Things to Do in Kazakhstan

Most Popular Things to Do in the Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's diverse landscapes and rich cultural history provide numerous attractions for tourists. From the natural beauty of vast steppes to reliving ancient history at revered cultural sites, here is a selection of fun things to do in Kazakhstan for visitors.

• Things to see in Kazakhstan for History Enthusiasts

  Visit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

  The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkestan. Built in the 14th century, the mausoleum showcases beautiful Timurid architecture, featuring intricate tilework and a grand dome. Entry costs INR 87, and the attraction is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

  Explore the Hazrat Sultan Mosque

  Located in Astana, the Hazrat Sultan Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. It features a massive white marble structure with beautiful calligraphy and Islamic architectural elements. The mosque is open to visitors outside of prayer times.

  History at the National Museum of Kazakhstan

  The National Museum in Astana is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, showcasing artefacts and interactive displays of Kazakhstan's history from the Silk Road to today. Entry is INR 167, with an additional INR 125 for photography.

  Wander Through the Ancient Petroglyphs at Tamgaly

  A UNESCO World Heritage site, Petroglyphs at Tamgaly is home to over 5,000 rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. Entry tickets start at INR 261.

  Visit the Altyn-Emel National Park

  Altyn-Emel National Park offers a mix of history and nature, featuring the famous "Singing Dunes," ancient burial mounds, and petroglyphs. It's an ideal destination for cultural exploration and outdoor adventures. The entry fee is INR 139 for adults and INR 69 for school children.

• Exciting Things to Do in Kazakhstan for Adventurous Lovers

  Trekking in the Tien Shan Mountains

  Kazakhstan features stunning mountain ranges, notably the Tien Shan Mountains near Almaty, which provide excellent trekking options. Hikes vary from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks, showcasing beautiful glaciers, valleys, and alpine lakes.

  Horseback Riding in the Steppes

  Horse ride through expansive plains while discovering the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the Kazakh people. The cost varies with tour type but starts from INR 75,253.

  Skiing in Shymbulak

  Shymbulak Ski Resort, located near Almaty, is the largest ski resort in Central Asia. With modern facilities and stunning mountain views, it's a great destination for skiing. Prices for skiing depend on pass type, but they start from INR 1324.

  Camping at Kolsai Lakes

  The Kolsai Lakes, often called the "Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan," are a series of three alpine lakes surrounded by dense forests and mountain peaks. Camping and hiking around these crystal-clear lakes offer a peaceful escape into nature.

  Explore Charyn Canyon

  Known as the "Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan," Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder located about 200 km from Almaty. The canyon offers stunning red rock formations and is ideal for hiking, photography, and exploring its diverse flora and fauna.

Things to Do in Kazakhstan for Foodies

The culinary scene in Kazakhstan is diverse, combining the flavours of traditional Kazakh fare with influences from nearby countries, including Russia, Uzbekistan, and China. Here are some must-visit places for a delightful experience:

• Traditional Treats: A Look into Kazakh Cuisine

  Some popular spots to taste authentic Kazakh flavours:

  • Baursak City, Almaty: You cannot leave without trying traditional Kazakh dishes at Baursak City — beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kazy (horsemeat sausage). The setting is themed after the country's nomadic roots.
  • Turan, Astana: Try countryside cuisine with shubat (fermented camel milk) and plenty of grilled meats at this spot.

• Top it Off: Indian Food in Kazakhstan

  Craving a taste of home on your trip to Kazakhstan? Some Indian restaurants in Kazakhstan you can try are:

  • Namaste Shalle, Almaty: Known for its butter chicken and biryani, it's a favourite with locals and expats.
  • Spice Mantra, Astana: Frequented by vegetarians and carnivores alike for its extensive Indian menu with satisfying curries.

