10 Places to Visit in Kazakhstan, Tourist Places & Attractions

Kazakhstan, a vast and stunning country in Central Asia, offers a diverse range of attractions for every kind of traveler. Kazakhstan is a country with the beauty from its magnificent mountains, sprawling deserts, vibrant cities and an impressive cultural heritage. No matter if you are an adventure hunter, a history junkie or simply a person who loves to be in nature, Kazakhstan has to offer you more than you could imagine. We will take you through the 10 must visit places in Kazakhstan where you’ll create memories to cherish.

We think that before getting started with your adventure to Kazakh, you must be prepared with all of the travel documentation. It is necessary to get a Kazakhstan visa from India if you are traveling from India. In case you are an Indian national, you can easily apply for a Kazakhstan visa from India after you collect all the documents and apply in advance. The best 10 places you have to visit in Kazakhstan. 

Here are the 10 Places to Visit in Kazakhstan, Tourist Places & Attractions

1. Almaty

The largest city in Kazakhstan is Almaty and it is the perfect place to start your adventure. Almaty has a vibrant culture, stunning mountainous backdrop and bustling shopping districts, and is a blend of tradition and modernity. Go to the Medeu Skating Rink of the highest in the world and also on Kok Tobe Hill, taking a cable to see panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains. And don’t forget to check out Almaty’s cultural scene, Central State Museum and Green Bazaar.

2. Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is sometimes called the ‘Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan’ and talk about it is guaranteed to leave you jaw dropped. Its 80 kilometre landscape covers rolling red sandstone formations, creating a rather dramatic scene. It is about 200 kilometers away from Almaty and a must visit for nature lovers and hikers. The canyon has different valleys, including the Valley of Castles, with rock formations resembling ancient ruins. If you are looking for a one of the beaten path adventures, Charyn Canyon is perfect.

3. Lake Balkhash

One of the largest lakes in Asia and an important stop for nature enthusiasts, Lake Balkhash is. It’s a very rare natural phenomenon, as this lake has saltwater and freshwater sections. The beautiful landscapes around Lake Balkhash include deserts, mountains, and there are recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Its location is remote, which only enhances the tranquility, and is a great place to go to relax and experience the beauty of Kazakhstan’s natural environment.

4. Astana (Nur-Sultan)

Astana (now known as Nur-Sultan) is the capital city of Kazakhstan and is a futuristic city with impressive architecture and innovative designs. Now, Nur-Sultan is a symbol of the modern Kazakhstan, a blend of cultural and futuristic skyscrapers. Panoramic views of the city can be had by visiting the Bayterek Tower or on the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a pyramid-shaped

structure. Modern parks, museums, and art galleries of the city are a must see for travelers who are interested in contemporary culture.

5. Kolsai Lakes

There are three beautiful alpine lakes in the Kolsai Lakes grouped in the high Kolsai valley in the Tien Shan Mountains surrounded by lush forest and immense peaks. The lakes are crystal clear, and thus are often popular spots for hiking and camping, the surrounding mountains are reflected in their waters. For those who want to enjoy Kazakhstan’s natural beauty in peace and serenity, the area is perfect. In a walk along the lake shores or an exertion, Kolsai Lakes makes for a stunning trip to nature.

6. Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is an architectural wonder and an important cultural and religious site in Kazakhstan, sitting in the city of Turkistan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is built in the 14th century and is devoted to the famous Sufi mystic Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. The mausoleum is famous for its splendid grand blue dome, intricate tile work and its Islamic style of architecture. For the people interested in Kazakhstan’s spiritual and cultural heritage it’s an important historical site.

7. Altai Mountains

Altai Mountains are majestic range in the eastern part of Kazakhstan, it stretches across four countries Kazakhstan, Russia, China, and Mongolia. The Altai Mountains are known as havens for outdoor enthusiasts due to its incredible biodiversity, pristine wilderness and like so very many places, it’s incredibly untapped. Hiking, camping, wildlife watching are the most popular activities here and the area’s remote beauty provides the perfect opportunity to get away from the city. If you don’t take the chance to go through the dense forests, glaciers and alpine meadows of this UNESCO listed region.

8. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve

The Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve is the oldest nature reserve in Central Asia, situated in southern Kazakhstan. As a top destination for wildlife lovers, this protected area is home to some wild boars, snow leopards and ibex. In addition to stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, lush valleys, the reserve is also an excellent place for hiking and bird watching. Kazakhstan’s rich biodiversity is available to be explored in an untouched environment in the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve.

9. Burabay National Park

Burabay National Park is situated in the north central part of Kazakhstan and is one of the most beautiful places. The Burabay Lake is located in the park, which is surrounded by green hills, rocky formations and dense forest. Since the area is ideal for hiking, boating, and relaxing by the water, it is the perfect place to visit. In addition, Burabay is famous for its wildlife, which includes elk, wild boar and many bird species. The national park is this beautiful option for you to take relax and be surrounded by nature.

10. Karakol Valley

Karakol Valley is a beautiful place for nature and adventure lovers in the east of Kazakhstan. The valley is known for its greenery, alpine meadows and the beautiful mountain views. The valley’s scenic trails are open to visitors who can explore the valley’s scenic trails or enjoy picnics by the riverside or go on longer treks to remote areas. These nomadic settlements also make the valley a place to see Kazakhstan’s traditional way of life.

Conclusion

Kazakhstan is a country with a combination of natural beauty, rich history and vibrant cities. Kazakhstan offers a different place to visit whatever you are interested in: wonderful landscapes, historical sightseeing or modern cities. Do not forget to get Kazakhstan visa before your trip and plan ahead. If you’re travelling from India, you will need to apply Kazakhstan Visa from India and prepare for the beauty and adventure of Kazakhstan.

When it comes to traveling, Kazakhstan is a destination not to be missed from anyone’s bucket list with majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and historical sites that put this turn of the Soviet Union in anyone’s top ten destinations to explore. Start planning your trip to the Kazakhstan and apply for your visa from India.