Kazakhstan Archives - Shikhar Blog

Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan: Top Attractions, Itinerary & Travel Tips

Shikhar Travels — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 11:12:48 +0000

Kazakhstan, the world’s ninth-largest country, is one of the most underrated yet breathtaking destinations in Central Asia. From snow-covered mountains and alpine lakes to vast deserts, futuristic cities, and ancient Silk Road heritage sites, Kazakhstan is a place where nature, culture, and modernity come together beautifully. In the last few years, it has become a trending international destination for travelers from India, Dubai, Europe, and Southeast Asia thanks to its affordability, scenic landscapes, delicious food, and easy flight connections.

If you’re planning a vacation, this Kazakhstan travel guide covers the best places to visit in Kazakhstan, including Almaty, Astana, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Big Almaty Lake, Turkistan, Mangystau, and more. Whether you’re looking for adventure, family fun, photography spots, or a romantic holiday, Kazakhstan has something for every kind of traveler.

This blog includes a 5 day Kazakhstan itinerary, tour cost breakdown, travel tips, and why you should book a Kazakhstan tour package with a trusted agency. Let’s begin your journey into one of the most beautiful countries in Central Asia.

Why Visit Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You get European-style landscapes snow peaks, pine forests, turquoise lakes without the high cost of Europe. Cities like Almaty and Astana are ultra-modern, clean, and full of cultural attractions. If you enjoy road trips, hiking, photography, and winter sports, Kazakhstan should definitely be on your bucket list.

Here’s why Kazakhstan tourism is booming:

– Affordable compared to Europe

– Direct flights from India and Dubai

– Rich Silk Road history

– Unique natural wonders (canyons, lakes, deserts)

– Safe and well-developed

– Great food, nightlife, and shopping

– Perfect for couples, families & solo travelers

No matter what kind of traveler you are, you’ll find plenty of Kazakhstan tourist places worth visiting.

Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a year round destination, but each season offers a unique experience.

Spring (April – June): One of the best times to visit Kazakhstan. Landscapes are green, lakes are accessible, and the weather is pleasant.

Summer (July – August): Perfect for trekking, camping, and visiting mountain lakes like Kolsai and Kaindy.

Autumn (September – October): Golden forests and cool weather ideal for photography and nature trips.

Winter (November – March): Best for skiing, snowboarding, and visiting Shymbulak Ski Resort. Almaty becomes a winter wonderland.

Top 12 Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

These destinations form the core of most Kazakhstan tour packages.

1. Almaty – The Cultural & Tourism Capital

Almaty is the heart of Kazakhstan tourism and the most visited city in the country. Known for its mountains, cafés, museums, nightlife, and parks, Almaty is modern yet nature-friendly.

Top attractions of Almaty include:

Zenkov Cathedral
Panfilov Park
Green Bazaar
Almaty Central Mosque
Opera House
Local cafés, restaurants & shopping streets

If you are booking an Almaty tour package, this will be your main base for sightseeing

2. Kok Tobe Hill

A must-visit spot for panoramic views of Almaty city. The cable car ride to the top is scenic, especially at night when the city lights glow.

What to do in Kok Tobe Hill:

Ride the cable car
Visit souvenir shops
Enjoy cafés with mountain views
Take photos at the Beatles monument

3. Medeu Ice Rink

Located 15 minutes from Almaty, Medeu is the world’s highest ice skating rink.

In winter:

Ice skating
Snow activities

In summer:

Hiking
Photography
Exploring mountain trails

4. Shymbulak Ski Resort

The top winter attraction in Kazakhstan.

What to expect:

Ski slopes
Snowboarding
Gondola rides
Mountain cafés
Stunning viewpoints

December–March is the best time to visit.

5. Big Almaty Lake

One of the most photographed places to visit in Kazakhstan.

This turquoise lake is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and pine forests. The water changes shades depending on the weather, making it heaven for photographers.

Tip: The lake is inside a restricted zone, so visitors must follow local guidelines.

6. Charyn Canyon

Often called the Grand Canyon of Central Asia, Charyn Canyon is one of the top natural wonders of Kazakhstan.

Highlights:

Valley of Castles
150–300m deep rock formations
Hiking trails
Sunset viewpoints

Most travelers book a day trip from Almaty.

7. Kolsai Lakes

A trio of magical alpine lakes located in the Tien Shan mountains.

