10 Must-See Attractions in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked nation of the world and although it is a land of vast steppes and majestic mountains, it is also that land of ancient cities and ultramodern skylines. Whether you are interested in a futuristic architecture or the primordial beauty of the national parks and lakes, Kazakhstan is a place that will not leave you indifferent. A mix of Central Asian traditions, Silk Road history, and Soviet relics turns this destination into a culturally diverse place as it is a geographically diverse one.

Tour Packages to Kazakhstan are gaining popularity among people who prefer unusual and enriching travel experience. If you need the quietness of alpine lakes or the excitement of desert dunes, this Central Asian jewel is bound to offer you whatever you desire. To help you plan a perfect getaway with the best Kazakhstan vacation package and save the most money, this guide enlists the 10 must-see attractions in Kazakhstan.

Here are the 10 Must-See Attractions in Kazakhstan

1. Almaty – The Cultural Capital

Almaty is the biggest city of Kazakhstan and the former capital of the country, and a city of arts, culture, and cuisine. It features quaint boulevards, lush parks and nightlife, surrounded by mountains with snow capped tops. There are such attractions as Green Bazaar, Zenkov Cathedral, Kok-Tobe Hill, so do not lose them. Almaty forms an excellent base of numerous Holiday Packages to Kazakhstan. It is also very near mountain ranges and lakes, where people can enjoy the city life and have an adventure experience in a small drive.

2. Charyn Canyon – Kazakhstan’s Grand Canyon

Charyn Canyon is a marvelous natural landmark situated approximately 200 km away from Almaty and eroded by the Charyn River. The canyon is ideal to hike and take photographs with soaring red sandstone cliffs just like the ones in the American Southwest. This magnificent place is within a day trip of most Tour Packages to Kazakhstan. A particular section of the canyon called the Valley of Castles is particularly renowned with its scenic beauty and sunset scenes.

3. Astana (Nur-Sultan) – The Futuristic Capital

The capital, called Astana (now Nur-Sultan) and most recently known as a futuristic city with such architectural wonders as The Bayterek Tower, the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, and the Nur Alem Pavilion. This is a carefully designed city symbolizing Kazakhstan hopes and developments. The modern atmosphere that Astana emanates is the best contrast to the historic places of Kazakhstan, so this place is a must-see in any cheap Kazakhstan tour.

4. Kaindy Lake – The Sunken Forest

This unreal lake of the Alps in the Tien Shan Mountains is famous because of its ghostlike sunken forest of fir trees. Designed as a result of landslide caused by an earthquake, the underwater landscape of Kaindy Lake seems like an alien place. The lake is a component of numerous eco-adventure Holiday Packages to Kazakhstan, which gives visitors an opportunity to hike, ride horseback and take pictures of beautiful scenery in the pristine nature.

5. Big Almaty Lake – A Turquoise Marvel

The Big Almaty Lake is one of the most beautiful glacial lakes with turquoise waters located in the mountains just a short drive away from Almaty. It has spectacular scenery and fresh air at 2,500 meters above the sea level. An ideal half-day excursion, this lake is often included in the Tour Packages to Kazakhstan with the emphasis on the nature and outdoor activities.

6. Shymkent – Southern Charm and History

Shymkent is one of the ancient cities of Kazakhstan with the mixture of modern features and historical value. It is a vibrant city that is rich with bazaars, historic monuments and gateway to other nearby archaeological sites such as Otyrar and Turkestan. Those tourists who are interested in the history of the Silk Road can visit this culturally rich city with the help of a number of affordable Kazakhstan vacation packages.

7. Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve – A Biodiversity Hotspot

Created in 1926, Aksu-Zhabagly is the first nature reserve in Central Asia and harbors some of the rare species such as snow leopards and tulips among others. The reserve has clean hiking trails and an opportunity to explore virgin wilderness. Holiday Packages to Kazakhstan should be sought by those people who love nature since no other place can provide you with an experience of true eco-tourism.

8. Baikonur Cosmodrome – Gateway to Space

The first and the largest space launch facility is the Baikonur Cosmodrome. Admission needs special permits though seeing a live rocket launching or visiting the museum is an experience in a lifetime. A tour to this historic site in Kazakhstan is a must-visit site and some of the niche Tour Packages to Kazakhstan have guided tours to the site.

9. Tamgaly Petroglyphs – Ancient Rock Art

Tamgaly Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds thousands of petroglyphs carved during the Bronze Age of animals, human beings, and rites. It gives us a good reflection of the ancient nomads. This archaeological marvel is usually incorporated in cultural Holiday Packages to Kazakhstan which provides a submergence into the prehistoric history of the country.

10. Singing Dunes – Natural Music in the Desert

The Singing Dunes are a natural phenomenon, situated in the Altyn Emel National Park, in the sand of which the humming noise is heard when it is disturbed. They are 150 meters tall and provide a special desert scenery experience. These dunes form an interesting extension to most of the cheap Kazakhstan travel packages that are meant to be enjoyed by people who love odd and magical sceneries.

Conclusion

The rich history of the country, the beautiful natural sceneries, and the combination of the old-world and the new age cities makes Kazakhstan a prime destination to global travelers. Be it nature, adventure, history or futuristic city, Kazakhstan has a very diverse set of offering and will leave one with a great experience.

There are a number of Tour Packages to Kazakhstan and Holiday Packages to Kazakhstan, and that is why it is easier than ever to plan your dream journey. Whether you fancy a luxury vacation or a cheap Kazakhstan vacation package, there is something to accommodate every tourist according to their taste and budget. Begin your Kazakh experience now and discover the secrets of this Central Asian gem.