Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, is a blend of history, nature, and modernity, nestled at the foot of the mighty Tien Shan Mountains. It offers a unique array of experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a lover of culture, Almaty provides distinct and memorable activities for all kinds of travelers. Here’s a look at the top things you can only do in this fascinating city.
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1. Ride a Cable Car to the Kok-Tobe Hill
For a panoramic view of Almaty, take the scenic Kok-Tobe Cable Car, which transports you from the city center to the top of Kok-Tobe Hill. The ride itself offers stunning vistas of the city and the surrounding mountains, but the real treat awaits you at the top.
Kok-Tobe is a peaceful retreat with gardens, cafes, and even a small zoo, but its most iconic feature is the Monument to The Beatles, the only such monument in Central Asia. Here, you can relax with a coffee while enjoying the fresh mountain air and an unbeatable view of the sprawling city below.
2. Ice Skate at Medeu, the Highest Ice Skating Rink in the World
One of the most unique winter activities in Almaty is a visit to Medeu, the highest ice skating rink in the world. Located at an elevation of 1,691 meters (5,547 feet) in the mountains above the city, Medeu has a reputation as a record-breaking rink, where many speed-skating records have been set.
Whether you’re an avid skater or a beginner, gliding across the ice at Medeu is a magical experience. In the winter, the surrounding snow-capped mountains create a stunning backdrop, making this an unforgettable Almaty adventure.
3. Hike in Shymbulak and the Tien Shan Mountains
Almaty’s proximity to the Tien Shan Mountains makes it an outdoor lover’s paradise, with some of the best hiking trails in Central Asia. Shymbulak Ski Resort, located just a short drive from the city, is famous for its winter sports, but it’s also a prime hiking destination in the warmer months.
From Shymbulak, you can hike to scenic spots like Furmanov Peak and the Tuyuk-Su Glacier, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of rugged peaks, green valleys, and alpine lakes. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are cable cars that take you further up the mountain for stunning sightseeing opportunities without the effort.
4. Explore the Green Bazaar
No trip to Almaty is complete without visiting the bustling Green Bazaar, also known as Zelyony Bazaar. This vibrant market is a sensory overload, offering everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional Kazakh foods and handicrafts.
For foodies, the Green Bazaar is a must-visit. Sample local delicacies like kurt (dried cheese balls), beshbarmak (Kazakhstan’s national dish of boiled meat and noodles), and kazy (horse meat sausage). The market is also a great place to pick up souvenirs such as woolen goods, intricate jewelry, and traditional Kazakh clothing.
5. Visit the Ascension Cathedral in Panfilov Park
The Ascension Cathedral, also known as Zenkov Cathedral, is one of Almaty’s most iconic landmarks and a striking example of Russian Orthodox architecture. Located in Panfilov Park, this cathedral is famous for being one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world, constructed entirely without nails.
Surrounded by greenery, the cathedral’s bright colors and unique design make it a stunning sight. Visitors can explore the interior, which is equally beautiful with its ornate frescoes and religious icons. The surrounding Panfilov Park is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
6. Discover Big Almaty Lake
Located in the Ile-Alatau National Park, just 15 kilometers from Almaty, Big Almaty Lake is one of the region’s most stunning natural wonders. The lake’s vibrant blue color and the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks make it a perfect spot for photography and nature lovers.
The lake, which sits at an altitude of 2,511 meters (8,238 feet), is accessible by a scenic drive through the mountains. While swimming is prohibited as it serves as the city’s water reservoir, the lake is surrounded by hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the area and take in the breathtaking scenery.
7. Attend the Almaty Apple Festival
Did you know that Almaty is considered the birthplace of apples? The name “Almaty” is derived from the Kazakh word for apple, and the region is known for its rich orchards that produce some of the finest apples in the world.
Each fall, the city celebrates its apple heritage with the Almaty Apple Festival, a lively event that brings together locals and visitors to sample apple varieties, enjoy traditional music and dance performances, and participate in contests and workshops. The festival is a fun way to experience Almaty’s cultural traditions while tasting some of the juiciest apples you’ll ever have.
8. Learn About Kazakhstan’s History at the Central State Museum
For a deeper understanding of Kazakhstan’s rich history and culture, pay a visit to the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan. The museum, located in a grand building in the city center, houses an extensive collection of artifacts that trace the country’s history from ancient times to the present day.
The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage, the Silk Road, the Soviet era, and the country’s independence. Highlights include ancient Scythian gold treasures, traditional Kazakh clothing, and relics from the Golden Horde period. The museum offers fascinating insights into Kazakhstan’s role in global history and its unique cultural identity.
9. Relax at Arasan Baths
Almaty is home to the luxurious Arasan Baths, one of the finest bath complexes in Central Asia. Built during the Soviet era, this grand bathhouse offers traditional Russian, Finnish, and Turkish baths, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or hiking.
Locals and visitors alike come here to relax in the steam rooms, cool down in the cold plunge pools, and indulge in massages or spa treatments. The Arasan Baths are a quintessential Almaty experience, offering a taste of Kazakhstan’s long-standing tradition of communal bathing.
10. Experience Almaty’s Vibrant Nightlife
Almaty boasts a lively and cosmopolitan nightlife scene, with an array of bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit all tastes. For those who enjoy live music, Almaty has a thriving jazz and indie scene, with venues like Harat’s Irish Pub and The Wall Bar hosting performances regularly.
For a more sophisticated evening, head to Sky Lounge, a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city and the mountains, or visit one of Almaty’s many fine-dining restaurants to savor local and international cuisine. Whether you prefer a laid-back night or a dance-till-dawn experience, Almaty’s nightlife won’t disappoint.
Final Thoughts
Almaty is a city full of unique experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else. Whether you’re exploring the bustling markets, hiking through the Tien Shan Mountains, or enjoying the local cultural festivals, Almaty offers a dynamic and unforgettable adventure. Its perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty makes it a top destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Central Asia.
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