2025 Kazakhstan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

[6 Days and 5 Nights Deep Tour in Kazakhstan] Unlock the Secrets of Central Asia! A Visual Feast from Snow Mountains to Deserts Hey everyone! I just got back from Kazakhstan, and this visa-free treasure of a country has truly amazed me! 🏔️ From the Alps-like snow mountains to the Mars-like red deserts, and prices so low they're touching (a cup of coffee is only 8 RMB!), today I'm offering you this freshly baked guide with both hands, to take you around this mysterious Central Asian country~ ✈️ [Transportation Guide] ▪️ Airplane: Direct flights from Beijing/Urumqi to Almaty (3.5 hrs) ▪️ Domestic Transportation: Recommended Yandex taxi (cheaper than taxis) ▪️ Intercity Transportation: High-speed rail/airplane are both convenient (Astana-Almaty high-speed rail 5 hrs) ▪️ Must-have APP: Yandex Maps + Translate 🏔️ [DAY1: First Impression of Almaty] 🕘 9:00 Ascension Cathedral The second tallest wooden church in the world! The candy-colored exterior is super dreamy, and the murals inside are breathtaking~ The morning light is best for taking pictures 🕛 12:00 Green Bazaar Super local market! Must-eat in the food area on the second floor: ▪️ Shashlik (charcoal grilled lamb skewers) ▪️ Baursak (Kazakh fried dough) 🕒 15:00 Kok-Tobe Hill Take the cable car up the mountain to overlook the whole city! The rainbow chair and Beatles sculpture on the top of the mountain are popular spots for taking photos, and it's so beautiful at sunset that you'll cry 🍖 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Navat (traditional Kazakh restaurant, the horse sausage platter is amazing) ▪️ Auyl (tent restaurant to experience nomadic culture) 🏜️ [DAY2: Shymbulak Ski Resort] 🕗 8:00 Medeu Ice Rink The highest ice rink in the world! You can play even in summer, and the snow mountain in the background is super stunning 🕐 13:00 Shymbulak Ski Resort The most luxurious ski resort in Central Asia! In summer, you can take the cable car to see the snow mountain, and you must try the plov in the restaurant on the top of the mountain 🌃 19:00 Arbat Pedestrian Street Almaty's "Champs Elysées"! There are street performances at night, remember to bargain when buying souvenirs (recommended Kazakh felt hats) 🔥 [DAY3: Kapchagay Canyon] 🕘 9:00 Charyn Canyon Mini version of the Grand Canyon! The red canyon is super photogenic, remember to wear non-slip shoes to walk the Moon Valley trail 🕑 14:00 Kolsai Lakes The "Pearl of the Tian Shan Mountains" lives up to its name! The three alpine lakes are like sapphires, and the lakeside is full of wildflowers in July-August 🍵 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Gakku (horse meat specialty restaurant) ▪️ Coffeedelia (popular industrial style coffee shop) 🚞 [DAY4: Modern Journey of Astana] 🕗 8:00 Khan Shatyr The largest tent building in the world! Inside is a shopping center, and the top floor has an indoor roller coaster and artificial beach 🕛 12:00 Hazrat Sultan Mosque The most beautiful mosque in Central Asia! The blue and gold dome shines in the sun, girls should wear robes to enter 🕠 17:00 Bayterek Tower The 91-meter-high "Christmas tree" building, you can see the panoramic view of the city when you climb to the top, and the light show at night is super stunning 🍴 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Astana Grill (high-end steakhouse) ▪️ Line Brew (craft beer + German sausage) 🏕️ [DAY5: Burabay National Park] 🕘 9:00 Lake Burabay "Kazakh Switzerland"! You can ride horses around the lake, and the wooden houses by the lake are super fairytale-like for taking pictures 🕑 14:00 Mount Okzhetpes It's super exciting to take the cable car to the top! The "Lonely Piano" on the top of the mountain is a popular spot for taking photos on Instagram 🌌 [DAY6: Altyn-Emel National Park] 🕗 8:00 Red Mountains It's like landing on Mars! It's beautiful to wear a white or black dress for taking pictures, it is recommended to rent an off-road vehicle for in-depth exploration 🕛 12:00 Singing Dune Mysterious sand dunes that can "sing"! You can hear a roar when you slide down from a high place, it's super magical 🔥 [Must-Play List TOP5] 1️⃣ Charyn Canyon (red canyon blockbuster) 2️⃣ Kolsai Lakes (sapphires of the Tianshan Mountains) 3️⃣ Khan Shatyr (futuristic architectural miracle) 4️⃣ Lake Burabay (Little Switzerland of Central Asia) 5️⃣ Red Mountains (Martian surface experience) 💡 [Precautions] ▪️ Visa-free for 30 days, but pay attention to the passport validity period ⌚️ ▪️ The temperature difference between day and night is large in September, so bring a coat 🧥 ▪️ It is recommended to exchange currency in the city (the exchange rate at the airport is poor) 💰 ▪️ Prepare some small change (tipping culture) 💰 ▪️ Respect local religious customs ⛪️ Sitting by Kolsai Lake watching the reflection of the snow mountain, I suddenly understood why the Kazakhs say this is "God's back garden". Here, there is both the boldness of the nomadic people and the avant-garde sense of the future. You can encounter unexpected things every time you turn a corner!

