2025 Kazakhstan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

[6 Days and 5 Nights Deep Tour in Kazakhstan] Unlock the Secrets of Central Asia! A Visual Feast from Snow Mountains to Deserts Hey everyone! I just got back from Kazakhstan, and this visa-free treasure of a country has truly amazed me! 🏔️ From the Alps-like snow mountains to the Mars-like red deserts, and prices so low they're touching (a cup of coffee is only 8 RMB!), today I'm offering you this freshly baked guide with both hands, to take you around this mysterious Central Asian country~ ✈️ [Transportation Guide] ▪️ Airplane: Direct flights from Beijing/Urumqi to Almaty (3.5 hrs) ▪️ Domestic Transportation: Recommended Yandex taxi (cheaper than taxis) ▪️ Intercity Transportation: High-speed rail/airplane are both convenient (Astana-Almaty high-speed rail 5 hrs) ▪️ Must-have APP: Yandex Maps + Translate 🏔️ [DAY1: First Impression of Almaty] 🕘 9:00 Ascension Cathedral The second tallest wooden church in the world! The candy-colored exterior is super dreamy, and the murals inside are breathtaking~ The morning light is best for taking pictures 🕛 12:00 Green Bazaar Super local market! Must-eat in the food area on the second floor: ▪️ Shashlik (charcoal grilled lamb skewers) ▪️ Baursak (Kazakh fried dough) 🕒 15:00 Kok-Tobe Hill Take the cable car up the mountain to overlook the whole city! The rainbow chair and Beatles sculpture on the top of the mountain are popular spots for taking photos, and it's so beautiful at sunset that you'll cry 🍖 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Navat (traditional Kazakh restaurant, the horse sausage platter is amazing) ▪️ Auyl (tent restaurant to experience nomadic culture) 🏜️ [DAY2: Shymbulak Ski Resort] 🕗 8:00 Medeu Ice Rink The highest ice rink in the world! You can play even in summer, and the snow mountain in the background is super stunning 🕐 13:00 Shymbulak Ski Resort The most luxurious ski resort in Central Asia! In summer, you can take the cable car to see the snow mountain, and you must try the plov in the restaurant on the top of the mountain 🌃 19:00 Arbat Pedestrian Street Almaty's "Champs Elysées"! There are street performances at night, remember to bargain when buying souvenirs (recommended Kazakh felt hats) 🔥 [DAY3: Kapchagay Canyon] 🕘 9:00 Charyn Canyon Mini version of the Grand Canyon! The red canyon is super photogenic, remember to wear non-slip shoes to walk the Moon Valley trail 🕑 14:00 Kolsai Lakes The "Pearl of the Tian Shan Mountains" lives up to its name! The three alpine lakes are like sapphires, and the lakeside is full of wildflowers in July-August 🍵 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Gakku (horse meat specialty restaurant) ▪️ Coffeedelia (popular industrial style coffee shop) 🚞 [DAY4: Modern Journey of Astana] 🕗 8:00 Khan Shatyr The largest tent building in the world! Inside is a shopping center, and the top floor has an indoor roller coaster and artificial beach 🕛 12:00 Hazrat Sultan Mosque The most beautiful mosque in Central Asia! The blue and gold dome shines in the sun, girls should wear robes to enter 🕠 17:00 Bayterek Tower The 91-meter-high "Christmas tree" building, you can see the panoramic view of the city when you climb to the top, and the light show at night is super stunning 🍴 Dinner Recommendations: ▪️ Astana Grill (high-end steakhouse) ▪️ Line Brew (craft beer + German sausage) 🏕️ [DAY5: Burabay National Park] 🕘 9:00 Lake Burabay "Kazakh Switzerland"! You can ride horses around the lake, and the wooden houses by the lake are super fairytale-like for taking pictures 🕑 14:00 Mount Okzhetpes It's super exciting to take the cable car to the top! The "Lonely Piano" on the top of the mountain is a popular spot for taking photos on Instagram 🌌 [DAY6: Altyn-Emel National Park] 🕗 8:00 Red Mountains It's like landing on Mars! It's beautiful to wear a white or black dress for taking pictures, it is recommended to rent an off-road vehicle for in-depth exploration 🕛 12:00 Singing Dune Mysterious sand dunes that can "sing"! You can hear a roar when you slide down from a high place, it's super magical 🔥 [Must-Play List TOP5] 1️⃣ Charyn Canyon (red canyon blockbuster) 2️⃣ Kolsai Lakes (sapphires of the Tianshan Mountains) 3️⃣ Khan Shatyr (futuristic architectural miracle) 4️⃣ Lake Burabay (Little Switzerland of Central Asia) 5️⃣ Red Mountains (Martian surface experience) 💡 [Precautions] ▪️ Visa-free for 30 days, but pay attention to the passport validity period ⌚️ ▪️ The temperature difference between day and night is large in September, so bring a coat 🧥 ▪️ It is recommended to exchange currency in the city (the exchange rate at the airport is poor) 💰 ▪️ Prepare some small change (tipping culture) 💰 ▪️ Respect local religious customs ⛪️ Sitting by Kolsai Lake watching the reflection of the snow mountain, I suddenly understood why the Kazakhs say this is "God's back garden". Here, there is both the boldness of the nomadic people and the avant-garde sense of the future. You can encounter unexpected things every time you turn a corner!

