things-to-do-in-Almaty, Kazakhstan

Almaty, Kazakhstan: A Treasure Trove of Adventure and Culture

Located in the southeastern part of Kazakhstan, Almaty is the largest city in the country and a popular destination for tourists. Surrounded by the majestic Tian Shan mountains, Almaty offers a unique blend of Soviet-era architecture, modern amenities, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here are some top things to do in Almaty that will make your trip an unforgettable experience:

Natural Wonders

1. Big Almaty Lake

Take a scenic drive to Big Almaty Lake, a stunning turquoise lake nestled in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, or simply take in the breathtaking views.

2. Kök-Töbe Hill

Ride the famous Almaty cable car to Kök-Töbe Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. You can also hike up to the hill for a more adventurous experience.

Cultural Experiences

3. Green Market (Zeleny Bazaar)

Visit the bustling Green Market, where you can sample local delicacies like shashlik, beshbarmak, and kuyrdak. Don’t forget to try some fresh fruits and nuts!

4. Central State Museum

Learn about Kazakhstan’s rich history and culture at the Central State Museum, which features exhibits on everything from ancient civilizations to Soviet-era artifacts.

5. Opera and Ballet Theatre

Catch a performance at the stunning Opera and Ballet Theatre, a beautiful example of Russian colonial architecture.

Urban Delights

6. Dostyk Avenue (Prospekt Dostyk)

Stroll along Dostyk Avenue, Almaty’s main thoroughfare, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Be sure to check out the impressive monuments and fountains along the way.

7. Astana Square

Visit Astana Square, a vibrant hub of activity surrounded by important landmarks like the President’s Residence and the Constitutional Court.

Adventure Activities

8. Skiing and Snowboarding

Hit the slopes at one of Almaty’s several ski resorts, such as Shymbulak or Tabagan, which offer world-class facilities and stunning mountain scenery.

9. Paragliding and Helicopter Tours

Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of Almaty with paragliding or helicopter tours.

Food and Drink

10. Traditional Kazakh Cuisine

Sample traditional Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak (noodle soup), shashlik (skewers of marinated meat), and baursak (fried doughnuts). Don’t forget to try some local beers like Tian Shan or Carlsberg Kazakhstan.

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: While many Almaty residents speak Russian, English is becoming increasingly popular. However, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Kazakh phrases.
  • Currency: The Kazakhstani tenge (KZT) is the local currency, although USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Almaty has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Safety: Almaty is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities, Almaty is an unforgettable destination for any traveler. So come and experience it for yourself!