Almaty & Kazakhstan Tourist Attractions

Being the ninth largest country in the world, Kazakhstan offers a collage full of surprises to its intrepid travellers. Still considered an off-beat destination by many, the country justifies why it is unique in every aspect-be it cultural, modern, historic or natural. The gorgeous vistas and endless steppes, vast deserts, arid yet picturesque plains, dramatic mountains, glacial lakes, tiny dusty villages, the glitzy, modern metropolitan vibe of Almaty or the cultural scenes at Nur Sultan- whatever you pick to explore, the Kazakhstan Attractions are bound to leave you awestruck at every turn you take!

Starting your journey with the favourites, stroll around Almaty Attractions and you will feel this cultural heartbeat of Kazakhstan thriving on nothing but vibrancy. The Best Places to visit in Almaty feature the best of food scenes, nomadic architecture, soviet structures, the most modern buildings, wooden cathedrals and plenty of lakes, canyons and waterfalls. Go beyond Almaty and take in the magic from an assortment of other wonderful cities and various Best Places to visit in Kazakhstan.

To explore these incredible attractions in Kazakhstan, you should know the ideal time to visit. There are four distinct seasons in Kazakhstan, each offering something for travelers to bask in. Spring season hosts a series of blooming lush green landscapes, pleasant weather, and wildflowers blooming in the steppes. With a slow cold breeze touching your face and cultural festivals going around, spring invites tourists for an ideal holiday in Kazakhstan.

The summer season is perfect for all kinds of sightseeing and outdoor fun. It is the peak season in the country, which entails so many adventures to unfold. During this time, all the places to visit in Kazakhstan are crowded with travelers peering at every attraction in the country.

There comes the winter season when the snow and ski lovers come out of their den. In winter, the temperature falls to -20 degrees Celsius, covering every landscape with fresh snow. There are plenty of white landscapes to capture and snow activities to revel in winter. It is also the time of New Year celebrations, making you witness Kazakhstan adorned with fairy lights.

Autumn season is the most underrated season in Kazakhstan. However, it is actually one of the best times to visit Kazakhstan. You can enjoy peaceful walks, blue skies, beautiful sunsets, pristine lakes, tranquil landscapes, and other Kazakhstan tourist places. Autumn is the golden season when every vista turns golden with falling yellow leaves. There are various cultural events and natural attractions to explore during this time.

No matter when you visit Kazakhstan, there are countless places to explore and unearth. These places brim with significant history, unique experiences, unparalleled landscapes, and culinary delights. Some must-visit tourist places to visit in Kazakhstan are Astana, Lake Kaindy, Almaty, Shymkent, Aktau, Baikonur, Turgen Gorge, and many more.

All these places offer numerous things to do in Kazakhstan that you enjoy doing on a holiday. Be it exploring the cultural hub of Almaty, taking a sightseeing tour of ancient sites, hiking the Turgen Gorge, or visiting the breathtaking Lake Kaindy, Kazakhstan offers it all.
 
Besides navigating the Kazakhstan attractions, you can visit stunning restaurants and bars that are no less than a captivating draw. Some of the popular names in the culinary world of Kazakhstan are Saksaul, Alasha, Tarih, Bellagio, Narsharab, and many more. The most tried cuisines in Kazakhstan are Kazy, Kuurdak, Laghman, Kurt, Besbarmaq, Tandyr Naan, etc.

Ditch the usual tourist trail and take in all the grandeur of Kazakhstan Tourist Attractions and Places as the list compiled below showcases the country's marvels that are abundantly packed with cultural heritage, natural magnificence, rapid modern development and so much more.

Top 15 Almaty & Kazakhstan Attractions

1. Big Almaty Lake

Big Almaty Lake is the most treasured Almaty tourist attraction, which is hidden within the towering Tien Shan mountain range. Nestled at an altitude of 2500 meters, the Big Almaty Lake is famous for its vibrant turquoise-blue waters that change color with every shift in season. The lake is popular among photographers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts as it boasts gorgeous landscapes.

Despite its tranquil beauty, Almaty Lake is a protected reservoir that aids the city’s drinking water facility. There are designated tourist viewpoints and hiking trails that you can access to witness its unparalleled beauty.

2. Kok Tobe Hill

Kok Tobe Hill is an exquisite location to witness the panoramic views of Almaty, with the Tien Shan mountains as a backdrop. It is not just a Kazakhstan tourist attraction, it offers a recreational, cultural, and relaxing experience. It blends nature, leisure, and entertainment for locals and tourists alike. Kok Tob Hill is also an ideal spot to watch a mesmerizing sunset, sunrise, and nighttime cityscapes.

3. Shymbulak Ski Resort

If you are visiting Almaty in winter, Shymbulak Ski Resort is one of the must-visit destinations. It is a premium ski resort and snowboarding spot with otherworldly slopes, gorgeous alpine views, and amazing infrastructure. For adventure seekers and nature lovers, Shymbulak Ski Resort is among the best places to visit in Kazakhstan. Even if you come during the summer season, the resort turns into a hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding site, making it an all-year-round destination.

4. Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon offers the most dramatic and breathtaking landscapes, filled with soaring cliffs and deep gorges. Often known as the Grand Canyon of Central Asia, this wondrous Almaty attraction offers various beautiful trails that lead through the canyon. During the sunrise and sunset, the Charyn Canyon fills with vibrant hues, making it a perfect place to witness the magic of nature.

If you want to see the Charyn Canyon, visit during the spring and autumn seasons. During this time, the weather remains pleasant, perfect for exploring the landscapes of the canyon.

5. Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy is the most beautiful alpine lake, also known as the sunken forest of Kazakhstan. It is a must-see Kazakhstan tourist attraction that was triggered by the earthquake and landslide. This lake looks so stunning that you would not take your eyes off it. The turquoise blue water, tree trunks standing above the water, and the surrounding mountains and pine forests create postcard-worthy landscapes.

6. Kolsai Lakes

Kolsai Lakes are a trio of gorgeous alpine lakes that are often called the Pearls of the Tien Shan. Kolsai Lakes are one of the must-see places to visit in Kazakhstan. These lakes are known for their unprecedented beauty, adorned with serene landscapes, rich biodiversity, and crystal-clear waters. You should visit Kolsai Lakes for its wildlife & nature, hiking trails, picnic spots, boating adventure, and stargazing & camping.

7. Altyn-Emel National Park

Altyn-Emel National Park is one of the most attractive tourist attractions, known for its spectacular desert landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique geological formations. The special things about this national park are its singing dunes, rare wildlife, Aktau & Katutau Mountains, and historical sites.

8. Medeu Ice Skating Rink

Medeu Ice Skating Rink is a well-recognized sports complex nestled in Medeu Valley near Almaty. Perched at an altitude of 1691 m above sea level, Medeu is the tallest rink in the world. It spans 10,500 square meters, making it a perfect spot for indulging in ice skating and other winter sports. There is a dedicated complex that has a photo zone, which showcases the history of the place and honors the individuals who helped in its establishment.

9. Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

The Central State Museum of Kazakhstan is one of the must-visit Kazakhstan tourist attractions. It is the most significant cultural center of Central Asia, which was established in 1931. Covering over 17,500 square meters, this museum is home to more than 3,00,000 artifacts that depict Kazakhstan’s rich history and cultural heritage.

10. Zenkov Cathedral

Zenkov Cathedral, also known as Ascension Cathedral, is one of the prominent Almaty tourist attractions located in Panfilov Park. The artistic architecture and interior of this church are commendable and were done by a Russian artist, Nikolai Khludov. Zenkov Cathedral is made up of wood, completely through exceptional engineering and craftsmanship.

11. Bayterek Tower

Bayterek Tower is among the tourist attractions in Kazakhstan, a striking monument and observation tower. This tower offers unparalleled views of the surrounding city and has also been a symbol of cultural heritage. It is 105 meters long and has long been a symbol of the nation’s post-independence aspirations.

12. Green Bazaar

Green Bazaar is a major marketplace in Kazakhstan that offers everything from fresh produce to textiles, handicrafts, and culinary delights. This is not just a Bazaar, it’s a cultural experience. Green Bazaar is a must-visit Kazakhstan tourist attraction for travelers who seek authentic cultural and flavorful experiences.

13. Ile-Alatau National Park

Ile-Alatau National Park is the largest ecologically preserved area in Almaty. It spans across 2,00,000 hectares, covering the diverse terrains. It is home to more than 1000 plant species, which include the wild Sievers apple tree, maple, medicinal plants, and apricot. Not just that, it also houses more than 300 animal species, including the snow leopard, the Tien Shan brown bear, the bearded vulture, the Central Asian Lynx, the golden eagle, etc.

Ile-Alatau National Park is one of the must-visit Almaty attractions that showcase Kazakhstan’s natural beauty and commitment to nature conservation.

14. National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is one of the biggest museums in Central Asia. It was built to preserve and promote Kazakhstan’s historical and cultural heritage. The museum features modern architecture and design that catches the attention of visitors. The National Museum houses more than 2,20,000 artifacts across countless halls, such as the Hall of Gold, the Hall of Contemporary Art, the Hall of Ethnography, and so on.

15. Altai Mountains

The Altai Mountains are the most mystic attraction of Kazakhstan. These mountains offer dramatic landscapes worth capturing. The mountainous views of the Altai Mountains stretch across four countries- Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, and China. The Altai Mountain ranges are known for their unprecedented beauty, cultural heritage, and rich biodiversity. Packed with stunning scenery, cultural & spiritual significance, and adventure activities, the Altai Mountains hold the most untouched wilderness in the world.

First Presidents Park

First Presidents Park is an urban park located in Almaty at the intersection of Navoi Street and Al-Farabi Avenue in the Bostandyk district. The park was opened in July 2010 and was named after the first President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev.

Almaty Zoo

Monument to Zhambyl Zhabayev

Astana Square Almaty

Republic Square

Republic Square also known as Independence Square or New Square is the main square in Almaty Kazakhstan. It is used for public events. The former presidential palace now used as municipal offices is on its south side.

Shymbulak Ski Resort

Shumbulak also known as Chimbulak is a ski resort near Almaty. It is the largest ski resort in Central Asia. It is located in the upper part of the Medeu Valley in the Zailiisky Alatau mountain range at an elevation of 2200 metres above sea level. The resort area is about 25 kilometres south of Almaty city by Medeo road....

Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

The Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen is an urban park located in east-central Almaty in the area surrounding the Ascension Cathedral. It is dedicated to and named after the Panfilov heroes which were the 28 soldiers of an Alma-Ata Infantry unit who allegedly died whilThe Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen is an urban park located in east-central Almaty in the...

Medeo

The Medeu is a high-altitude sports complex near Almaty located at an altitude of 1691 meters above sea level. It is considered to be the worlds largest high-mountain skating rink. The skating rink was named after the Maloalmatinsky volost Medeu Pusurmanov. He built three wooden huts for the wintering of his family there and began the development of the tract...