Explore the incredible variety of landscapes around Almaty, from towering mountains to tranquil lakes and lush forests. Almaty, situated in Kazakhstan’s scenic southeast, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm.
10 Almaty Best Places to Visit
- Kok Tobe Hill
- Arbat Street
- Central Mosque
- Green Bazaar
- The Ascension Cathedral
- Big Almaty lake
- Medeu
- Charyn Canyon
- Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake
- Magic Singing Dune
Kok Tobe Hill
Kok Tobe Hill, situated in central Almaty, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the majestic Tian Shan mountains. Accessible via a scenic cable car ride, visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Beatles monument, the Alma Fountain (shaped like an apple, the symbol of Almaty), and the towering TV tower. Kok Tobe Park provides a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and family outings.
Arbat Street
Arbat Street in Almaty is a bustling pedestrian hotspot filled with shops, cafes, and live entertainment. During the day, explore craft stalls, sample regional dishes, or enjoy local artwork. At night, the street comes alive with street performers and twinkling lights, offering a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. With its vibrant vibe and colorful surroundings, Arbat Street is a must-visit destination in Almaty for soaking up the city’s energy and charm.
Central Mosque
In Kazakhstan, there are many mosques, as the country has a predominantly Muslim population. The Central Mosque in Almaty, near the Green Bazaar, is a standout example. Its stunning Islamic architecture, complete with a massive golden dome, is a sight worth seeing—non-Muslims are welcome to visit. Outside, a lovely fountain adds to its charm. The mosque’s golden dome is visible from various parts of the city. The mosque is one of the country’s largest, capable of holding up to 7,000 worshippers.
Green Bazaar
The Green Bazaar in Almaty is the city’s most popular market, bustling with a diverse array of goods, spices, fruits and even clothes. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural experience, it is one of the oldest markets in the city, open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM. We highly recommend trying the nuts and fruits, as Central Asian produce is known for its exceptional taste. And for the adventurous, why not sample horse milk? Locals believe in its health benefits, adding a unique twist to your visit.
The Ascension Cathedral
The Ascension Cathedral, also known as Zenkov Cathedral, stands as a renowned Russian Orthodox cathedral, distinguished by its unique wooden architecture dating back to the early 20th century. It is one of the tallest wooden building in the world.
With its brightly colored exterior and distinctive design, the cathedral is a captivating sight for visitors. It is holding historical significance as one of the few surviving wooden structures from pre-Soviet times in the region. Situated near Arbat Street and the Green Bazaar, don’t miss the chance to pass by and admire this architectural marvel.
Big Almaty Lake
Located just 30 km from the city center and easily accessible by taxi, Big Almaty Lake is a stunning destination. Situated at an altitude of about 2500 meters above sea level, this alpine lake has crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by stunning mountains and forests, creating a beautiful piece of nature. Visitors can hike, picnic, or simply walk around and capture the breathtaking scenery.
Medeu
The skating rink in Medeu is one of the world’s highest, situated in the scenic Medeu Valley. It offers a fantastic spot for skating amid breathtaking mountain views. Visitors can easily access the ice rink by public bus or taxi from Almaty city. Additionally, the nearby gondola provides convenient transportation to and from the Shymbulak Ski Resort, allowing visitors to enjoy both skiing and skating activities in the same area.
If you have a bit more time to explore the area, we suggest considering day trips to visit some of the must-see attractions nearby. Here are a few recommendations!
Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” Formed over millions of years by the erosion of the Charyn River, this magnificent canyon spans approximately 90 kilometers. Its unique beauty and proximity to Almaty make it a must-visit for visitors seeking a day trip to explore Southern Kazakhstan’s most famous tourist attractions.
It is so unique and peaceful that as part of our Kazakhstan ladies road trip, we spent a night in the canyon, creating memorable memories!
From Charyn Canyon, it is about a two-hour drive to Saty, a small village surrounded by green fields and pine forests. It is your starting point for visiting the Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake.
Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake
The Kolsai Lakes, a series of four stunning alpine lakes, offer breathtaking scenery. The first lake is just 5 km from Saty village, and you can hike to the second one, about 8 km away. Trails can be slippery, so it is wise to go with a guide or rent a horse for safety. Kaindy Lake, known for its unique beauty with submerged trees from an earthquake in 1911, is also worth visiting. Additionally, you can ride a boat on the lake, weather permitting. However, be cautious in winter when the lakes freeze over, as the area may be inaccessible and dangerous.
Magic Singing Dune
Got some extra time to explore? Pass by the Singing Dune!
This geological wonder located in Altyn Emel National Park, approximately 250 km north of Almaty, is a popular tourist attraction. This unique sand mountain, rising up to 150 meters high, produces a mysterious “singing” sound when dry sand moves. Climbing the dune, especially barefoot, offers pure pleasure and the opportunity to hear the sound of the dune under your feet. Once at the top, enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains before running down for some fun.
Hope you enjoyed exploring these top 10 places in Almaty and are now ready to discover more; Kazakhstan has so much to offer, and if you’re hesitant to go alone, our ladies’ group offers the best partners for a fun-filled adventure.
