Despite the fact that Almaty (in Soviet times - Alma-Ata) almost two decades ago lost its official status, it is still the largest and the most interesting city of this country. In this regard, today the title of the southern capital of Kazakhstan is firmly entrenched in Almaty. We propose to take a short walk through the memorable places of this magnificent city, spread out at the foot of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains.
Almaty: historical background
This city is located in the southeast and has a long history. So, according to research by scientists, they appeared here more than two thousand years ago. Later, on the territory of the modern Almaty region, several urban settlements were founded, one of which was called Almaty. It was from him that the name of the southern capital of Kazakhstan later came. Not far from the city, there was a link between Europe and China. In those times local cities flourished. In the XIII century, Almaty fell into decay, like many other settlements in various countries in connection with the invasion of Genghis Khan. The soldiers of the Russian Empire breathed new life into the future, who founded a military fortification here in the middle of the XIV century. The city began to develop very quickly, mainly due to the numerous settlers from Russia. This settlement was named Verny. 10 years after the Soviet power came to Kazakhstan, the old name was returned to the city with minor changes. Then Alma-Ata became the capital of the Kazakh SSR. This city remained the capital after Kazakhstan gained independence in 1991. Then it was decided to rename it to Almaty. The city lost its status as the official capital in 1997.
Today Almaty is the largest economic, financial and cultural center of Kazakhstan. More than two million people live here. The sights of Almaty and Almaty region deserve special attention. We suggest further learning more about interesting places to visit in the southern capital of Kazakhstan.
Attractions in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Many foreigners who come to the Republic of Kazakhstan, and in particular to Almaty, note the enormous natural wealth of this country. After all, there are high picturesque mountains, and a magnificent canyon, and rivers and lakes. In addition, the historical and architectural sights of Almaty and Almaty region deserve special attention. These include the high-altitude skating rink Medeo, the Kok-Tyube hill, from where a magnificent view of the entire southern capital, parks, fountains, museums, monuments and other structures of the city. So, if you have in your hands a map of Almaty with sights, you will see that interesting places are concentrated here not only in the central part of the city, but are scattered in its various districts. So, we propose to get to know the main places, visiting which will be interesting for tourists.
Kok-Tube
Usually, locals sights of the city of Almaty begin to show their guests exactly from Kok-Tube. This name is given to the hill, whose height is 1130 meters, as well as the park area located on it. It should be noted that Kok-Tyube is not only a landmark of the city, but also a place of republican importance, because there is a 300-meter TV tower, which can be seen in all panoramic images of Almaty. You can get to Kok-Tube either by a special shuttle bus, or by cable car... Usually tourists prefer the second option, as on the way from the cable car there is a magnificent view of several districts of the city. For travel by cable car, you will need to pay 2,000 tenge in both directions, and by bus - 500 tenge. In addition, you can climb the hill on foot, but few dare to do this. On Kok-Tyube, you can stroll through a small park, look at the magnificent panorama of Almaty, observe the inhabitants of the mini-zoo, buy souvenirs, dine at a national restaurant, and also take pictures at the Beatles monument. Thus, if you are exploring the sights of Almaty and considering which of them to visit first of all, then we advise you to give preference to Kok-Tyube.
Palace of the Republic
The sights of Almaty necessarily include the Palace of the Republic. It is located at the intersection of Dostyk and Abai avenues. This architectural structure has been the pride of the city for several decades. It hosts a variety of concerts of both local and foreign performers, various solemn events, etc. At one time, the architects of the Palace of the Republic (then called the Palace of Culture) were awarded the State Prize of the USSR.
Park named after 28 Panfilov guardsmen
Many sights of Almaty are inextricably linked with the historical events of the Great Patriotic War. These include the Park named after 28 Panfilov guardsmen, located in the Medeu district of the city. The park is spread over a vast area of \u200b\u200b18 hectares. It was founded in the 19th century and had various names. The park received its modern name in honor of 28 soldiers who performed a feat in the defense of Moscow during the Great Patriotic War. The territory of the park is very green and well-groomed. In addition, he is known for a number of his buildings, such as the Glory Memorial, the Ascension Cathedral, the Museum of Folk Instruments.
Ascension Cathedral
The sights of Almaty, photos of which can be seen in various guidebooks and on postcards, always include the Russian Cathedral. orthodox Church... It is located in the Park named after 28 Panfilov guardsmen. This wooden structure, erected at the beginning of the last century, is truly unique. So, the cathedral was among the few buildings in Almaty that survived as a result of the devastating ten-point earthquake that occurred here in 1911. After the arrival of Soviet power in Kazakhstan, the cathedral was no longer used for worship, and was housed in its building local history museum... The church was returned to the Russian Orthodox Church only in 1995. Today, regular services are held here, and numerous tourists come here to admire the beauty of this magnificent structure.
