Shymkent

Shymkent is the third biggest city in Kazakhstan and one of the most beautiful cities which is surrounded by the rich cultural heritages. Many cultural diversity, and natural beauty, archeological sites making it an attractive destination for tourists. Shymkent is an administrative center of south Kazakhstan region.

Shymkent’s history dates back to the 12th century when it was a significant trading post along the Silk Road. The city was conquered by various empires and dynasties throughout the centuries, including the Mongol Empire, the Timurid Empire, and the Kazakh Khanate. In the 19th century, Shymkent became part of the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union.

President N. Nazarbaev once uttered words that became popular: “Life is given once, and you need to live it in Shymkent!”

Shymkent is one of the largest cities in Kazakhstan. It is the third largest in terms of population after Astana and Almaty. Population 1.2 million as of March 2024

The main attractions:

Noah’s Ark in Kazygurt Mountain: Keme Kalgan Monument At an altitude of 910 metres above sea level, stands the monument to Noah’s Ark. An unusual monument has been built 207 kilometres from the city of Turkestan. According to local legend, the prophet Noah landed on Kazygurt Mountain two thousand years ago, and people began to call this place “Keme-Kalgan”. Mount Kazygurt is sacred to the peoples of Central Asia.

The ancient citadel of Shymkent: An open-air museum complex has been opened on the site of the city’s historic centre. This place offers a complete immersion in the era of the historical settlement. Here you can see architectural monuments and buildings, buy souvenirs and take colourful photographs in national costumes, ride the “Altybakan” swing and attend master classes.

Akhmeshit Cave: The site, which surprises visitors with an unusual view, is located on a hill. From the top, the cave measures 200 square metres. There are two legends that the guides will tell you in detail.

Aksu Canyon: This is one of the main attractions of the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve. This is the largest canyon in Central Asia, the depth is more than 500 meters, the length is 25 kilometers.

Dendropark: A very picturesque park in the city centre that’s well worth a visit. Swans, ducks and geese swim on the surface of the lake. Squirrels, roe deer, deer and peacocks live in the dendropark, and the whole area has been landscaped and decorated with sculptures.

The Family Park Ken Baba: An artificial lake and a waterfall in which many swans swim are pleasing. There is no need to talk about how tasty the kebab is in this place. Almost everyone knows about this. So, please enjoy the most delicious kebab in a magnificent city park

Shymkent has many other attractions and is definitely one of the must-see destinations in Central Asia. Please do not hesitate to contact us to book your ideal Kazakhstan expedition.