#100WaysOfTravel Kazakhstan is a large country with an area ranked 9th in the world, bordering Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, known as a land of majestic nature that can experience many types of terrain at the same time. It is a peaceful steppe or a barren desert, a dense forest or a beautiful lake along the Tianshan range, a zigzag mountain slope or a million-year-old stone canyon. All seem to converge in the land of Almaty in southeastern Kazakhstan, and the city of Almaty is often the starting point for a journey to these interesting surprises.

I read many posts complaining about Kazakh police 👮🏻‍♂️, and I also met a man from Northeast China in Bakht who kept complaining about the police 👮🏻‍♂️. He said that as long as they see a 🇨🇳 vehicle, the police 👮🏻‍♂️ will turn around and chase you to find ways to fine you. This made me feel uneasy every day, afraid that a police car 🚔 would chase me with flashing lights. After entering Kazakhstan, I only drove for about a week and really felt that the police 🚔 check density is really high. Every day, I saw vehicles being stopped. I encountered dozens of police cars 🚔 along the way. Some were busy dealing with other vehicles and let us pass after a few glances. Some followed behind with flashing lights, but turned them off and drove away when they didn't find any violations. Some honked their horns and waved to us in a friendly greeting before driving away, and some even kindly led the way for me. After a few rounds, if you don't violate traffic rules, the police 👮🏻‍♂️ are still friendly. At least I haven't encountered any corrupt police 👮🏻‍♂️ yet, and I pray that I won't encounter any in the future. Maybe there are more corrupt police 👮🏻‍♂️ on the Khorgos to Almaty line. 📝 Main traffic rules in Kazakhstan ‼️ Most importantly The light transmittance of the front windshield & front side window tint must be ≥ 70%. There are no strict restrictions on the rear side windows and rear windshield. Before entering the country, be sure to remove the dark window tint on the driver's and front passenger's side windows. Our windshield has the original factory film, and the light transmittance looks OK, so we didn't remove it. In actual tests, the police 👮🏻‍♂️ didn't stop us. ‼️ Low beam headlights or daytime running lights must be turned on during the day. One day, a police car 🚔 followed me with flashing lights for dozens of seconds, and then drove alongside me and glanced at me a few times. I guess they were checking whether I had removed the film on my windows and whether the daytime running lights were on. After observing that I met the requirements, they turned off the 🚨 lights and drove away. ‼️ Strictly follow the speed limit signs. If the speed limit is 60, driving at 61 is also considered speeding. Near towns and cities, there must be police 🚔 squatting at the entrances and exits of the main urban roads, especially near warning signs that drop from 90 or 70 to 50 or 40. No matter how the cars next to you speed, you should stick to the speed limit and don't exceed it by even one number. ‼️ You must purchase mandatory car insurance (third-party liability insurance). I only bought insurance the day after entering the country when I drove to Semey. Depending on the vehicle, it costs about 300 per month. ‼️ It is forbidden to turn right at a red light unless there is a green right-turn arrow light. A yellow diamond symbol on the main road indicates that the vehicle has the right of way. An inverted triangle symbol indicates that you must yield to vehicles on the main road or vehicles in the direction with right of way. ‼️ When the other vehicle keeps flashing its lights at you, it is kindly reminding you that there are police 👮🏻‍♂️ ahead, maybe a few kilometers or dozens of kilometers ahead. Once, a kind person gave me a signal dozens of kilometers away.