Memorial of Glory
This facility is also located on the territory of the Park named after 28 Panfilov guardsmen. It was built in 1975 in honor of the 30th anniversary of the Great Victory. At the same time, the Eternal Flame was also lit here.
The most popular attractions for tourists in Almaty: Medeo skating rink
This sports complex is located near Almaty in the Medeo tract of the same name and is the highest mountain skating rink in the world. It is located at an altitude of one and a half thousand meters above sea level. Medeo skating rink is famous for its purest ice, which has 126 world records. It was built in 1972. With the acquisition of independence by Kazakhstan on the territory of the Medeo skating rink began to be held, which later became very famous, international music Festival "Asia Dausy" or "Voice of Asia". In 2009, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out in the sports complex, and it again opened its doors not only for athletes, but also for residents and guests of Almaty. By the way, in winter several thousand people come here every day to go ice skating. The entrance fee to Medeo is 1800 tenge. If you don't have skates with you, you can rent them here for a fee.
Independence Monument
If all of the above-mentioned sights of Almaty appeared during the existence of the Soviet Union, then the Independence Monument, majestically towering on the central square of the city, is already a tribute to a new milestone in the history of the country's development. This is a large-scale object that reflects the entire history of the formation of Kazakh statehood. In its center there is a high pillar, on top of which is the figure of the "Golden Warrior".
Fountains
In summer, on the territory of Almaty, you can see a huge number of working fountains of various shapes and sizes. There are 120 such objects in the city. The first of them appeared in Almaty in 1948. Every year on May 25, the city celebrates the Day of Fountains, when at nine o'clock in the evening fountains begin to work throughout the metropolis. You can enjoy the water splashes and the beauty of these structures from May 25 to September 15.
During its existence, Alma-Ata managed to visit a military fortification, was called Verny and even had the status of the capital of Kazakhstan. Although formally the main city of the country is now Astana, Alma-Ata retained the right to be called the cultural and economic center of the state.
Due to its location in the foothills of the Zailiyskiy Alatau, the city has the opportunity to acquire the largest high-mountain sports complex in the world - Medeo. It appeared back in the days of the USSR, and was later modernized. On the streets of Alma-Ata, you can easily find a number of testimonies from different eras. Fountains play a special role in the city structure. They are not only decorative objects, but also part of a complex irrigation system. During especially dry periods, 125 fountains prevent green spaces from perishing.
The best hotels and hotels at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles / day
What to see and where to go in Almaty?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.
1. Medeo
The world's largest alpine sports complex. It was built in 1972 and underwent a major reconstruction in 2010. The local ice rink is called the “factory of records”. Natural features have a positive effect on the results of speed skaters, therefore, over 200 world records have been set in Medeo for all the time. In 2011, a cable car was laid from here to the Chimbulak resort.
2. Mount Kok-Tyube
In the past it was called Verigina Mountain. A picturesque view of the city opens up from a height of 1130 meters. You can get to the top either by car or by cable car. For some time, starting in 2004, the mountain was closed to the public. There is a threat of landslide and soil sinking into residential areas. Extensive work was carried out to prevent the disaster, after the restriction was lifted. A monument to The Beatles is erected on Kok-Tube.
3. TV tower "Koktobe"
Built on the slope of the mountain of the same name. The construction work took almost 10 years and was completed by 1984, when the tower was fully operational. According to its seismic resistance indicators, it is one of the most reliable in the world. Height - 371.5 meters. Observation platforms are organized at elevations of 146 and 252 meters. There are 3 underground floors, which, among other things, can serve as a bomb shelter.
4. Monument to the independence of Kazakhstan
On behalf of Nazarbayev, the project was carried out by an author group led by Sh. Valikhanov. The monument was opened in 1996 on the Republic Square. The stele itself is 28 meters high. At its top is a six-meter "Golden Man", under which a winged leopard. All this symbolizes the Kazakh statehood and its firmness. There are 4 more figures around the base of the stele: children on stallions, as well as the embodiment of Earth and Heaven.
5. Ascension Cathedral
Consecrated in 1907, and construction took less than 4 years. The building turned out to be spacious and bright. Workshops in Moscow and Kiev worked on the details of the interior design. The iconostasis was made by N. Khludov. Probably, all this taken together saved the cathedral from destruction under Soviet rule: the premises were transferred to a museum. Returned to the Russian Orthodox Church after renovation in 1995. It is an example of an earthquake resistant structure.
6. Central Mosque of Almaty
One of the largest mosques in Kazakhstan. Laid down in 1993, built by 1999. A 36-meter dome with a diameter of 20 meters is erected on the snow-white building. It is decorated with verses from the Koran, applied by Turkish masters. During the renovation work, a modern sound reinforcement system was added, which is used on holidays. Up to 7 thousand people can pray in the mosque at the same time.
