Hello, fellow readers, Today we are taking you on a tour of Almaty, one of the biggest cities in Kazakhstan. So, be with us till the end; we have shared some amazing information in this blog that might help you plan your trip to Almaty.
Almaty is the largest city and cultural centre of Kazakhstan, situated in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. The stunning nature, rich history, and dynamic urban life make Almaty a favourite place for travellers of all kinds. Mountains reaching far above, calm lakes shimmering like mirrors, crowded markets, and ancient landmarks make this city a remarkable one.
Below are twelve key attractions that encapsulate what makes Almaty such an amazing place.
1. Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort
Medeu Skating Rink
Medeu skating rink is the highest ice rink in the world, as it is located at an altitude of 1,691 metres above sea level. Medeu has top-notch ice surfaces, attracting international competitions, and also has a large number of both professional and amateur skaters who love visiting here. Besides providing you with opportunities to skate on its rink, which is beautifully surrounded by mountains during the winter months when there’s no snow anywhere else, it becomes active. There’s nothing more beautiful than being able to skate outdoors surrounded by mountainous Tien Shan peaks.
Shymbulak Ski Resort
Shymbulak ski resort offers some of the of the best-quality skiing facilities, not far from Medeu. This destination boasts numerous slopes designed for skiers with different experience levels, ranging from beginners to experts. Shymbulak is the perfect place for those looking to engage in winter sports outside of skiing; they may decide on snowshoeing or tubing instead. When summer comes, this area turns into a paradise for mountain bikers or hikers who can traverse its paths, giving unbelievable views of the local mountaintops surrounding it right now. Besides that, the luxury chalets available for rent, along with excellent dining options and equipment rentals, will ensure your trip goes smoothly.
2. Kok-Tobe Hill
Kok-Tobe Hill sits at one end of the city and has become one of its most famous attractions, offering panoramic views of Almaty. You can get to the top by using a funicular that starts from the central park in the city. This cable car journey is also an amazing experience and provides stunning views as it goes up towards the hilltop. On top of that, there are all kinds of exciting things to do, including a mini zoo, a Ferris wheel, and numerous dining options. The viewing platform at Kok-Tobe is ideal for watching sunsets overlooking Almaty; you’ll be amazed at what you see from here! It’s worth mentioning that there is a statue of The Beatles on this hill that has become iconic for many tourists.
3. The Central State Museum of Kazakhstan
The Central State Museum of Kazakhstan is a must-visit site for those who are interested in learning about the history and culture of Kazakhstan. There are vast numbers of relics displayed in this museum, ranging from traditional clothes worn by Kazakhs to ancient tools and historical documents. Exhibits vary from paleoanthropology times till nowadays, covering all main topics and giving an idea about the rich cultural heritage left behind throughout centuries by people who lived there before us. The museum captivates visitors due to its beautiful architecture and carefully chosen objects presented inside, making it an interesting stopover for everyone interested in historical facts about past lives led within the country’s boundaries. Highlights include the Hall of Gold with collections about ancient golden artefacts and the Ethnographic Hall, where one can learn more about the traditions followed among Kazakhstani people these days.
4. Zenkov Cathedral
This place, also known as the Ascension Cathedral or Zenkov Cathedral, is one of the landmarks that Almaty is best known for. An architectural wonder, this Russian Orthodox Church was constructed entirely using wood without a single nail. The cathedral in Panfilov Park stands out with its lively colours and detailed patterns. Visitors can see beautiful paintings and richly decorated walls inside the building. It is a quiet place in which to meditate within its premises, and the park surrounding it provides a perfect sanctuary from the noise of Almaty city centre. The cathedral also conducts religious services, enabling guests to gain insight into Almaty’s spiritual side.
5. Green Bazaar (Zelyony Bazaar)
The Green Bazaar is a buzzing market that gives visitors a true reflection of Almaty’s local lifestyle. Among other things on sale are fresh produce, traditional Kazakh foodstuffs, clothes, and souvenirs. In this market, you can also find kurt (balls made of dried cheese), baursak (fried dough), and various types of dried fruits or nuts, all representing local dishes. The Green Bazaar offers a wonderful atmosphere where buyers interact with sellers who receive them warmly into their stalls with an expression of appreciation and kindness as they walk around busy streets filled with people selling different items like spices, honey crafts, et cetera, with authentic Kazakh products for purchase while haggling with vendors for better prices!
