Nestled against the stunning mountains of the majestic Tian Shan, Almaty is the sparkling gem of Kazakhstan. It is the largest city and also the former capital of the country. Known as the country’s cultural heart, it is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, bustling markets with eye-catching flair, and vibrant cultural scenes of theatre, art and music.

Imagine a city where you can ski down pristine icy slopes in the morning and then sip warm artisan coffee in a chic cafe by the afternoon. That’s Almaty!

There are endless things to do and explore in this city, from hiking up the trails of Medeu Gorge leading to the world’s highest ice-skating rink to gliding down the majestic slopes of Shymbulak, Almaty takes you into a whirlwind of fun and adventure altogether.

Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to wander through streets lined with trees that seem to dance with the breeze flowing all over the city? Or maybe you have dreamt of exploring a bustling bazaar filled with colourful spices and exquisite handmade treasures?

Almaty has it right there for you with all the correct vibe in a rich array of activities catering to every interest which makes it a top choice in the bucket list of travellers.

There is also a variety of mouth-watering cuisines to dive into, starting with a plate of Beshbarmak, the most famous dish in Kazakhstan to let your taste buds travel through time.

And not to forget, the irresistible nightlife of Almaty, where chic bars and lively clubs keep buzzing around the city till dawn! Almaty is a city of endless possibilities blending rich history with modern zest and you will discover why this underrated city came into the hit list of tourists!

Things to do in Almaty

Skiing in Shymbulak
Winter in Almaty usually means one thing, hitting the slopes at Shymbulak!
During winter, Shymbulak transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing and an ultimate treat for snowboarding enthusiasts.

If you fancy sliding down snowy slopes with the majestic Tian Shan mountains as your backdrop, it would be undoubtedly the most liberating and thrilling feeling you will experience.

The resort offers well-groomed slopes for all skill levels from low to high, not to forget the apres-ski scene being vibrant with cosy cafes and lively bars. Whether you are a pro skier or a newbie, Shymbulak has got you covered with safety and a much-cherished experience of a lifetime.

Skate at Medeu
Have you ever skated at the highest ice rink in the world? Medeu is your chance! It is not just any ordinary ice rink, as it holds a big record of being the highest altitude rink with an altitude perch of 1,691 metres having many skating history and related remarks attached to it.

Its unique location makes the entire area super fit for skating especially during winter, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and fir trees with numerous participants and visitors brightening the vibe of the area.

During summer, this rink acts as a playground for sports like hockey, basketball and volleyball or just as a park for children to play and hang around.

November to March are considered as the perfect months to visit Medeu when you will be skating under the clear blue sky and snow-capped peaks surrounding it. Whether you’re an enthusiast or just looking for some fun on the ice, Medeu offers an unforgettable experience.

Panfilov Park
Blending historical significance with recreational charm, Panfilov Park is one of Almaty’s most loved and visited destinations. It offers a calm and relaxing vibe to visitors, filled with picnic spots and fun activities like a Ferris Wheel ride or renting a boat to explore the lake in the park.

This park was named after the Panfilov heroes and is often known to be the green oasis in the centre of the city.

While visiting the park, take advantage of the strikingly beautiful architecture of Zenkov Cathedral, known to be entirely built using wood and without a single nail. So, make sure to snap a selfie with this wooden building, known to be one of the tallest in the world.

You can also take strolls, go for picnics, or bird watching or just sit and feel the fresh air around the park. The annual flower festival in the city adds more spark and colours to the fragrance of the park making it the go-to spot for people.

Shopping at Green Bazaar
With its location right in the city centre, Green Bazaar is one of the most famous and vibrant markets in Almaty. The bustling hive of activities all year long in the market makes tourists from all over the world come here and shop for fresh products like fruits, specifically Kazakh food, art and craft pieces and other souvenirs.

You may also find healthy dried fruits and nuts like dried apricots, almonds, and walnuts, which are organically grown here and can be taken back as souvenirs. The best time for you to visit the market would be in the morning to grab the freshest product and to experience the market at its best.

