Famous Landmarks in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, officially the Republic of Kazakhstan, is located in Central Asia, bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west. The capital city is Astana (also known as Nur-Sultan), with other major cities including Almaty, Shymkent, and Karaganda. Kazakhstan has a resource-rich economy, primarily driven by oil, gas, and mining, along with agriculture and manufacturing. Major landmarks include the Charyn Canyon, Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, and Bayterek Tower. Kazakhstan is a member of the United Nations (UN), the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The country faces challenges related to economic diversification, political reforms, and environmental sustainability. (Source: getzipcodes.org)
Top 10 Landmarks in Kazakhstan
1. Bayterek Tower
Landmark Overview
Bayterek Tower, a symbol of Kazakhstan’s capital city, Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana), is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country. Standing 105 meters tall, the tower represents a modern, forward-looking Kazakhstan while also symbolizing the myth of the “Tree of Life” from Kazakh folklore. Visitors can ascend to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and explore an observation deck that houses a golden handprint of former President Nursultan Nazarbayev.
Location
- Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 51.1289° N, 71.4305° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Approximately 700 KZT ($1.50 USD) per adult.
Nearby Airports
- Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport: Located about 14 kilometers from Bayterek Tower.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Nur-Sultan Railway Station: About 8 kilometers from the tower, with easy access via taxi or public transport.
Special Attention
Golden Handprint
At the top of Bayterek Tower, visitors can place their hand in a golden handprint of Nursultan Nazarbayev, symbolizing the former president’s role in the creation of the capital.
Best Time to Visit
The views from the observation deck are especially stunning at sunset when the city is illuminated by lights, offering a contrasting view of modern Nur-Sultan.
2. Charyn Canyon
Landmark Overview
Charyn Canyon is often referred to as Kazakhstan’s “Grand Canyon,” and while smaller in size, it offers equally dramatic landscapes. Located in the southeastern part of the country, near the border with China, Charyn Canyon features towering red cliffs and rock formations carved by the Charyn River over millions of years. The most famous part of the canyon is the Valley of Castles, named for its unique rock formations that resemble ancient fortresses.
Location
- Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 43.3554° N, 79.2317° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Around 750 KZT ($1.60 USD) per person.
Nearby Airports
- Almaty International Airport: Located about 220 kilometers from Charyn Canyon.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Almaty Railway Station: Visitors can travel by train to Almaty and then take a road trip or organized tour to the canyon.
Special Attention
Hiking Opportunities
Charyn Canyon offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the rugged landscape up close. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the area can get very hot in summer.
Camping in the Canyon
Camping is allowed in designated areas within the canyon, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend more time exploring the natural beauty of the region.
3. Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort
Landmark Overview
Medeu Skating Rink is the highest ice rink in the world, located at an altitude of 1,691 meters in the Tian Shan Mountains, just outside Almaty. Known for its clear mountain air and stunning surroundings, Medeu is a popular destination for both ice skating and speed skating competitions. Nearby, Shymbulak Ski Resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, making this area a year-round destination for outdoor activities.
Location
- Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 43.1609° N, 76.9533° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee for Medeu Skating Rink: 1,800 KZT ($4 USD) per person.
- Lift Tickets for Shymbulak Ski Resort: Prices vary depending on the season, with day passes starting at around 7,000 KZT ($15 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Almaty International Airport: Located about 25 kilometers from the Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Almaty Railway Station: Located about 18 kilometers from Medeu, with taxi services available.
Special Attention
Best Time to Visit
Winter is the best time to visit Medeu for ice skating and Shymbulak for skiing, while summer offers excellent hiking and sightseeing opportunities in the mountains.
Cable Car to Shymbulak
A scenic cable car ride connects Medeu to Shymbulak Ski Resort, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
4. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
Landmark Overview
The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is one of the most significant religious and historical landmarks in Kazakhstan. Located in the town of Turkistan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 14th century and is considered a masterpiece of Timurid architecture. The mausoleum was constructed in honor of the famous Sufi mystic Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, and it continues to be a place of pilgrimage for Muslims across Central Asia.
Location
- Turkistan, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 43.2974° N, 68.2726° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Approximately 500 KZT ($1.10 USD) per person.
Nearby Airports
- Shymkent International Airport: Located about 170 kilometers from Turkistan.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Turkistan Railway Station: The town is well connected by train from major cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan.
Special Attention
Architectural Highlights
The mausoleum is known for its massive dome, intricately decorated tiles, and beautiful minarets. Visitors should take their time to appreciate the fine craftsmanship and historical significance of the structure.
Cultural Significance
Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is revered as one of the greatest poets and spiritual leaders in the region. The mausoleum is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims, and visitors should be respectful of the religious customs observed here.
5. Astana Opera
Landmark Overview
Astana Opera is one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in Kazakhstan, located in the heart of Nur-Sultan. The opera house is known for its stunning neoclassical architecture and world-class performances, ranging from opera and ballet to classical music concerts. The building’s grand design, complete with a lavish auditorium, marble columns, and intricate frescoes, makes it one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city.
Location
- Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 51.1371° N, 71.4074° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Tickets for performances vary, with prices starting from 2,000 KZT ($4.50 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport: Located about 17 kilometers from the opera house.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Nur-Sultan Railway Station: Located about 10 kilometers from Astana Opera.
