Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan

About Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan welcomed 834,900 foreign tourists from January to September 2023. According to the Kazakh Bureau of National Statistics, this marked a 37% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

Kazakhstan offers hiking opportunities in the Tien Shan mountains and boating on Lake Kaindy for those seeking adventure. People visit Kazakhstan to experience its history and culture and enjoy outdoor activities and natural beauty.

Here are some quick facts to know about Kazakhstan:

Must Know Before You Travel to Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's strategic location has made it a cultural exchange and development hub, offering visitors natural wonders and historical sites.

Planning a journey from India to Kazakhstan? Be aware that Kazakhstan weather conditions with hot summers and freezing winters can be extreme. So, here are some essential tips to make your trip enjoyable and hassle-free:

1. Visa-Free Entry for Indian Citizens to Kazakhstan

   The Kazakh authorities have introduced a visa-free entry regime for citizens of the Republic of India, permitting a continuous stay in Kazakhstan for up to 14 days without a visa.

   Travel insurance is not mandatory when applying for a Kazakhstan visa. Still, it is highly recommended that you cover potential emergencies such as medical issues, accidents, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or emergency evacuations.

2. Currency Information

   The official currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT), divided into 100 tiyn. As of January 2024, 1 KZT equals 0.17 INR. Money can be exchanged at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs in major cities. Carry some cash, as not all places (like local markets) accept credit cards or foreign currencies. Cash exceeding INR 8,40,197 must be declared at Kazakhstan customs upon entry or departure to comply with regulations.

3. Language Barriers

   English is not widely spoken in Kazakhstan. Locals primarily use Kazakh and Russian. Learning basic local phrases or using a translation app will significantly assist communication.

4. Climate and Weather in Kazakhstan

   The temperature of Kazakhstan varies as it has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can reach 40°C, while winters may drop below -45°C. The best months for travel are April through October. Early spring and early summer are recommended for enjoying the country's natural beauty and blooming flowers.

5. Cultural Etiquette in Kazakhstan

   Kazakhstan's vibrant multicultural atmosphere includes over 100 ethnic groups and diverse religions, with Islam being the most widely practised. Kazakhs are known for their hospitality, often welcoming guests warmly. Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially at religious sites, and removing shoes when entering homes. Avoid consuming alcohol in public.

6. Getting Around Kazakhstan

   Kazakhstan is vast, requiring time and planning for travel. Trains are the most popular way to travel between cities, offering comfort and affordability — book tickets early as they sell out fast. Buses are cheaper but slower and less comfortable. Renting a car provides flexibility but requires caution due to rough roads and traffic.

7. Major Festivals in Kazakhstan in Kazakhstan

   Kazakhstan hosts numerous festivals that showcase its cultural heritage. Nauryz, the Kazakh New Year, is celebrated in March, while the Almaty Apple Festival takes place in September. These events offer an excellent opportunity to experience local traditions.

Best Months to Visit Top Kazakhstan Cities

Kazakhstan's cities offer unique experiences. Here are the best months to visit Kazakhstan's famous cities and the events happening during those times:

High Season for Kazakhstan

The best season to visit Kazakhstan is from May to September, when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities, averaging around 20°C to 25°C. This period is ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and experiencing local culture.

Almaty and Nur-Sultan see an influx of tourists during these months, with events like Astana Day in July and the Almaty Apple Festival in September attracting many visitors. Summer activities, including hiking in the Tien Shan mountains and enjoying the natural beauty of Big Almaty Lake, are at their peak.

For couples, the warm season offers excellent conditions for scenic cable car rides, relaxing in the mountain valleys, and enjoying city views. Consider these popular activities while visiting Kazakhstan:

• Cable Car Ride up Kok-Tobe Hill: Enjoy panoramic views of Almaty from Kok-Tobe.
• Horse Riding on the Steppe: Explore Kazakhstan's vast landscapes while riding a horse.
• Trekking in the Tien Shan Mountains: Experience the beauty of the mountainous regions with guided treks.
• Dinner at Nur-Sultan's Khan Shatyr: Enjoy an evening meal at one of the city's famous landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan for Budget Travellers

From November to March, the low season provides budget-friendly opportunities. It is the best time to travel to Kazakhstan for budget-conscious tourists. When the weather is cold, temperatures drop below freezing, but there are significant savings on flights and hotels.

Winter in Kazakhstan offers plenty of exciting activities for travellers. Ski enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in one of the highest outdoor skating rinks in the world, the Medeu Skating Rink in Almaty.

Money-Saving Tips for Kazakhstan

• Travel Off-Peak: Consider visiting from November to March for better deals and fewer crowds.
• Use Public Transportation: Kazakhstan's train system is efficient and affordable, especially for long-distance travel between cities.
• Eat at Local Cafes: Traditional Kazakh meals are affordable and delicious, offering a taste of the local culture.
• Book in Advance for Discounts: Book your accommodations and flights as early as possible to secure lower prices and avoid high costs during peak travel seasons.