10 Best Things To Do In Kazakhstan For A Fun Vacation

Kazakhstan is a beautiful mix of natural beauty and cultural richness, thus there are plenty of things to do in Kazakhstan for every type of traveler. This Central Asian country will take you hiking through bellied Charyn Canyon, rushing across archaeological desert, taking in modern marvels of Nur Slutan, and soaking in the history of ancient Silk Road cities. It’s a place where you can arise in the heart of a cauldron of a city like Almaty swiftly embark on a gorgeous looping lake or in the heart of desert. Kazakhstan will surprise you at every turn whether you are solo adventurer or travelling with family.

Before planning your journey, remember to check the Kazakhstan visa requirements depending on your nationality so that you can enter Kazakhstan without any problems. After you’ve got your travel documents in order, it’s all go for an adventure comprising of natural wonders, cultural discoveries and city life with panache. In this guide, you’ll be taken through the best experiences the country has to offer, including from ancient mausoleums, to futuristic architecture, etc. The time has come to know the exciting attractions that will make your visit to Kazakhstan as an interesting and fantastic destination.

Here are the 10 Best Things To Do In Kazakhstan For A Fun Vacation

1. Discover the Charm of Almaty

Almaty, the heart of Kazakhstan’s culture and lifestyle, offers a unique mix of old-world charm and modern city vibes. Housing a variety of experiences from strolling along the parks with their neoclassical Soviet architecture and sipping coffee in trendy cafes, this vibrant city is nestled at the base of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. When you get up to Kok Tobe Hill, take the cable car; you won’t regret it; it offers stunning views and you will also visit Central Mosque and Zenkov Cathedral in the heart of local heritage. Almaty is a great place to explore and one of the best things to do in Almaty is to explore this energetic city and it is a perfect introduction to the Kazakh way of life.

2. Visit the Stunning Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is just 200 kilometers from Almaty and is a jaw dropping natural attraction and a must see in Kazakhstan things to see. The red rock formation of the canyon was carved by the Charyn River, with its dramatic formations being like to those of the famous South American Grand Canon, but with a wonderful, Kazakh style. Head out to the Valley of Castles and hike between hulk rock towers that appear oddly shaped, and take photos that will draw envious nods of recognition from the most seasoned of travelers. From the unique landscapes to the variety of wildlife, nature will be something that will entertain the lovers around. If one is looking for adventure and a stunning scenery, then a trip to Charyn is ideal.

3. Explore the Mystical Lake Kaindy

Lake Kaindy is one of the most surreal natural wonders in the country, tucked away in the Tien Shan Mountains. An earthquake caused a landslide that formed a dam, which covered an entire forest and created this unique lake. The submerged trees today rise eerily from turquoise waters, with the tips of the trees reaching up to form a dreamlike landscape. Not only is it visually striking, but it is a very good place to hike, relax, or take photographs. If you are visiting Kazakhstan for nature and want to do one of the must do things to do in Kazakhstan, then visiting Lake Kaindy is a must.

4. Take a Trip to Astana (Now Nur-Sultan)

Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) is modern, bold and futuristic and a testament to the rapid development and vision for the future of Kazakhstan. Walk along the Nurzhol Boulevard, visit the National Museum and enjoy the vibrant nightlife that is still evolving each year. There’s plenty to do in the capital, which is full of exciting Kazakhstan things to do for anyone with an interest in modern cityscapes, history, and cultural landmarks that show the nation’s ambition and innovation.

5. Hike the Tian Shan Mountains

The Tian Shan Mountains are a paradise for hikers, nature photographers and explorers and adventure seekers will fall in love with them. The mountains are situated close to Almaty and have a very extensive network of trails that lead to high altitude lakes, alpine meadows and jaw dropping viewpoints. The big Almaty Lake is popular stop with striking blue waters surrounded by white peaks. Hiking here is one of the unforgettable things to do in Kazakhstan because of the clean air, serene environment, and stunning vistas. This mountain range has something for both an novice who is going for a day of trekking and the more experienced one.

6. Wander Around the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is one of the most important religious and architectural landmarks of Central Asia, and is situated in the historic city of Turkestan. Its massive domes, intricate tilework and peaceful courtyards instantly captivate the visitors. This is one of the most impressive Kazakhstan things to see for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers who will be able to explore the country’s cultural and religious heritage that still resonates in the region.