#AprilTravelSupport If you don't know what to buy as a souvenir in Kazakhstan, I recommend chocolate 🍫 Kazakhstan is very famous for chocolate, and it is said to be one of the country's landmarks in the confectionery industry 👍🏻 Maybe because it is famous, every store sells a lot of chocolate! The chocolate with Kazakhstan written on the blue packaging is the most famous and delicious, so be sure to try it ✔️ The candy in the second picture is also very delicious, so I recommend it to those who like lemon flavor ㅎㅎ 📍LOTTE Rakhat Candy Factory / Zenkov St, Almaty 050000 Kazakhstan #Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel #Almaty #KazakhstanSouvenirs #OverseasTravel

#AprilTravelSupport If you are planning a trip to Central Asia, Try visiting Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan together 👍🏻 The two countries are adjacent, so you can cross the border by car!! You can have such a new experience, and the scenery in both countries is so beautiful, so I highly recommend visiting them ✔️ I went on a trip from Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan and then back to Kazakhstan, and I was so happy 💕 #CentralAsia #CentralAsiaTravel #Kazakhstan #Kyrgyzstan

#AprilTravelSupport If you are driving from Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan, I recommend stopping by for a while and then going 💛 It's a rest stop that's perfect for when you need to go to the bathroom or when you're hungry and full of exotic feelings! Just looking at the gas station, it's a strange landscape that looks like America If you take a picture, you'll have a great shot 👍🏻 📍8MH4+FCC, Беріктас, Kazakhstan #Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel

Kazakhstan (Kazakh: Қазақстан, Qazaqstan; Russian: Казахстан, Kazakhstan), officially the Republic of Kazakhstan, is a landlocked country in Central Asia and the world's largest landlocked country. Its territory spans Central Asia and Eastern Europe. It borders Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west. Its capital is Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana, renamed in 2019), and its largest city is Almaty. ### Basic Information: - **Area**: Approximately 2.7249 million square kilometers (the ninth largest country in the world). - **Population**: Approximately 19 million (2023 data). - **Official Languages**: Kazakh is the national language, and Russian is the official language. - **Currency**: Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). - **Religion**: Primarily Islam (Sunni), with some Orthodox Christianity and other religions. ### History: Historically, Kazakhstan was home to nomadic peoples and was influenced by the Mongol Empire, the Russian Empire, and the Soviet Union. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Kazakhstan declared its independence and became a sovereign state. ### Economy: Kazakhstan's economy is primarily based on energy and mineral resources, with abundant reserves of oil, natural gas, uranium, coal, and metal ores. It is one of the world's largest uranium producers and a major oil exporter. In recent years, Kazakhstan has been committed to economic diversification, developing agriculture, manufacturing, and technology industries. ### Politics: Kazakhstan has a presidential system. The first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, held office for a long period from independence until his resignation in 2019. The current president is Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. ### Culture: Kazakh culture is deeply influenced by nomadic traditions, Islam, and Russian culture. Traditional music, dance, handicrafts, and cuisine (such as horse meat and dairy products) are important parts of its culture. Nauryz is an important traditional festival celebrated annually. ### Geography: Kazakhstan has a diverse topography, including steppes, deserts (such as the Kyzylkum Desert), mountains (such as the Tian Shan Mountains), and lakes (such as Lake Balkhash). The climate is a typical continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. ### International Relations: Kazakhstan is a member of several international organizations, including the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO). It maintains close cooperative relations with China, Russia, the European Union, and other countries. If you need more detailed information, we can explore further!

