One of the symbols of Almaty is Mount Kok Tobe. In March 2016, a new gondola track, a park and a Ferris wheel were opened, and the famous TV tower received modern architectural lighting. A ride in a cable car cabin is a mandatory item on the tourist program. Needless to say, the top offers stunning views of the city? The cable car connects the top of Kok Tobe and the center of Almaty (landing at the station behind the Arman cinema).
The history of Kazakhstan and Almaty is symbolized by the Independence Monument, which rises on the central square. The hero of the national epic - the Golden Man - controls the winged leopard, which heralds a strong will and inviolability of power.
One of the most interesting places of worship is the Holy Ascension Cathedral (formerly the Turkestan Cathedral) in the park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen - a monument of architecture and history of republican significance. It looks intricate and very unusual for an Orthodox cathedral - with multi-colored domes. Cathedral consecrated in 1907
Paired with him is the Central Mosque of Alma-Ata, built in 1996-1999. The dome is 36 meters high and 20 meters in diameter. 7,000 believers can fit inside at the same time.
The mosque and the cathedral are located close to each other, and a central park with a water park and a zoo extends within a few minutes' walk, where you can go if you are traveling with little travelers.
The Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, one of the largest and most significant in Central Asia, deserves special attention. The exposition is presented on three floors, and the collection includes more than 200 thousand exhibits.
It is most noticeable in Almaty, where at times you feel like you are in Europe - there are so many luxury stores lined up along the streets, and foreign cars stuck in traffic during rush hour.
Surrounded by greenery, Alma-Ata, located at the foot of the snow-capped mountains of the Trans-Ili Alatau, the "calling 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 section 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 daily from Moscow to Alma-Ata International Airport. Residents of St. Petersburg and Novosibirsk can also get there without transfers (Air Astana, 5 hours). Any other transfer options increase travel time and ticket prices.
From airport to city
The airport is located 16 km from the city center. You can leave from there by regular bus number 79 (every 15-20 minutes, the driver has a ticket), a shuttle bus (every half an hour) or a taxi. The price of a trip on an official taxi is 3500 KZT, on a private one - 1.5-2 times lower. Prices on the page are for March 2019.
Search for flights to Alma-Ata
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, including transfers, is 76 hours. You can travel from St. Petersburg to Alma-Ata with one transfer via Novosibirsk (110 hours) or Saratov (112 hours).
By bus and private car
Fans of long-distance bus trips can make a trip from Moscow to Alma-Ata, successively changing 4 intercity buses - first to Ufa, then to Yekaterinburg, Astana and, finally, to Alma-Ata. In terms of time - 91 hours, such a trip is quite comparable to the train.
The shortest automobile route from Moscow to Alma-Ata, 3940 km long, goes through Samara, Orenburg and Chimkent. Some manage to drive it in 50 hours.
It is better to plan the trip in such a way that the border crossing time does not coincide with weekends or holidays
.Transport
The main form 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 passes through the city center, the interval of trains is 8-13 minutes. Travel in all types of transport is paid with a contactless card "Onay!" (off site). It can be bought at the airport, railway stations, Sairan bus station, newsstands and communication stores. A single ticket is purchased from the conductor or driver, but the trip in this case will cost 1.5 times more.
From the bus station "Sairan" (st. Tole bi, 294) intercity buses depart 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 Kapshagay, where the country's largest gambling zone is located.
Taxi in Almaty is inexpensive - the cost of a trip around the city is 500-1000 KZT. A lot of "bombed" on personal cars. You need to look for a free car at metro stations, bus stops and shopping centers. If there is no meter, the price must be negotiated in advance.
Bicycles for rent
In Almaty, the city bike rental service Almaty Bike is developed (off. site). To use it, you need to enter your bank card details on the site and receive an SMS with a code to unlock the bike. You can pick up/return a bike at any of the 200 bike stations. The rental price consists of a monthly fee and a tariff depending on the duration of the trip - the first half hour is free.
Returning the bike to the station every 30 minutes, you can ride for free.