Activities include:

Hiking
Horse riding
Camping
Photography

This is a must-visit spot for nature lovers.

8. Kaindy Lake (Sunken Forest Lake)

This mysterious lake is famous for its submerged tree trunks rising out of the water creating a surreal, almost fantasy-like landscape.

It’s one of the most unique Kazakhstan tourist places.

9. Astana (Nur-Sultan) – The Futuristic Capital

Astana showcases Kazakhstan’s modern development.

Top attractions:

Bayterek Tower
Khan Shatyr (Shopping & Entertainment Tent)
Hazrat Sultan Mosque
Nur Alem – Future Energy Museum
Expo 2017 site

If you’re interested in architecture, this city is a must-see.

10. Turkistan – Historic Silk Road City

Home to the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, Turkistan is one of the most important cultural sites in Central Asia.

Other attractions include:

Caravanserai tourist complex
Ancient mosques
Museums & heritage sites

11. Mangystau Region – Desert Landscapes

For adventure travelers, Mangystau offers:

White rock formations
The remote Ustyurt Plateau
Boszhira Valley
Underground mosques
Moon-like landscapes

It’s one of the most unique places on Earth.

12. Altyn-Emel National Park

Known for:

Singing Dunes
Ancient petroglyphs
Wildlife safaris
Historic sites

Perfect for eco-tourism lovers.

Suggested: 5-Day Kazakhstan Itinerary

Travel Tips for Kazakhstan

Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Weather: Can be extremely cold in winter — pack accordingly
Transport: Yandex Go works like Uber
Language: English is limited; Russian/Kazakh common
Safety: Very safe for tourists
SIM Cards: Available at the airport and in city malls

Why Visit Kazakhstan? (Conclusion)

Kazakhstan is a perfect destination for travelers who love nature, mountains, lakes, culture, and modern city life. From Almaty’s charm to the futuristic skyline of Astana, from canyons and deserts to alpine forests and sparkling lakes, the country offers variety, beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re planning a couple’s trip, family holiday, photography tour, or group adventure, Kazakhstan guarantees memories that last a lifetime.

Why Book Your Kazakhstan Tour Package With a Trusted Agency like Shikhar Travels

Experienced guides
Comfortable transport
Well-planned itineraries
Local support 24×7
Indian/vegetarian food arrangements
Best deals on hotels & activities

A reliable operator ensures your Kazakhstan vacation is smooth, safe, and perfectly organized.

The post Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan: Top Attractions, Itinerary & Travel Tips appeared first on Shikhar Blog.

20+ Best Places to Visit in Almaty, Kazakhstan – Where Adventure Meets Serenity

Shikhar Travels — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:35:44 +0000

Almaty Overview

Perched at the foothills of the mighty Tien Shan Mountains, Almaty feels like a dream cradled between nature and modernity. Once the capital of Kazakhstan, this city still beats as the cultural and adventure heart of Central Asia a place where snow-dusted peaks meet bustling city streets, and ancient Silk Road charm mingles with café culture.

If you’re an explorer seeking the perfect mix of mountain escapes, local life, and cultural treasures, here’s your ultimate guide to the 20+ best places to visit in Almaty. Each one tells a story of history, wilderness, and the Kazakh spirit that welcomes every traveler with open arms.

1. Kok-Tobe Hill

Start your journey by gliding up the Kok-Tobe cable car, watching Almaty shrink into a glittering patchwork below. At the top, you’ll find a peaceful hilltop park, cafés with panoramic views, and even a quirky Beatles monument! As the sun dips behind the mountains, the city lights awaken it’s pure magic.

2. Zenkov Cathedral

Standing tall in Panfilov Park, the colorful Ascension Cathedral is one of the few wooden cathedrals in the world built without a single nail. Its bright domes and tranquil setting make it a favorite for quiet reflection and stunning photos.

3. Shymbulak Ski Resort

Just a 30-minute drive from the city, Shymbulak feels like a world apart. Whether you’re skiing down pristine slopes or riding the gondola up to Talgar Pass (3,200m), you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. In summer, it’s perfect for hiking and mountain cafés with jaw-dropping views.

4. Medeu Ice Skating Rink

Nestled at 1,700m, Medeu is the highest ice-skating rink in the world. Even if you don’t skate, the crisp mountain air and surrounding pine-covered peaks make it a perfect stop en route to Shymbulak.

