And guess what, I was among these lucky individuals and got to explore Kazakhstan, one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in Central Asia. This place has become one of the favorite holiday destinations for Indians due to numerous reasons, including visa-free entry, affordable costs, and diverse cultural attractions.
Flights from India to Kazakhstan have now become affordable and accessible due to the increased passenger traffic and route expansion, another factor in favor.
So, if you’ve also made up your mind and decided to visit this country yourself, this article is for you. Here, I will tell you all the essential things Indian travelers should know for a remarkable journey.
Why Kazakhstan? Arguments for Indian Travelers
Kazakhstan is quickly becoming a popular choice for Indian travelers, but have you wondered why is it so? Well, there are quite a few reasons for it.
Natural Beauty: This place offers an unmatched fusion of adventure, cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty.
Visa-Free Entry: The flow of Indian tourists to Kazakhstan has especially ‘shot up’ since the country executed a 14-day visa-free policy for Indian citizens in 2022.
Accessible Flights: The number of daily flights between the two sides has increased substantially in the last few years.
These reasons make Kazakhstan one of the most preferred countries for Indian travelers. The infographics below show that India is among the top five countries by tourist arrivals in Kazakhstan.
Top Kazakhstan Cities to Visit
Kazakhstan’s history is fascinating and spans thousands of years. It highlights both ancient cultures and modern achievements. Here are four cities that you should definitely include in your trip to experience the charm of their glorious past and modern innovations.
1. Almaty: Kazakhstan’s Southern Capital
Almaty is known as the city of apple trees and boasts a mild climate that fosters the thriving of various apple tree species. It is the largest city in the country, situated in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains.
What To Do?
There are a variety of activities to engage in at this place:
Getting dressed to impress, and soar high on the Ferris wheel at the top of Kok-Tobe.
Hit the slopes at Shymbulak and experience the thrill of winter sports like never before!
Explore the vast tapestry of Russian and Soviet history at Panfilov Park.
Why Is It Interesting?
This is the perfect spot for anyone interested in the unique traditions of the Kazakh people and mouthwatering, genuine Kazakh cuisine. The best time to visit this place is March, which brings with it the festive spirit of Nauryz, the Kazakh New Year, in Almaty.
2. Astana: The Modern Capital
Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, is a symbol of modernity, renowned for its futuristic architectural style, shaped by prominent architects including Kisho Kurokawa.
What To Do?
Astana is home to various tourist attractions, here are some of the sites you can visit:
Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center is nestled under a magnificent, clear tent.
Duman A vast oceanarium boasts a stunning 70-meter shark tunnel, offering a glimpse into a huge variety of marine species from across the globe.
Bayterek Tower offers panoramic views of the city, and the top features a gilded handprint of Kazakhstan’s first president.
Why Is It Interesting?
The vibrant capital stands out as the nation’s most contemporary and fashionable city, drawing in tourists with its remarkable architectural innovations. Nestled along the banks of the Ishim River, the city is divided into right and left banks, with the left bank showcasing a breathtaking array of iconic buildings.
3. Shymkent: The Cultural Center of Southern Kazakhstan
Shymkent the third-largest city in Kazakhstan, is situated in the southern region of the country. This energetic city is filled with bustling markets and a lively downtown, making it a hub of activity and culture.
What To Do?
Here are three things you can do in this cultural center in the south of Kazakhstan:
Discover the wonders of Shymkent Zoo, where you can encounter native animals like the snow leopard and a rich assortment of species from across the planet.
The Baidibek Ata Monument stands as the tallest landmark in the northern part and is dedicated to the revered figure of Baidibek biy.
“Akmeshit,” the Sacred Cave, is steeped in folklore. Some narratives paint it as a protective sanctuary, while others weave eerie tales of a fearsome dragon said to haunt its dark corners.
Why Is It Interesting?
The artistry in this area is truly impressive, with a strong presence of felt and genuine leather products and dombra musical instruments, Kazakh dolls adorned in traditional garb.
Additionally, the local mining industry contributes to a variety of exquisite handmade silver and gold souvenirs found throughout the region. The most famous local markets of Shymkent are Bazaar Samal and Anya Bazaar.
4. Aktau and the Caspian Sea: Exotic for Adventurers
The name Aktau means “white mountain,” and it sits gracefully by the Caspian Sea. This region is home to several significant Sufi pilgrimage sites, such as Beket-Ata, Shakpak-Ata, Shopan-Ata, and Masat-Ata.
The area boasts breathtaking natural beauty, with attractions like “Fire Mountain,” lush oases, rejuvenating hot springs, and soothing mud baths.
What To Do?
The Caspian Sea, renowned for its caviar and oil production, holds the title of the largest lake on the planet and is classified as an endorheic basin.
The Beket Ata Underground Mosque stands as a highly esteemed spiritual and cultural landmark.
The Karagiye Depression is a fascinating geological feature, descending roughly 132 meters beneath sea level at its deepest section.
Why Is It Interesting?
One of the most interesting places here is the “Rock Trail” which is the city’s top tourist spot, offering a scenic path along the Caspian Sea with benches, sculptures, rock art, and observation decks for a rich experience.
Do You Know? The “Caspian Riviera Grand Palace” hotel in Aktau is famous for its 890,000-liter aquarium, which is distinguished by its stunning architecture.
Who’s Traveling to Kazakhstan?
As said before in this article, Kazakhstan has introduced visa-free entry for citizens from various nations, including India. Under this policy, travelers can enjoy a stay of up to 14 days without the hassle of obtaining a visa.
A variety of visitors from many countries make their way to Kazakhstan, be it tourists, students, business, and media travelers.
Practical Tips
Preparing to discover a place you’ve never visited before? It’s crucial to consider a few important aspects. Here are some practical tips to guide you on your adventure.
Verify the entry requirements prior to your trip.
Learning basic Russian and Kazakh phrases will help you communicate with the locals better.
The weather there can sometimes be unpredictable, so do not forget to pack accordingly.
A variety of transport options are available there including trains, buses, and taxis, plan your journey and book the required tickets in advance to avoid last-minute complications.
Honor the local customs and traditions there, and dress appropriately when visiting sites of worship.
Conclusion
As we discussed in this article, Kazakhstan is a vibrant country with a rich culture and history. With accessible flights, visa-free entries, and affordable costs, this country is perfect for Indian travelers. From business travelers to families and students looking for a destination to relax or study, this place has something in line for everyone.
So if you are planning to visit this beautiful country, keep the points mentioned in this article in mind to ensure a pleasant and stress-free journey!
