Top must Ethereal places to visit in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world, located in central Asia and partly in eastern Europe. The capital of Kazakhstan is Astana. It shares borders with Turkmenistan, China, Russia, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan.

The history of Kazakhstan depicts a heavy influence of nomadic cultures, which was further accented by the Mongolian Empire and the Soviet Union. With Kazakhstan’s rich culture also comes vast natural reserves in the form of gas, oil, and minerals.

Kazakh is the native language, however, Russian is also widely spoken.

1. Charyn Canyon

Located southeast of Kazakhstan, just bordering China, Charyn Canyon is a breathtaking natural marvel. Dubbed as “The Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan” due to its resemblance, the canyon is famous for the bold red rock formations that have been shaped over millions of years, resulting in glorious landscapes, unique towers, and steep cliffs.

Charyn Canyon is often regarded as a treasure by nature enthusiasts and is sacred for hikers, photographers, and adventurers from all over the globe. The Charyn River that carves its way through the canyon allows for opportunities like picnicking and rafting along its banks, while the eco-lodges in the vicinity provide stunning panoramic views. Adding to the fame, one of the most known features of the canyon, known as ‘The Valley of Castles’ allows seasoned visitors to marvel at the wonders of centuries old towering rock formations that resemble ancient fortresses. On top of all this, the region is filled with rich history while the dramatic landscape provides the region a distinct touch.

2. Almaty – The Cultural Capital

The largest city in Kazakhstan, Almaty, is frequently referred to as the nation's cultural center. This bustling city, which is situated in the foothills of the magnificent Tian Shan Mountains, is a unique and dynamic center of culture because it successfully combines modern growth with rich traditions. Kazakhstan's artistic, intellectual, and historical life continues to revolve around Almaty.

Almaty has many theaters, museums, concert halls, and art galleries where local and international artists display their skills. With autonomous galleries and creative places like Tselinny Center of Contemporary Culture, which provides opportunities for young artists, street art and contemporary shows are also thriving.

3. Lake Kaindy

About 130 kilometers (81 miles) east of Almaty, in Kazakhstan's kungoy Ala-Too mountains, sits Lake KAINDY, also referred to as "The Sunken Forest," a strange and enigmatic alpine lake. Because of its elevation of 2,000 meters (6,600 feet), the lake's water is extremely frigid, even during the summer. Nevertheless, it's a well-liked location for horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife photography.

A huge limestone landslide was caused by a strong earthquake in 1911, which also blocked a gorge and allowed precipitation and mountain runoff to fill the valley. Like the spectral masts of lost ships, dozens of tall, naked spruce tree trunks rise hauntingly from the turquoise-blue waves. The chilly mountain water beneath the surface has kept the tree branches intact, producing an unearthly underwater scene that appeals to both photographers and scuba divers. The surrounding region, which is a part of Kolsai Lakes National Park, provides stunning vistas of untamed mountains, verdant forests, and a variety of species. A hidden jewel in Kazakhstan, it offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and an almost magical atmosphere that makes it a must-visit location for anyone who enjoy adventure and the outdoors.

4. Astana – NurSultan

Officially renamed in 2019 in honor of Kazakhstan's first president, Nur-Sultan Nazarbayev, Astana is now known as "Nursultan."

Nestled along the banks of the Ishim River in the country's center, Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan. Over the past several decades, it has transformed from a tiny village into a contemporary, futuristic metropolis. The city is renowned for its avant-garde and eye-catching architecture, which combines aspects of Kazakh culture with contemporary design.

The city's emblem is the Bayterek Tower, a 105-meter tall observation tower with a golden sphere at the summit that provides expansive city views. This tower is a famous feature of Astana's skyline and symbolizes the fabled tree of life.

The pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, created by British architect Norman Foster, is a representation of Kazakhstan's dedication to peace and harmony. In addition to hosting several international gatherings, such as religious and political summits, it also functions as a cultural hub.