#europetrip Kazakhstan, vast and mesmerizing, is a land that embodies nature’s grandeur. Comparable in size to Western Europe but home to just sixteen million people, it offers a sense of tranquility and space that is rare. Its stunning landscapes range from majestic mountains with fast-flowing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and glaciers to serene alpine pastures. The endless steppes and rolling green meadows seem to stretch beyond the horizon. Kazakhstan is a breathtaking destination where adventure and serenity blend seamlessly, leaving visitors in awe. An unforgettable escape awaits!

#europetrip Kazakhstan, a country as vast as Western Europe yet sparsely populated, is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Its rugged mountains, rushing rivers, breathtaking waterfalls, and glacial peaks captivate adventurers and nature lovers alike. Vast steppes stretch endlessly, blending into rolling hills and lush meadows that kiss the horizon. It’s a land of contrasts—untamed wilderness and serene beauty. Whether exploring alpine pastures or marveling at its untouched landscapes, Kazakhstan’s diverse terrain offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Central Asia’s boundless charm. A truly awe-inspiring destination!

✅ Uzbekistan is a country full of history and culture, attracting tourists with its ancient Silk Road cities, magnificent architecture, and rich cultural heritage. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Spring (April-June): Mild climate, suitable for outdoor activities. 2️⃣ Autumn (September-October): Cool weather and pleasant scenery. 3️⃣ Summer is hot and winter is cold, so try to avoid these two seasons. 📕 Visa 📮 Chinese citizens need to apply for an electronic visa in advance, which can be done through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan. The procedure is simple. ✅ Malaysia is a multicultural country with beautiful scenery, rich natural landscapes, historical sites, and cuisine. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Suitable for travel all year round: Malaysia has a tropical climate and is warm and humid all year round. 2️⃣ Dry season (November-March): Less rainfall on the west coast (e.g., Kuala Lumpur, Penang), suitable for travel. 3️⃣ Wet season (May-September): The east coast (e.g., Redang Island, Perhentian Island) may be affected by monsoons, so it is recommended to avoid it. 📕 Visa 📮 Chinese citizens: Visa-free stay for 15 days, with a valid passport and return ticket. - It is recommended to confirm the latest visa policy in advance. ✅ Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia, with rich natural landscapes and cultural heritage. From vast grasslands to majestic mountains, to modern cities. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Spring (April-June): Mild climate, suitable for outdoor activities. 2️⃣ Autumn (September-October): Cool weather and pleasant scenery. 3️⃣ Summer (July-August): Suitable for mountain hiking, but cities are hot. 4️⃣ Winter (November-March): Suitable for skiing and winter sports. 📕 Visa 📮 Visa-free policy: Chinese citizens can stay visa-free for 14 days. 📮 Electronic visa: If you need to stay longer, you can apply for an electronic visa. ✅ Russia is a country full of history, culture, and natural landscapes, with rich tourism resources. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Summer (June-August): The climate is warm, suitable for visiting cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, and it is also the best time to enjoy the White Nights phenomenon. 2️⃣ Winter (December-February): Suitable for experiencing ice and snow activities, such as skiing and ice fishing, and you can also feel the Christmas and New Year atmosphere in Russia. 3️⃣ Spring and Autumn (May, September-October): The weather is mild, there are fewer tourists, and it is suitable for avoiding peak seasons. 📕 Tourist Visa 📮 Usually single or double entry, the stay is no more than 30 days. 📮 Business visa: Depending on the content of the invitation letter, the length of stay may be longer, usually 30 to 90 days. ✅ South Korea is a dynamic and culturally rich country with abundant natural landscapes, historical sites, and modern urban charm. Here's a detailed South Korea travel guide to help you better plan your trip. ❤️ Best time to travel 1️⃣ Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the climate is mild, suitable for flower viewing and outdoor activities. 2️⃣ Autumn (September-November): The autumn air is crisp, the mountains are covered with red leaves, and it is a good time for hiking and sightseeing. 3️⃣ Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, suitable for seaside vacations. 4️⃣ Winter (December-February): Cold and dry, suitable for skiing and hot springs. 📕 Visa Types ⏳ Short-term visa (C visa) 📮 C-3-9 Tourist Visa: For short-term stays (usually within 90 days) for sightseeing, visiting relatives, or visiting friends.

