7-Day Kazakhstan Itinerary: Almaty and Astana Exploration

 Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country, is a vast nation in Central Asia known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and sprawling steppes. Once part of the Soviet Union, it gained independence in 1991 and has since emerged as a modern, resource-rich country. Its capital, Astana (Nur-Sultan), showcases futuristic architecture, while Almaty, the former capital, is a cultural hub surrounded by natural beauty.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

The best time to visit Almaty and Astana is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) for mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. Summer (July to August) is ideal for mountain treks and outdoor activities, with warm temperatures in Almaty and cooler winds in Astana. Winter (November to March) offers a snowy wonderland for skiing at Shymbulak and experiencing Astana’s dramatic cold beauty. Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and nature exploration.

HOW TO REACH (FROM INDIA)

To reach Kazakhstan from India, take a direct flight from Delhi to Almaty via Air Astana (4-4.5 hours) or opt for connecting flights through carriers like Turkish Airlines or FlyDubai. Major entry points are Almaty International Airport and Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (Astana). Book early for the best fares and ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.

VISA PROCESS(FOR INDIANS)

Indian citizens can visit Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 14 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes. You need a valid passport (6 months minimum), a return ticket, and possibly proof of accommodation. The visa-free stay applies to all international airports and border checkpoints. For stays longer than 14 days, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa. Ensure your trip complies with the 14-day limit to avoid penalties.

WHERE TO STAY AND FOOD - ALMATY, ASTANA

Almaty offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. Best areas to stay is close to attractions like Zenkov Cathedral, Green Bazaar, and Arbat Street.We stayed at Ibis Almaty.

Astana (Nur-Sultan) offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. The best areas to stay are near landmarks like Bayterek Tower, Hazrat Sultan Mosque, and Nurzhol Boulevard. However, we didn’t stay in Astana as it was a 1-day trip for us.

In Almaty and Astana, the cuisine combines Kazakh traditions with Central Asian and Russian influences. Must-try dishes include Beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles), Shashlik (grilled meat skewers), Plov (rice with meat), and Kuyrdak (organ meats). Local snacks like Samsa (meat pastries) and Lagman (noodle dishes) are common, and drinks like Kumys (fermented horse milk) are unique to Kazakhstan. For dessert, try Chak-chak, a sweet treat made from fried dough and honey. Popular places to sample these dishes include restaurants like Bashnya and Kishlak in Almaty and Resto in Astana.

MODE OF TRANSPORTATION 

In Almaty, we used a mix of public buses, Yandex Go, and walking to explore the city. In Astana, as it was a 1-day trip, we relied on a mix of taxis and walking.

LANGUAGE

Kazakh is the official language, widely spoken in rural areas. Russian is a co-official language, commonly used in cities like Almaty and Astana, and essential for government and business communication. English is growing in popularity among the younger generation and the tourism industry .To bridge the language gap, download the Kazakh and Russian language packs in Google Translate for offline use.

Learn a few basic words in Kazakh or Russian to connect with locals:

• Hello: Salem (Kazakh) / Privet (Russian)

• Thank you: Rakhmet (Kazakh) / Spasibo (Russian)

• How much?: Kansha? (Kazakh) / Skol’ko? (Russian)

CURRENCY,SIM AND OTHERS

The official currency of Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT), with 1 INR equaling approximately 5.5-6 KZT. It’s better to carry US Dollars from India. Convert USD to KZT at local exchange counters or banks for better rates, avoiding airport exchanges. ATMs are also available for direct KZT withdrawals if your card supports international transactions.

Kazakhstan offers several reliable mobile network providers for tourists. Top providers:

1.Beeline

2.Kcell/Activ

3.Tele2/Altel

We took Beeline 6000 KZT (~₹1,000) SIM pack, available at Almaty and Astana airports, includes 30 GB data, unlimited local calls, and free social media usage, valid for 30 days. It’s convenient for tourists seeking immediate connectivity, though slightly pricier than city options.