#100WaysOfTravel Kazakhstan is a large country with an area ranked 9th in the world, bordering Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, known as a land of majestic nature that can experience many types of terrain at the same time. It is a peaceful steppe or a barren desert, a dense forest or a beautiful lake along the Tianshan range, a zigzag mountain slope or a million-year-old stone canyon. All seem to converge in the land of Almaty in southeastern Kazakhstan, and the city of Almaty is often the starting point for a journey to these interesting surprises.

#kazakhstan #uzbekistan #kyrgyzstan #travel #

#uzbekistan #kazakhstan #kyrgyzstan #travel #food

The Cathedral of All Religions (Universal Temple) in Kazan is a one-of-a-kind architectural marvel, blending elements of Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, and other world faiths into a single, vibrant structure. Designed by artist Ildar Khanov, its colorful domes, spires, and intricate mosaics create a whimsical yet spiritual atmosphere. Though not an active place of worship, the cathedral serves as a symbol of unity and cultural harmony, attracting visitors from around the world. Inside, you’ll find art exhibitions, concert halls, and serene spaces for reflection, each corner revealing new artistic details. The nearby Volga River adds to the scenic charm, making it a perfect spot for photos. While still under construction, the site’s bold vision and creative energy are undeniable. Whether you’re drawn by its message of interfaith peace or its fairy-tale aesthetics, this cathedral is a must-see in Kazan. FYI: Entry fees may apply for certain exhibits or guided tours

The Qolşärif Mosque is a stunning architectural masterpiece and one of the most iconic symbols of Kazan, located within the Kazan Kremlin. With its elegant turquoise domes, towering minarets, and intricate white-marble facade, the mosque is a breathtaking blend of modern design and traditional Tatar Islamic artistry. Built in 2005 to replace the historic mosque destroyed in the 16th century, it now serves as both a place of worship and a cultural landmark. The interior is equally impressive, featuring lavish calligraphy, crystal chandeliers, and a serene, spacious prayer hall. Visitors can explore the mosque’s museum, which showcases Islamic history and the legacy of Tatar religious heritage. The surrounding Kremlin grounds offer a picturesque backdrop, especially at sunset when the mosque’s domes glow against the sky. Whether for spiritual reflection or architectural admiration, Qolşärif Mosque is a must-see gem in the heart of Tatarstan.

The Kazan Kremlin is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site that beautifully blends Tatar and Russian architectural traditions. Its striking white walls and towering structures, like the iconic Söyembikä Tower and the dazzling Qolşärif Mosque, showcase centuries of history and culture. Walking through its grounds, you’ll encounter museums, Orthodox cathedrals, and panoramic views of the Volga River. The Annunciation Cathedral, with its golden domes, stands in harmonious contrast to the mosque’s turquoise minarets, symbolizing Kazan’s multicultural identity. The Kremlin’s well-preserved fortifications and manicured gardens make it a perfect place for history lovers and photographers alike. Interactive exhibits and guided tours bring its rich past to life, from the Khanate era to modern times. Whether exploring its landmarks or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Kazan Kremlin is a must-visit treasure in the heart of Tatarstan.