For out-of-town trips, it is better to rent a bicycle at the Extremal 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
A car is an indispensable assistant when traveling around Alma-Ata. There are offices of international (Avis, Hertz, etc.) and local (AutoExpress, Tandau ST) rental companies at the airport and in the city center. Kazakh traffic rules practically do not differ from Russian ones. Is it outside settlements the speed limit is 110 km/h, and on motorways - 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 at the blinking green light, but heart-rendingly honk to belated passers-by and motorists who did not move 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 Hotels
Alma-Ata hotels attract with moderate prices combined with good quality of service. The most numerous - "three rubles" for 10,000 KZT for a double room per day - is quite affordable even for the most budget tourists. Most of them have a restaurant, some even have a pool or a wellness center, free Wi-Fi and parking everywhere. The 4* hotels most in demand among tourists are distinguished by more spacious rooms, designer interiors, restaurants, a swimming pool, a spa, massage rooms and, of course, a higher cost - 18,000 KZT per night.
The pleasure of living “for 5 stars” already costs 33,600 KZT in the old well-deserved Rahat Palace and three times more expensive in the prestigious Ritz-Carlton. Most of the "fives" belong to international hotel chains, which guarantee service according to the highest Western standards.
Those wishing to settle down with home comforts are waiting for a lot of offers for renting apartments. You can find them in any part of the city - from a modest 40-meter "odnushka" on the outskirts for 7,000 KZT to a luxurious 4-room apartment in the center for 70,000 KZT.
Skiing
Surrounded by the high Tien Shan mountains, Alma-Ata is the winter sports capital of Kazakhstan. 16 km from the city, at an altitude of 1691 m, there is the Medeo sports complex with the world's largest skating rink with an area of 10,500 square meters. m. It is known for its unique ice, thanks to which almost 200 world records were set on the rink. The complex can simultaneously accommodate up to 3,000 people. It is open for skating from October to May, ticket price adults/children 1800/800 KZT, skate rental adults/children 1000/500 KZT for 2 hours.
You can get to Medeo by city bus number 12, which departs from the hotel "Kazakhstan".
A 4.5 km gondola cable car connects Medeo with the Chimbulak ski resort. It is built into a common system of 7 lifts, which allows you to climb in half an hour to the Talgar pass - the highest point of the resort (3180 m). Chimbulak trails 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 trip on the cable car "Medeo" - Chimbulak in both directions: adults / children: 2500/1500 KZT, opening 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).
17 km east of Alma-Ata, in the picturesque Kotyrbulak gorge, there is another ski resort Tabagan. The length of its trails of various levels - the complexity of 37 km. The slopes are well adapted for snowboarders, there is an opportunity to ride on virgin lands. The cost of a ski pass for a day is 4000 KZT. An additional bonus of the resort is the Aqualandia water and health complex with swimming pools, jacuzzis, saunas and massage rooms. There is no public transport to Tabagan. Taxi from Alma-Ata from the bus station "Sayakhat" (Suyunbay Ave., 15) - 1500 KZT.
shopping
As in any modern metropolis, Almaty has large shopping and entertainment centers where people come not only for shopping. The most famous Mega Alma-Ata (off site) with a multiplex, an ice arena, a bowling alley, a children's amusement park and shops of leading world brands. Next in popularity are Dostyk Plaza (off. site) with a huge range of high-quality goods and premium Esentai Mall (off. site) with an art center and boutiques of luxury brands Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, etc.
As a rule, shopping centers are open daily from 10:00 to 22:00. Small shops - on weekdays and Saturdays from 10:00 to 20:00. Traditional sales last from early January to February and from June to early September.
For seasonal fruits, dried fruits, spices, nuts and grape sugar, you should look at the Green Market with a special atmosphere of an oriental bazaar (53 Zhibek Zholy Ave.). There is also a very good selection of national souvenirs, fully reflecting the nomadic traditions of the Kazakhs. Original and inexpensive leather vessels for storing koumiss or water - sabs and torsyks, warm slippers made of felt with curved toes are practical, backgammon decorated with fine carving or inlay is good.
Tourists from Europe willingly buy skullcaps and chapans - national Kazakh clothes made from camel wool. Felt, glass and silver-plated apples look quite appetizing. You can even buy a yurt, though made of ceramics.
