Astana, now the capital of Kazakhstan, was formerly known as Akmola and later Tselinograd during the Soviet era. In 1997, the capital was moved here from Almaty as part of President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s vision to develop a more centrally located and strategically positioned capital. The following year, the city was renamed Astana, which simply means “capital” in Kazakh. Over … [Read more...]
From Karagandy to Astana by Shared Taxi
For the final leg of our journey across Kazakhstan, we needed to get from Karagandy to Astana. The driver who had brought us from Balkhash the previous day mentioned that there were no buses running between Karagandy and Astana that day. It seemed odd, given the proximity and size of the cities, but I had no reason to doubt him. He wasn’t a taxi driver, just an honest local … [Read more...]
Two Days in Karagandy: the Industrial Heart of Kazakhstan
Karagandy (or Karaganda) is one of Kazakhstan’s largest cities, known for its coal mining heritage and Soviet-era architecture. Once a major center of the KarLag labor camp system, the city has a complex history tied to Stalin-era repression, which is commemorated in local museums. Despite its industrial roots, Karagandy has developed into a modern city with parks, theaters, … [Read more...]
From Balkhash to Karagandy
Looking to break up the long journey between Almaty and Astana, we found ourselves in the bleak town of Balkhash in central Kazakhstan. Getting there from Almaty was easy by overnight bus, but leaving proved a bit more complicated.To ensure we wouldn’t get stuck, we tried to arrange our trip the day before departure. We went to the town’s bus station (located here) and asked a … [Read more...]
Our Trip to Balkhash Town in Kazakhstan
Balkhash (also spelled Balqash) is a small industrial town in central Kazakhstan, located on the northern shore of Lake Balkhash, one of the world’s largest partially freshwater, partially saltwater lakes. Established in the 1930s, the town grew around copper mining and metallurgy, industries that still define its economy today. While it has a somewhat utilitarian Soviet-era … [Read more...]
From Almaty to Balkhash by Bus
After spending three days in Almaty, we chose Balkhash as our next stop on the way to catching our flight out of Kazakhstan from Astana. We took a night bus to Astana, departing at 20:30 from Sayran Station in Almaty’s western suburbs. The ticket cost 6,000 KZT per person, which was proportionally lower than the full fare to Astana.We had purchased our tickets in advance at the … [Read more...]
Three Days in Almaty: Kazhakhstan’s Cosmopolitan Former Capital
Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is a cultural and economic hub set against the backdrop of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. Once the capital until 1997, it remains the country’s most vibrant urban center, known for its wide boulevards, green spaces, and mix of Soviet and modern architecture. The city’s name comes from the Kazakh word for apple, and the region is believed … [Read more...]
From Bishkek to Almaty by Bus
After unforgettable adventures in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, we were now set to cap off our month-long journey through Central Asia with some time in Kazakhstan. Early in the morning, we left our cozy guesthouse in central Bishkek and made our way to the city’s western bus station (location) to catch a bus to Almaty.We found out that buses departed approximately every two … [Read more...]
Two Days in Bishkek: Kyrgyzstan’s Vibrant Capital City
Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is a dynamic city where Soviet influences blend with the traditions of Central Asia. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Mountains, it’s a place of wide boulevards, green spaces, and a vibrant urban atmosphere. The city is known for its relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and thriving markets where you can find everything from … [Read more...]
Our Unforgettable Horse-Riding Adventure to Son-Kul Lake
Son-Kul (also spelled Song-Kul) is a breathtaking secluded lake in central Kyrgyzstan's mountains, sitting at an altitude of 3,016 meters (9,892 feet). Surrounded by vast pastures, it’s a seasonal grazing ground for nomadic herders who bring their livestock to the area during summer. Visitors often stay in traditional yurt camps, offering a unique opportunity to experience … [Read more...]
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