I read many posts complaining about Kazakh police 👮🏻‍♂️, and I also met a man from Northeast China in Bakht who kept complaining about the police 👮🏻‍♂️. He said that as long as they see a 🇨🇳 vehicle, the police 👮🏻‍♂️ will turn around and chase you to find ways to fine you. This made me feel uneasy every day, afraid that a police car 🚔 would chase me with flashing lights. After entering Kazakhstan, I only drove for about a week and really felt that the police 🚔 check density is really high. Every day, I saw vehicles being stopped. I encountered dozens of police cars 🚔 along the way. Some were busy dealing with other vehicles and let us pass after a few glances. Some followed behind with flashing lights, but turned them off and drove away when they didn't find any violations. Some honked their horns and waved to us in a friendly greeting before driving away, and some even kindly led the way for me. After a few rounds, if you don't violate traffic rules, the police 👮🏻‍♂️ are still friendly. At least I haven't encountered any corrupt police 👮🏻‍♂️ yet, and I pray that I won't encounter any in the future. Maybe there are more corrupt police 👮🏻‍♂️ on the Khorgos to Almaty line. 📝 Main traffic rules in Kazakhstan ‼️ Most importantly The light transmittance of the front windshield & front side window tint must be ≥ 70%. There are no strict restrictions on the rear side windows and rear windshield. Before entering the country, be sure to remove the dark window tint on the driver's and front passenger's side windows. Our windshield has the original factory film, and the light transmittance looks OK, so we didn't remove it. In actual tests, the police 👮🏻‍♂️ didn't stop us. ‼️ Low beam headlights or daytime running lights must be turned on during the day. One day, a police car 🚔 followed me with flashing lights for dozens of seconds, and then drove alongside me and glanced at me a few times. I guess they were checking whether I had removed the film on my windows and whether the daytime running lights were on. After observing that I met the requirements, they turned off the 🚨 lights and drove away. ‼️ Strictly follow the speed limit signs. If the speed limit is 60, driving at 61 is also considered speeding. Near towns and cities, there must be police 🚔 squatting at the entrances and exits of the main urban roads, especially near warning signs that drop from 90 or 70 to 50 or 40. No matter how the cars next to you speed, you should stick to the speed limit and don't exceed it by even one number. ‼️ You must purchase mandatory car insurance (third-party liability insurance). I only bought insurance the day after entering the country when I drove to Semey. Depending on the vehicle, it costs about 300 per month. ‼️ It is forbidden to turn right at a red light unless there is a green right-turn arrow light. A yellow diamond symbol on the main road indicates that the vehicle has the right of way. An inverted triangle symbol indicates that you must yield to vehicles on the main road or vehicles in the direction with right of way. ‼️ When the other vehicle keeps flashing its lights at you, it is kindly reminding you that there are police 👮🏻‍♂️ ahead, maybe a few kilometers or dozens of kilometers ahead. Once, a kind person gave me a signal dozens of kilometers away.

#AprilTravelSupport If you don't know what to buy as a souvenir in Kazakhstan, I recommend chocolate 🍫 Kazakhstan is very famous for chocolate, and it is said to be one of the country's landmarks in the confectionery industry 👍🏻 Maybe because it is famous, every store sells a lot of chocolate! The chocolate with Kazakhstan written on the blue packaging is the most famous and delicious, so be sure to try it ✔️ The candy in the second picture is also very delicious, so I recommend it to those who like lemon flavor ㅎㅎ 📍LOTTE Rakhat Candy Factory / Zenkov St, Almaty 050000 Kazakhstan #Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel #Almaty #KazakhstanSouvenirs #OverseasTravel

#AprilTravelSupport If you are planning a trip to Central Asia, Try visiting Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan together 👍🏻 The two countries are adjacent, so you can cross the border by car!! You can have such a new experience, and the scenery in both countries is so beautiful, so I highly recommend visiting them ✔️ I went on a trip from Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan and then back to Kazakhstan, and I was so happy 💕 #CentralAsia #CentralAsiaTravel #Kazakhstan #Kyrgyzstan

#AprilTravelSupport If you are driving from Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan, I recommend stopping by for a while and then going 💛 It's a rest stop that's perfect for when you need to go to the bathroom or when you're hungry and full of exotic feelings! Just looking at the gas station, it's a strange landscape that looks like America If you take a picture, you'll have a great shot 👍🏻 📍8MH4+FCC, Беріктас, Kazakhstan #Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel

