Kazakhstan, the world’s ninth-largest country, is a land of diverse landscapes and rich history. From vast steppes and towering mountains to bustling modern cities and ancient architecture, Kazakhstan offers a unique mix of the old and the new. For travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations with breathtaking natural beauty and intriguing cultural heritage, Kazakhstan is a must-visit. Here are 11 of the best places to visit in Kazakhstan along with top activities to enrich your travel experience.
### 1. Almaty
Once the capital of Kazakhstan, Almaty is still the largest city and cultural hub. Nestled in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, it offers picturesque landscapes and plenty of attractions like Kok-Tobe Hill, Zenkov Cathedral, and the Green Bazaar. Don’t miss taking a ride on the Almaty Cable Car for stunning city views.
### 2. Astana (Nur-Sultan)
Renamed Nur-Sultan in honor of its leader, this futuristic city is the current capital of Kazakhstan. It’s known for its striking modern architecture including Bayterek Tower and Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center. The city also hosts numerous cultural events, making it a vibrant place to explore.
### 3. Shymbulak Ski Resort
Located just outside Almaty, Shymbulak Ski Resort offers year-round recreational activities. In winter, it’s ideal for skiing and snowboarding; summer offers great hiking trails.
### 4. Charyn Canyon
Often compared to America’s Grand Canyon but on a smaller scale, Charyn Canyon is about four hours from Almaty and offers dramatic vistas ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
### 5. Lake Kaindy
Known for its submerged forest, Lake Kaindy features sunken trees that rise eerily from its turquoise waters—an excellent site for divers as well as hikers seeking tranquil scenery.
### 6. Baikonur Cosmodrome
For space enthusiasts, visiting Baikonur Cosmodrome is a dream come true where they can observe spacecraft launches first-hand—a truly unique experience available only in Kazakhstan.
### 7. Tamgaly Tas
Located near Ili River not far from Almaty, Tamgaly Tas displays ancient rock carvings believed to be sacred among local Buddhists who depict images of Buddhas carved into the stones amid beautiful natural backdrops.
### 8. Aksu-Zhabagyly Nature Reserve
As Central Asia’s oldest nature reserve located in Southern Kazakhstan near Shymkent, this park’s diverse ecosystems shelter rare species like snow leopards amidst beautiful landscapes including plains surrounded by mountain ranges.
### 9. Medeu Skating Rink and Ski resort
Situated at an altitude of over 1,600 meters above sea level near Almaty is Medeu Skating Rink—the highest outdoor skating rink in the world surrounded by magnificent towering mountains providing breathtaking views while skating or skiing.
### 10. The Aral Sea
Visiting what remains of one of Earth’s largest lakes provides insight into ecological challenges while exploring abandoned ships stranded on dry land due to decades-long shrinkage—a haunting reminder but an essential visit for eco-conscious travelers.
### 11. Turkestan
Home to important historical structures like Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi which was commissioned by Timur—one of Central Asia’s most significant leaders—Turkestan holds enormous spiritual significance alongside umpteen opportunities to delve into Silk Road history.
## Best Things To Do:
– **Hiking & Trekking:** With landscapes varying from flat steppe lands to rugged mountains such as those found near Tian Shan range.
– **Cultural Experiences:** Engage with local traditions through music events like dombra performances (traditional stringed instrument), tasting local cuisines such as beshbarmak or kumis (fermented mare’s milk).
– **Wildlife Watching:** Opportunities abound especially in reserves like Aksu-Zhabagyly where you might spot endangered species.
– **Historical Exploration:** Delve into Kazakhstan’s rich tapestry woven through centuries containing tales from Silk Road caravanserais to Soviet era legacies.
Kazakhstan is truly an unexplored gem offering myriad experiences whether you are an adventurer at heart or a culture seeker fascinated by storied pasts mingling seamlessly with cosmopolitan futures!