7. St. Nicholas Cathedral
Founded in 1909, when Alma-Ata was still called Verny. The temple was erected on a high foundation and awarded with seven small chapters. In Soviet times, the building housed the Museum of Atheism. After the war, parishioners returned to the cathedral without crosses and icons. This temple became the only one functioning in the city. A full renovation was carried out in the 90s. In 2012, a monument to St. Nicholas was erected nearby.
8. Central State Museum of Kazakhstan
It belongs to the oldest in the country and in the region as a whole. Founded in the 30s of the XIX century. Initially, funds began to collect in Orenburg and went a long way before ending up in Alma-Ata. The wanderings of the collection to different premises ended in 1985, when the museum built its own building. Seven exhibition halls house exhibitions on the history of Kazakhstan and cultural values.
9. Theater of Opera and Ballet. Abay
It was originally a music studio, but a year after its foundation in 1934, it received its current status. In 1941 the troupe moved to a new building. It was rebuilt many times in the future, but the classicism style was preserved. The building is an architectural monument and even got on the banknote of 2 thousand tenge.
10. Russian Drama Theater. Lermontov
It was created on the basis of the Russian Drama Theater in 1933. The name Lermontov was given to him in 1964. The event was timed to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the birth of the writer. The theater building was undergoing major repairs for almost three years. The artists returned to their usual stage in 2008. The performances are designed for both adults and children. The performances are traditionally staged in Russian.
11. Museum of Musical Instruments. Ykylasa
Musical instruments of different nations are collected under one roof. The museum has been operating since 1980, and its collection is constantly growing. On this moment the funds contain about a thousand copies of musical instruments. The bias is made in the Kazakh culture, but the Russian Uighurs and Dungans are also not deprived of attention. Among other things, dombras are kept here that belonged to previously famous artists and poets.
12. Museum of Arts. A. Kasteeva
The foundation was laid at the exhibition dedicated to the 15th anniversary of the formation of the Kazakh SSR. In 1970 it opened as a museum of applied arts, and after 6 years it acquired its current status. The building where the collection is located is a monument of culture and history. Since 1983, the museum has been named after Abylkhan Kasteev, an artist who stood at the origins of the national fine arts.
13. Kazakh State Circus
The troupe, formed in 1970, consisted mostly of novice performers who went through the Moscow Variety and Circus School, as well as through local studios. After the collapse of the USSR, many changes took place in the team, it was created practically from scratch. The circus has its own building since 1972. Inside, there is everything you need for artists, including lounges and yards for walking animals.
14. Alma-Ata Metro
The only one in Kazakhstan and the second in Central Asia. Opened in 2011. The length of the network is more than 11 km, and the number of stations has now been increased to nine. Metro a Alma-Ata is an unprofitable mode of transport for the state. It was built in difficult geological conditions. There are still some risks, so the operating rules are strictly followed.
15. Green Bazaar
Trading rows in the Medeu district have existed since the middle of the 19th century. By the 40s of the last century, awnings over retail outlets were formed. And in the 70s, the wooden structures were demolished and a large single building was built. The total number of places for trade began to be equal to a thousand in the summer. The next stage of expansion fell on 2017, when a new complex with an area of \u200b\u200b20 thousand square meters.
16. Fountains of Alma-Ata
They are not just a decoration of the city: in combination with the irrigation ditch network, they irrigate Alma-Ata and do not allow street plants to die during especially hot and dry periods. The first fountain was opened in 1948. Now there are 125 of them, some are not single, but are presented in the form of fountain groups. All fountains start on May 25 and work until October 25. The water supply schedule is the same for everyone and has not changed for decades.
17. Monument to The Beatles
The opening took place in 2007 on Kok-Tobe mountain. Before taking on the project, sculptor Eduard Ghazaryan applied for permission from Paul McCartney. The singer did not come to the ceremony, but sent a friend. The sculptural composition is not like the monuments that were erected in honor of the Liverpool four earlier. Bronze John sits on a bench with a guitar, and his colleagues are depicted standing.
18. Park named after the first president
The arboretum was laid out in 2001 on an area of \u200b\u200b73 hectares. All the elements typical for green urban areas meet here: alleys, flower beds, places for recreation, boulevards. One of the oaks was planted by President Nazarbayev himself. The multi-stage fountain, decorated with numerous details, including the signs of the zodiac, is the main attraction of the park. The area was chosen not only by tourists, but also by the townspeople.
19. Park of Culture and Leisure named after Gorky
One of the most popular holiday destinations in the city. Founded in 1856 in the Malaya Almatinka floodplain. The territory was planted with seeds of plants typical for Central Russia, since the soil characteristics allowed them to germinate. Since 1934, recreation centers began to be built on the coast, and attractions appeared. At the present time, there is a need for reconstruction, although dilapidation has practically no effect on attendance.