5. Big Almaty Lake

Hidden in the Ile-Alatau National Park, this alpine lake changes color with the sky from turquoise to sapphire. It’s just 25 km from Almaty but feels like the edge of the world. Don’t forget your camera every turn of the road here is Instagram gold.

6. Republic Square & Independence Monument

This vast square captures modern Kazakhstan’s pride. The Golden Warrior Monument rises at its center, surrounded by fountains and the hum of daily life. Come here at sunset when the city glows in amber light.

7. Panfilov Park

A peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, Panfilov Park blends history and leisure. Locals stroll beneath the trees, children play near fountains, and the echo of church bells from Zenkov Cathedral fills the air.

8. Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar)

The Green Bazaar is Almaty’s beating heart alive with color, aroma, and warmth. Mingle with locals as you sample Kazakh dried fruits, nuts, honey, and kurt (fermented cheese balls). It’s chaos, charm, and culture rolled into one.

9. Arbat Street (Zhibek Zholy)

A stroll down Arbat Street is like flipping through Almaty’s creative soul street artists painting, musicians performing, and cozy cafés serving rich Kazakh coffee. It’s a vibe you’ll want to linger in.

10. Issyk Lake

Located in a mountain valley east of Almaty, Issyk Lake shimmers like an emerald jewel. The surrounding pines and peaceful air make it ideal for picnics and nature walks. Visit the nearby Issyk Museum to learn about ancient Saka culture.

11. Turgen Gorge

If you crave adventure, head to Turgen Gorge a paradise of waterfalls, trout farms, and alpine meadows. The Bear Waterfall is the most popular, surrounded by lush forest trails and fresh mountain air.

12. Kolsai Lakes

Imagine three alpine lakes cascading through a valley that’s Kolsai, often called the “Pearls of Kazakhstan.” Each lake reflects the mountains like a mirror. Camp here, ride horses, or just lose yourself in the silence of nature.

13. Kaindy Lake

Few places on Earth are as surreal as Kaindy Lake an underwater forest where tree trunks rise eerily from crystal-clear waters. Born from an earthquake, this lake feels straight out of a fantasy novel.

14. Charyn Canyon

Sculpted by time and wind, Charyn Canyon glows red and orange in the afternoon sun. Walk through the Valley of Castles, where rock formations resemble ancient fortresses. It’s a photographer’s dream and one of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking sights.

15. Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

Dive deep into Kazakhstan’s past from ancient tribes to modern independence. This museum’s vast collection of artifacts and exhibits makes history feel alive and proud.

16. Almaty Central Mosque

The white marble Almaty Central Mosque is a peaceful sanctuary in the city. Its golden domes glisten under the Kazakh sun a must-visit for those who love architecture and serenity.

17. Fantasy World Almaty (Ailand)

Perfect for families or those young at heart, Ailand Park offers a Ferris wheel with sweeping views of Almaty. Go at dusk to watch the city turn into a sea of lights.

18. Altyn-Emel National Park

A few hours from Almaty lies one of Kazakhstan’s wildest landscapes Altyn-Emel National Park. The famous Singing Dune hums when the wind blows, and the Aktau Mountains look like they’ve been painted by the gods.

19. Saty Village

The gateway to Kolsai and Kaindy, Saty Village is pure rural charm. Stay in a local homestay, taste home-cooked Kazakh meals, and feel the genuine warmth of mountain life.

20. Tamgaly Petroglyphs

Step back in time at Tamgaly, a UNESCO World Heritage site where over 5,000 petroglyphs are carved into rock faces. These drawings, some 3,000 years old, depict hunters, animals, and ancient rituals.

21. Butakovka Waterfall

Just outside Almaty, Butakovka offers a gentle hike to a scenic waterfall. A perfect half-day escape if you crave nature without leaving the city limits.

22. Kok-Tobe Sky Lounge

End your Almaty adventure with dinner at the Sky Lounge atop Kok-Tobe Hill. As city lights twinkle below, raise a toast to the spirit of exploration that brought you here.

Conclusion

Almaty isn’t just a destination it’s a feeling. It’s sipping hot tea after a mountain hike, chatting with locals in a bazaar, and watching clouds drift over snowy peaks.

Whether you’re chasing adventure in Charyn Canyon, skiing at Shymbulak, or finding peace by Big Almaty Lake, this city embraces you like an old friend.

Come for a few days, stay for the stories because in Almaty, every journey turns into a memory worth keeping.

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