For 10 unforgettable days, I wandered through the golden landscapes of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan with my 5-year-old daughter by my side. Autumn had painted everything in shades of amber and gold, turning every path, mountain, and lake into a scene straight out of a storybook. We ran through open meadows, her tiny hand gripping mine as leaves crunched beneath our feet. She laughed as the wind caught her hair, and I smiled, realizing how rare and precious these moments were. We marveled at crystal-clear lakes reflecting the fiery colors of fall and sat quietly under towering trees, watching the world slow down just for us. This wasn’t just a trip—it was magic. A time when the beauty of nature and the simple joy of being together made the world feel warmer, brighter, and full of wonder.

Stepping into the rainy Harun Canyon is like stepping into a misty ink painting. The fine rain threads are like silver threads, weaving a hazy veil that gently covers the crimson rock walls. The rocks seem to awaken, their colors becoming more intense and deep. Rainwater flows along the texture, like tears left by time. The valley trail is muddy, but it doesn't dampen the traveler's enthusiasm. Walking with an umbrella, the figure appears and disappears in the rain. Rainwater converges into a stream, flowing gently, playing a natural symphony. The cliffs on both sides of the canyon are towering, appearing even more majestic and mysterious in the rain and mist. The vegetation is washed by the rain, adding a touch of green. Occasionally, birds fly over, their cries echoing through the valley. Rain adds a different charm to Harun Canyon, making this place more dynamic and peaceful, making people linger and forget their way back.

#favouriteitinerary Kaindy Lake, located in Kazakhstan’s breathtaking Kungey Alatau mountain range, is a stunning natural wonder that is truly one of a kind. Known for its submerged forest, crystal-clear waters, and striking blue hues, the lake offers visitors a surreal and picturesque experience. Here’s an ideal itinerary to explore this hidden gem! 🌲💧 Day 1: • Morning: Start your journey by traveling to Kaindy Lake from Almaty, which is approximately a 4-hour drive. The scenic drive through the mountainous terrain will prepare you for the beauty that awaits. 🚗🌄 • Afternoon: Upon arrival, take a walk around the lake, which is surrounded by tall, pine-covered mountains. The submerged forest is the highlight, with the tree trunks emerging from the water, creating an otherworldly scene. 🏞️🌳 • Evening: Set up for an evening picnic by the lake, enjoying the tranquility of the area as the sun sets over the mountains. Day 2: • Morning: Rent a small boat or kayak to get a closer look at the submerged trees beneath the lake’s clear waters. The sight is magical, especially with the reflections of the trees on the water’s surface. 🚣♂️🌊 • Afternoon: Hike around the surrounding areas to explore the lush scenery and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. Tips: • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking. • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking beauty of the lake. • The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is ideal. This itinerary will give you a deeper appreciation for Kaindy Lake’s natural beauty and unique landscape! 🏔️ #favouriteitinerary #kaindylake #kazakhstantravel #naturelovers #outdooradventures #travelguide #landscapephotography #hiddenparadise #almatyadventures

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

#JapanFlightEvent This is a place you can visit on a day tour from Almaty!!ㅎㅎ I went there in a private car with a guide~~! Because you have to walk quite a bit, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and comfortable clothes! Take lots of pictures!!ㅎㅎ

#JapanFlightEvent A place where you can fully experience the beauty of nature! Capture the wonderful and beautiful nature with your own eyes. You can get beautiful pictures! Go into nature and take pictures! I highly recommend you go! 📍Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

#europetrip Beautiful cafe in Almaty! Found them on Google and decided to visit as they had great reviews and the location was near us. Ah, where to begin? The food was very fresh, we ordered their chicken noodle soup and buckwheat porridge for lunch and tried their Napoleon cake alongside two smaller pastries for dessert. Their coffee and dark chocolate were both strong and easy to drink. Everything was so yummy! Also big thank you to the cashier and service staff as they could speak a little English, which made ordering less intimidating. Highly recommend that you visit this cafe, their dessert counter and floor to ceiling window panes alone are just lovely to look at.

