Sights of Kazakhstan: A Complete Overview
Kazakhstan is famous for its natural wealth, cultural heritage and unique historical monuments. The country combines the grandeur of mountains, steppes and deserts with modern megacities. Here is a detailed description of the main attractions of Kazakhstan, divided by region and topic.
Natural attractions
Charyn Canyon (Almaty Region)
- Description: The second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. It is about 154 km long.
- Peculiarities:
- "Valley of Castles" with unique rock formations.
- Possibility of camping and hiking.
- How to get there: About 200 km from Almaty.
Kolsai and Kaindy lakes
- Kolsai lakes:
- Located in the Tien Shan Mountains.
- Three high mountain lakes, each of which is unique.
- Lake Kaindy:
- A lake with a flooded forest creating a fantastic landscape.
- Popular among divers.
- Things to do: Hiking, boating.
Lake Works
- Description: One of the largest lakes in the world, partly salty and partly fresh.
- Peculiarities:
- Unique ecosystem.
- A popular place for fishing and beach holidays.
Altyn-Emel National Park
- Description: A huge nature reserve, famous for its singing dune, Aktau mountains and ancient petroglyphs.
- Peculiarities:
- "Singing Dune" is a sand dune that makes sounds when the wind blows.
- The Aktau Mountains are multi-colored chalk mountains.
Borovoe (Shchuchinsk-Borovskaya resort area)
- Description: "Kazakh Switzerland" with lakes, mountains and forests.
- Peculiarities:
- Lake Borovoe and the rock "Zhumbaktas" (Mysterious stone).
- Opportunities for active recreation: hiking trails, boat trips, mountaineering.
Historical and cultural attractions
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (Turkestan)
- Description: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Peculiarities:
- Built in the 14th century by order of Tamerlane.
- An example of medieval architecture.
- Meaning: One of the main religious centers of Central Asia.
The ancient city of Otrar
- Description: The ruins of one of the largest trading centers of the Silk Road.
- Peculiarities:
- Archaeological Museum.
- An important part of the history of Kazakhstan.
Tamgaly (Almaty region)
- Description: Valley with ancient petroglyphs, UNESCO site.
- Peculiarities:
- More than 5000 images dating back to the Bronze Age.
- Unique drawings of animals, people and sun-like deities.
Sauran (South Kazakhstan region)
- Description: Medieval fortified city.
- Peculiarities:
- Remains of the city walls.
- The historical route of the Silk Road.
Almaty Mosque
- Description: The largest mosque in Kazakhstan, located in Almaty.
- Peculiarities:
- Unique architecture in Islamic style.
- It accommodates over 7,000 people.
Modern attractions
1. Baiterek (Astana)
- Description: Symbol of Astana, "Tree of Life".
- Peculiarities:
- The height is 97 meters, symbolizing the year of the capital’s transfer.
- Observation deck with panoramic views of the city.
2. Khan Shatyr (Astana)
- Description: The world's largest tent-style shopping and entertainment center.
- Peculiarities:
- Inside there is a "beach" with real sand.
- Unique architecture designed by Norman Foster.
3. Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (Astana)
- Description: A pyramid symbolizing unity and peace.
- Peculiarities:
- Conference room of world religions.
- Interactive exhibitions and museums.
4. Medeo (Almaty)
- Description: A high-altitude skating rink popular with tourists.
- Peculiarities:
- Situated at an altitude of 1691 meters.
- One of the largest skating rinks in the world.
Religious sites
1. Nur-Astana Mosque (Astana)
- Description: A modern mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia.
- Peculiarities:
- It can accommodate 5000 people.
- Golden domes and snow-white facades.
2. Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord (Almaty)
- Description: An Orthodox church built at the beginning of the 20th century.
- Peculiarities:
- One of the few wooden cathedrals without nails.
- Historical and architectural value.
National Museums
1. National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana)
- Description: The main museum of the country.
- Peculiarities:
- Exhibitions about the history, culture and nature of Kazakhstan.
- The Hall of the Golden Man - a symbol of Kazakh statehood.
2. Central State Museum (Almaty)
- Description: One of the oldest and largest museums in Central Asia.
- Peculiarities:
- A collection of artifacts from ancient times to the present day.
- Ethnographic exhibitions.
Entertainment places
1. Shymbulak (Almaty)
- Description: World-class ski resort.
- Peculiarities:
- Suitable for winter sports and summer walks.
- Panoramic views of the mountains.
2. Kok-Tobe zone (Almaty)
- Description: Mountain recreation area.
- Peculiarities:
- Cable car, observation deck.
- Entertainment complex and restaurants.
Kazakhstan is a country where natural beauty, rich history and modern development intertwine. Every trip to Kazakhstan is an opportunity to discover something new and unique.
USEFUL LINKS
Travel Guide to Kazakhstan
