2025 Raiymbek District 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!

This is my first post in Trip.com and I would like to share my experience of traveling to Almaty region, Kazakhstan. The 1st posture is taken in: 📍Address:Kolsay lake 🕰️Business Hours: the best time to visit is around 9:00-10:00 am at summer because it is quite busy after this time. Very beautiful lake in 3 hours drive from Almaty. 📍Address:Saty village : The best way to feel this area gorgeousness is to stay at the closest village Saty. Personally I have enjoyed Kolsay Eco house! It was new, clean and tidy. The third photo was shot there, from the backyard of guest house. We have tried the food in the village restaurants and as a Kazakh native I can say that it was not as tasty as in guest house. 📍Address:Kaiyndy lake: this lake name is literally means “birch” lake. As you can see there is trees in the water. This lake is placed in the remote area in the National park and the driving by yourself is hard unless you have a specially equipped truck that can pass through the couple of little rivers. Fortunately there is trucks in the Saty village. For around 30-40 USD for the whole truck (around 4-6 seats) you can buy their service. That’s it for the first post! Stay tuned to know more about my trips and Kazakhstan)) Peace ✌️ #familytrip ##nature #localguides

Hello everyone! Continue my journey in Central Asia Countries, in Kazasthan we also visited beautiful lake that most popular attractions for tourists. When you arrived in Kolsai Lake you have 2 options whether you walking or riding the horse around the lake (need to pay 5000 Tenge for horse rides). We choose to walking around and take a pictures😍 The lake is located at 1800 meters, is about 1.5 km long with a depth of 40 meters, and is surrounded by high mountains (snow on the mountains) the view is absolutely beautiful🥰 the water is emerald green color. You should go to this place when you travel to Kazasthan. Actually this place includes in our ground tour that we paid. If you are solo backpackers you can enjoy your journey using public transport but if you don’t have much time better you book day tours. #favouriteitinerary #travel #myitinerary

6-Day Kazakhstan Tour: Discover the Charm of Central Asia! This super detailed guide will help you explore Kazakhstan without any detours. Save it now! / Route Suggestions: Day 1: 🛫 Fly to Urumqi - Transfer to Almaty 🛬 Fly to Urumqi, then transfer to Almaty, Kazakhstan. Your exciting journey begins! Day 2: Explore the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan 🏛️ Learn about the history and culture of Kazakhstan. The museum tour is eye-opening. Day 3: Enjoy the Natural Scenery of Kolsai Lake 🌊 Immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of Kolsai Lake and enjoy the gifts of nature. Day 4: Visit Panfilov Park 🌳 - Museum of National Musical Instruments 🎶 In the morning, feel the courage and sacrifice at the memorial park. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the world of music at the musical instrument museum. Day 5: Free Time in Almaty 🎈 - Return to Urumqi 🛬 Enjoy free time in Almaty, then fly back to Urumqi to end your Kazakhstan tour. Day 6: Return Home from Urumqi 🏠 Return home from Urumqi with beautiful memories. / Attraction Suggestions: Central State Museum of Kazakhstan ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Samal-1, 44, Almaty 050059, Kazakhstan Opening Hours: Mon, Wed-Sun 9:00-18:00 Duration: 1-2 hours This is one of the largest museums in Central Asia. It has a rich collection of exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Kazakhstan. Panfilov Park ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Between Kunayev Street, Gogol Street, Zenkov Street, Kazaybek Bi Street Opening Hours: All day Duration: 1-2 hours This memorial park is a scenic spot to commemorate martyrs and remember history. It allows you to reflect on the past in a peaceful environment. Kolsai Lake ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Almaty Region, Raiymbek District, Saty Str. Ultarakova 38 Opening Hours: All day Duration: 2-3 hours Kolsai Lake is a crystal-clear alpine lake. It is like a pearl embedded in the snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking views. Museum of National Musical Instruments ⭐⭐ Address: Zenkov St 24, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10:00-19:00 Duration: 2-3 hours This museum displays many precious musical instruments and folk songs. It has a rich collection and is a great place to learn about Kazakh music culture. / Travel Essentials: 🧳 📞 Prepare a SIM card for easy contact and to avoid getting lost. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter to adapt to the voltage in Kazakhstan. 🪪 Bring all necessary documents, including your passport and driver's license. 👚 If you go in January, dress warmly. A down jacket and thick sweater are essential. 🔋 Bring a charger and power bank to ensure you have enough power. 💊 Bring some common medicines just in case. 🎒 Bring a comfortable backpack for easy travel and to carry all your essentials. / Come and explore the beauty of Kazakhstan! Don't forget to record your travel stories and share them with more friends!

