Kazakhstan: Not the Asia You Think It Is

Kazakhstan. One of the largest countries in the world, holding captivating secrets waiting to be unveiled. A land of boundless steps, where history and nature create unforgettable beauty. Every corner reveals a story, an untold wonder waiting to be discovered. In this documentary, we uncover Kazakhstan's most amazing wonders, each more captivating than the last. Let's explore the boundless spirit of these lands. Prepare to be amazed. Our first stop is the stunning Issyk Lake, shaped by a landslide thousands of years ago. About 60 years ago, a devastating mud flow caused the lake to shrink. Known as the gateway to the mountains, Issyk offers more than just its crystal clear waters and lush surroundings. Today, the lake is a hub for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. Photographers adore its colors, which shift from bright blue to stormy gray. The tranquil beauty of Issyk Lake reminds of nature's power to both create and destroy. We now turn our focus to a captivating new destination. Perched 1,100 meters above sea level, Koktobe Hill offers a peaceful escape from Almaty's bustling city life. It is accessible via a five to six minute cable car ride from the city center. The hill provides panoramic views of the cityscape and the Tien Shan mountains. The 372 meter TV tower dominates the hill from afar. Sometimes it disappears into the clouds, giving the impression of belonging to another world. Facing the tower, a ferris wheel provides panoramic views of Almaty. With its park, zoo, art installations, and restaurants, Koktobe draws both locals and tourists alike. If you ever visit Kazakhstan, make sure to see Koktobe. Plateau Assy. Located 100 kilometers east of Almaty, the Assy Plateau is renowned for its vast summer pastures and rich nomadic heritage. Reaching up to 2,800 meters in elevation, the plateau is home to the Assy-Turgen Observatory, a relic of the Soviet era. This observatory once housed one of the world's largest telescopes. The region's clear skies have made it an important hub for astronomy. However, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the observatory was abandoned, leaving behind silent reminders of the past. Today, hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore the Assy Plateau and relax at its camping sites. Shepherds still bring their herds to the Jailau, keeping ancient traditions alive. We believe this destination should take a prominent place on your Kazakhstan travel list. Charyn Canyon National Park. Located in southeastern Kazakhstan, Charyn Canyon stretches along the Charyn River for 80 kilometers. Known as the Little Brother of the Grand Canyon, its red sandstone cliffs have been shaped by wind and water over thousands of years. The Valley of Castles, with its tall castle-like formations, is the most famous section. The park protects rare plants and animals. Just 20 kilometers away lies a forest of ancient Sogdian ash trees, dating back to the Ice Age and protected since 1964. The Charyn River carves deep passages through the canyon. Its turquoise waters shimmering under the sunlight, the vibrant contrast between the water and the red cliffs creates breathtaking scenery. In winter, the canyon transforms into a quiet, snow-covered wonderland. The cold is harsh, so preparation is essential for those exploring during this time. The Black Canyon, an extension of Charyn, reaches depths of up to 200 meters and is also part of the National Park. Reaching Charyn Canyon is an adventure in itself. The journey starts in Almaty, crossing vast steps and the magnificent Tien Shan Mountains. The final stretch demands a four-by-four vehicle to traverse gravel and sand. Standing on the canyon's edge, you can feel the untamed power of nature's creation. And you can't help but wonder, how could time and nature craft such an extraordinary masterpiece? Akhmachet Cave. Located near the village of Kenastobi, this cave is a 150-meter-long limestone marvel. Its name, Akhmachet, meaning White Mosque, reflects its spiritual heritage. Despite the arid climate, the cave maintains a constant temperature of around 18 degrees Celsius, allowing trees and plants to thrive inside. When snow falls, the cave becomes a warm shelter against the freezing cold. The warmth inside feels like nature's way of saying, you are safe here. For years, the cave's natural beauty and spiritual serenity have captivated visitors. How this underground sanctuary has managed to survive under harsh environmental conditions remains a mystery to this day. If you visit Kazakhstan, Akhmachet Cave should definitely be on your travel list. Lake Kandy. The lake, hidden in the Tien Shan mountains of Kazakhstan, is a serene natural wonder. This extraordinary marvel was created by an earthquake in 1911. The lake stretches for 400 meters and is surrounded by rugged hills. Its turquoise waters shelter a submerged forest of spruce trees. The birch trees and alpine meadows frame its tranquil shores. In winter, ice transforms the underwater forest into frozen art. The beauty of the lake is still unknown to many travelers. We highly recommend adding it to your Kazakhstan travel list. Shimbulak. This famous ski resort is located in the Tsailiski-Alatau mountains near