Kazakhstan uses Type C and Type F plug points with two round pins, and the voltage is 220Vat 50Hz. Indian plugs are not compatible, so it’s essential to carry a universal adapter or a Type C/F adapter. Most modern devices support 220V, but double-check to ensure compatibility.

ITINERARY 

Day 1 in Almaty: Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax.

• Explore the Streets & New Culture: Stroll through Arbat Street, enjoy the local vibes, visit Panfilov Park and the Green Bazaar to experience the culture, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

• SIM Card & Currency Exchange: Buy a SIM card from Beeline or Kcell at the airport or local shops and exchange your USD for Kazakh Tenge (KZT) at exchange counters for convenience.

• Traditional Kazakh Dinner: Savor a local dinner with traditional dishes like Beshbarmakor Shashlik, and get a true taste of Kazakh cuisine.

This day introduces you to Almaty’s streets, culture, and practical essentials for your trip.

Day 2: Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake, Kaindy Lake, and Black Canyon

• Charyn Canyon:Known as the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan,” carved over millions of years by the Charyn River.Two exploration options:

1. Walk 1.5 km along the rim for panoramic views.

2. Hike 2 km down into the canyon to the river for a closer look. This option offers a unique perspective but can be tiresome.

• Kaindy Lake:A surreal lake with a submerged forest, formed after a 1911 earthquake caused a landslide.

Descend the slope to reach the lake easily, and rent a cab (1,000 KZT per person) to avoid the steep uphill return.

• Kolsai Lake:•A stunning alpine lake formed by tectonic activity.

Take an off-road bus from Saty Village, followed by a van ride (1,000 KZT), and hike 1 km to the lake.Enjoy a traditional yurt lunch in Saty Village.

• Black Canyon:A lesser-known gem near Charyn Canyon, featuring dramatic cliffs and a serene atmosphere, ideal for photography.

Book through GetYourGuide, which handles all logistics, including transport, meals, guides, and accommodation for 2-day tours. The 2-day trip includes a stay in Saty Village or a yurt, while the 1-day trip covers the highlights for those on a tighter schedule.https://www.getyourguide.com/almaty-city-l1414/almaty-charyn-canyon-kolsay-and-kaindy-lakes-day-trip-t565634/?utm_source=getyourguide&utm_medium=sharing&utm_campaign=activity_details

Day 3: Big Almaty Lake

After the physically demanding Day 2, take the morning to relax and wake up late. In the afternoon, visit the Big Almaty Lake, a stunning turquoise alpine reservoir located in the Ile-Alatau National Park.

Travel Options:

1. Hiking (11 km) along the tar road for adventure seekers.

2. Electric bike for a less strenuous yet scenic journey.

3. Car for a convenient and direct trip (recommended for those short on time or energy).

We chose the car option, booking the tour through GetYourGuide, which included transportation and a guide.

Tip: The lake is a protected area and swimming is not allowed, but the views are breathtaking and perfect for photography. Dress warmly, as it can get chilly even in summer.

For tour bookings and more details, check https://www.getyourguide.com/almaty-city-l1414/private-tour-in-big-almaty-lakebest-place-around-almaty-t549228/?utm_source=getyourguide&utm_medium=sharing&utm_campaign=activity_details

Day 4: Explore Almaty on Foot & Sunset at Kok Tobe

Spend the day exploring Almaty’s landmarks on foot, soaking in the rich history and vibrant culture:

1. Zenkov Cathedral: A wooden Russian Orthodox church in Panfilov Park, known for its impressive architecture.

2. Green Bazaar: A bustling market offering a wide range of local goods, from fresh produce to souvenirs.

3. Arbat Street: A lively pedestrian street lined with cafes, shops, and street art.

4. Central Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Almaty, showcasing beautiful Islamic architecture.

5. Musical Instrument Museum: A museum dedicated to the rich musical heritage of Kazakhstan, housing traditional instruments and exhibits showcasing local music history.