Welcome to Kazakhstan! In just 3 days, you can explore this mysterious country. This super practical guide is a must-have for your trip! / Must-Visit Attractions: - Charyn Canyon National Park ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Uygur, Enbekshikazakh and Raiymbek district of Almaty region, 7 km west of the village Shonzhy and 200 km east of Almaty Opening hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: Flexible With its rugged rocks and stunning scenery, this is a great place to explore natural wonders. - Kolsai Lake ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Almaty region, Raiymbek district, Saty str. Ultarakova 38 Opening hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours This crystal-clear alpine lake is like a pearl set among the snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking beauty. - Kaindy Lake ⭐⭐ Address: Almaty region, Raiymbek district, Saty str. Ultarakova 38 Opening hours: Flexible Recommended visit time: 1 day Nestled among the mountains, this clear lake is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some peace and quiet. / Travel Essentials: Kazakhstan Travel Checklist 🧳 📞 A SIM card is a must-have. Tele2 is a good choice for both internet and calls. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter so you don't have to worry about power during your trip. You'll be ready for any type of socket. 🪪 Although a visa is not required, you should still carry your passport and ID card with you for safety. 🧣 Kazakhstan can be a bit cold in December, so don't forget your thick coat, scarf, and gloves! With these preparations, your trip to Kazakhstan will be easy and enjoyable! ✨ / On your trip to Kazakhstan, you can explore Central Asian culture and enjoy a unique journey. Start your magical journey now!

#naturalbeauty Located nearby Almaty city, Kaindy Lake is one of the must visit destination around Almaty. You can easily find an open trip with local agent travel with affordable cost. The journey is around 4 hours away from Almaty. The crystal clear water, the silence and a calm vibes surrounded will give you a peaceful vibes around the lake. That is what makes Kaindy Lake so popular among the tourists. There are so many local travel agent that provide day tour to Kaindy Lake. So feel hassle-free to enjoy this stunning lake. There are two ways of getting to the lake. 1. You could take horse ride to the lake, or 2. You could go by walk to the lake. It depends on your needs, but I suggest you to have a horse ride as this will complete your experience during your journey here. 📍Kaindy Lake, Kazakhstan #100waysoftravel #kaindylake #kazakhstan #kazakhstantravel #nature #almaty

Kolsay Lake (Kolsay Lake) is a lake located in a national park on the northern slope of the Tian Shan Mountains. It consists of three lakes at elevations of 1800m, 2250m, and 2700m. Since it is close to the border, if you stay near this area, you must hand over your passport to the border guards. (In my case, I came during the off-season and couldn't see it.) With travel & photo influencer Lisa and Eagle 🇷🇺 Mas 🐶 #Central Asia #Kazakhstan #Lake #KolsayLake #Kolsay

Horseback riding with views that rival the Dolomites, untouched nature that feels like a hidden gem. Central Asia is criminally underrated and this trip? Definitely one for the books (and the bucket list)! #travel #naturalwonders

📅 Itinerary Day1：Almaty City Day2: Alatau Mountain Day3: Lake Kolsai 🏨 Accommodation: Alatau Hotel 🍴 Food Recommendations: Try Besbermal (contains horse meat) and Kespe 📌 Tips: Almaty has extreme weather. Too cold in winter and too hot in summer. Best to travel during Spring (March to May).

Kaindy Lake is truly a surreal wonder tucked deep in Kazakhstan’s mountains. The lake’s stunning green-blue color is mesmerizing and unlike anything I’ve seen before. What made the experience even more magical was the journey. Riding a horse through the mountain trails to reach the lake. The path winds through forested hills and scenic landscapes, making the trip as unforgettable as the destination itself. The round-trip horse ride cost just 7,000 tenge, and it was worth every bit for the breathtaking views and the adventure. If you’re in Kazakhstan, Kaindy Lake is a must-see! nature, adventure, and beauty all in one place.