Kazakhstan (Kazakh: Қазақстан, Qazaqstan; Russian: Казахстан, Kazakhstan), officially the Republic of Kazakhstan, is a landlocked country in Central Asia and the world's largest landlocked country. Its territory spans Central Asia and Eastern Europe. It borders Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west. Its capital is Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana, renamed in 2019), and its largest city is Almaty. ### Basic Information: - **Area**: Approximately 2.7249 million square kilometers (the ninth largest country in the world). - **Population**: Approximately 19 million (2023 data). - **Official Languages**: Kazakh is the national language, and Russian is the official language. - **Currency**: Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). - **Religion**: Primarily Islam (Sunni), with some Orthodox Christianity and other religions. ### History: Historically, Kazakhstan was home to nomadic peoples and was influenced by the Mongol Empire, the Russian Empire, and the Soviet Union. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Kazakhstan declared its independence and became a sovereign state. ### Economy: Kazakhstan's economy is primarily based on energy and mineral resources, with abundant reserves of oil, natural gas, uranium, coal, and metal ores. It is one of the world's largest uranium producers and a major oil exporter. In recent years, Kazakhstan has been committed to economic diversification, developing agriculture, manufacturing, and technology industries. ### Politics: Kazakhstan has a presidential system. The first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, held office for a long period from independence until his resignation in 2019. The current president is Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. ### Culture: Kazakh culture is deeply influenced by nomadic traditions, Islam, and Russian culture. Traditional music, dance, handicrafts, and cuisine (such as horse meat and dairy products) are important parts of its culture. Nauryz is an important traditional festival celebrated annually. ### Geography: Kazakhstan has a diverse topography, including steppes, deserts (such as the Kyzylkum Desert), mountains (such as the Tian Shan Mountains), and lakes (such as Lake Balkhash). The climate is a typical continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. ### International Relations: Kazakhstan is a member of several international organizations, including the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO). It maintains close cooperative relations with China, Russia, the European Union, and other countries. If you need more detailed information, we can explore further!

#europetrip Kazakhstan, vast and mesmerizing, is a land that embodies nature’s grandeur. Comparable in size to Western Europe but home to just sixteen million people, it offers a sense of tranquility and space that is rare. Its stunning landscapes range from majestic mountains with fast-flowing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and glaciers to serene alpine pastures. The endless steppes and rolling green meadows seem to stretch beyond the horizon. Kazakhstan is a breathtaking destination where adventure and serenity blend seamlessly, leaving visitors in awe. An unforgettable escape awaits!

#europetrip Kazakhstan, a country as vast as Western Europe yet sparsely populated, is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Its rugged mountains, rushing rivers, breathtaking waterfalls, and glacial peaks captivate adventurers and nature lovers alike. Vast steppes stretch endlessly, blending into rolling hills and lush meadows that kiss the horizon. It’s a land of contrasts—untamed wilderness and serene beauty. Whether exploring alpine pastures or marveling at its untouched landscapes, Kazakhstan’s diverse terrain offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Central Asia’s boundless charm. A truly awe-inspiring destination!

✅ Uzbekistan is a country full of history and culture, attracting tourists with its ancient Silk Road cities, magnificent architecture, and rich cultural heritage. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Spring (April-June): Mild climate, suitable for outdoor activities. 2️⃣ Autumn (September-October): Cool weather and pleasant scenery. 3️⃣ Summer is hot and winter is cold, so try to avoid these two seasons. 📕 Visa 📮 Chinese citizens need to apply for an electronic visa in advance, which can be done through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan. The procedure is simple. ✅ Malaysia is a multicultural country with beautiful scenery, rich natural landscapes, historical sites, and cuisine. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Suitable for travel all year round: Malaysia has a tropical climate and is warm and humid all year round. 2️⃣ Dry season (November-March): Less rainfall on the west coast (e.g., Kuala Lumpur, Penang), suitable for travel. 3️⃣ Wet season (May-September): The east coast (e.g., Redang Island, Perhentian Island) may be affected by monsoons, so it is recommended to avoid it. 📕 Visa 📮 Chinese citizens: Visa-free stay for 15 days, with a valid passport and return ticket. - It is recommended to confirm the latest visa policy in advance. ✅ Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia, with rich natural landscapes and cultural heritage. From vast grasslands to majestic mountains, to modern cities. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Spring (April-June): Mild climate, suitable for outdoor activities. 2️⃣ Autumn (September-October): Cool weather and pleasant scenery. 3️⃣ Summer (July-August): Suitable for mountain hiking, but cities are hot. 4️⃣ Winter (November-March): Suitable for skiing and winter sports. 📕 Visa 📮 Visa-free policy: Chinese citizens can stay visa-free for 14 days. 📮 Electronic visa: If you need to stay longer, you can apply for an electronic visa. ✅ Russia is a country full of history, culture, and natural landscapes, with rich tourism resources. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Summer (June-August): The climate is warm, suitable for visiting cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, and it is also the best time to enjoy the White Nights phenomenon. 2️⃣ Winter (December-February): Suitable for experiencing ice and snow activities, such as skiing and ice fishing, and you can also feel the Christmas and New Year atmosphere in Russia. 3️⃣ Spring and Autumn (May, September-October): The weather is mild, there are fewer tourists, and it is suitable for avoiding peak seasons. 📕 Tourist Visa 📮 Usually single or double entry, the stay is no more than 30 days. 📮 Business visa: Depending on the content of the invitation letter, the length of stay may be longer, usually 30 to 90 days. ✅ South Korea is a dynamic and culturally rich country with abundant natural landscapes, historical sites, and modern urban charm. Here's a detailed South Korea travel guide to help you better plan your trip. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the climate is mild, suitable for flower viewing and outdoor activities. 2️⃣ Autumn (September-November): The autumn air is crisp, the mountains are covered with red leaves, and it is a good time for hiking and sightseeing. 3️⃣ Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, suitable for seaside vacations. 4️⃣ Winter (December-February): Cold and dry, suitable for skiing and hot springs. 📕 Visa Types ⏳ Short-term visa (C visa) 📮 C-3-9 Tourist Visa: For short-term stays (usually within 90 days) for sightseeing, visiting relatives, or visiting friends.

