🇰🇿 A Journey Through Kazakhstan: Almaty & Astana
My trip to Kazakhstan took me to its two largest cities, starting in the former capital, Almaty, and then traveling to the modern capital, Astana. It’s my first time to visit central Asia.
Almaty: The Southern Capital
My time in Almaty began on October 2nd with a city walk, where I noted the presence of many Soviet-era buildings. The following day, I explored the natural landmarks surrounding the city:
- Medeu Park: I visited this famous high-altitude sports complex, home to one of the world’s highest skating rinks and a massive dam, which is accessible by climbing its 842 steps.
- Kok Tobe: I also went to Kok Tobe, a well-known hill overlooking the city. It’s a popular recreation area featuring a park and a prominent TV tower, all accessible by a scenic cable car.
On second day, I experienced the city’s public transport by trying the Almaty metro and taking a ring bus to the Esentai Mall. That evening, I departed for the capital, taking a sleeper train overnight to Astana. Going around city via bus is relatively easy, as bus is extremely affordable and relatively frequent.
Astana: The Modern Capital
I arrived in Astana early on October 5th and was able to check into my hotel right away. I spent the next two days exploring the city’s futuristic architecture and cultural sites.
Day 1: City Walk & Museums My first day was packed with sightseeing. I visited:
- Baiterek Tower: I saw this iconic monument and observation tower, which symbolizes a mythical tree of life and the transfer of the capital in 1997.
- Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: I took a guided tour of this striking pyramid-shaped building, which serves as a global center for religious understanding and an event venue.
- National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan: I noted the entrance fee and was particularly impressed by the “Golden Man” exhibit, which features the intricate gold-adorned burial suit of an ancient Saka warrior.
- Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center: In the evening, I visited this giant, transparent, tent-like structure that houses a large shopping mall and an indoor park.
Day 2: Parks & Expo City On my second day, October 6th, I explored more of the city’s public spaces:
- Peace and Unity Alley
- Expo 2017 Park: I visited the grounds of the 2017 World’s Fair, which was themed “Future Energy.” The site is now a park and business hub, dominated by the massive “Nur Alem” sphere, the largest spherical building in the world.
- Astana Central Park: I also spent time in the city’s large central park.
My trip in Kazakhstan concluded that evening as I headed to the airport for my flight to Urumqi.
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