7. Go Wildlife Watching in Altyn Emel National Park

Altyn Emel National Park is an ecological paradise that extends over 4,600 square kilometers of semi desert and mountainous terrain. The ‘Singing Dunes’ for which this park is famous make a humming sound when the wind blows, as well as rare wildlife such as wild goats, kulans, and gazelles. If you’re lucky you might even see eagles soaring overhead, or ancient petroglyphs hidden in the hills. It’s undoubtedly one of the best Kazakhstan things to do for nature lovers and eco-tourism thrives here. You will have your camera, hiking shoes and a predilection for natural wonder.

8. Experience Local Culture in Shymkent

One of the oldest and culturally vibrant cities in southern Kazakhstan is Shymkent. It is famous for its colourful bazaars, hearty cuisine and its nearby historical sites so you can really get into the local traditions. Go on to the Central Market and find yourself nice crafts, hear some live folk music in local teashouses, just take a look at ancient ruins in Sayram and Otrar. The hospitality is heartwarming and the cuisine, in particular, beshbarmak, plov and others, are wonderfully authentic. The most enriching thing to do in Kazakhstan is Shymkent, which gives a deeper look into Kazakh culture and history.

9. Marvel at the Ethno-Memorial Complex Map of Kazakhstan “Atameken”

The Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex is located in Nur-Sultan and is a must visit attraction with miniature map of Kazakhstan with scaled down models of the country’s most iconic landmarks. The country is large, however you can walk across the entire country in an hour while learning all about its diverse regions, cultures and history. It is an educational and an entertaining complex which is a great stop for family and for all travelers age. Atameken is one of the more unique Kazakhstan things to see due to the fact that it combines art, geography, and culture into one interactive experience.

10. Hot Springs in Alakol Lake

Not only is Alakol Lake, on the border between the Dzungarian Alatau and Tarbagatai mountains, scenic, it is also famous for its mineral rich and therapeutic waters. It is an ideal place to rest and rejuvenate surrounded by black pebble beaches and healing mud. Camping, water sports and birdwatching are also available in the area, especially during migration seasons. Due to its popularity with those looking for natural remedies and stress relief, Alakol has become more popular. Alakol Lake, a visit to this lake is one of the most relaxing Kazakhstan things to do and a great way to relax in the nature after a busy week of exploring.

Conclusion:

Kazakhstan is a land of contrasts: Future and past combined, a serene landscape and cultural experience. Every second is marked in prints of hiking to stunning mountains, exploring the holy mausoleums or walking the busy bazaars. Kazakhstan is more than just a travel destination, it is an immersion in the Central Asia’s soul with warm hospitality and the stunning scenery as well as rich history and things to do in kazakhstan. While each region can boast its own cosmopolitan streets of Almaty and Nur Sultan or the tranquil shores of Alakol Lake, in each of them there is a story to be found and as such a unique charm to make you want to come back.

If you are planning to visit Kazakhstan, then you should book a Kazakhstan Tour Package which includes guided trips to the best attractions, local insights and comfortable accommodation. A well planned tour is not only time and effort saver but also you can get a chance of unknown spots and cultural experiences. There are tour packages for solo traveler, couple or family depending on your need and interest. This one is so underrated both traveling and for visas, so pack your bags, get your Kazakhstan visa from India taken care of and start getting ready for an adventure of a lifetime, in one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world!

Top Searched Destinations:

Georgia Tour Package | Singapore Tour Package | Thailand Tour Package | Bali Tour Package | Maldives Tour Package | Sri Lanka Tour Package | Azerbaijan Tour Package | Turkey Tour Package | Dubai Tour Package | Malaysia Tour Package

Recommended Destinations:

China Tour Package | Uzbekistan Tour Package | Egypt Tour Package | Europe Tour Package | Paris Tour Package | Bhutan Tour Package | Kazakhstan Tour Package | Armenia Tour Package | Hongkong Tour Package | Kenya Tour Package | Tanzania Tour Package

Domestic Tour Package:

Meghalaya Tour Package | Rajasthan Tour Package | Hyderabad Tour Package | Golden Triangle Tour India | Darjeeling Tour Package