For 10 unforgettable days, I wandered through the golden landscapes of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan with my 5-year-old daughter by my side. Autumn had painted everything in shades of amber and gold, turning every path, mountain, and lake into a scene straight out of a storybook. We ran through open meadows, her tiny hand gripping mine as leaves crunched beneath our feet. She laughed as the wind caught her hair, and I smiled, realizing how rare and precious these moments were. We marveled at crystal-clear lakes reflecting the fiery colors of fall and sat quietly under towering trees, watching the world slow down just for us. This wasn’t just a trip—it was magic. A time when the beauty of nature and the simple joy of being together made the world feel warmer, brighter, and full of wonder.

Stepping into the rainy Harun Canyon is like stepping into a misty ink painting. The fine rain threads are like silver threads, weaving a hazy veil that gently covers the crimson rock walls. The rocks seem to awaken, their colors becoming more intense and deep. Rainwater flows along the texture, like tears left by time. The valley trail is muddy, but it doesn't dampen the traveler's enthusiasm. Walking with an umbrella, the figure appears and disappears in the rain. Rainwater converges into a stream, flowing gently, playing a natural symphony. The cliffs on both sides of the canyon are towering, appearing even more majestic and mysterious in the rain and mist. The vegetation is washed by the rain, adding a touch of green. Occasionally, birds fly over, their cries echoing through the valley. Rain adds a different charm to Harun Canyon, making this place more dynamic and peaceful, making people linger and forget their way back.

#favouriteitinerary Kaindy Lake, located in Kazakhstan’s breathtaking Kungey Alatau mountain range, is a stunning natural wonder that is truly one of a kind. Known for its submerged forest, crystal-clear waters, and striking blue hues, the lake offers visitors a surreal and picturesque experience. Here’s an ideal itinerary to explore this hidden gem! 🌲💧 Day 1: • Morning: Start your journey by traveling to Kaindy Lake from Almaty, which is approximately a 4-hour drive. The scenic drive through the mountainous terrain will prepare you for the beauty that awaits. 🚗🌄 • Afternoon: Upon arrival, take a walk around the lake, which is surrounded by tall, pine-covered mountains. The submerged forest is the highlight, with the tree trunks emerging from the water, creating an otherworldly scene. 🏞️🌳 • Evening: Set up for an evening picnic by the lake, enjoying the tranquility of the area as the sun sets over the mountains. Day 2: • Morning: Rent a small boat or kayak to get a closer look at the submerged trees beneath the lake’s clear waters. The sight is magical, especially with the reflections of the trees on the water’s surface. 🚣♂️🌊 • Afternoon: Hike around the surrounding areas to explore the lush scenery and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. Tips: • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking. • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking beauty of the lake. • The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is ideal. This itinerary will give you a deeper appreciation for Kaindy Lake’s natural beauty and unique landscape! 🏔️ #favouriteitinerary #kaindylake #kazakhstantravel #naturelovers #outdooradventures #travelguide #landscapephotography #hiddenparadise #almatyadventures