• A Culinary World Tour of International Flavours

  Craving a taste of home on your trip to Kazakhstan? Some Indian restaurants in Kazakhstan you can try are:

  • Namaste Shalle, Almaty: Known for its butter chicken and biryani, it's a favourite with locals and expats.
  • Spice Mantra, Astana: Frequented by vegetarians and carnivores alike for its extensive Indian menu with satisfying curries.

• A Culinary World Tour of International Flavours

  Kazakhstan's cities offer a range of international restaurants:

  • NY Hell's Kitchen, Almaty: This eatery is famous for its European and Asian fusion, with sushi platters and steak plates for a high-end experience.
  • Café Rafe, Astana: This trendy spot serves Mediterranean and Italian-inspired cuisine. Their pasta and wood-fired pizza are always a hit with tourists and locals.

• Street Eats: Discover Kazakh Street Food

  Kazakhstan's vibrant street food scene gives a taste of modern and traditional flavours:

  • Green Bazaar, Almaty: A classic market for street food lovers. Taste samsa (meat-filled pastries), baursak (fried dough), and kebabs from local vendors.
  • Aport Mall, Almaty: Have lagman (noodle soup) and shashlik (skewered meat) at the food court for a casual dining experience highlighting Central Asian flavours.

Planning Your Kazakhstan Itinerary

With its stunning natural landscapes, from the scenic mountains of Almaty to the serene steppes of Astana, Kazakhstan offers a range of activities for all types of travellers. With its rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality, there are countless fun things to do in Kazakhstan.

Here's a step-by-step guide to planning your dream trip to Kazakhstan:

• Step 1: Plan Your Kazakhstan Journey

  • By Air: Almaty International Airport and Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (Astana) are the main hubs. Direct flights are available from major cities like New Delhi.
  • By Train: Kazakhstan's expanding train network offers high-speed connections between major cities, providing a budget-friendly and comfortable travel option. The longest route, Almaty to Mangyshlak, spans 3,269 km and takes three days.
  • By Road: You can take a taxi or book a car with Yandex, a Central Asian rideshare app. Yandex is a good option if you don't speak Kazakh or Russian, as you don't need to explain where you want to go.

• Step 2: Buy Kazakhstan Travel Insurance

  Ensure a safe journey to Kazakhstan with a travel insurance policy that covers:

  • Medical emergencies, including hospitalisation and illness.
  • Personal accident protection and trip cancellations.
  • Lost luggage, passport theft, and other unexpected incidents.

• Step 3: Pack for Kazakhstan – Travel Tips

  • The currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Carry some cash and a credit card for convenience.
  • Tourists can purchase prepaid SIM cards from local providers like Beeline, Kcell, or Tele2 at airports or shopping malls.
  • Pack layered outfits for variable weather and comfortable shoes for trekking.
  • Bring hiking equipment, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

  Kazakhstan offers a fascinating journey — from contemporary architectural wonders to historical gems. Whether you plan to explore its vibrant cities or vast steppes, having travel insurance will make your trip smooth and stress-free.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I visit multiple cities during one trip to Kazakhstan?

  Ans: Domestic flights, trains, and buses make travelling between major cities like Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent easy

• Q2: Can I find vegetarian food in Kazakhstan?

  Ans: While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, vegetarian options are available in most major cities and international restaurants.

• Q3: What souvenirs can I bring back from Kazakhstan?

  Ans: Popular souvenirs include traditional Kazakh felt products, wool carpets, and hand-painted ceramics.

• Q4: What is Kazakhstan best known for?

  Ans: Kazakhstan is known for being a cultural melting pot with 131 ethnic groups. It’s also famous for its beautiful landscapes, like the Altai mountains and the vast Kazakh steppe. One of its treasures is the "Golden Man," similar to Tutankhamun, a significant historical figure.

• Q5: What is Kazakhstan's famous food?

  Ans: The most popular dish in Kazakhstan is besbarmaq, which is made with boiled horse or mutton meat. It's called "five fingers" because people traditionally eat it with their hands.