazakh. It is located on the banks of the Talas river, in close vicinity to the Kyrgyzstan border. Taraz is one of the oldest cities with its history dating back to the medieval period. It is believed that Taraz actively took part in trades with Asian countries via the silk routes. During the excavations in and around the city, innumerable artifacts were found including chest ornaments, bronze statues, caves, and others. All these discoveries proved that Taraz spurred to life before the 1st century BC. Tara being an ancient city has a lot to offer. Along the silk road, you can visit the Aisha-Biwi mausoleum. The Karahan mausoleum is the house of different ceramic artifacts gathered from excavations. If you want to discover the royal culture of Taraz, the Akyrtas Palace Complex will be an ideal place to start from.

After a tiring day, having some leisure time in Zhengis Park sounds immaculate. For satisfying your hunger and delving into Taraz's unusual culture, the Asti Bar will be a nice place. For those who love shopping, the Shakhristan market should be there in your itinerary. Taraz is seated at a 628-meter height from sea level which is why it experiences a cool climate during summer and chilly weather coupled with rainfall in the winter.

The city was historically named as Akmola. From 1998 to 2019, it was called Astana. In 2019, it was named Nur-Sultan to honour the former president of Kazakhstan. The city is currently the capital of the nation. It is a well-planned city that underwent modernization on being anointed as the seat of the government. The second-largest city in the land, it is a popular choice among places to visit in Kazakhstan. What attracts tourists enmasse to the gates of Nur-Sultan, is the fact that it is one of the last places in the world where old and modern architectural styles coexist in harmony. Many have described it as a Eurasian Berlin, a medley of cultures and myriad communities that define the cityscape as vividly as a painting. The city of Nur-Sultan is renowned for its beautifully constructed government buildings such as the Governor’s house, the Parliament House, the Presidential Palace, and the Supreme Court. They are of neo-classical architecture, nestled alongside modern high-rise office complexes and skyscrapers. You will never run out of places to visit in this city. Be it the iconic Baiterek Tower, the Hazret Sultan Mosque, the Independence Square, or the Nurzhol Boulevard, discovering the entire city for yourself requires a lifetime. Booking a show at the Astana Ballet Theatre, or the State Theatre is one of the most popular tourist choices. Astana bears the title of the second coldest city in Kazakhstan. It snows feverishly in January and February. The left bank is the colder side of the city, while the right bank is much warmer, due to buildings packed close to one another. Make sure to carry warm clothes if you're visiting in the frigid months of winter. The months of April-May are perfect for tourism, as the weather is amazingly comfortable.

One of the most Historic cities of Kazakhstan, Turkistan is currently the administrative center in its region. What really attracts visitors and speaks volumes about the rich heritage of the city is its vast variety of architectural wonders. These include, primarily, the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hailed as the Spiritual Capital of the Turkic world, it is also the site of the famed tomb of Timur. Turkestan is located near the Syr Darya river, 160 kilometers North-West of Shymkent. It lies on the Trans-Aral Railway amidst Kyzylorda and Tashkent to the North and the South respectively. You can reach Turkestan on a 20-hour long train journey from Almaty. The nearest airport is two hours away from Shymkent. Walking along the streets of Turkistan will set you far back in time, leafing through the scrolls of history. It is almost as if the city is a mosaic of stone, unchanged through the advancing years. The city also boasts a bathhouse from the medieval eras, accompanied by 4 mausoleums for the khans of Kazakhstan, and Timur’s granddaughter. Apart from participating in the Holy Pilgrimage every year, there are a number of activities that you can take part in. The Shymkent Plaza, the Park Abaya, and Central Park are popular destinations for curious tourists who want to get a feel of the local cultures and communities. There are several renowned museums that will assist you to relive the days of the past. Overall, one of the most historically relevant cities in Kazakhstan. The climate is cool and semi-arid, with the summers being hot and clear, while the winters are freezing cold. The general skies are windy, with temperatures between 16 degrees to 94 degrees in Fahrenheit. The ideal tourism timings are from mid-May to late-June or late-July to late-September.