20. Park named after 28 Panfilov guardsmen
Broken down on the site of a cemetery in the 70s of the last century. The current name was given in honor of the feat of the defenders of Moscow. Panfilov and his associates were awarded a sculptural composition. On an area of \u200b\u200b18 hectares, you can not only walk, but also find curious architectural monuments and iconic city places, such as the House of Officers. In the central part of the park stands the Holy Ascension Cathedral.
21. Almaty Botanical Garden
Spread over an area of \u200b\u200bmore than 103 hectares. It has existed since 1932. Its status has changed many times. Now on the basis of the garden there are several research laboratories studying different types of plants planted here. In the 2000s, there was a threat to liquidate the botanical garden. It is located in a prestigious area, so there is a demand for land from developers. There are several restoration projects, but the process has not yet started.
22. Almaty Zoo
Since 1937, one of the oldest zoological parks in the country has been located on an area of \u200b\u200b32 hectares. Most of the territory is set aside for ponds with waterfowl. The inhabitants of the zoo are divided into sectors for the convenience of tourists. The total number of species is about 500. Of these, 77 are listed in the Red Book. Excursions to “ Seawater aquarium". There are also particularly remarkable animals in the zoo, for example, a pair of white lions.
23. Big Almaty lake
It is of tectonic origin and is located at an altitude of 2511 meters above sea level. Coastline - about 3 km. The size of the alpine lake varies depending on the season. Water level drops reach 20 meters. The water surface changes its color in the palette from greenish to turquoise. Although Bolshoye Almaty is part of the national park, now it belongs to the city.
24. Tamgaly-Tas
The tract is located 120 km from Alma-Ata. Its peculiarity is numerous rocky petroglyphs. There are Buddhist and runic scripts and drawings from different periods. The territory near the Ili River is under state protection, but part of it was transferred to a long-term lease to a private company in 2016. Tamgaly-Tas is also an open-air Buddhist temple.
25. Charyn canyon
It is located 200 km east of the city. It is part of the national park of the same name. Numerous tourist groups from Alma-Ata. The canyon is 150 km long and up to 300 meters high. Researchers believe it is over 12 million years old. Among the natural features, one can distinguish a relict ash grove and a large number of birds nesting here - about 100 species.
It is most noticeable in Alma-Ata, where at times you feel as if you are in Europe - there are so many luxurious shops lined up along the streets and foreign cars stuck in a traffic jam during rush hour.
Immersed in greenery, Alma-Ata, located at the foot of the snow-capped mountains of the Zailiyskiy Alatau, the "business card" of the city, has been and remains one of the most charming "Soviet" creations in Central Asia. Today, the thriving Almaty middle class also owns expensive suburban real estate, and fully stocked supermarkets, gourmet restaurants, chic bars, nightclubs and even the latest ski resorts help this stratum of society enjoy life to the fullest.
How to get to Almaty
By plane
Aeroflot (travel time 4 hours 20 minutes, round trip ticket costs 19,600 RUB) and Kazakh Air Astana fly from Moscow to Almaty international airport every day. Residents of St. Petersburg and Novosibirsk can also get there directly (Air Astana, 5 hours). Any other transfer options will increase travel time and ticket prices.
From the airport to the city
The airport is located 16 km from the city center. You can leave from there by bus number 79 (every 15-20 minutes, the driver has a ticket), a shuttle bus (every half hour) or a taxi. The price of a trip by an official taxi is 3500 KZT, by a private taxi - 1.5-2 times lower. The prices on the page are for March 2019.
Search for flights to Almaty
By train
Direct railway communication between Moscow and Alma-Ata has been interrupted since June 2017. You can get there only with a change of trains in Karaganda, Petropavlovsk, Astana or Novosibirsk. The minimum travel time, taking into account the transfer, is 76 hours. You can go from St. Petersburg to Alma-Ata with one change via Novosibirsk (110 hours) or Saratov (112 hours).
By bus and private car
Fans of long-distance bus trips can travel from Moscow to Alma-Ata, successively changing 4 intercity buses - first to Ufa, then to Yekaterinburg, Astana and, finally, to Alma-Ata. Time - 91 hours, such a trip is quite comparable to a train.
The shortest road route from Moscow to Alma-Ata with a length of 3940 km goes through Samara, Orenburg and Chimkent. Some people manage to drive it in 50 hours.
It is better to plan your trip so that the border crossing time does not coincide with weekends or holidays
.Transport
The main type of public transport in Almaty is buses running on 82 routes from 6:00 to 23:30. The main carrier is the Green Bus Company. She also manages the city trolleybus fleet (8 routes). A metro line with 9 stations runs through the city center, the trains run every 8-13 minutes. Travel in all types of transport is paid for with a contactless card "Onay!" (office site). It can be bought at the airport, at railway stations, at the Sairan bus station, at newsagents and communication salons. A single ticket is purchased from a conductor or driver, but the trip in this case will cost 1.5 times more.