#europetrip Mediocre at best, with a very good environment and staff; however, the tea was overly sweet and didn't have a strainer; therefore, all of the herbs and fruit pieces escaped into the tea. We also ordered the "Almaty Breakfast." I must say it's gorgeous looks-wise; however, the actual taste wasn't that special and didn't hit the spot. The toast was too dry and flavorless to be considered French toast but too fluffy and eggy to be considered plain toast. As for the caramel apple oatmeal, I was very glad they had other milk options-the appearance was great, taste-wise it was good, but I was just expecting the caramel to be a bit more noticeable as there was barely any flavor. Overall, the food isn't anything special.

Amazing trip home 🥰

Snow mountain ❄️

🕰️Business Hours:

When thinking about skiing in Kazakhstan, Shymbulak, the largest ski resort in Central Asia, often comes to mind. However, nestled in Almaty is the hidden gem of Ak Bulak. On my last day in Kazakhstan, I decided to explore this treasure, and it truly was a remarkable find. Transportation 🛫 Unlike Shymbulak's advantageous location, Ak Bulak (AK) is situated 50 kilometers west of Almaty city center, about an hour's drive into the mountains. The name 'Bulak' means spring in Russian, and the resort is indeed beautiful, far from the tourist crowds, especially peaceful on weekdays. Using the Yandex Go app, a ride from the city costs around 100 RMB. It's wise to allow extra time for the return trip as prices may increase or you might encounter traffic. Ski Resort 🎿 Compared to Shymbulak, AK offers a smaller marked ski area but boasts extensive off-piste terrain at the summit. With one gondola and one chairlift, you can ascend from 1,652 meters to a peak of 2,664 meters, with a chairlift offering a 664-meter vertical drop. Tickets are consistently affordable, with a four-hour weekday pass costing only 80 RMB, excluding card fees. Due to its orientation, the resort receives little sunlight, but the abundant trees help preserve the snow after snowfall. Even a week after the last snowfall, the conditions remain excellent, with almost no rocks on or off the trails compared to Shymbulak. Local ski instructors speak good English and proudly showcase the off-piste areas at the summit, often dismissing Shymbulak. Skeptical, I ventured to the top, where the sun cast its rays over the ridge, revealing breathtaking views and endless ungroomed areas that invigorated me. From the ridges, there are numerous steep off-piste sections, which are thrilling after fresh snow. Traversing through the trees, you can find untouched snow, but a certain level of skill is necessary; otherwise, skiing in rough snow can be challenging. The lower section features groomed trails with natural half-pipes and tree-lined wave paths, catering to advanced skiers. Overall, AK's snow conditions and terrain are unique and wild, but without a solid technical foundation, it can be difficult to enjoy. The off-piste areas are regulated, and with a guide, post-snowfall adventures could be exciting, though I didn't experience this on my visit, leaving something to look forward to. Facilities 🥢 Facilities are AK's weak point. There are hotels, but likely not chosen by international tourists. The resort has a few restaurants and cafes, and the rental area looks sparse, with even the restrooms requiring a fee. However, considering the 80 RMB ticket price, these shortcomings are tolerable. If you have an adventurous spirit and enjoy off-piste skiing and varied terrain, Ak Bulak is a must-visit hidden gem and a great complement to skiing at Shymbulak. Stay tuned for the next update on Almaty travel highlights. #SkiTogether #Almaty #KazakhstanSkiing #AkBulak #Skiing #BillyWhiteSkiDiary

