Kazakhstan famous for

Kazakhstan boasts a wide array of tourist destinations, encompassing vibrant cities with modern architecture and historical landmarks to tranquil natural scenery. Let us explore some of the popular Kazakhstan places to visit.

Almaty

Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty, is a bustling metropolis known for its stunning mountain backdrop and vibrant cultural scene. Until 1997, it served as the trading and cultural capital of the country. The city is home to the Central State Museum, which houses hundreds of artefacts from Kazakhstan's history. The next attraction is Panfilov Park, a beautiful green space featuring the iconic Zenkov Cathedral, an orthodox church established during the Tsarist Era. Walking through Almaty's picturesque streets, you can admire the beautiful Neo-Russian architectural style. The city showcases architectural feats from renowned artisans such as Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov and Paul Gourdet.

Almaty is not just about its cultural heritag;, it also offers a plethora of adventures. From relaxing by the serene Big Almaty Lake to seeking thrills at the Medeu Ski Resort and Skating Rink, there's something for everyone. The White Mountains of Altyn-Emel and the Kok-Tobe Hill are other star attractions. The city experiences light snowfall from October to April, with little disruption. The best time for tourism is June to September, with temperatures around 20-30 degrees Celsius. Almaty promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Astana

The captivating capital city of Kazakhstan, Astana, represents a modernised nation with its stunning architecture. This metropolis is a hub for some of the most popular Kazakhstan places to visit, offering a range of attractions for tourists. The city features corporate business centres and high-rise buildings, creating a mesmerising backdrop for a memorable Kazakhstan sightseeing experience.

Begin your exploration with a visit to the top of the 105-meter-tall Bayterek Tower for a panoramic view of Astana. Then, go to the Duman Recreational Complex, a haven for art lovers. The Museum of Miniatures and Seaquarium is perfect for nature enthusiasts, featuring over 2,000 species of sea animals worldwide. Don't miss visiting Ak Orda Presidential Palace and Astana-Arena Stadium during your day trip. Other must-visit attractions in Astana include the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, Khan Shatyr, the National Museum of Kazakhstan, and the Nur-Astana Mosque. Stroll through City Park and visit Independence Square and the Kazak Eli Monument. Discover the beauty of Assumption Russian Orthodox Cathedral and Hazrat Sultan Mosque as you explore the city's cultural and historical treasures.

Taraz

Taraz is the third fastest-growing city in Kazakhstan, after Nur-Sultan and Turkestan. It is nestled on the banks of the Talas River. The city is close to the Kyrgyzstan border. Taraz sits 628 meters above sea level, providing a cool climate in summer and chilly, rainy winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. As one of the oldest cities in the country, its history dates back to medieval times, and it played an active role in trading via the Silk Routes.

Excavations have unearthed numerous artefacts, such as bronze statues, chest ornaments, and caves, pointing out that Taraz was established before the 1st century BC. The city offers various historical sites along the Silk Road, including the Aisha-Biwi and Karahan mausoleums, which showcase ceramic artefacts from excavations. To taste Taraz's royal culture, visit the Akyrtas Palace Complex. Take a break in Zhengis Park or explore Taraz's culture at Asti Bar. For shopping, the Shakhristan market is a must-visit.

Nomads Land

When visiting the Tamgaly Gorge, stop at the Nomad's Land for a unique experience. Known as the City of Nomads, this spot is one of Kazakhstan's top places to visit. The Nomad's Land is an old, almost abandoned movie depicting the nomadic lifestyle. The set features buildings and other structures that replicate real palaces and forts beautifully. You'll also find charming small streets, houses, and courtyards designed with great attention to detail. As you explore the set, take photos and observe this rarely-used piece of cinematic history.

Aktau

Aktau, a city almost 40 years old, overlooks the stunning Caspian Sea and is one of the most famous places in Kazakhstan. The city has many unique tourist attractions in Kazakhstan, such as ancient architectural buildings that showcase its history.

Cultural centres, cinemas, concert halls, and libraries from ancient times can be found throughout the city. These attractions provide a local touch to your experience. Walking through the city streets, you can enjoy green paths lined with acacias and poplars, lush lawns, and welcoming parks. If you have extra time, enjoy some fun moments at the Skating Rink and Puppet Theatre.

In Aktau, popular attractions include:

The World War II Memorial

Regional Museum

Botanical Garden, seafront

Costa Cafe

Taras Shevchenko Statue

Multi-coloured mountains in Altyn-Emel National Park.

Lake Alakol

Lake Alakol is a saline water body primarily fed by the inland river drainage system. It is situated in Eastern Kazakhstan's Almaty and Saghyz provinces. The Alataw Pass extends from this lake, offering clear views of the Alatau ranges.

This area is protected since many wetland bird species can be found here during the breeding season. Relic gulls, one of the most famous avian species, make Lake Alakol an ideal destination for photography and sightseeing. Flamingos can also often be spotted around the lake, adding to its appeal.

Lake Balkhash

Lake Balkhash, situated 600 miles east of the Aral Sea, is a notable Kazakhstan famous place to visit. This vast lake features rocky northern banks where visitors can explore ancient traces of rock-cuts. Once a thriving breeding ground for marine life with 20 fish species, the lake has experienced some decline in water quality over time, impacting its biodiversity. However, fish species such as sturgeon, pike, sazan, eastern bream, and Aral barbel have been reintroduced to the lake.