Arrived at the meeting point at 5 AM and boarded the bus. Since the attractions were hundreds of kilometers outside the city, a day tour was the only option. I booked with JoinMe, while another group went with KKTour. At 9 AM, we reached the first stop: Charyn Canyon. We had 1.5 hours to explore. Walking to the midpoint—a large rock about 2 kilometers away—took around 40 minutes, leaving little time before heading back. The real highlights, like the Sharyn River, were in the latter half. Later, I learned from the guide that cars could pick up/drop off only at the start and end points, with no stops in between. Thankfully, my drone captured the breathtaking views, so I didn’t miss much. Overall, it couldn’t compare to China’s Tianshan Grand Canyon or Yulin’s "Chinese Antelope Canyon." (Photos 1-3) At 11:10 AM, we arrived at the second stop: Black Canyon. This was just a quick roadside attraction with only 15 minutes to take photos. Overlooking the canyon from the horizon, the rushing river below contrasted with Charyn—here, the rocks were black, hence the name. There was a spot where you could slip past the railing to stand on a large rock for photos. (Photo 4) By 1 PM, we reached the vicinity of Kolsai Lakes. Due to traffic, we had to walk 20 minutes to get there. The area has three lakes (upper, middle, and lower), though I’m unsure which one we visited (elevation: 1,800 meters). As for the scenery? Let’s just say lakes of this caliber are a dime a dozen in China. We had 1.5 hours to explore, with the option to take a boat ride at a reasonable price. (Photo 5) At 3 PM, everyone returned to the bus. It started raining, and after 30 minutes, we arrived at Saty Village for lunch at a simple restaurant. The options were limited, overpriced, and—most importantly—terrible! (Photo 6) At 4 PM, we switched to UAZ vehicles for the fourth stop: Kaindy Lake. How bad was the road? Rain had turned the potholes into pools of muddy water. Then came the wild part: The road ahead was completely flooded, with flowing water at least dozens of centimeters deep—like a river. Just as I wondered how the car would cross, the driver floored it and plowed right through! Is this Kazakhstan’s version of the Yangwang U8? Despite the shabby interior, the UAZ was decked out with a bar-style sound system blasting DJ hits at full volume, hyping up all the foreigners onboard. (Photo 7) The bumpy ride lasted half an hour before reaching the parking area (which doubled as a horse stable). Adventurous folks could hike, but most opted to pay for horseback riding—far more affordable than Indonesia’s Mount Bromo. Unlike the leather saddles I’d used on grasslands before, these were just cloth pads that turned into waterlogged sponges after the rain, soaking my underwear. After 20+ minutes on horseback, we still had to hike a few hundred meters to witness the tour’s crown jewel: the world’s one-of-a-kind underwater forest! Formed by a 1911 earthquake that created a landslide dam, the submerged birch trees now stand half-drowned, with only their tops visible above the water—paired with the lake’s mirror-like reflections, the sight was utterly magical. (Photos 8-9) At 7 PM, we boarded the bus back to Almaty, a grueling 5-hour journey.

Day1⃣: City roaming + stunning sunset 📍Ascension Cathedral 👉 World-class wooden architecture! The candy-colored church is super fantastic, thousands of white pigeons are circling and super healing ~ The park where the church is located is lush and green, and it's a big picture! 🚶5 minutes walk directly to Green Bazaar (largest local market) 🍉 There are piles of melons and fruits, the color of beef and mutton is tempting! The clean and tidy market smoke and fire is a must-go for photography enthusiasts 🍴Navat is recommended for lunch 🔥 One-stop check-in for Kazakhstan's national cuisine! The decoration is super ethnic, hand-grabbed rice/horse sausage must try 🌆 Stroll around the pedestrian street in the afternoon, and take a drive to Mount Cocteau in the evening! 🚠Cable up the mountain, overlooking the sunset over the city, romantic worth bursting! · Day 2⃣: Two Lakes and One Canyon Day Tour (Join Me Tour) 💡 WhatsApp in advance to make an appointment, offline payment is super convenient! 1⃣️ Charon Canyon⛰️ The landscape of "Black Canyon" is shocking, it looks like the surface of Mars! 2⃣️ Lake Caindi (strongly recommended! 🏕️) The secret realm of earthquake formation! Withered trees stand in the water of the blue lake, the ghost is breathtakingly beautiful 3⃣️ Lake Colsay 🎑 "Little Ili of Kazakhstan"! The snow-capped mountains reflect the lake, you can go hiking/boating, and the light and shadow are first-class in the evening! 🌙 Back to town at about 22, tired and happy to wear! · Day 3⃣: Snow Mountain Cable Car Light Hike 🏔 Aratau National Park 1⃣️ 30 minutes from the city! The four-season snow-capped mountains are the companions, the cable car directly reaches the observation deck, and the sea of ​​​​clouds is within reach 2⃣️ Easy hiking route, novices can shoot the same blockbuster as "Lord of the Rings"! · 📌 Tips ✔ Visa: Visa-free for 14 days, no problem with a white book ✔ Transportation: Yandex ride is super cheap, English communication mainly relies on gestures 😉 ✔ Currency: 1¥≈70 Kengo, remember to exchange more coins 💬 "The landscape of Kazakhstan is like God overturning the palette!" Sisters rush!