Cuisine and restaurants of Almaty
Alma-Ata will not disappoint lovers of good food. In its restaurants, cafes and other catering establishments with Kazakh, European, Japanese and other cuisines of the world, everyone will be fed and watered. 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 in every one - whether it's an expensive colorful restaurant "Alasha" or a budget chain canteen "Kaganat", the menu will definitely include popular dishes of Kazakh cuisine.
First of all, "beshbarmak" - finely chopped boiled meat with noodles and strong broth, milk soup with "ak-sorpa" meat, boiled or fried dumplings "tushpara", Kazakh plov "palau" with a lot of meat. Fish lovers can order "koktal" - a dish of large carp or carp smoked with potatoes and vegetables. Mandatory components of any Kazakh meal are sour-milk products: koumiss, 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.
When going to dinner at an expensive establishment, you should take into account one of the features of the local service - 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 an important cultural center of the country. In its sights, eastern steppe motifs and Soviet neoclassicism are easily guessed, diluted with high-tech new skyscrapers of a rapidly renewing city.
From the ancient settlement of the Turkic nomads, only memories remained - their burial mounds were buried under residential buildings. On the other hand, 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 inhabitants and soldiers of Fort Verny, from which the city began. In the late 1990s on the old foundation, a new Central Mosque was erected (off. site) - 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 Republic Square in Almaty, surrounded by administrative buildings of the Soviet era, the Independence Monument is installed - a 30-meter stele crowned with a winged leopard, on the back of which stands the Golden Warrior. The snow leopard is the state symbol of Kazakhstan, just like the Golden Warrior, a unique archaeological find made in 1969 during the excavations of the Issyk mound near Alma-Ata.
The reconstructed figure of a warrior dressed from hundreds of gold plates is on display at the Central State Museum. He belonged to the royal family of the ancient Saka tribe, 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 utensils to Turkic military armor and the 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 a cable car leads from the Palace of the Republic on Dostyk Avenue. In addition to the TV tower "Koktobe", there is a small zoo and the fountain "Apple" - 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 migrant peasant from the Voronezh province, Yegor Redko. From their crossing with a 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 temperate 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 stay 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. Summers are hot and stuffy. Early autumn is perhaps the best time to visit Almaty. 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 persistent phenomenon.
Alma-Ata is a city located at the northern foot of the Zailiysky Alatau mountain range. The sights of Alma-Ata are, first of all, the mountains that surround the city, they are its decoration and the main center of attraction.
Arriving in Alma-Ata, you will immediately see beautiful snowy peaks at any time of the year and wooded slopes. The city itself consists of predominantly low, still Soviet buildings and does not look modern. It seems that he got lost in the past, such a typical provincial Soviet town. The modern high-rise glass complex does not change the overall picture. Perhaps, if Alma-Ata had remained the capital, it would have acquired the gloss and gloss of a modern city.
The city has a lot of flowers, greenery, all kinds of fountains and ditches, life here flows quietly and leisurely, there are few tourists in summer. The main attractions of Alma-Ata - the Medeo alpine skating rink and the Chembulak ski resort attract tourists in winter. Drivers here always give way to pedestrians. There are few police on the streets, among the population of Kazakhs the majority is about 60%, Russians - 26%. Basically, all Kazakhs know Russian, it is the second state language. All signs, price lists are duplicated in Russian.
Some facts about Alma-Ata
Hotel "Kazakhstan" with a crown, 26 floors, height 102 meters (1977).
- Alma-Ata was founded in 1854, the beginning of the city was laid by the Vernoye fortress, built by the Russian Empire next to the settlement of Alma-Ata on the Almatinka River. Immigrants from Central Russia settled here.
- The name Alma-Ata was officially approved outside the city in 1921, in Kazakh - Almaty (Yablonevoe). In 1993, the official name of the city became Almaty. In Russia, the city continues to be called Alma-Ata.
- Alma-Ata was the capital of the Kazakh SSR and the Republic of Kazakhstan from 1936 to 1997. Now Alma-Ata is called the southern capital of Kazakhstan.
- The population of Alma-Ata is more than 1,854 thousand people.
- The national currency of Kazakhstan is tenge, it is equal to about 6 Russian rubles. There are many exchangers, it is not a problem to exchange rubles, dollars or euros for tenge.