From the bus station "Sairan" (Tole bi str., 294) depart intercity buses to Astana, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Karaganda, Pavlodar and other cities of Kazakhstan. Suburban trains from the railway stations Almaty-1 and Almaty-2 go to the city of Kapshagai, where the country's largest gambling zone is located.
Taxi in Alma-Ata is inexpensive - the cost of a trip around the city is 500-1000 KZT. He bombed a lot on personal cars... You need to look for a free car near metro stations, bus stops and shopping centers. If there is no meter, the price must be agreed in advance.
Bicycles for rent
Almaty Bike city bicycle rental service is developed in Alma-Ata (office site). To use it, you need to enter your bank card details on the website and receive an SMS with a code to unlock the bike. You can take / return a bike at any of the 200 bike stations. The rental price consists of a subscription fee and a tariff that depends on the duration of the trip - the first half hour is free.
Returning your bike to the station every 30 minutes is completely free.
For out-of-town trips, it is better to rent a bike in the Extreme chain of stores. As a deposit, you will need an amount equal to the cost of the bike or an identity document.
Maps of Almaty
Rent a Car
The car is an irreplaceable assistant when traveling around the outskirts of Almaty. Offices of international (Avis, Hertz, etc.) and local (Avtoexpress, Tandau ST) rental companies are located at the airport and in the city center. Kazakh traffic rules practically do not differ from Russian ones. Only outside settlements the permitted speed is 110 km / h, and on highways - 150 km / h.
Many parking lots in the city center are paid, but compared to Moscow, the prices can be called symbolic. The cost of gasoline is also 1.5 times lower than in Russia. But the fines for traffic violations are much higher.
Local drivers slow down already when the green light is blinking, but they honk heart-rendingly to belated passers-by and motorists who have not moved from their place at the moment of switching from red to green.
Even having ceased to be the capital, Alma-Ata could not get rid of morning and evening traffic jams. At times, they completely block the city center, including public transport.
Almaty Accommodation
Almaty hotels attract with moderate prices combined with good quality of service. The most numerous are "three rubles" at 10,000 KZT for double Room per day - quite affordable even for the most budget tourists... Most of them have a restaurant, some even have a pool or health Center, free Wi-Fi and parking everywhere. The most popular 4 * hotels among tourists are distinguished by more spacious rooms, designer interiors, the presence of restaurants, a swimming pool, a spa, massage rooms and, of course, a higher cost - 18,000 KZT per night.
The pleasure of living "with 5 stars" costs 33 600 KZT in the old well-deserved Rahat Palace and three times more in the prestigious Ritz-Carlton. Most of the "fives" belong to international hotel chains, which guarantee service to the highest Western standards.
Those wishing to settle down with home comfort will find a lot of proposals for renting apartments. You can find them in any area of \u200b\u200bthe city - from a modest 40-meter "odnushka" on the outskirts for 7000 KZT to a luxurious 4-room apartment in the center for 70 000 KZT.
Skiing
Lying surrounded by the high Tien Shan mountains, Alma-Ata is the capital of winter sports in Kazakhstan. At 16 km from the city, at an altitude of 1691 m, there is the Medeo sports complex with the world's largest ice rink with an area of \u200b\u200b10,500 sq. M. m. It is known for its unique ice, thanks to which nearly 200 world records were set at the rink. The complex can simultaneously accommodate up to 3000 people. For skating, it is open from October to May, the ticket price for adults / children is 1800/800 KZT, skates for adults / children are 1000/500 KZT for 2 hours.
You can get to Medeo by city bus number 12, which departs from the Kazakhstan Hotel.
A gondola-type cable car with a length of 4.5 km connects Medeo with the Chimbulak ski resort. It is built into a common system of 7 lifts, which allows you to climb to the Talgar pass in half an hour - highest point resort (3180 m). Chimbulak tracks are interesting for both beginners and experienced skiers, their total length is 20 km. There is a halfpipe for snowboarders and a trail for mogul lovers. The cost of a single ride on the cable car "Medeo" - Chimbulak in both directions: adults / children: 2500/1500 KZT, working hours 9: 30-18: 00 (on weekends until 19:00). The cost of a one-day ski pass for adults / children is 6500/3000 KZT (on weekends 9500/4500 KZT).
Another ski resort Tabagan is located 17 km east of Almaty, in the picturesque Kotyrbulak gorge. The length of its tracks of various levels is 37 km of difficulty. The slopes are well adapted for snowboarders, there is an opportunity to ride on virgin soil. The cost of a ski pass per day is 4000 KZT. An additional bonus of the resort is the Aqualandia water-health complex with swimming pools, jacuzzi, saunas and massage rooms. Public transport does not go to Tabagan. Taxi from Alma-Ata from the Sayakhat bus station (15 Suyunbai Ave.) - 1500 KZT.