I had the opportunity to travel to Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, from May 3-10. The atmosphere was complete with sun, snow, wind, and rain. But when I saw the view in front of me, I can say that I was not afraid of anything. Every angle was beautiful. No matter where I looked, it was beautiful. Although the journey might be difficult, once you get there, it was definitely worth the trip. The places I liked and recommend are: Barskoons Valley🏔️ Altyn arashan🏞️ Kaindy lake Kolsai lake Sleep in a yurt camp🛖 * I recommend finding a local guide instead of driving yourself. People there don't speak English very well, and the roads are rough. It would be better to have an expert guide. #VisitKyrgyzstan #VisitKazakhstan

Wonders of Kazakhstan

Black Canyon, seen with no expectations at all I was amazed by how cool it actually was. They say it's called Black Canyon because the rocks that make up the canyon are black. It's nice that you can see it in 5-10 minutes after getting out of the car. #Kazakhstan #blackcanyon #blackcanyon #blackcanyon

Kaindy Lake was naturally formed in 1911 when a massive earthquake caused the valley to collapse and fill with water. The lake's color appears different depending on the weather, adding to its mysterious charm. Unfortunately, the lake's depth decreases slightly every year, and its current enchanting appearance might eventually disappear. To reach Kaindy Lake, you can choose from three options: walking, taking a taxi, or horse riding. Pick the one that suits you best.

Lake located between 1800m and 2700m above sea level It is divided into three parts. 1. 1800m above sea level: A lake created when the Kolsa River was blocked by a landslide. Maximum 1km, 80m deep (Accessible by car, the lake with the most tourists, boat tours available) 2. 2250m above sea level: The largest of the three lakes. Trekking trails 1 and 2 are famous 3. 2850m above sea level: Famous for its natural scenery, but high difficulty There is a walking path, so it is good to look around slowly #Kolsa Lake #kolsai #kolsailake #Kazakhstan

The hike from Lower to Upper Kolsai Lake in late spring was easier than I expected— the ground still frozen hard and lined with patches of stubborn snow that refused to melt. As we climbed higher, the air grew colder and the forest thinned a little opening up to dramatic views of the surrounding peaks still dusted with snow. When we finally reached the Upper Lake, it felt like stepping into another season entirely. The lake was almost completely frozen, a smooth, pale sheet of ice with just a few dark cracks and edges where the thaw was beginning. It was hauntingly beautiful—quiet, remote, and still gripped by winter despite the time of year. #springwander #kazakhstan #kolsailake

Lower Kolsai Lake in early spring is like something out of a fairytale. When I visited, the lake was still partially frozen—its surface a mix of icy white and deep, glacial blue, quietly shifting as the season changed. Snow clung to the pine-covered slopes surrounding it, and the towering mountains in the distance looked almost unreal against the pale sky. Wooden pathways curved gently around parts of the shoreline, making it easy to walk and take in the views without disturbing the landscape. Each step offered a new perspective—sparkling water, frozen edges, and the quiet beauty of nature slowly waking up from winter. #springwander #kazakhstan #kolsailake

Exploring Kolsai Lakes National Park on horseback offers an immersive journey through Kazakhstan’s breathtaking natural landscapes. As you ride along winding mountain trails, you’ll traverse dense spruce forests, cross crystal-clear streams, and ascend to vantage points that reveal panoramic views of the serene Kolsai Lakes nestled among towering peaks. The rhythmic cadence of your horse’s gait harmonizes with the tranquil surroundings, allowing for a deep connection with the park’s pristine beauty. This equestrian adventure not only provides access to remote areas often unreachable by foot or vehicle but also offers an authentic experience of Kazakhstan’s rich nomadic heritage. #springwander #kazakhstan #kolsailake

