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

#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.

#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

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

#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

The night scene at Shymbulak Ski Resort is quite cold, but it's this extreme weather that makes the blue hour particularly dreamy. After watching the sunset at 3200 meters, waiting for the snow grooming is the most romantic blue hour of the day. As you glide down the freshly groomed KOMBI2 slope, you experience the freedom of skiing combined with the enchanting blue tones. I love Shymbulak for this magical experience!

Almaty Shymbulak is a renowned high-altitude ski resort that offers an exhilarating experience for ski enthusiasts. Located in Kazakhstan, this global ski destination is perfect for those looking to enjoy the thrill of skiing amidst breathtaking mountain views. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, Almaty Shymbulak provides a range of slopes to suit all skill levels. Plan your visit to this winter wonderland and make unforgettable memories on the slopes. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the joy of skiing at one of the world's most famous ski resorts. #Almaty #Kazakhstan #Skiing

Shymbulak Ski Resort, the largest in Central Asia, is located on Medeo Mountain in Almaty, Kazakhstan, just 15 kilometers from the city center, about a half-hour drive. Ski pass prices are as follows: Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM costs 11.05 EUR, from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM costs 8.45 EUR, and from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM costs 7.80 EUR. On weekends and holidays, the prices are 22.10 EUR for 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, 20.15 EUR for 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, and 18.20 EUR for 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Night skiing is available for 16.90 EUR. The resort offers English-speaking instructors and private Chinese tutors. Ski equipment rental is available along the route from Almaty to Medeo Mountain, with prices ranging from 14.30 to 19.50 EUR for a full set (including ski suit, pants, helmet, goggles, gloves, mask, boots, and board). Transportation options include shuttle buses from ski rental shops to the resort, with private car rentals costing 6.50-9.10 EUR and shared rides costing 3.25 EUR per person. For accommodation, staying in the lively Almaty city center is recommended, with plenty of short-term rental options ranging from 26 to 78 EUR, depending on location and amenities. Shymbulak Mountain Resort, established in 1954, is situated at an elevation of 2,260 meters, offering picturesque views of Almaty.

Embark on a transcontinental journey across Eurasia and explore the must-visit hiking route in Almaty, Kazakhstan: Shymbulak Mountain. **Transportation**: From Almaty city center, take bus number 12 directly to the destination. It's convenient as you can pay the driver with cash coins, no need for a bus card. Get off at the second-to-last stop, and the ticket office is right across the street. The bus ride takes about an hour one way. Use the app to search for 'Shymbulak Mountain' for directions. **Ride-Hailing Apps**: Download the Yandex Go app for easy navigation. It offers an English interface and is usable across the five 'Stan' countries and the three Caucasus countries. It provides real-time public transport information, which is highly accurate. **Tickets**: You can pay for tickets with a credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or cash. **Cable Car**: There are three cable car routes, but only the first two operate outside the ski season. The first route is a fully enclosed cable car, with tickets available at the entrance for about 55 RMB, taking you to a mid-mountain viewing platform. To save money, you can hike the first route, which takes about 3-4 hours on a well-maintained uphill cement road. The second route is a chairlift, costing around 35 RMB, leading to the snowline viewing platform. Tickets include round-trip rides, so keep them for the return journey. Both routes offer a worthwhile experience with long ride times. **Dining**: There are several restaurants and cafes on the mountain, with prices similar to those in the city, not inflated due to being a tourist spot. **Accommodation**: If visiting during the ski season, there are guesthouses both in the mountains and on the slopes, with excellent environments. It's advisable to book in advance. **Mountain Climbing**: If time permits, after the second cable car ride, you can climb towards the snow-capped ridge. The altitude is not high, but the paths are rugged, so exercise caution. **Skiing**: During the winter ski season, Shymbulak Mountain offers great value skiing, and you can take the third cable car to the mountain top. #ShymbulakMountain #EurasianTravel #CableCarViews #NaturalSkiResort #FairytaleSnow #KazakhstanTravel #AlmatyTravelGuide #NaturalIceSnowDestination #DiverseSkiSlopes #SnowyScenery

How can a 24,000-step mountain hike be easier than a 22,000-step city walk? After visiting Shymbulak, I envy Almaty residents even more. They have a suburban snow mountain accessible by bus, which can be climbed in half a day. 🕑 Suggested schedule: Arrive around 2 PM, hike up and down the mountain, enjoy afternoon tea at the summit café, and leave the scenic area by 7 PM. Near the foot of the mountain, you can catch the 'pink mountain' sunset. ✨ 🚌 Take bus 12 to the last stop, with a ticket costing 200 tenge, approximately half a Euro. Look for the large ski resort billboard at the second-to-last stop, and make sure to ride to the end to start your climb. 🎫 The hiking trail is free, while a round-trip cable car ticket costs 5,000 tenge. We unanimously agreed that compared to the Kok Tobe cable car in the city, this is a much better deal and worth it! For those not keen on hiking, consider taking the cable car up and hiking down for a more relaxed experience with different views. Don't worry if you're not in great shape; taxis frequently pass by, and you can flag one down anytime. Our group of four had a member who got tired before reaching the top, so we hailed a taxi for 2,000 tenge, which was quite reasonable at just over 1 Euro per person. #Almaty #AlmatySnowMountain #ShymbulakSnowMountain