Located near the Uzbekistan border, Shymkent is a city that was historically a Trade Centre between nomads and settlers. Being highly populated, Shymkent is one of the three Kazakh cities that are equal in significance to separate regions. If you are on the lookout for places to visit in Kazakhstan, Shymkent should be one of the prerequisites in your itinerary. A stroll along the meandering pathways of Shymkent will help you to relive the days in which the city was attacked again and again by several military warlords, including even the legendary Genghis Khan. The Koshkar Ata mosque is one of the most poignant remnants of that era. Shymkent is one of the most historically significant regions in Kazakhstan. A full Cultural and historical tool off Kazakhstan would be incomplete without strolling through the roads of this enigmatic city. The Old Town of Shymkent remains as an open-air museum that showcases the city planning architecture and infrastructure of the mediaeval eras However, Shymkent has many other options apart from just historical tools you can also visit Central Park, the Ordabasy Square, or the Cathedral Garden. The well-designed avenues speak volumes about the artistic architectural styles of the era. FC Ordabasy is one of the premier football teams of the region. It is based in the local stadium at Shymkent. Rain and snow are characteristic features of the winter seasons, while the summers are hot and dry. The months between June and August are ideal for tourism.

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Unlike other cities of Kazakh, Aktau doesn't have a direct relationship with the pioneering history of the country. But, as the city is a part of Mangestau, one can witness the glory of the smaller trading routes around the Caspian area. Aktau is a Soviet-founded city, the word having an eternal literary meaning- WHITE MOUNTAIN. The name comes from the chalky white appearance of the Aktau ranges, peering above the Almaty region in the country. Despite being divided into16 political districts, Aktau celebrates a unified culture which is its main source of beauty. Aktau has seen its fair share of history, which is why the city has several memorials you must take a look at before your departure. The WWII memorial is said to be the seat of an eternal flame that glows constantly. Right down the lane across the MiG fighter plane memorial, you will have the seafront, filled with cliffs and roaring sea wave noises. You can also visit Mikrorayons to watch the statue of the melancholic Ukrainian poet, Shevchenko. Since Aktau is a part of the Caspian area, you can go on a yacht along the shoreline. For adventurous tourists, the 0.6 biking trail will be a wonderful choice. The main city has a puppet theater for families and children. Aktau has drastic weather, with the summer being hot and arid whereas the winters are cold but long.

Kokshetau is a multiethnic city, located in the Akmola region. The Kokshetau uplands border the northern boundary while to the south, we have Lake Kopa and Ishim Steppe. In the Kazakh language, Kokshetau means the Blueish Mountain, thanks to the clear view of the blue sky across the uplands. Due to the surrounding natural beauty, this city is one of the best Kazakhstan tourist places that should be included in your itinerary. The beauty of the city is attributable to the multiple cultures found here, starting from ethnic Kazakh to Russian and German. Here, you will find both urban and rural settlements, which further escalates the magnificence of Kokshetau. Kokshetau is the home to some really charming and external structures, the first of which is the Culture Palace Istoki. For enjoying the regional music and dance, you can visit the Sakhmet Kusainov center. The Oceanarium will take you on a journey across marine life, with several flora and fauna species available throughout the building. Shopping is one of the most famous activities that both the locals and tourists indulge in. The Central Shopping Mall is the biggest shopping market in the entire Kokshetau. Other than this, you can also enjoy the various ethnic dishes in Kokshetau, both Continental and regional. Kokshetau shares similar weather to that of the surrounding uplands. The summers are comfortable but humid due to cloudy skies. On the other hand, the winters are dry and frigid.

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Initially, a fort was constructed on the lands, in 1720 after which several small settlements started to grow surrounding the fort. Soon, it was named the Oskemen city in the Kazakh language. Close to the borders of the city is the confluence of the Ulna and the Irtysh rivers. Oskemen is a small town, the outskirts of which is filled with different mining and metallurgical companies. Here, one can find the fusion of two different cultures- ethnic Russian and ethnic Kazakh which is why the city is considered to be one of the most visited Kazakhstan tourist places. Oskemen has several points of attraction that will definitely make your Kazakhstan tour memorable. Starting with Zhastar Park, you can have fun while skiing through the slopes of the Altaiskiye Alpy. Another amazing natural attraction is the Kiin Kerish Canyon. Both the Zhambyl Shabayev Park and Skeletal Recreation Park are the both visited recreational centers in Oskemen. If you want to spend a relaxing day, take a stroll along the sidewalks of the Slavskog embankment. You can even visit the churches and mausoleum present in the city. The Muhammadi city Mosque and the Eastern-Khazaghstan art museum are the two notable constructions of Oskemen. Oskemen enjoy cool and pleasant summers, with the sun here creating an amiable atmosphere. The winters, however, are frigid cold, with snowfall occurring throughout the season almost.