The eastern part of the lake is fed by rivers like Aqsu, Qaratal, Ayagoz, and Lepsi and is known for its saltier water. In contrast, the western part of the lake has better water quality. This region offers a chance to see ancient rock miniatures in the low-lying areas.

Popular Kazakhstan things to do around Lake Balkhash include:

Camping and winter fishing

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Bird Watching

Hiking

Cold War Remnants

Altyn Emel National Park

If you're searching for pristine natural beauty, Altyn Emel National Park is one of Kazakhstan's best places to visit. The park offers diverse landscapes ranging from rocky terrain to vast dunes and mountains.

This national park is a haven for nature lovers and a wealth of cultural heritage. It's a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting over 230 species of birds. Additionally, the park is home to lone horses, including the unique Przewalski horses. History buffs will find the park fascinating due to petroglyphs and stone steles, highlighting the rich history of the Saka and Scythian tribes.

Altyn Emel National Park's combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination in Kazakhstan.

Kok Tobe

Kok Tobe, one of the renowned mountains and hills in the Almaty Region, stands 1,100 meters above sea level. While it might seem like another peak, Kok Tobe is a vibrant hub for thrill-seekers and leisure lovers.

Reaching the top is an adventure, as it involves a ride on a cable car with picturesque views of Almaty along the way. Once you arrive, you will discover a playground, a rollercoaster, and various eateries offering local specialities crafted by talented chefs. Kok Tobe offers fun and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination. Its location provides breathtaking views of the city below, adding to its appeal.

Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon, situated in south-eastern Kazakhstan, is a stunning geological feature often nicknamed the "Grand Canyon's little brother." Stretching over 150 kilometres along the Charyn River, this natural treasure is celebrated for its soaring cliffs, striking red rock formations, and complex network of gorges. The canyon's landscapes, sculpted over millions of years by natural forces, exhibit vivid sedimentary rock layers. One of the most famous parts, the Valley of Castles, amazes visitors with its rock structures that resemble ancient castle walls.

As part of Charyn National Park, the canyon provides hiking trails for adventurers to explore its diverse landscape and enjoy the stunning views. Charyn Canyon is also an ecological haven, supporting a variety of plant and animal species.

This extraordinary natural landmark has become a must-see destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a breathtaking experience in Kazakhstan. It offers a unique and awe-inspiring journey through the heart of the country's natural beauty.

Lake Issyk

Lake Issyk is a popular tourist destination in Kazakhstan. It attracts visitors for two main reasons. The lake has ancient origins, dating back around 25 million years. It is also the world's second-largest alpine lake. The snow-covered mountains surrounding the lake create a stunning panorama.

The lake holds geographical and historical significance as a major stop along the ancient Silk Road. In winter, the freshwater lake freezes over, making it ideal for ice sports such as skiing and ice diving. The area becomes a haven for camping and trekking in warmer months.

At a depth of roughly 2,000 feet, Lake Issyk provides an exceptional experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is a must-visit spot in Kazakhstan for those looking to enjoy the breathtaking landscape and engage in outdoor activities.

Traditional Kazakh cuisine features Kazakhstan's famous food, such as mutton, horse meat, and various dairy products. For centuries, Kazakhs have flocked Bactrian camels, fat-tailed sheep, and horses for food and other essentials, including clothing and transportation.

Their nomadic lifestyle includes cooking techniques that focus on preserving food. Salting and drying meat is common to make it last longer and dairy is often soured for easier preservation.

Fermented dairy products like kymyz (fermented mare's milk) and shubat (fermented camel's milk) are staples in the Kazakh diet. Traditional methods involve boiling large, uncut pieces of meat, often served with pasta or rice in dishes like beshbarmak and kuirdak. These are hearty and nourishing meals designed for active lifestyles.

Some of the popular Kazakhstan dishes include:

• Palau - Kazakh Pilaf (Rice-based dish)

• Kuurdak

• Beshbarmak

• Koktal

• Manti

• Tandyr Nan

• Shelpek

When planning a trip to Kazakhstan, it is important to prioritise safety and peace of mind. Although not mandatory, travel insurance ensures a worry-free journey, covering unexpected events such as medical crises, travel cancellations, and loss of luggage.

International travel insurance can protect you against unexpected costs when travelling abroad. Tata AIG offers a range of travel insurance offering coverage for flight ticket insurance, which can be reimbursed in case of flight cancellations.

Purchasing travel insurance online is quick and convenient with Tata AIG. You can easily compare different plans and select one that suits your travel needs. A good travel insurance policy like ours covers medical expenses and provides other services like emergency assistance.

Investing in travel insurance is a smart decision when traveling to Kazakhstan, offering protection and support in case of unforeseen circumstances. With Tata AIG's comprehensive plans, you can focus on enjoying your trip to Kazakhstan, knowing that you have reliable coverage.

What should I purchase from Kazakhstan?

You can consider buying honey, chocolates, caviar, and others from Kazakhstan.

What is the best time to visit Kazakhstan?

The most suitable time to visit Kazakhstan ranges from September to October and April to May.