Visiting Kolsai Lakes National Park in early spring feels like stepping into a quiet, enchanted world still gripped by winter’s hand. Snow blankets the ground in thick, untouched layers, muffling sound and softening the edges of the landscape. The spruce trees rise in perfect rows, each one heavily dusted with snow like endless Christmas trees standing in solemn formation. Towering mountains surround the lakes, their jagged peaks slicing into the pale sky, dramatic and still half-shrouded in mist. The air is sharp and clear, and everything—from the frozen shoreline to the snow-laden branches—glows with a quiet, haunting beauty. #springwander #kazakhstan #kolsailake

#AprilTravelSupport If you go to Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan, try eating at the restaurant right in front 💛 This restaurant is good to visit before or after seeing Charyn Canyon, where you can eat handmade horse meat burgers!! I thought horse meat would be tough or fragrant, but it was delicious 👍🏻 It's good for a unique experience, and it's perfect to use it in conjunction with Charyn Canyon ㅎㅎ 📍9343+JW, Tamerlik, Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel #CharynCanyon #CharynCanyon #KazakhstanTouristAttraction

#AprilTravelSupport If you go to Kazakhstan, be sure to visit Charyn Canyon 👍🏻 Charyn Canyon, also known as a smaller version of the Grand Canyon, is so beautiful that it's amazing that it's a natural landscape!! You can go down the cliff and it takes about 2 hours to go back and forth, so if you have time, definitely visit 💛 It's also great for taking great photos, so be sure to take a photo ㅎㅎ 📍Tamerlik, Kazakhstan #CentralAsiaTravel #Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel #CharynCanyon #CharynCanyon

Saty is a picturesque rural village in southeastern Kazakhstan, located in the Almaty region near the stunning Kaindy Lake. Nestled in the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, Saty serves as a gateway to the famous Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged forest. The village is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, with rolling hills, lush meadows, and pristine rivers. It offers a glimpse into traditional Kazakh rural life, where locals engage in farming and eco-tourism. Saty is a popular stop for travelers seeking outdoor adventures such as hiking, horseback riding, and camping in one of Kazakhstan’s most scenic regions. #springwander #almaty #kazakhstan

Nestled at the foot of the Tian Shan Mountains, Almaty is a jewel in the heart of Central Asia. This city boasts both stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. During my journey, I found a unique sense of poetry and tranquility amidst its mountains, lakes, and city streets. Charyn Canyon: Wildness in Serenity Driving to Charyn Canyon, the scenery gradually transformed from gentle greenery to vastness. The canyon's cliffs, as if cleaved by a giant axe, are rugged and dark. At the bottom, a stream rushes, its sound echoing through the canyon walls along with the wind. Standing at the canyon's mouth, the world seemed to fall silent, leaving only the raw breath of the earth. Charyn Canyon's beauty is raw and powerful, its depth inspiring awe. Lake Kaindy: A Sunken Forest Sanctuary Lake Kaindy rests peacefully among the mountains, a green emerald embedded deep within the valley. Its surface is as calm as a mirror, reflecting the sky and clouds. Dead trees rise straight from the water, like a sunken forest silently guarding this sanctuary. Time seems to slow down by the lake, the coolness of the water permeating the air, bringing a sense of clarity and peace. Kolsai Lakes: Gazing Amidst the Clouds The blue of Kolsai Lakes is as rich as a stroke of oil paint. The water shifts through shades of deep blue, turquoise, and sapphire, a masterpiece painted by nature. Lush pine forests line the shores, occasionally punctuated by birdsong. Sitting by the lake, gazing at the light filtering through the clouds, I felt completely immersed in this tranquil world. Zenkov Cathedral: A Fusion of Color and Faith Almaty's Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden structure built without a single nail, is a marvel. Its golden domes gleam in the sunlight, and the pastel blue, yellow, and pink of its exterior evoke a fairytale castle. Inside, soft light streams through stained-glass windows, illuminating ancient murals. The air is filled with the scent of candles and incense, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere. Arbat Street: The City's Vibrant Pulse Arbat Street is Almaty's most artistic pedestrian street. Bookstores, cafes, and various shops line the street, filling the air with the aroma of coffee. Street musicians play guitars, children doodle on canvases, and a carefree atmosphere prevails. Strolling along, I encountered art exhibitions and musical performances, as if the entire street was whispering the city's stories. City Sunset: Golden Light on Rooftops In the evening, from a panoramic viewpoint, the distant city bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. Almaty's buildings, though not towering, possess a gentle charm. Sunlight dances on windows, reflecting people returning home, and the city's pulse slows amidst the warm hues. Central Mosque: A Place of Quiet Faith The white domes of the Central Mosque shimmer under the sun, its golden minarets reaching for the sky. Inside, blue and white geometric patterns on the walls resemble a starry sky. Worshippers kneel in silent prayer, the sound of chanting resonating beneath the domes, carrying a deep and devout power. Kok-Tobe: City Lights Under the Stars As night falls, Kok-Tobe Hill offers the best view of the city. Almaty's lights twinkle like stars scattered across the earth. A gentle breeze carries the melody of street music, revealing the city's tender side. Subway Station Music: The City's Heartbeat An unexpected musical performance in a subway station became one of the most memorable moments of my trip. Under the station's arches, young people played guitars and hand drums, their music and voices creating a lively rhythm. Commuters stopped, smiling and swaying to the beat. In that moment, Almaty's pulse seemed to beat with the music, radiating a free and vibrant spirit. Almaty's beauty lies in its majestic mountains and lakes, as well as in the gentle charm of its streets. The vastness of nature and the poetry of the city remind us that life's breadth and intimacy can coexist.