Almaty. At an altitude of 2,260 meters above sea level, it combines natural beauty with modern facilities. The slopes are suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers. Beyond skiing, snowboarding and paragliding are available all year. The resort's lively atmosphere attracts thousands of visitors annually. Yurt Nomadic House Hotel Complex. Near the resort, a complex offers traditional yurt accommodations. Modern yurts provide stunning mountain views. A modern cable car connects the Mediu complex to Shimbulak. The 4.5 kilometer journey takes only 15 minutes. Along the way, you can see stunning views of the Tien Shan mountains. If you travel to Kazakhstan, you must visit Shimbulak. It's an experience you won't forget. Aksu Canyon. This stunning canyon is located within Kazakhstan's Aksu Jabagli Nature Reserve. It stretches 15 kilometers in length and reaches a depth of 500 meters. The turquoise waters of the river are adorned with floating pieces of wood. Floodwaters carry these pieces from the surrounding forests. Some drift along with the current, while others accumulate along the riverbanks. These pieces of wood give the river a unique charm. Beyond their visual appeal, they play a vital role in the river's ecosystem. A modern metal bridge offers impressive views of the canyon. Because the canyon is difficult to access, it has remained free from mass tourism. The canyon is home to rare species such as the snow leopard and the Himalayan brown bear. Although the canyon is difficult to access, we believe the breathtaking views make it well worth the effort. Altyn Emel National Park. This national park is in Kazakhstan's Almaty region. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its unique beauty. Established in 1996, it spans 4,600 square kilometers. The Aktau Mountains show red and orange colors, while the steppes are yellow. These layers reveal millions of years of geological history. Trails in the Aktau and Katutau Mountains reveal fossil remains and volcanic rocks. The 150-meter-high sand dune produces a deep hum when the wind blows. This unique natural phenomenon fascinates visitors. Truly a breathtaking sight to behold. The red and brown hues reveal natural patterns created by minerals over time. The park's steep cliffs attract adventurous spirits. Altyn Emel National Park is a must-see in Kazakhstan. Be sure to include it on your travel list. Astana. Astana, Kazakhstan's capital, stands as a symbol of rapid growth and modernization. Since becoming the capital in 1997, it has transformed from a small town into a vibrant city. The city's design reflects a blend of Kazakh traditions and modern architecture, showcasing national progress. Baiterek Tower, one of Astana's most iconic landmarks, is inspired by Kazakh folklore. From its 97-meter-high observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The Astana Grand Mosque, opened in 2022, is an architectural masterpiece. With a main dome rising 83.2 meters and four 130-meter minarets, it is Central Asia's largest mosque. Astana deserves a spot on your travel list. Kolsay Lake. This enchanting lake is located on the slopes of the Tien Shan Mountains. Known as the Pearl of the Northern Tien Shan, it mesmerizes visitors with its tranquil beauty. Its clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a captivating landscape. The lake is surrounded by lush meadows and dense pine forests. This enchanting lake takes on a completely different appearance during the winter months, with snow-covered mountains creating an aura of serene tranquility. The reflection of the sky gives the lake the appearance of a frozen mirror. In summer, the lake comes alive with boats gliding over its surface. The surrounding green mountains and crystal-clear water offer visitors a unique and breathtaking view. Although its popularity has grown in recent years, the lake continues to provide a peaceful escape into nature. We recommend having it on your Kazakhstan travel list. Tekis Waterfall. This impressive waterfall is located in Kazakhstan's Khagan District, 300 kilometers from Almaty. The Tekis River flows from the Terskaya Alatau Mountains into a rocky basin, forming this natural wonder. The journey to the waterfall passes through off-road mountain paths and blooming alpine meadows. Its remote location preserves its pristine beauty, offering peace and solitude. The surrounding Tekis River Valley is dotted with ancient petroglyphs and burial mounds, highlighting its cultural importance. Turkestan. Turkestan, located in southern Kazakhstan, dates back to the 4th century. Once known as Yasi, it was a cultural and trade hub on the Silk Road. The city's layout shows its rich history, with ancient architecture blending with modern development. Fortification remnants hint at its strategic importance in the past. The Timurid Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, Turkestan's most iconic landmark, stands as a symbol of its heritage. Built in 1389 by Timur, this UNESCO World Heritage site honors the 12th-century Sufi mystic and poet. Its massive dome, intricate tilework, and unfinished sections reflect the architectural ambition of its time. National Park Burabay. Known as the Pearl of Kazakhstan, this enchanting national park is a pristine natural