Shopping
As in any modern metropolis, Alma-Ata has large shopping and entertainment centers, where people come not only for shopping. The most famous Mega Alma-Ata (office site) with a multiplex, an ice arena, a bowling alley, a children's amusement park and shops of the world's leading brands. Next in popularity are Dostyk Plaza (office site) with a huge assortment of high-quality products and the premium Esentai Mall (office site) with an art center and boutiques of luxury brands Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, etc.
Usually, shopping centers open daily from 10:00 to 22:00. Small shops - on weekdays and Saturdays from 10:00 to 20:00. Traditional sales run from early January to February and from June to early September.
For seasonal fruits, dried fruits, spices, nuts and grape sugar, it is worth stopping by the Green Market with a special atmosphere of an oriental bazaar (53 Zhibek Zholy Ave.). Here is very a good choice national souvenirs that fully reflect the nomadic traditions of the Kazakhs. Leather vessels for storing kumis or water are original and inexpensive - sabas and torsyks, practical warm felt slippers with curved noses, good backgammon decorated with fine carvings or inlay.
Tourists from Europe willingly buy skullcaps and chapans - national Kazakh clothes made of camel wool. Felt, glass and silvered apples look quite appetizing. You can even buy a yurt, though made of ceramics.
Alma-Ata cuisine and restaurants
Alma-Ata will not disappoint food lovers. In its restaurants, cafes and other catering establishments with Kazakh, European, Japanese and other world cuisines, everyone will be fed and drunk. Moreover, regardless of his taste preferences, the thickness of the wallet and even the time of day - some of them work around the clock. Almost everyone - whether it is an expensive colorful restaurant "Alasha" or a budget chain canteen "Kaganat", the menu will certainly include popular dishes of Kazakh cuisine.
First of all, "beshbarmak" - finely crumbled boiled meat with noodles and strong broth, milk soup with "ak-sorpa" meat, boiled or fried dumplings "tushpara", Kazakh pilaf "palau" with a lot of meat. Fish lovers can order "koktal" - a dish of large carp or carp smoked along with potatoes and vegetables. Mandatory components of any Kazakh meal are dairy products: kumis, ayran, irimshik sheep cheese. You can have a snack on the go with traditional shawarma, pies and pancakes with various fillings, hot dogs and burgers.
Shawarma in a street stall costs 300 KZT, breakfast in a cafe-confectionery - 1000 KZT, lunch in a cafe - 2500 KZT, dinner in an expensive restaurant - 10,000 KZT.
Going to dinner in an expensive establishment, one of the peculiarities of the local service should be taken into account - the extreme sluggishness of the waiters. And do not be surprised if there is no alcohol on the menu - this is quite in the spirit of Muslim traditions.
Guides in Almaty
Entertainment and attractions
Having lost its capital status, Alma-Ata continues to be important cultural center country. In its sights, eastern steppe motifs and Soviet neoclassicism, diluted with high-tech new high-rises of the rapidly renewing city, are easily guessed.
From ancient settlement Turkic nomads were left with only memories - their burial mounds were buried under residential buildings. But the Ascension Cathedral, which looks like a fabulous Russian tower, has been perfectly preserved. It was built of blue Tien Shan spruce without a single nail for the residents and soldiers of Fort Verny, from which the city began. In the late 1990s. on the old foundation, a new Central Mosque (office site) was erected - the largest in Kazakhstan. The diameter of its golden dome is 20 m, and the height of the large minaret is 47 m.
On the main square of the Republic in Alma-Ata, surrounded by administrative buildings of the Soviet era, the Monument of Independence is erected - a 30-meter stele crowned with a winged leopard, on whose back is a Golden Warrior. The snow leopard is the state symbol of Kazakhstan, as well as the Golden Warrior, a unique archaeological find made in 1969 during the excavation of the Issyk mound near Alma-Ata.
A reconstructed figure of a warrior dressed from hundreds of gold plates is on display in the Central State Museum. He belonged to the royal family of the ancient tribe of the Sakas who roamed the steppe in the first millennium BC. In addition, there are about 200,000 exhibits in the museum exposition - from Scythian gold and silver dishes to Turkic military armor and a Kazakh yurt.
In Alma-Ata there is an exact copy of the Golden Warrior, the original “moved” to Astana when the capital of Kazakhstan was moved there.
An obligatory point of acquaintance with the city is the ascent to Mount Kok-Tobe, where the cable car leads from the Palace of the Republic on Dostyk Avenue. In addition to the Koktobe TV tower, there is a small zoo and the Yabloko fountain - one of the symbols of Alma-Ata. The name of the city is translated from Kazakh as "Father of apples". The first seedlings were brought here in the 19th century by a peasant migrant from the Voronezh province, Yegor Redko. From their crossing with the local wild apple tree, the famous Alma-Ata variety aport was born.