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

#JapanFlightEvent This is a place you can visit on a day tour from Almaty!!ㅎㅎ I went there in a private car with a guide~~! Because you have to walk quite a bit, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and comfortable clothes! Take lots of pictures!!ㅎㅎ

#JapanFlightEvent A place where you can fully experience the beauty of nature! Capture the wonderful and beautiful nature with your own eyes. You can get beautiful pictures! Go into nature and take pictures! I highly recommend you go! 📍Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

#europetrip Beautiful cafe in Almaty! Found them on Google and decided to visit as they had great reviews and the location was near us. Ah, where to begin? The food was very fresh, we ordered their chicken noodle soup and buckwheat porridge for lunch and tried their Napoleon cake alongside two smaller pastries for dessert. Their coffee and dark chocolate were both strong and easy to drink. Everything was so yummy! Also big thank you to the cashier and service staff as they could speak a little English, which made ordering less intimidating. Highly recommend that you visit this cafe, their dessert counter and floor to ceiling window panes alone are just lovely to look at.

#europetrip Mediocre at best, with a very good environment and staff; however, the tea was overly sweet and didn't have a strainer; therefore, all of the herbs and fruit pieces escaped into the tea. We also ordered the "Almaty Breakfast." I must say it's gorgeous looks-wise; however, the actual taste wasn't that special and didn't hit the spot. The toast was too dry and flavorless to be considered French toast but too fluffy and eggy to be considered plain toast. As for the caramel apple oatmeal, I was very glad they had other milk options-the appearance was great, taste-wise it was good, but I was just expecting the caramel to be a bit more noticeable as there was barely any flavor. Overall, the food isn't anything special.

Amazing trip home 🥰

Snow mountain ❄️

🕰️Business Hours:

When thinking about skiing in Kazakhstan, Shymbulak, the largest ski resort in Central Asia, often comes to mind. However, nestled in Almaty is the hidden gem of Ak Bulak. On my last day in Kazakhstan, I decided to explore this treasure, and it truly was a remarkable find. Transportation 🛫 Unlike Shymbulak's advantageous location, Ak Bulak (AK) is situated 50 kilometers west of Almaty city center, about an hour's drive into the mountains. The name 'Bulak' means spring in Russian, and the resort is indeed beautiful, far from the tourist crowds, especially peaceful on weekdays. Using the Yandex Go app, a ride from the city costs around 100 RMB. It's wise to allow extra time for the return trip as prices may increase or you might encounter traffic. Ski Resort 🎿 Compared to Shymbulak, AK offers a smaller marked ski area but boasts extensive off-piste terrain at the summit. With one gondola and one chairlift, you can ascend from 1,652 meters to a peak of 2,664 meters, with a chairlift offering a 664-meter vertical drop. Tickets are consistently affordable, with a four-hour weekday pass costing only 80 RMB, excluding card fees. Due to its orientation, the resort receives little sunlight, but the abundant trees help preserve the snow after snowfall. Even a week after the last snowfall, the conditions remain excellent, with almost no rocks on or off the trails compared to Shymbulak. Local ski instructors speak good English and proudly showcase the off-piste areas at the summit, often dismissing Shymbulak. Skeptical, I ventured to the top, where the sun cast its rays over the ridge, revealing breathtaking views and endless ungroomed areas that invigorated me. From the ridges, there are numerous steep off-piste sections, which are thrilling after fresh snow. Traversing through the trees, you can find untouched snow, but a certain level of skill is necessary; otherwise, skiing in rough snow can be challenging. The lower section features groomed trails with natural half-pipes and tree-lined wave paths, catering to advanced skiers. Overall, AK's snow conditions and terrain are unique and wild, but without a solid technical foundation, it can be difficult to enjoy. The off-piste areas are regulated, and with a guide, post-snowfall adventures could be exciting, though I didn't experience this on my visit, leaving something to look forward to. Facilities 🥢 Facilities are AK's weak point. There are hotels, but likely not chosen by international tourists. The resort has a few restaurants and cafes, and the rental area looks sparse, with even the restrooms requiring a fee. However, considering the 80 RMB ticket price, these shortcomings are tolerable. If you have an adventurous spirit and enjoy off-piste skiing and varied terrain, Ak Bulak is a must-visit hidden gem and a great complement to skiing at Shymbulak. Stay tuned for the next update on Almaty travel highlights. #SkiTogether #Almaty #KazakhstanSkiing #AkBulak #Skiing #BillyWhiteSkiDiary