Deciding to ski in Kazakhstan was a rare spur-of-the-moment decision. To sum it up, it was a trip that exceeded expectations in terms of convenience, ski resort fun, leisure dining, and the skiing experience itself. While Shymbulak, the largest in Central Asia, may not have as much skiable area as Hemu in Xinjiang, its direct flights from various cities in China, comparable convenience to Jiangjun Mountain, comprehensive facilities, and exotic Central Asian charm make it a highlight of any ski trip. Transportation 🛫: There are direct flights from Xi'an, Hangzhou, Beijing, and Urumqi to Almaty, with Urumqi being about a 2-hour flight. Due to the time difference, you can "turn back time by a few minutes." China Southern Airlines offers a new route promotion "New Route, Enjoy Flying," allowing unlimited exchanges for flights between Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Almaty for 1600 RMB plus a small amount of fare and tax until the end of June. The main cost of the ticket can be eliminated. It takes about half an hour from Almaty Airport to the city center, and the same from the ski resort to the city center, although it may take longer if there's traffic. The "Russian-speaking Didi" Yandex Go is very convenient for taxis, costing about 50 RMB. For larger groups, you can choose a minibus, but the economy taxis can be quite wild. Ski Resort 🎿: Shymbulak, also known as Chimbulak, was the host of the 2011 Asian Winter Games and lost the bid for the 2022 Winter Olympics to Beijing. Starting from the Medeu at an altitude of 1626 meters, you take a cable car, which is similar to the lower section of the Keketohai cable car or the position of Gem Valley, and reach the 2260-meter Base in about 15 minutes. There are two more mixed cable cars and chairlifts that go straight to the 3200-meter summit. The ski resort has a significant vertical drop, is long and narrow, with forests, valleys, snow gullies, and white slopes. It has a European feel but is far smaller in skiable area than European resorts, more like a stop in a ski area. The summit has a separate chairlift to a small back mountain, with off-piste areas on the left snow gully and right valley, offering varied terrain that is fun and challenging for those with some skill. There are rocks on the slopes, and you need to avoid the "Central Asian torpedoes." The snow quality is decent at the end of January, but the snow outside the trails is thin, requiring caution. The terrain is very diverse, resembling a mix of Keketohai and Hemu. A full-day ski pass, excluding the ski card fee, is about 120 RMB, which reminds me of my trip to Gudauri, Georgia, six years ago, so I can't complain. Facilities 🥢: There are ski-in, ski-out hotels at various altitudes, from resort hotels to unbeatable top-door cabins, though the prices are not low. We used Marriott points to stay at the Ritz-Carlton in the city for over 20,000 points, costing about 1200 RMB per night, which is a good deal compared to the 3000+ RMB rack rate. Restaurants, shops, rentals, and ski schools are all well-equipped, but the only inconvenience is the low prevalence of English. It's recommended to have a basic understanding of Russian or a translation app to avoid difficulties. Stay tuned for the next update on the small Akbulak ski resort and Almaty travel highlights. To be continued. #KazakhstanSkiing #Skiing #SkiTravel

For those planning a trip to Almaty, the Shymbulak Ski Resort offers a convenient and scenic experience. You can easily reach the resort by taking bus number 12 from the city center, with a ticket costing just 200 KZT. Once there, you can enjoy a round-trip cable car ride for 6000 KZT, which includes three segments. If you prefer, you can also purchase tickets for individual segments. The final segment takes you up to an altitude of 3200 meters, offering breathtaking views. #Almaty #Kazakhstan #Shymbulak #ShymbulakSkiResort #CableCar