Semey is a border city on the Russian side. The Irtysh river flows in close vicinity to the city, thereby lending natural beauty to the town. It is believed that during the 18th century, Semey flourished through the trades between the Asian nomadic communities and the Russians through the Irtysh river. Semey is considered to be a bridge city between Siberia and central Asia, thanks to the Turkestan-Siberia railway. Despite being small in size, the city attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world, thanks to its association with the Russian and Central Asian culture. Semey's history talks a lot about Dostoevsky, a famous poet whose entire lifetime became a notable turning point in Semey culture. That's why visiting the museum built in his memory is a must. If you love art and history, the Fine Arts Museum will be the ideal place as it showcases all the important arts from the 16th century onwards.

For understanding the anti-nuclear movement of Semey, you can visit the Polygon and the surrounding areas. If you are up for a day full of adventure, a visit to Polkovnik Island is a must. The town of Semey experiences a humid climate. Summers are extremely hot, with humidity levels spiking every day. Contrary to this, winters are cold, often accompanied with snowfall.

Best of Egypt

Located on the Ilek river, Aktobe got its name from the high elevation where the first settlement was established. In Kazakh language, Aktobe means white hill, which symbolized the snow-covered lands the city experienced at the beginning of the 19th century. Aktobe's beauty comes from it's history where tales of many Asian empires have been noted. Two prominent figures from the Kazakh history- Abulkhair Khan and Eset Batyr were from this Kazakh city. Due to the steppe lands and the numerous rivers flowing around, the city is the epitome of natural magnificence. Aktobe has witnessed a fair share of battles and downfall of empires of troops. So, having a museum based on a female sniper who killed ninety-one German soldiers is expected. The Aliya Museum will give you a detailed insight into her life and how she conquered the fight against Germany single-handedly. Another major attraction that makes Aktobe one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan is the Aktobe Regional Museum. It is a scientific haven, delineating every detail about nature, starting with the meteor craters to the local hornless rhino remains. For experiencing the culture of the city, you can visit The Boulevard of Unity and Accord or the Nur Gasyr Regional mosque. Several cafes and restaurants are there to satisfy your roaring stomach during your trip.Aktobe experiences an almost average temperature, with little to almost no snowfall. However, the land certainly receives a fair share of rainfall during late summers.

In 1970, the Soviet built the Koryaksky Fort which later came to be known as the town of Pavlodar, in 1861 precisely. The presence of vast salt lakes accounted for the city's rise in popularity as numerous salt production units and agricultural companies were established. Later on, by the end of the 19th century, Pavlodar welcomed urbanization, and soon it became one of the fastest growing cities in the entire country of Kazakhstan. Located near the Irtysh river, Pavlodar is a multiethnic city, having populations of Kazakhs, Germans, Russians, Tatars and even the Moldovans. The human settlements are widespread in this area, with green trees and vegetation covers adorning the roads and sidewalks. The most notable attraction of the city is the Mashkhur Jusup mosque, having yellow or gold painted walls and blue painted ones and pillar heads. The Cathedral of the Annunciation is one of the most crowded regional structures in Pavlodar. Other areas of attractions in this city are Regional History Museum, Chekhov Regional Drama Theater, Ice arena, and Gaziz. You can take part in several sports arranged throughout the year in this city. Pavlodar is full of shopping malls and markets like the Koktem, Barys Mall, Vesna, and Shyolkovy Put. Pavlodar is known for its winter season as the temperature drops further below the freezing point. Skiing, ice races, and several other sports are practiced during the long winter months.