6. Big Almaty Lake
Almaty Big Lake is an alpine lake located about 28 kilometres to the south of Almaty, which is surrounded by tall mountains, making it very picturesque. The amazing azure waters here are nice to look at; moreover, several walking or picnicking locations are found around this place. It lies within Ile-Alatau National Park, which has diverse wildlife species, including plants. The natural beauty of the lake and its environment provide a serene escape from the city. The lake also acts as a favourite scene for photography due to its crystal-clear water that mirrors the surrounding mountain peaks. During the summer season, wildflowers bloom all over, adding to the beauty of the area.
7. Almaty Opera House
Alma-Ata Opera House is a place in which various performances, including ballet and classical music concerts, take place. It is a magnificent edifice in itself, with beautifully furnished rooms and excellent acoustics. It is an opportunity not to be missed if one wants to feel how rich this city is culturally. Besides, it offers guided tours that give guests information about its historical development and introduce them to important aspects of Kazakh performance arts. Artists of renown, both national and global, have been known to perform there, thus making it indispensable for any culture enthusiast.
8. First President’s Park
First President’s Park was built as a tribute to Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan’s first president, and today stands as a must-visit attraction in Almaty due to its beauty. Naturally landscaped parkland with open grassy areas, footpaths, and fountains is what the park boasts of. The park has become a popular place for walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. The park also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, giving you perfect moments for relaxation. Currently, the park holds several cultural events throughout the year, such as festivals, that make it a community space exuding vibrancy. In addition, when lit up at night, the central fountain within this park becomes one of its most visited locations.
9. Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon is an important place for people who are interested in nature, even though it is not found within Almaty itself. It’s located approximately 200 kilometres to the east of the city and reminds me of the Grand Canyon due to its spectacular landscapes and striking rock formations. Walking through the trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints along the Charyn River would let visitors explore this canyon on foot. This makes it more interesting for nature lovers and photographers because unique plants and animals can be found here. The part called “Valley of Castles,” which is part of that place, amazes visitors with its huge rocks that look like ancient castles.
10. Almaty Central Park
Almaty Central Park, or Gorky Park, as it is also known, is a big urban park where a lot of recreational activities take place. There are a few amusement rides, a boating lake, a zoo, and some children’s playgrounds, which make it very popular among families with kids. The well-maintained greenery in the park makes for pleasant walking paths under shade; hence, many people go there to spend relaxing moments. Besides, the summer period comes with outdoor music concerts and various cultural events organised right inside the park, making it appear more lively than any other season does, thereby giving tourists something extra to enjoy at such a time. Moreover, within the park, you can find several cafes offering different snacks and drinks for tourists.
11. Museum of Folk Musical Instruments
The museum has a collection that showcases Kazakhstan’s rich musical heritage by displaying various traditional instruments like kobyz, dombra, sybyzgy, etc., representing its extraordinarily unique culture of folk music instruments from all over Kazakhstan. The building in which the museum is crafted out of wood has been beautifully renovated, thus adding to the charm of visiting this area. Moreover, interactive demonstrations and workshops are often carried out within the museum. The history behind these items will astonish all those who come into contact with them, as will the role music plays in Kazakh culture. This way, the museum ensures that visitors can be fully absorbed within it by letting them participate in some of its performances.
12. Ile-Alatau National Park
Ile-Alatau National Park is an extensive wildlife preserve located just south of Almaty that boasts diverse flora and fauna along with picturesque landscapes. The park includes several trails for walkers through thick forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrain. It has numerous natural features, such as waterfalls, glaciers, and virgin lakes, among others, that are only found in these areas alone. Also, because of its relatively large population of various animals like marmots, ibex, or even eagles that may be seen, there is a perfect destination for those who love nature. The place would certainly suit anyone, whether they prefer to walk all day long through the mountains or simply stay somewhere quietly, admiring the beauty of nature around them. Ile-Alatau National Park near Almaty is worth visiting by both tourists on camping expeditions who prefer being close to nature and those interested in sightseeing since it offers services including guided tours.
Conclusion
Almaty City blends nicely with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From magnificent mountains to beautiful lakes, vibrant markets, and historical sites, there is no limit to what one can do or see in this dynamic town. Here you could enjoy many unforgettable experiences, like exploring the architectural splendours of Zenkov Cathedral, skating at the world’s highest ice rink, or hiking around the cleanest landscapes presented by Ile-Alatau National Park. To get a taste of Almaty’s diversity, one should first visit these twelve fascinating places.
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