Kazakhstan offers an incredible skiing experience that rivals Europe, with fewer crowds, great snow, and affordable prices. Plus, it's visa-free, making it a convenient destination. Shymbulak, Central Asia's largest ski resort, is located in the Ile-Alatau National Park and has been operating for 70 years. It's just 20 kilometers from Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, with a 30-40 minute drive. 🏠 Accommodation: Staying in Almaty is recommended for easy access to dining and shopping. Alternatively, you can stay near the ski resort, though it might be quieter. 🚗 Transportation: Taxis from the city to the ski resort are convenient, taking about 40 minutes and costing around 50 RMB. 🎫 Ski Passes: Passes are available for full day, morning, afternoon, and night sessions. A full-day adult pass costs about 120 RMB on weekdays, slightly more on weekends. Youth under 23 get a discount. First-time visitors need to purchase a 30 RMB ski card, which is reusable for future visits. 🏔️ Ski Resort: Shymbulak is a high-altitude resort, similar to Hemu Jikepulin and Koktokay ski resorts, with a European feel. The highest altitude is about 3100 meters, with a vertical drop of 900 meters. The resort offers 27 km of slopes and off-piste areas for varied terrain. 🚠 Lifts: There are four lift lines. After purchasing tickets at the base, take a lift to the ski gear hall, then transfer to another lift or chairlift to reach mid-mountain, and another to the summit. There's also a skiable area behind the summit with a chairlift. 🍽️ Dining: The ski gear hall has nearly ten restaurants offering various cuisines, slightly more expensive than in Almaty, comparable to major cities in China. #Kazakhstan #Almaty #Shymbulak

If you're looking for a place to enjoy skiing and capture beautiful snowy landscapes, Chimbulak is a must-visit ski destination! As the first snow falls, Chimbulak transforms into a pristine winter wonderland, offering an exhilarating skiing experience amidst breathtaking scenery. The ski slopes offer a thrilling ride, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests, creating a picturesque view that takes your breath away. Each turn and acceleration makes you forget the passage of time, as the wind whistles by and snowflakes gently fall, making you feel like the world is yours. Standing atop the mountain, you can overlook the entire Chimbulak ski area, where snow-covered pine forests and towering peaks create a stunning winter landscape. Every scene here showcases the raw power and pure beauty of nature. Skiing at Chimbulak offers a dual enjoyment of sport and scenery. Whether it's the thrill of speeding downhill or pausing to soak in the snowy surroundings, every moment is refreshing and unforgettable. It's not just about skiing; it's about connecting with nature. Every photo captures the beauty of this winter day. Chimbulak is not only a skier's paradise but also a place to slow down and enjoy the tranquility of winter and nature. If you long for this pure snowy realm, come to Chimbulak to experience the perfect blend of skiing and nature! The best part is the unbeatable value! A taxi from the city center takes about half an hour and costs around 50. The cable car is unlimited for the whole day at just 80, allowing you to ski to your heart's content! A full set of ski gear costs 150, ensuring warmth and style. If you have your own equipment, the daily ski fee is only 80, making it a haven for ski enthusiasts! Chimbulak offers skiing, photography, and scenic enjoyment all in one place! #Chimbulak #SkiingValue #WinterTravel

Shymbulak Ski Resort, nestled in the picturesque Zailiyskiy Alatau Gorge at an altitude of 3,500 meters, is a haven for alpine skiing enthusiasts worldwide. The resort boasts high-quality dry powder snow, and on clear days, the sunset casts a soft golden glow over the mountains, creating a surreal painting-like experience. Getting There: The resort is conveniently located just 10 kilometers from Almaty city center. Use Yandex GO for transportation, and remember to select the 'with ski equipment' option. The taxi fare is approximately 4,000 KZT. Ticket Prices: Prices vary by season. During peak season, a full-day ticket costs 11,000 KZT, while in non-peak seasons, it can be less than 10,000 KZT. Equipment Rental: Ski equipment can be rented at the mountain top, next to the ski gear hall, but expect queues and higher prices. It's recommended to rent in the city at TOBE, a ski chain store offering full sets for 8,500 KZT. The gear is new, affordable, and available in all sizes, with excellent and patient service. (More options for double-board suits than single-board suits.) Cable Cars: From the entrance, take a cable car to the service center/ski gear hall/ski school, which also houses restaurants, cafes, and a ski school. Several cable cars are available to ascend the mountain from here. Ski Slopes: Shymbulak features two magic carpets (50m/100m) and a gentle 900m beginner slope at the summit. All other slopes are advanced. #Kazakhstan #KazakhstanTravel #AlmatyTravel #Skiing #HotSprings #ShymbulakMountain #AlmatySkiing #AlmatyMountain #AlmatyCuisine