Best of Uzbekistan

A bustling metropolis at the heart of Kazakhstan, Almaty was the cultural and trading capital of the land till 1997. The Central State Museum is a prominent landmark in the cityscape, with several hundreds of famed artefacts from Kazakh history. The Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park is an orthodox church established by the Russians in the Tsarist Era. Walking along the picturesque roads of the city, the enigmatic traveller can come across graceful arches and spires, Neo-Russian in style. The city is a maze of architectural feats from prominent artisans like Paul Gourdet, Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov and many more. It is akin to walking through the pages of history, watching a grand civilization manifest into opulent architectural wonders at the peak of its success.

What attracts travellers and tourists is that the city retains its historically well-planned structures, with wide avenues, meticulously planned residential areas, and a profusion of scenic lakes and forested parks. The joy of walking along the winding roads, and discovering historical monuments hidden in plain view, is almost comparable to childlike wonder. Almaty is known not only for its beautiful sights but also for a variety of adventures that you can embark upon. Sitting on the shores and skipping stones on the Big Almaty Lake might serve as blissful relaxation, while the particularly adventurous souls can pay a visit to the Medeu Ski Resort and Skating Rink. The Kok-Tobe Hill and the White Mountains of Altyn-Emel are star attractions in Almaty. 

Almaty bears slight snowfall in the months of October to April. However, the snow is thin, and melts easily, causing almost no problems for the city-dwellers. The best time for tourism is June to September when the temperature remains a standard 20-30 degrees Celsius.

Being the fourth populous city in Kazakh, Karagandy is one of the main tourist attractions. In 2014, this historical city completed eighty years. Its history is mainly related to WWII, and that's what makes the city so precious and incredibly beautiful. Despite the city still having several ruins from the world war, its beauty and magnificence are unparalleled. The lanes are guarded by greyish buildings and in most places, the sidewalks have formed several cracks indicating the torment this city went through. Despite all these, the city has its own charm, all thanks to the deep-seated historical roots. As Karagandy has a never-ending connection with the Soviets, you will find building walls painted with murals, depicting their cultures. The Gagarin monument is another attraction in the city that draws flocks of tourists every day. It was built as a memoir to cherish a space mission. If you want to delve deeper into the city's history, you must visit the Regional Museum. Evidence and facts from the nomadic time to the Soviet repression are present in the museum. Karagandy's nightlife is heightened by Elvis- the best place to rock and roll with music and drinks. Taking a stroll around the lake in Central Park is the best way to relax your mind. Karagandy has a soothing weather pattern, with a windy and comfortable summer season and snow-covered winters.

Best of Azerbaijan

Baikonur might have a long history associated with the Soviets. But the roots of the city are deeply embedded in the mining industry as the original place was used for digging up innumerable mines. Located on the northern riverbank of Syr Darya, Baikonur is now the home to Cosmodrome- a Russian leased spaceport. The city is mainly known for the space centers which are managed by the Russians. On the other side, human settlements have been established, and yet, almost thirty percent of the soil is barren. Coming to Baikonur and not visiting the space cosmodrome is definitely not acceptable. After getting approval, you can take a guide to discover the hidden mysteries including the initial launch pads, the Soviet missiles, the control towers, and so on.

You can even take a stroll along Cosmonaut Grove. It's a single avenue, bordered by trees that were planted by the Cosmonauts prior to their departure from Baikonur Cosmodrome. Baikonur experiences a cold desert climate even though the mercury levels rise above normal during the months of May to July. The winters are harsh and cold to a great extent.

Other Attractions

Ile alatau national park.

