Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and one of the most beautiful cities in Central Asia. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Tien Shan Mountains, Almaty is a vibrant and modern city that is also steeped in history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Kazakhstan, here’s a guide to exploring Almaty and its many attractions.
Getting There
The easiest way to get to Almaty is by flying into Almaty International Airport. The airport is located about 15 kilometers from the city center and is well-connected to major cities across the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach your hotel or accommodation.
Things to Do
Almaty offers a range of activities for all types of travelers. Here are some of the top things to do in the city:
Visit Panfilov Park – Panfilov Park is a large park in the heart of Almaty that is home to several monuments and attractions. One of the most famous monuments in the park is the Zenkov Cathedral, a beautiful wooden church that was built in 1904.
Explore the Central State Museum – The Central State Museum is one of the largest museums in Central Asia and is dedicated to the history and culture of Kazakhstan. The museum has a collection of over 300,000 exhibits, including archaeological finds, traditional costumes, and works of art.
Go Skiing – Almaty is located near several ski resorts, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The Shymbulak Ski Resort is one of the best ski resorts in the region and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit the Almaty Opera House – The Almaty Opera House is a beautiful building that is home to some of the best opera and ballet performances in the region. The building itself is a work of art, with its grand entrance and beautiful interior.
Take a Day Trip to Medeu – Medeu is a popular day trip destination from Almaty and is home to the Medeu Ice Skating Rink, one of the highest skating rinks in the world. The rink is open year-round and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Accommodation
This city offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, you can find something to suit your needs. Some popular options include the Ritz-Carlton Almaty, the InterContinental Almaty, and the Almaty Backpackers Hostel.
Final Thoughts
Beautiful city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. From exploring the city’s many cultural attractions to skiing in the nearby mountains, there is something for everyone in Almaty. So, if you’re planning a trip to Kazakhstan, be sure to include Almaty on your itinerary.
There are several cities and towns near Almaty. Here are some of the closest ones:
Talgar – Located about 25 km west of Almaty, Talgar is a small town that is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. It is home to the Talgar Hot Springs, which are popular with locals and tourists alike.
Kapchagai – Kapchagai is a city that is located about 70 km northeast of Almaty. It is known for its large reservoir, which is a popular spot for fishing and water sports.
Taldykorgan – Taldykorgan is a city that is located about 130 km north of Almaty. It is the administrative center of the Almaty Region and is home to several cultural and historical landmarks.
Zharkent – Zharkent is a town that is located about 240 km southeast of Almaty. It is known for its historic mosque, which is one of the oldest in Kazakhstan.
Bishkek – While not exactly near Almaty, Bishkek is the capital city of neighboring Kyrgyzstan and is located about 240 km east of Almaty. It is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the culture and natural beauty of Central Asia.
There are several airlines that offer flights to Almaty, Kazakhstan. Here are some of the major airlines that serve Almaty:
Air Astana: Air Astana is the national carrier of Kazakhstan and operates numerous flights to and from Almaty. It offers both domestic and international routes, connecting Almaty with destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Flyarystan: is a low-cost airline based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, provide domestic flight to Almaty.
Turkish Airlines: Turkish Airlines, the flag carrier of Turkey, provides flights to Almaty from its hub in Istanbul. It offers convenient connections from various cities around the world to Almaty via Istanbul.
Aeroflot: Aeroflot, the national carrier of Russia, operates flights between Moscow and Almaty. It provides a crucial air link between Russia and Kazakhstan and offers connections to other international destinations.
Lufthansa: Lufthansa, a major German airline, offers flights from Frankfurt to Almaty. It provides a gateway for travelers from Europe and other parts of the world to access Almaty and explore Kazakhstan.
Flydubai: Flydubai, a low-cost carrier based in the United Arab Emirates, operates flights to Almaty from its hub in Dubai. It offers affordable options for travelers connecting from various cities in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Uzbekistan Airways: Uzbekistan Airways offers flights between Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, and Almaty. It provides a convenient option for travelers coming from or heading to Uzbekistan.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and other airlines may also operate flights to Almaty. It is always recommended to check with the respective airlines or travel agencies for the most up-to-date flight information and availability.
Photo by : torekhan