wonder. Spanning 835 square kilometers, it captivates with tranquil lakes, dense forests, and majestic mountains. Rising from Lake Borovo, Zumbaktas Rock is known as the Mysterious Stone. From different angles, it resembles the silhouette of a sphinx or a young girl. Standing 380 meters tall, Okshetpe's Mountain translates to Unreachable by Arrows. According to legend, no warrior has ever succeeded in shooting an arrow to its summit. One of the park's largest lakes, Ulkan Shabakti, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings. Visitors can enjoy boating or relaxing in the scenic picnic areas by the lake. Be sure to include this breathtaking destination on your Kazakhstan travel list. Ancient City of Soran. Located 43 kilometers northwest of Turkestan, Soran is a treasure in southern Kazakhstan. With a history dating back to the 10th century, it was one of the key hubs along the Silk Road. Its seven-layered walls and advanced water channels made it a center of trade and culture. We recommend including it in your Kazakhstan travel list. Bartogai Lake. This stunning man-made lake lies in Kazakhstan's Almaty region. Its vivid blue waters come from the mineral-rich Chilik River. Built in the 1980s, it supports agriculture and attracts wildlife. Framed by steppe and mountains, Bartogai perfectly blends nature and engineering. Aristanbab Mausoleum. This 14th century mausoleum is located near Otartob in southern Kazakhstan. It was built over the grave of Aristanbab, the spiritual mentor of Ahmed Yasawi. The mausoleum's central arch and minaret-like towers are its defining features. According to legend, Timur was divinely inspired to build this mausoleum first. Today, it attracts pilgrims seeking spirituality and a connection to history. Ili River. This enchanting river lies in Kazakhstan's Almaty region. Its turquoise waters and rugged landscapes create a peaceful haven for campers. Tents along the riverbanks offer a close connection with nature. Scenic rocky canyons and vast steppes draw nature lovers to its beauty. The river offers safe and exciting rafting and canoeing experiences for adventurers. Old train carriages and plane remains can be spotted along the river. These mysterious relics add a historical charm to the landscape, sparking curiosity about their origins. Shepherds graze their flocks along the turquoise banks. The harmony of grazing sheep and striking waters embodies the enduring nomadic traditions of Kazakh culture. Ascension Cathedral. Located in Almaty's Panfilov Park, the Ascension Cathedral is a marvel of wooden architecture. Completed in 1907, this 56-meter tall structure is one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. Built entirely without nails, it survived the devastating 1911 earthquake. During the Soviet era, it served as a museum and concert hall before being returned to the Russian Orthodox Church in 1995. Its vibrant exterior and intricate interior reflect Kazakhstan's resilience and cultural heritage. Sati Village. This peaceful village is located in Almaty region. It serves as the gateway to Kolsay and Kandy lakes, surrounded by the majestic Tien Shan mountains. Green fields, winding roads, and traditional homes create a picturesque rural setting. Visitors can experience Kazakh culture and nature in harmony here. Would you like to experience the peaceful atmosphere and traditional lifestyle of this village? If so, make sure to add this village to your travel list. Big Almaty Lake. Visiting Kazakhstan and not seeing Big Almaty Lake would be unimaginable. This magnificent mountain lake is located in Kazakhstan's Trans-Ili-Alatau mountains at an altitude of 2,511 meters above sea level. In summer, its turquoise color comes from glacial minerals mixing into the water. In winter, the lake and surrounding mountains transform into a tranquil snowy landscape. With seasonal changes, the lake's color shifts from vibrant turquoise to deep blue. Hikers prefer this place for its alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife. Swimming is prohibited, as the lake serves as Almaty's drinking water source. Despite being close to the city, the lake remains cool even in summer. It truly offers a breathtaking view. Mangyshlak Peninsula. Located in southwestern Kazakhstan, this peninsula stands out as a masterpiece of nature. Steep cliffs and endless steps showcase the region's untamed beauty. Unique geological formations shaped over time make this peninsula truly one of a kind. In winter, the snow-covered cliffs offer a tranquil and serene atmosphere. This peninsula is a treasure waiting to be discovered by nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Burkhan Bulak Waterfall. Burkhan Bulak, Kazakhstan's tallest waterfall, stands out with its impressive height of 168 meters. This natural wonder is hidden in the Dzungaryan-Alatau Mountains, at an altitude of 2,000 meters. According to legend, its waters represent the tears of a mother, weeping for her lost son Burkhan. Be sure to add it to your Kazakhstan travel list. This marks the end of our Wonders of Kazakhstan video. We hope you enjoyed it. If so, don't forget to subscribe to our channel, like the video, and share your thoughts in the comments. See you in our next adventure-filled video. Take care!