End the Day at Kok Tobe.Take the ropeway to Kok Tobe Hill for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.The round-trip ticket costs approximately 2,500 KZT. Enjoy the sunset and relax at the hilltop, which also has a park and several cafes.

Day 5: 1-Day Trip to Astana (Nur-Sultan)

After a morning flight to Astana (now called Nur-Sultan), you can explore the modern capital’s top attractions:

1. Bayterek Tower:This iconic tower offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck and symbolizes Kazakhstan’s aspirations.Entry Fee: Around 1,000 KZT.

2. Palace of Peace and Reconciliation:A striking pyramid-shaped building designed by architect Norman Foster, symbolizing peace and unity. It hosts conferences and exhibitions.Entry Fee: Approx. 500-1,000 KZT.

3. Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center:A giant tent-shaped building with shops, restaurants, and an indoor beach resort, reflecting modern architecture and offering entertainment options.

4. Hazrat Sultan Mosque:The largest mosque in Kazakhstan, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings.

5. The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan:One of Central Asia’s largest museums, showcasing Kazakhstan’s history, art, and cultural heritage.

6. Exhibition Hall of the Central Concert Hall:A futuristic building housing contemporary art exhibitions and occasional performances.After visiting these attractions, return to the airport for your evening flight back to Almaty.

Tip: With a short time frame, plan your route ahead of time to cover the major sites efficiently.

Day 6: Explore Medeu and Shymbulak

Start the day with a relaxed morning and head to Medeu and Shymbulak for an exciting mountain adventure.You can either take a bus or use Yandex (ride-hailing app) from your hotel to reach Medeu, the world’s highest ice skating rink. The drive takes around 30 minutes from Almaty.

From Medeu, take three consecutive ropeways to explore Shymbulak and Combi 1 and Combi 2:

1.First Ropeway: Ride from Medeu to Shymbulak (approx. 1,500 KZT for a round trip).

2.Second Ropeway: From Shymbulak, take another ropeway to Combi 1 (approx. 2,000 KZT).

3.Third Ropeway: Continue from Combi 1 to Combi 2 (approx. 2,500 KZT).• Total Ropeway Cost: Around 6,000 KZT for a full round trip.

Tip: The weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s advisable to carry warm clothing and wear sturdy shoes for hiking or riding the quad.

Day 7: Return Back to India

On your final day, take your time to enjoy your last moments in Almaty. Depending on your flight schedule, you can:

• Have a relaxing breakfast or explore any last-minute attractions.

• Do some last-minute shopping at local markets or malls for souvenirs.

• Head to the airport for your flight back to India.

If you have time in Almaty, there are several great day trips and destinations to explore:

1.Turgen Gorge:Located around 90 km from Almaty, Turgen Gorge is known for its stunning natural beauty, waterfalls, and hiking trails. One of the highlights is the Bear’s Waterfall, which is accessible via a short hike. The area is also famous for its thermal springsand lush forests.

2.Altyn-Emel National Park:Located about 250 km from Almaty, this park is known for its singing dunes, ancient petroglyphs. It’s a great place for a more adventurous trip.

3.The Tamgaly Petroglyphs:A UNESCO World Heritage site located about 170 km from Almaty, Tamgaly is known for its prehistoric rock carvings and petroglyphs dating back to the Bronze Age.

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty – Check-in, explore the streets, and soak in local culture.

Day 2: Full-day trip to Charyn Canyon, Black Canyon, Kolsai Lake, and Kaindy Lake.

Day 3: Visit Big Almaty Lake – Choose between hiking, biking, or a car tour.

Day 4: Explore Almaty’s landmarks like Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, and end the day at Kok Tobe Hill.

Day 5: Day trip to Astana – Visit iconic sites like the Bayterek Tower, Hazrat Sultan Mosque

Day 6: Discover Medeu and Shymbulak Ski Resort, with thrilling ropeway rides to Kombi 1 and Kombi 2.

Day 7: Departure from Almaty – Return home with memories of Kazakhstan’s natural and cultural wonders.