Altyn Emel National Park

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Kazakhstan having pristine natural elegance and beauty, no other place will be as perfect as Altyn Emel National Park. Even though the location is quite remote, one can find diverse landforms, starting from rocky floors to humongous sand dunes, and several bordering mountains. This park is the habitat for over 230 avian species and hence, birdwatching is a popular activity. No matter what time of the day it is, lone horses roam around the park's land, including the przewalski horses. The presence of stone steels and petroglyphs proves the existence of Saka and Scythian tribes. Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Kolsai Lakes National Park

Located along the northern edge of the famous Tuan Shan Ridge, the Kolsai Lakes National Park is one of the most placid and auspicious attractions in Kazakhstan. From here, one will have a crystal view of both the Kaindy and the Kolsai Lakes. If you are planning to go on an adventurous trip, you can either camp or stay in the guest houses. Here, the main vegetation covers are that of the Alpine and spruce types, along with crystalline frozen lakes in the middle portion. Twelve different rate flora species are present in the national park, mainly in the protected region. Apart from this, several other animals are also found like the Turkestan Lynx, Tian Shen bear, Rainbow trout fish, and others. Location: Grigorievka, Kazakhstan Entry fee: 750 tenge per person and a surplus of 1000 tenge for personal cars

Lake Balkhash

Being the 15th largest lakes in the world, Lake Balkhash is one of the great spots for adventure and relaxation. The lake receives water from seven prime rivers of Russia and Kazakhstan, including the river Ili. Fresh water is available on the western part while the eastern part is saline. Due to this unique feature, Lake Balkhash is one of the famous Kazakhstan tourist places. It’s popular for photography and birdwatching, all thanks to the never ending vastness of the lake. Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Turgen Gorge

Turgen Gorge is definitely one of the most exquisite places to visit in Kazakhstan. The Turgen vegetation is most spruce type, with the waterfall washing away the soil from in between. Right after the entrance gates, you can visit the trout farm followed by the nomadic Asy highlands. Deeper into the woods of the Turgan Gorge are several fauna species including marmots, deer, ibex, and golden eagles. Location: From Turgen village to the foot of Asy Pass Entry fee: 200 tenge per person

Lake Kaindy

Also known to be the sunken forest, Lake Kaindy is one of the major attractions in the Almaty district of Kazakhstan. The lake is quite deep, the depth almost reaching thirty meters. Filled with fresh mountain river water, the lake is the home to submerged Schrenk's spruce trees. During the summer and autumn seasons, the water is so transparent that you can view the submerged roots of the plants. However, during the winter season, the lake freezes in certain areas which is why it’s a great spot for ice diving. Trout fishing is also a popular activity in this region. Location: north of Kolsai Lakes National Park, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Tamgaly Tas

Most of the Kazakhstan tourist places are full of wonders and mysteries. But, somehow, Tamgaly Tas has outsmarted every one of them, making itself known as the most enigmatic spots in the country. It’s an open air temple, whose popularity is the result of rock carvings and paintings. Five immaculate images of deities as per the Buddhism doctrines have been carved out of the rocks, making it quite charming. Other than these, you will also find several carvings belonging to the different Kazakh clans. All these petroglyphs depict the richness of the Kazakh history and establish the relationship between this country and the Central Asian culture. Location: Ili river banks, 120 kilometres north of the Almaty district, Kazakhstan

Nomads Land

If you are visiting the Tamgaly Gorge, stopping at the Nomad's Land will be worth your time. Also known as the City of Nomads, this is one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan. The Nomad's Land is nothing but an old, abandoned, and almost deserted movie set for those plots revolving around the nomadic lifestyle. The buildings and other structures replicate the real-time palaces and forts in the most inexplicable way. Apart from this, the small streets, houses, and courtyards are designed in a wonderful way. You can roam around the set, taking pictures, and observing this old movie set which is hardly being used nowadays. Location: Tamgaly Gorge, Kazakhstan

Aksu Zhabagly Nature Reserve

Covering most of the north eastern region of the Tian Shan mountain ranges, the Aksu-Zhabagly is the oldest natural reserve in the entire Central Asia. In close vicinity to this area is the famous Aksu river flowing while the Zhabagly range is located towards the northern side. A lot of regional avian species can be found here, which is why birdwatching and photography are the two most crucial activities here. Apart from this, one can also find several insects in the reserve. The ecosystem of this Aksu natural reserve is very diverse, which is why it is one of the most visited tourist spots in Kazakhstan. Location: Tulkus, Kazakhstan

