Kazakhstan sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

A country of great steeps, Kazakhstan never ceases to amaze its guests with numerous wonders of nature, fascinating places and unique culture. When describing the most interesting places in Kazakhstan, the city of Almaty should be mentioned first. The city is widely known for its spectacular architecture, spacious parks and modern entertainment centres. Panfilov Park is a favourite place of rest for both citizens and guests of Almaty. The park is also the location of an architectural landmark – Zenkov Cathedral. Almost all buildings of the Russian Empire period were destroyed by a devastating earthquake that happened in 1911. The cathedral was one of a few surviving buildings and it’s a true miracle given that the fragile building is made of wood. The Central State Museum is considered the largest cultural centre in the country. The museum exhibits collections of archaeological and historical findings.

The modern capital of the country, Astana, is no less beautiful. The city is home to several important landmarks, such as one of the oldest universities in Kazakhstan, which was named after L. Gumilev. The university is surrounded by a big park, two theatres and several museums.

The ancient city of Turkistan is an important tourist destination because of one prominent landmark. This is Mausoleum of Khwaja Ahmad Yasavi, which is famous far beyond the borders of the country. There are several important sights in the piedmont region of the country, such as Tanbaly famous for the ancient art on the rocks. The drawings made during the prehistoric era feature animals, hunting scenes and newer drawings depict Buddhist symbols. Tanbaly is also famous for its picturesque fairs, where tourists can buy various goods, from national pastries to souvenirs. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Fans of nature landmarks should consider visiting Trans-Ili Alatau. This is a unique national park with magnificent mountains, giant glaciers, beautiful valleys and lakes. Popular excursion routes were made on mountain slopes, across fast streams and flower fields. Alpinists will be pleased to conquer Khan Tengri Peak that was named one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Khan Tengri was chosen the location of an annual sports festival that gathers extreme sports masters from all over the world. Kolsay Lakes feature a truly breath-taking view. These three crystal clear lakes are filled with water from glaciers. The lakes are surrounded by dense forest and can be reached by foot. Travellers can also see the lakes from the bird’s eye view and make an excursion in a helicopter.

History and Entertainment

Kazakhstan is a country with a rich and multifaceted history. The first large settlements were formed here in the 8th century BC. In the ancient times, there were several independent countries formed by the Hun, Kanl and Celtuce tribes in the territory of the present country. Some old countries had survived until the 5th century AD but them they saw multiple wars of conquest. Consequently, several countries were unified into the Turkic Khaganate. One of the most powerful medieval countries was the Golden Horde.

In the second half of the 15th century, the Kazakh Khanate was formed and existed until 1847. This period is one of the most favorable and most productive for the country. In the 16th-19th centuries, science and culture flourished too. At the end of the 17th century, the Kazakh Khanate lost its independence and became a part of the Russian Empire. Even after the Russian Revolution in 1917, Kazakhstan was under Russia. It gained independence only in 1991, after the collapse of the USSR.

Despite the fact that Kazakhstan is not one of the most popular tourist countries in the world, it has the all prospects for offering tourists exciting holidays. The peculiarity of Kazakhstan is eco and ethnic tours. The latter implies that travelers visit the extraordinary natives’ settlements and learn about their way of living. In some settlements of Kazakhstan, the way of living has not been changing for several hundred years. The acquaintance with age-old traditions of the natives promises to be really exciting.

Eco tours “cover” unique nature regions of the country. Today, the hunting and fishing are officially permitted in some regions. It also should be noted that submontane districts of Kazakhstan are very popular with mountaineers. During the year, a lot of interesting national holidays are celebrated in Kazakhstan. The most interesting one for tourists is Nauryz-meymary, the beginning of the new year in accordance with the Star Almanack. It is celebrated on 21 March and lasts for 2-3 days. Outdoor festive parades and music concerts, a plenty of traditional sweets, interesting sports competitions and games - these are just a small part of all entertainments on this important public holiday.