Geography With a name that comes from the old apple orchards in its valley and the one time capital of Kazakhstan, Almaty was founded as a Russian outpost in 1854. Located at the foggy base of the Tien Shan Mountains, the city spreads up around the mountain slopes with many outlying households and the dacha gardens they are known for. With 1.3 million inhabitants, Almaty remains the commercial hub of the nation, earning the unofficial title of “Southern Capital”. Architecturally it is fairly modern as an earthquake in 1910 nearly levelled the city, resulting in the young look it has today. airBaltic is pleased to bring your flight into Almaty Airport where you can get your memorable city-break started. Languages Salamatsys, ba? (Hello, how are you?) The official language of Kazakhstan is Kazakh, a Turkik language. Due to the region’s history, Russian is a strong second language and is often used in government. English, on the other hand, is not widely spoken or understood in the city, with the majority of tourist agents having only the basics. When in need, ask someone in the younger generation for assistance, as they are more likely to have these skills. If you are planning to head into Almaty on your own, do have a little Kazakh or Russian to get you through. See and Do Regardless of the newness of its buildings and the loss of status as a capital, Almaty is without a doubt both a lively and culturally intriguing city, if only for a day or two. From the main boulevard of Tole bi walled by government buildings in its east-west course across the city, visit Respublika Alanghy the large square with golden boy Altyn Adam sitting atop the monument to independence, with bas reliefs bearing pictures of Kazakh history. In Panfilov Heroes Memorial Park stands Zenkov Cathedral, the world’s second tallest wooden structure. At six stories, it is even more remarkable for not having a single nail. North of the park, get briefly lost in the Green Market bazaar, a frenzy of stalls and vendors selling cheap goods and knit wear – though frustratingly little else. Throw a coin into one of 125 fountains spread throughout the city, topped by the Oriental Calendar with its 12 sculptured figures of the Kazakh 12 year cycle.
Almaty has a good selection of museums, so get a taste of local art at the Central State Museum with its archaeological collection, including a replica of the Golden Man. Meanwhile, dedicated to the Kazakh painter Abylkhan Kasteev, the Art Museum houses the largest collection in the country, with some particularly interesting handicraft. For shopping and haggling with local artists, explore the main shopping centre of Zhibek Zholi (The Silk Road). Then, at the end of a day of exploring the city before returning to the hotel, don your flip-flops for a relaxing experience at the Arasan Bathhouse where private rooms are available for various desired temperatures.
Kazakhstan’s nature is definitely underrated, so get out of the city and see the beautiful landscapes beyond. Take the aerial tram to the top of Kök Töbe for views of the city from this south eastern peak or book a trip to hear the eerie singing of the desert at the Ayak-Kalkan resort. Visit Turgen Gorge some 90 Km from the city, with a depth of 44 km where there are also hot springs and waterfalls to enjoy, or take a day trip the world’s second largest canyon 200 km east of the city, Charyn Canyon. |