National Park Burnaby

Being one of the most popular Kazakhstan tourist places, Burabay National Park is a place to remember. The total area of this park is around 835 square meters which consist of small lakes, steppe vegetation, lofty mountain ranges, and dense forest covers. Horse riding along the steppe land is one of the most famous activities that you will certainly enjoy. Over 757 species of plants are found here, which accounts for the diversity in the fauna. You can even take photographs around the area and enjoy the tranquil weather while taking a stroll around the Park. Location: Akmola region, Kazakhstan

Lake Alakol

Lake Alakol is a saline water body, whose main water supply is from the inland river drainage system. The Alataw Pass is the extension of this lake, which is why you will have clear views of the Alatau ranges. It’s a protected land since several wetland bird species can be found here during the breeding season. Relict Gill is the most famous avian species you can find here, making Lake Alakol one of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan  for photography and sightseeing. Flamingo is another bird species which can be seen too often around the lake. Location: In the Almaty and the Saghyz province of Eastern Kazakhstan

Mount Sherkala & The Valley Of Balls

Located close to the town of Shetpe, the two major tourist attractions and natural wonders of Kazakhstan - Mount Sherkala and the Valley of Balls. Lying in the middle of a flat desert, this mountain sits as a giant blockage. However, visiting this place is considered one of the best things to do in Kazakhstan due to its enormous size and the variety of flora and fauna it holds. The Valley Of Balls on the other side gets its name by the large collection of stones shaped like balls in it. Location: Shetpe, Kazakhstan

Preached at a height of 1100 metres above the sea level, Kok Tobe is one of the many famous mountains and hills in the Almaty Region. While people may consider this place as just a mountain, Kok Tobe has become a hotspot among fun lovers and adventure seekers. Reaching here is a joyous activity in itself, as one needs to take a cable car to the top. On the way, one can enjoy some of the most serene views of the town of Almaty. The hill also has a playground, a rollercoaster, and various eateries where you can relish upon numerous local delicacies prepared by some excellent chefs. Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon, located in southeastern Kazakhstan, is a geological marvel often referred to as the "Grand Canyon's little brother." Spanning over 150 kilometers along the Charyn River, this natural wonder is renowned for its breathtaking red-rock formations, towering cliffs, and intricate maze of gorges. Carved over millions of years by the elements, the canyon's unique landscapes showcase the artistry of erosion, revealing vibrant layers of sedimentary rock.

Karkaraly National Park

The Karkaraly National Park is said to be one of the most intriguing places to visit in Kazakhstan. Here, you can enjoy the flora and fauna exhibit shows in the nature museum built within the park boundaries. Near the boundary of the park is the Lake Basin which is accessible through a pine tree covered alpine trail. A hike to the Zhiren Sakal peak within the national park is yet another exciting activity that you can get engaged into during your visit. Several animals and birds have their habitats in this region including bats, Siberian roe deer, elks, Palla cats, Argali, and others. Location: Karkalay, Karaganda district, Kazakhstan

Lake Issyk is one of the famous Kazakhstan tourist places because of two main reasons: it is an ancient lake forming around 25 million years ago and it is the second largest alpine lake in the world. With a depth of about 2000 feet, the snow capped mountains range tower over the lake on all sides. Apart from this geographical significance, the lake area is also popular since it was a major point along the ancient will route. This freshwater alpine lake freezes during the winters and offers a great platform for ice sports like skiing and ice diving. Summers are perfect for camping and trekking. Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

The Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen in Almaty, Kazakhstan, honors the heroic deeds of the WWII Panfilov Division. It features a memorial complex, statues, and the iconic Zenkov Cathedral.

Kok Tobe in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is a popular recreational area offering panoramic views of the city, a cable car ride, amusement park, and the iconic "Kazakh Eli" monument.

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A, B and T set to stage spectacular show

What will make Andijan, Bukhara and Tashkent the perfect stages for the FIFA Futsal World Cup? Some stars help FIFA deliver the answer.

The 10th FIFA Futsal World Cup will kick off in September

Andijan, Bukhara and Tashkent have been named host cities

Countless ingredients make them a tourist's paradise

Ankle-breakers, elastic dribbles, lambretas, goalscoring goalkeepers, golazos and buzzer-beaters are heading to three enchanting cities across the ancient Silk Road. Andijan, Bukhara and Tashkent have been announced as the host cities for the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024™. The aforementioned entertainment will be provided by courts czars such as Khalid Bouzid, Chino, Douglas Junior, Dyego, Rafael Henmi, Leo Higuita, Sergio Lozano, Damian Mareco, Moslem Oladghobad, Pito, Hossein Tayyebi, Taynan, Kiki Vaporaki, Pany Varela and Zicky Te.