Special Attention
Attending Performances
Check the performance schedule ahead of time and book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows and international performances.
Guided Tours
Astana Opera offers guided tours of the building, allowing visitors to explore the magnificent architecture and learn about the history of the opera house.
6. Big Almaty Lake
Landmark Overview
Big Almaty Lake is a stunning natural landmark located high in the Tian Shan Mountains, about 28 kilometers south of Almaty. The lake’s turquoise waters are surrounded by snow-capped peaks, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. Formed by a dammed glacial river, the lake is a key water source for Almaty. Visitors can hike around the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Location
- Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 43.0514° N, 76.9837° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to visit the lake.
Nearby Airports
- Almaty International Airport: Located about 40 kilometers from Big Almaty Lake.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Almaty Railway Station: Located about 35 kilometers from the lake, with taxi or tour services available to reach the area.
Special Attention
Hiking and Photography
The lake offers excellent opportunities for hiking and photography. However, visitors should note that the lake’s waters are very cold and not suitable for swimming.
Weather Conditions
The area around Big Almaty Lake can get cold even in summer, so visitors should bring warm clothing and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
7. Tamgaly Petroglyphs
Landmark Overview
The Tamgaly Petroglyphs are an ancient collection of rock carvings located in the Chu-Ili Mountains, northwest of Almaty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features over 5,000 petroglyphs that date back to the Bronze Age, depicting scenes of hunting, animals, and religious rituals. The site is an important archaeological treasure, offering insight into the lives of early inhabitants of the region.
Location
- Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 43.7753° N, 75.5219° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: 500 KZT ($1.10 USD) per person.
Nearby Airports
- Almaty International Airport: Located about 120 kilometers from the Tamgaly Petroglyphs.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Almaty Railway Station: Visitors can reach the petroglyphs via a combination of train and car travel from Almaty.
Special Attention
Guided Tours
Hiring a guide is recommended to fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the petroglyphs, as many of the carvings have specific meanings related to ancient religious practices.
Best Time to Visit
The site is best visited in spring and autumn when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for hiking around the area.
8. Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center
Landmark Overview
Khan Shatyr is a massive, futuristic shopping and entertainment center in Nur-Sultan, designed by British architect Norman Foster. The center, shaped like a giant tent, covers an area of 140,000 square meters and features a wide range of shops, restaurants, cinemas, and even an indoor beach. Khan Shatyr has become a symbol of modern Kazakhstan, combining innovative architecture with leisure and entertainment facilities.
Location
- Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 51.1320° N, 71.4145° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to enter the shopping mall. Prices for entertainment facilities vary.
Nearby Airports
- Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport: Located about 15 kilometers from Khan Shatyr.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Nur-Sultan Railway Station: Located about 8 kilometers from the center.
Special Attention
Sky Beach Club
One of the unique features of Khan Shatyr is the Sky Beach Club, an indoor tropical beach located on the top floor of the mall. It offers warm sand, palm trees, and a swimming pool, making it a popular spot for relaxation year-round.
Architectural Wonder
Khan Shatyr is an architectural marvel, with its translucent roof allowing natural light to filter in while maintaining a comfortable temperature inside. Be sure to visit during both day and night to see the building illuminated.
9. Altyn Emel National Park
Landmark Overview
Altyn Emel National Park is one of Kazakhstan’s largest national parks, known for its unique landscapes, including the Singing Dunes, colorful mountains, and diverse wildlife. The park covers over 4,600 square kilometers and is home to rare species such as the goitered gazelle, wild horses, and ibex. The Singing Dunes are a popular attraction, producing a humming sound when the sand is disturbed, a phenomenon caused by the movement of dry sand particles.
Location
- Almaty Region, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 44.6908° N, 78.2501° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Around 1,500 KZT ($3.30 USD) per person.
Nearby Airports
- Almaty International Airport: Located about 300 kilometers from the park.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Sary-Ozek Railway Station: The nearest railway station, located about 100 kilometers from the park’s entrance.
Special Attention
Singing Dunes
Visitors to Altyn Emel should not miss the opportunity to experience the Singing Dunes, where the sand creates a distinctive sound when walking or sliding down the slopes.
Wildlife Spotting
The park is an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to see rare animals in their natural habitat. Hiring a local guide can increase your chances of spotting these elusive creatures.
10. Zenkov Cathedral
Landmark Overview
Zenkov Cathedral, located in Almaty, is one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world and a fine example of Russian Orthodox architecture in Central Asia. Built in 1904, the cathedral is made entirely of wood, including the nails, and has survived numerous earthquakes. The interior features intricate frescoes and religious icons, making it a peaceful and beautiful place for visitors to explore.
Location
- Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Coordinates: 43.2567° N, 76.9534° E
Ticket Price
- Entrance Fee: Free to enter.
Nearby Airports
- Almaty International Airport: Located about 15 kilometers from Zenkov Cathedral.
Nearby Railway Stations
- Almaty Railway Station: Located about 6 kilometers from the cathedral.
Special Attention
Architectural Beauty
The cathedral’s colorful exterior and wooden structure are unique, making it a must-see for architecture lovers. Be sure to visit the interior, which is equally impressive with its ornate decorations.
Historical Significance
Zenkov Cathedral has a rich history and has played a significant role in the religious life of Almaty. Visitors should respect the quiet and contemplative atmosphere, as it remains an active place of worship.