Hey everyone! Experience the charm of multiple countries with this 12-day itinerary for Azerbaijan and beyond! This guide is packed with useful information to help you navigate these exotic destinations! -------- 🛤️Itinerary: DAY 1: Depart for Urumqi, then fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan. DAY 2–3: Explore Almaty's Charyn Canyon, Lake Kolsai, and city landmarks such as the Central State Museum and Panfilov's 28 Guardsmen Park. Afterward, travel to Baku. DAY 4: In Baku, visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, the Old City, the fascinating mud volcanoes, and the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. In the evening, stroll along the Caspian Sea Boulevard. DAY 5–6: Journey from Baku to Shamakhi and Sheki, exploring historical sites like the Juma Mosque and the Palace of Shaki Khans. Then, cross the border into Georgia, visiting Sighnaghi and Tbilisi. Experience the romance of the "City of Love" and savor the fine wines of the local wineries. DAY 7–8: After exploring Tbilisi, travel to Yerevan, Armenia. Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral and take a ride on the cable car in the Old City. Continue to Etchmiadzin and explore historical sites like the Khor Virap Monastery and the Temple of Garni. DAY 9: On the way back to Tbilisi, visit the Geghard Monastery and the beautiful Lake Sevan. DAY 10–11: Delve deeper into the historical sites surrounding Tbilisi, such as the ancient city of Mtskheta and the Gergeti Trinity Church in Kazbegi. Finally, return to Urumqi. DAY 12: Depart from Urumqi, concluding your journey across multiple countries. -------- Some tips: 1. Visa Information: For multi-country tours, visas must be obtained in advance. Azerbaijani visas are processed in approximately four working days, super convenient! 😉 2. Local Product Prices: Fruit is incredibly cheap in Azerbaijan, especially grapes and pomegranates. It's a foodie's paradise! The affordable prices will make it hard to resist. 🍇🍒 3. Airport Transportation: Upon arrival at Baku Airport, you can easily reach the city center by airport bus + subway. Transportation is super convenient! 🚇🚌 4. Time Difference Reminder: Azerbaijan is four hours behind China. Adjust to the time difference and enjoy your wonderful trip! ⏰🌅 5. Popular Cities: Besides Baku, there are other beautiful cities like Sheki waiting to be explored. Each city has its own unique charm! 🏰🌇 -------- Experience the diverse cultures of multiple countries in one trip! I hope this guide helps you create unforgettable memories during your travels in Azerbaijan and beyond. 🌍✨

This is a lake that you can go to on a tour from Almaty. It is said that it was originally a forest, but when water came into the valley, the trees were submerged and became a lake.

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.