Best things to do in Kazakhstan: Kazakhstan is a vast country with diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.

Explore Almaty

• Medeu Skating Rink: Located in the mountains, this is the world’s highest ice rink. In summer, it’s a scenic area for hiking and picnics.
• Shymbulak Ski Resort: Just a short drive from Almaty, this resort offers skiing in winter and hiking in summer, with stunning views of the Tian Shan mountains.
• Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral: A beautiful park home to the colorful wooden Zenkov Cathedral, which is one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world.

Visit Astana (Nur-Sultan)

• Bayterek Tower: An iconic symbol of the city, this tower offers panoramic views from its observation deck. The design symbolizes a poplar tree and a golden egg, representing new life.
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: A stunning glass pyramid designed by Norman Foster, hosting various cultural events and exhibitions.
• Hazret Sultan Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Central Asia, known for its striking architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Discover the Steppe

• Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s home to diverse wildlife, including the rare pink flamingos. The steppe landscape is breathtaking, especially in spring and summer.
• Singing Dunes of Altyn Emel National Park: These unique dunes produce a musical sound when the wind blows over them. The park also features beautiful landscapes and rare wildlife.

Visit Historical Sites

• Tamgaly Petroglyphs: Located near Almaty, these ancient rock carvings date back thousands of years, depicting various aspects of life in prehistoric times.
• The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this mausoleum is an architectural masterpiece and a pilgrimage site, showcasing stunning tile work and design.

Experience Traditional Culture

• Astana Opera House: Catch a performance at this state-of-the-art venue, which showcases both traditional and contemporary art forms.
• Visit a Yurt: Experience Kazakh nomadic culture by staying in a traditional yurt. Many eco-tourism sites offer this experience, often accompanied by local meals and music.

Adventure Activities

• Jungar Alatau National Park: Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, this park features stunning mountain scenery and diverse flora and fauna.
• Kazakhs’ Eagle Hunting Tradition: Witness the ancient tradition of eagle hunting, where trained golden eagles are used to hunt small game. Some local families offer demonstrations.

Explore the Caspian Sea

• Aktau and the Mangystau Region: Enjoy the beaches and unique landscapes of this area, including the unusual rock formations of the Sherkala and the mysterious underground mosques of Beket-Ata.
• Visit the Aral Sea: While the sea has drastically shrunk, visiting the region highlights environmental issues and the remnants of the fishing towns that once thrived here.

Attend Local Festivals

• Nauryz: Celebrated on March 21, this spring festival marks the new year and features traditional music, dance, and food. It’s a vibrant way to experience Kazakh culture.
• The Astana Day Festival: Held in July, this event features concerts, parades, and cultural exhibitions celebrating the capital’s history and achievements.

Sample the Cuisine

• Beshbarmak: This traditional dish made from boiled meat and pasta is a must-try, often served at celebrations.
• Kumis: A fermented mare’s milk drink, kumis is a staple in Kazakh culture, known for its unique taste and health benefits.

Visit the Charyn Canyon

Often compared to the Grand Canyon, this stunning canyon features dramatic rock formations and offers excellent hiking opportunities. The “Valley of Castles” is particularly picturesque.

Conclusion

Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re interested in adventure, history, or simply soaking in the local way of life, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating country.

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