5. Big Almaty Lake

This marvelous lake is positioned 15 km south of Almaty city in the Tien Shah mountains of Kazakhstan, making it easily accessible and a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. It is famous for its dramatic vistas which makes it a great destination for hikers and photographers.

During winters, this region is transformed into a snowy paradise with the towering peaks surrounding the lake, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Moreover, this lake is also surrounded by mesmerizing loamy forests and rugged terrain which further makes it a great location for outdoor activities.

Big Alamaty lake is famed for its beauty in autumn too, when the golden trees surrounding the lake reflect perfectly in the water. The lake is also universally captivating during the summer months because the glacial turquoise blue waters provide a stark contrast against the remaining mountains.

6. Altyn – Emel National Park

Altyn-emel national park is located in the southeast area of Kazakhstan. This park is famous for its exceptionally beautiful wildlife, geological areas, and stunning natural landscapes. Besides, the park boasts of the well known Singing Dunes, a one of a kind natural phenomenon located in the park’s expansive desert. The dunes may produce music due to the wind. Some of them grow as much as 150 meters tall.

This national park also hosts some animal species, such as the Persian leopard, Bukhara deer, the endangered wild ass known as kulan, and numerous birds like eagles and vultures. These animals take advantage of the rich biodiversity found in the park.

7. Kolsai Lakes.

Known as the “Pearl of Tien Shan,” Kolsai Lakes is a beautiful natural marvel that lies in the South Eastern part of Kazakhstan. The place is well known for its three captivating alpine lakes and the stunning Tien Shan mountain range that surrounds it. These lakes set in lush green valleys were formed from glacial meltwater and become much more attractive thanks to the lush flora and rich biodiversity of the area.

With the deepest blue waters, Kolsai is the largest and most easily reachable lake. It’s beauty transforms with the surrounding rugged hills and pine forests. The place is also rich in flora and fauna with its diversity of birds and wildflowers. Kolsai attracts people who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, horseback riding, and much more.

8. Mangystau Region

The distant and remarkable Mangystau region, which lies in southwest Kazakhstan, is well-known for its untamed landscapes, distinctive natural features, and historical significance. It is a region of semi-desert and desert topography with gorges, vast salt flats, and striking rock formations.

One of Mangystau's most alluring locations is Bozzhyra, a strange and breathtaking scenery that is frequently likened to the surface of Mars because of its ochre and reddish-brown cliffs, barren soil, and towering rock formations. Bozzhyra is well-known for its amazing "fairy tale" rocks, which are massive, strange formations that appear to have been molded with deep valleys and pointed peaks. Because of its breathtaking vistas and sense of seclusion, this location is very well-liked by tourists.

9. Baikonur’s Cosmodrome

One of the most significant and ancient space launch locations in the world is Baikonur's cosmodrome, which is located on Kazakhstan's expansive steppe. It was created by the Soviet Union in 1955. It is the world's oldest and biggest operational cosmodrome. Because it has a long history of sending both manned and unmanned flights into space, the cosmodrome is frequently referred to as the "Gateway to space".

With a total area of more than 26,000 square kilometers, the complex includes a number of launch pads, mission control centers, and vehicle assembly buildings.

The Cosmodrome is open for tours, allowing visitors to see its remarkable history and infrastructure up close. The site is nevertheless a potent representation of humanity's quest for space exploration and scientific growth, despite the fact that access to some portions is limited due to its active nature.

10. Turkestan

Known as a significant cultural and spiritual hub for the region, Turkestan is a medieval city in southern Kazakhstan. The city is well-known for its magnificent architectural treasures and important Islamic heritage.

One of the most significant architectural structures in central Asia is the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, which is located in Turkestan and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most recognizable sights in the city is the building's characteristic blue dome. Its inside is as stunning, featuring elaborate calligraphy, carvings, and tile work that showcase the period's artistry and skill. With its magnificent size and exquisite ornamental elements, this is a striking example of Timurid architecture.

Explore our Almaty Packages.