The green bazaar is also a hub for different varieties of locally famous and authentic spices and herbs which you can try there. Apart from that, you can look for traditional Kazakhstan clothing, handicrafts, embroidered carpets, wooden statues, etc for gifts or souvenirs.

The variety of products you will find in the market is endless but remember to bargain for it is part of all the fun!

Ride the Kok Tobe Cable Car
Are you up for a bird’s eye view from the top? Then, hop on the Kok Tobe cable car and be ready to soar up above the sky. This smooth cable car runs from the Palace of the Republic, passing over the buildings, cottages and small forests, and then up to Kok Tobe Hill on the South edge part of Almaty, in just six minutes offering great views of the city. It is the most prominent of its kind in Asia and is considered a convenient means of transport to visit the tranquil Hill of Kok Tobe.

At the top, you can enjoy a variety of amusement rides, a mini zoo and the iconic Beatles monument featuring bronze statues of John, Paul, George and Ringo.

It's a cherry on the top to watch the setting sun and try sunset rides which look particularly magical, with the city lights twinkling below.

Explore Big Almaty Lake
Just picture a pristine alpine gem nestled high in the Tian Shan mountains boasting a serene view but is not yet explored by you, Welcome to Big Almaty Lake! This turquoise lake is located just 15 kilometres south of Almaty, offering you a breathtaking escape into nature. The lake keeps changing its form according to every season that unwinds.

During summer, the lake’s water shimmers like a turquoise gem bordered by lush green slopes and is an eye-pleasing sight to watch. As autumn arrives, the surrounding colour changes into golden and red, creating a stunning contrast. And finally, winter transforms the lake into a snowy paradise, with water freezing over and framed by snow-covered pine trees.

Swimming and other activities are not allowed here as the lake’s water serves as a crucial source of freshwater for the residents of the city.

This lake is truly a magical creation and is worthy of every hype it gets.

Engage your taste buds with local food in Almaty

Shashlik
Shashlik is a beloved culinary staple in Almaty, Kazakhstan, which is deeply ingrained in the region's food culture. This dish consists of skewered and grilled chunks of marinated meat, typically lamb, beef, or chicken, cooked over an open flame.

Lagman
Lagman is a cherished dish in Almaty, Kazakhstan, showcasing the region’s rich culinary traditions. This hearty noodle soup is a vibrant amalgamation of flavours and textures, featuring hand-pulled noodles, tender pieces of meat (often lamb or beef), and a medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots, and onions.

The dish is typically spiced with garlic, cumin, and chilli, giving it a robust and savoury profile.

Beshbarmak
Beshbarmak is the national dish of Kazakhstan and holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Almaty. The name "beshbarmak" translates to "five fingers," highlighting the traditional way of eating this dish with one's hands.

It consists of boiled meat, usually mutton, beef, or horse meat, which is finely chopped and served over a bed of wide, flat noodles.

Plov
Plov, also known as pilaf, is a beloved and iconic dish in Almaty, Kazakhstan, celebrated for its rich flavours and communal significance. This hearty dish consists of rice cooked with various ingredients, including tender pieces of lamb or beef, onions, carrots, and an array of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic.

Often cooked in a large, shallow pan called a Kazan, plov is infused with a savoury broth that melds all the ingredients into a cohesive and flavorful meal.

Baursak
Baursak is a traditional Kazakh pastry that holds a special place in the culinary culture of Almaty. These small, deep-fried dough pieces are delightfully soft and slightly sweet, making them a popular treat for both everyday enjoyment and festive occasions. They are often served with tea, honey, or jam, and are a staple at celebrations, symbolizing hospitality and abundance.

Best Time to Visit Almaty
The best time to visit Almaty depends on what you want to do there. Each season in Almaty has something to offer.

If you are into hiking and trekking, the summers would be apt for you, that is, the months from June to August. The weather is warmer and the outdoor activities are in great demand.

On the other hand, if you prefer to go skiing or ice skating, your best bet could be the winter season. Central Asia is a perfect destination to practice your snowboarding skills and Almaty rightly has the places for such snow adventures.

The spring from March to May, is great for tourists who are not much into adventures but want to explore the outdoors.

Thus, quite rightly, Almaty has something to offer for each season.