- Are there tours to the Charyn canyon during the New Year holidays?
Weather
The climate of Almaty is moderately continental. It is due to the location of the city in a foothill basin at an altitude of 600-950 m above sea level. Winter is snowy, long and cold. Snow can fall as early as October and last until mid-April. And even in May there are snowfalls.
The coldest month is January. Spring comes with a lot of rainfall, especially in April. Summer is hot and sultry. Early autumn, perhaps the best time to visit Alma-Ata. The driest month is September. Due to the peculiarities of the relief, the ecological situation here leaves much to be desired all year round. Smog is a frequent and prolonged phenomenon.
Alma-Ata is the second capital of Kazakhstan. It was built during the Soviet era, so the sights of Alma-Ata are mostly Soviet architecture. Huge parks with shady alleys, the old center, the subway and many other objects that were built before the independence of the country are of interest and benefit to both tourists and residents of the city today. Don't know what to see in Alma-Ata? Especially for you, we have compiled a list of popular places in this city, which included the most interesting sights.
The main sights of Almaty
Photos and names of the sights of Alma-Ata are unusual. The Kok-Tobe mountain amazes with its beauty, the name of which is translated from Kazakh as “ Green hill". It is located not far from the city, and there is a television tower on it, which, due to this location, is the tallest building in Almaty.
Symbols of Alma-Ata
The Kok-Tobe rock and the tower are the main symbols of the second capital. To enjoy a magnificent view from the top, you can climb observation deck by cable car starting almost from the city center. In just six minutes of ascent, you will see Almaty from different angles. Climbing the rock, visit the "Kok-Tobe Park", where you can:
- see the monument to the legendary group "The Beatles";
- throw coins into the "Fountain of Desires";
- relax in a cafe or restaurant, of which there are a lot;
Cafe on the street in Alma-Ata tjabeljan - visit the climbing wall;
- visit the art gallery.
Independence Monument in Alma-Ata tjabeljan Independence Monument
The historical development of Alma-Ata and the country as a whole is symbolized by the Monument of Independence, towering on the central square. He represents a "golden man" standing on a winged leopard and controlling it. This composition symbolizes the firmness of will and the invincibility of power.
Kok-Tobe TV tower in Alma-Ata Nomosb Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Alma-Ata!
Palace of the Republic
In addition to the Kok-Tobe TV tower, which can be seen from all points of the city, among the cult buildings of Alma-Ata one can note the Palace of the Republic, which can accommodate 3000 people. Here exhibitions and important conferences are constantly held, as well as concerts of world stars.
Palace of the Republic in Alma-Ata tjabeljan Other interesting places in Almaty
Not far from the Palace of the Republic are located such famous buildings of the city as the Kazakhstan hotel and the Arman cinema. The first institution is a visiting card not only of Alma-Ata, but of the entire republic, since a 102-meter high building from the times of the USSR is a symbol of the country.
Orthodox Holy Ascension Cathedral in Alma-Ata Stomac An interesting place in the city, located in the park. 28 Panfilov guardsmen - the Russian Orthodox Holy Ascension Cathedral, which was previously called the Turkestan Cathedral. The building was erected of wood and is unparalleled in its beauty in the whole world. The exterior of the cathedral impresses with its colorfulness, and especially 5 unusual colored domes with crosses. The interior of the building is also magnificent: manuscripts on the walls, a painted iconostasis and other cult decorative elements that have survived from the beginning of the 20th century.
Central Mosque in Alma-Ata MaratD In Almaty, the main cult site is the Central Mosque. She has an extraordinary appearance: a structure made in white, decorated with blue domes that symbolize harmony and simplicity. The courtyard of the mosque is equipped with a cozy park with alleys, benches and flower lawns, so it is comfortable to relax here. The building itself is one of the largest in the republic, it can accommodate up to 7,000 people.
Central State Museum in Almaty Tisoiso The city is famous for the Central State Museum, which is the largest in Kazakhstan. Here you can see the three hundred thousandth exhibition of exhibits of the heritage of the republic, presented by:
- national clothes;
- yurt;
- items of nomadic tribes;
Household items - museum exhibits in Alma-Ata Jean-Pierre Dalbéra - armor and weapons of warriors;
- embroidered products;
- jewelry.
Alma-Ata museums
The history of Almaty can be studied in the city museum. Although it was recently opened, it has already collected a considerable number of historical objects: from the Bronze Age to the present day. Among the interesting exhibitions stand out:
- Museum of Arts with an art gallery of works by Russian and Kazakh authors;
- Natural Museum with an exhibition dedicated to the flora and fauna of the republic;
- Geological Museum with a unique collection of minerals.
Archaeological site in Alma-Ata m.prinke During the excavations in Kazakhstan, many important and valuable objects were found, including the bones of ancient animals, fossils and disappeared minerals. All this can be seen today in the museums of Almaty, so a tour of the exhibitions will be informative and unforgettable.