Those human thrill machines are set to make edition 10 the best FIFA Futsal World Cup ever. Once monopolised by Brazil and Spain, Argentina and Portugal have conquered its last two editions while IR Iran, Japan, Kazakhstan and Morocco are all threatening to etch their name on the trophy. France and New Zealand will make their super-stage debuts, with other aspirants vying to follow suit. “I’m really excited the World Cup will be in Uzbekistan,” Leo Higuita, the sport’s record five-time Best Goalkeeper in the World, told FIFA . “I’ve been there three times. It’s an amazing country. “The people are really welcoming towards foreigners. They made us feel really at home. The food is absolutely delicious. I’m really looking forward to enjoying it again. Uzbekistan also has a really nice climate.”

The food Higuita raved about includes dolma, halva, hanum, lagman, manti, obi non, plov, samsa, shashlik – sumptuous, must-try dishes and snacks. Gastronomy is one of multiple factors making Uzbekistan a tourist’s paradise. The enchanting nation – one of only two double-landlocked nations in the world – is renowned for its architecture, art, ballet, bazaars, crafts, history, mausoleums, minarets, mosques, mountains, nature and charming, welcoming people.

“I’m very excited to see what Uzbekistan has to offer,” Manuel Kuijk, whose phenomenal performance inspired the Netherlands to a penalty-shootout victory over a truly insane play-off on Wednesday. “I’ve never been there, but I’ve seen pictures and heard stories and have always wanted to go. “The architecture over there is really beautiful. The colours they use on their buildings are amazing. The people seem to be very kind. And if you look a little further, the Uzbek cuisine has a lot to offer. I believe the people over there will do a very good job organising this World Cup.”

“I’m very excited the World Cup will be in Uzbekistan,” said Brazil megastar Pito. “I’ve never been there. “Obviously our focus will be on becoming champions, but we always get a day or two off. I’m looking forward to experiencing the culture, seeing the stunning architecture, enjoying everything. I’m very grateful for this opportunity to go to Uzbekistan.”

Visitors to Uzbekistan between 14 September and 6 October are in for a veritable treat on and off the court.

Andijan Andijan

Khan-atlas, the iridescent silk fabric, has become a hit for fashionistas and models across the globe. You’ll see it in grand variety in Andijan, which is also famed for its fruit, pottery, woodwork and something that competes with futsal on the thrill barometer: rope-walking! An enchanting city in the Fergana Valley, it is also drenched in history. The birthplace of Babur, items dating back to the seventh century have been found there, while its architecture, breathtaking beauty spots and parks make it an ideal spot to snap photos and selfies.

Bukhara Bukhara

This absorbing assortment of madrassas, minarets, mosques is one of the most resplendent and regal cities in Central Europe. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, you can see Chor-Minor, with its turquoise domes, in all its glory. The Ark of Bukhar, Great Minaret of the Kalon, Palace of Moon-Like Stars, Poi Kalyan Mosque and Samanid Mausoleum will also delight tourists.

Tashkent Tashkent

The Uzbek capital is a unique utopia. The stunning blue domes of the Chorsu Bazaar are a sight to behold. Shopper’s heaven is under them. The Khast-Imam Ensemble homes one of the planet’s most illustrious books, while you can see the entire city from the top of Tashkent Tower, Central Asia’s tallest manmade structure. A visit to the nearby Chimgan Mountains is a must. There you will be swept away by utterly breathtaking views. Among the innumerable other places worthy of a visit are the Alisher Navoi Opera, Ballet Theater, Broadway Alley, Independence Square, Kukeldash Madrasah, Monument of Courage, Museum of Applied Arts, Navruz Park and State Museum of History. Getting from one hotspot to another is a treat in itself. The city boasts one of the world’s most esteemed metro systems, with its four stations stunningly designed with marble, ornate patterns and murals.