Giraffes at the zoo in Almaty Aiganym Kairbekova Where to go with your child in Alma-Ata
It is interesting to visit the zoo of Alma-Ata. On its large enough area there are sections with various animals and an aquarium. Many of the presented species are in the Red Book. For relaxation in silence in nature, you can visit the "Park of the First President", the territory is decorated with the largest fountain in the city.
City fountain in the Park of the First President in Alma-Ata Andrey.moiseyev It will be interesting for children and adults to watch bright circus performances. In the city, the circus building is decorated with a hyperbolic dome, erected in 1972 and a recognized example of civil architecture. The key performance at the circus arena is an equestrian performance with the participation of Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov. Basically, the artists taking part in the performances are gymnasts, equilibrists, riders who have been awarded various prizes and have won first places at many festivals and competitions.
Green Bazaar in Alma-Ata Spacekid For memorable gifts, you can go to the huge colorful markets of Alma-Ata. One of the most visited places by tourists is the Green Bazaar.
Winter attractions in Almaty and outdoor activities
Ice rink sports complex "Medeo" in Alma-Ata Vmenkov Interesting photos of the sights of Alma-Ata are presented in winter. So, be sure to visit at this time of year the high-altitude sports facility "Medeo", which is the largest in the world. It is located in the eponymous tract of the Zailiyskiy Alatau near Almaty at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level. In the free period from competitions, and this is from October to April, tourists and Almaty residents like to skate in the Medeo complex. On the outskirts of the city there are ski resorts where skiers, snowboarders, and ski freestylers love to spend their time. Such favorite places include:
- Chimbulak - there are trails for beginners and experienced skiers, as well as downhill routes. In the summer, the ski resort organizes a camp for children, a rope park and excursion hikes in the mountains;
- Tabagan is an all-season sports and recreation complex, where in summer you can go mountain biking, ice skating, play tennis and volleyball, visit saunas and massage rooms, and in winter there is a ski resort;
- Ak-Bulak - operates throughout the year. Here you can go skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling.
Beach on the shore of Lake Kapchagay Torekhan Sarmanov Ecological tourism in Alma-Ata
After familiarizing yourself with all the interesting places, be sure to take a photo of the sights of Almaty. Ecological tourists like to travel here, as there are numerous tourist routes near Almaty. Those who like to walk should visit Ile-Alatau natural park... It is large and covers over 200,000 hectares. In the reserve you can see more than 1000 various plants, and the number of different animal species exceeds 1500. Most of the animals and birds inhabiting the Ile-Alatau natural Parkare in the Red Book. The Almaty Reserve with lush coniferous and deciduous forest vegetation is no less attractive.
A great place for walking is the Kolsai Lakes Park. The name of this attraction suggests that there are beautiful high-mountain lakes on its territory. Tourists are given the opportunity to climb the mountains and admire numerous unique and interesting places along the way. Also, popular horseback riding in the foothills.
Yuri Ivankov Those who like to go down mountain reservoirs can go to the Ili River. It begins in the rocks of the Tien Shan, flowing into Lake Balkhash. Altyn-Amel National Park is also located here.
All sights in Almaty amaze with their beauty and variety. In the city and its surroundings, you can have a great rest according to your taste and financial capabilities. After visiting Almaty, be sure to visit Astana! We have prepared for you a review about the best ones, so that you will be inspired for your further journey across Kazakhstan.
Facts and prices
Number from 14949 KZT / 2570 RUB
Lunch from 2315 KZT / 398 rubles.
Transport from 99 KZT / 17 rubles.
Languages \u200b\u200bKazakh, Russian
Currency Kazakhstani tenge
No visa required
Immersed in greenery, Alma-Ata, located at the foot of the snow-capped mountains of the Zailiyskiy Alatau, the "business card" of the city, has been and remains one of the most charming "Soviet" creations in Central Asia. Today, Almaty's thriving middle class also owns expensive suburban real estate, and fully stocked supermarkets, gourmet restaurants, chic bars, nightclubs and even the latest ski resorts help this segment of society enjoy life to the fullest.
Among the main attractions of Almaty, it is worth highlighting the Palace of the Republic and the Central State Museum located opposite, the exposition of which is devoted to the history of Kazakhstan and is represented by more than 2 thousand monuments of material and spiritual culture, including a miniature copy of the Golden Man - the main archaeological treasure of the country. The museum is open to visitors every day, except Tuesday, from 10:00 to 17:00, cost entrance ticket is 300 KZT for adults, 200 KZT - for students, 150 KZT - for pensioners, 100 KZT - for schoolchildren.
In the Park them. 28 Panfilov guardsmen can be paid tribute to those who died on the battlefields of World War II, and in Voznesensky, located in its very center, cathedral, built in 1904-1907. without a single nail, listen to an Orthodox service.