- The symbol of the city is an apple, Alma-Ata is considered the birthplace of apples.
- There are a lot of cars in Almaty, because of which the city suffers from smog.
- The city is divided into Upper, Middle and Lower districts. The most prestigious area is the Upper, it is closer to the mountains, in the heat here a cool wind blows from the mountains, and the air is cleaner.
- In Alma-Ata, you will see many images of Elbasy, the so-called father of the nation, the first president of Kazakhstan - Nursultan Nazarbayev.
- Alma-Ata belongs to a seismically active territory, and its predominantly low-rise buildings are associated with this.
- Alma-Ata often suffered from destructive mudflows until a mudflow protection dam was built in the Medeu tract. Construction lasted from 1966 to 1980.
- A metro line was built in Alma-Ata in 2011.
- Many names of Alma-Ata have been renamed to the Kazakh style, but most of them use Russian names familiar from the USSR.
- The distance from Alma-Ata to the capital of Kazakhstan (Astana) is 1200 km.
Almaty on the map
The sights of Alma-Ata can be divided into urban and those that are outside the city. They are the most interesting and picturesque. In Soviet times, many parks were created in the city, a huge number of trees were planted. In modern times, a park was created in honor of the first president.
The park of the first president was created on the site of apple orchards and strawberry fields, it was opened in 2011. It is an arboretum, with alleys of various trees: poplars, birches, chestnuts, oaks, maples, firs and many others.
There is a Chinese-style gazebo, many paths, a playground, an observation deck, but the main attraction of the park is a huge illuminated fountain. There are a lot of squirrels in the park.
The main entrance is made in the form of classical columns. Beautiful views of the mountains open up from the park.
The Monument of Independence of Kazakhstan rises above the Republic Square, the architect is Shota Valikhanov. It was installed in 1996 and is a symbol of Kazakhstan. The 28-meter stele with the Golden Man on top, standing on a snow leopard, is the center of the sculptural composition.
Four sculptural figures on the sides of the stele form a square - this is mother earth, the sage sky and two child riders. The monument is surrounded by 10 bas-reliefs in a semicircle.
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen
The park was founded during the creation of the Vernoye fortress. Now there is a memorial of the Great Patriotic War, the Eternal Flame and a monument to 28 Panfilovites, on which the famous words of political instructor Vasily Klochkov are engraved: “Russia is great, but there is nowhere to retreat - Moscow is behind!”.
The Panfilovites are the 316th Rifle Division under the leadership of General I.V. Panfilov. It was formed in Alma-Ata by servicemen from Alma-Ata and Frunze (Bishkek) in July-August 1941. She was transferred to Moscow, where she showed mass heroism at the Dubosekovo junction, which became known as the feat of 28 Panfilov's men.
The memorial complex was opened on May 8, 1975. At the foot of the memorial there are cubes of red labradorite, under which capsules with earth are immured. They were delivered from .
Newlyweds come to the park to lay flowers at the Eternal Flame. Here they walk with children along the green alleys, next to the Ascension Cathedral they sell ice cream, cotton candy, drinks, you can ride a horse or a pony. There is the Alley of Heads of State - blue spruces planted by the first persons at the end of the 20th century.
Museum of Folk Musical Instruments
The address: st. Zenkova, house 24. Opening hours: from 10.00 to 19.00.
The Museum of Folk Musical Instruments in Alma-Ata was opened in 1981. Those who are fond of the history of the instruments of the Turkic peoples or ethnic music will be interested in visiting it. The museum is named after Ykylas Dukenov, the founder of the kobyz school and composer. It is located in a building designed by architect Andrey Zenkov, built in 1908. It is made in the form of a tower in the pseudo-Russian style, located in the park of 28 Panfilov guardsmen.
Ascension Cathedral
The Ascension Church in Alma-Ata is a beautiful historical building in the center of the park of 28 Panfilov guardsmen, it is the city's cathedral. The temple was built in 1904-1907 according to the project of the architect Andrei Pavlovich Zenkov, the founder of earthquake-resistant construction.
The height of the wooden building is 54 meters, for many years it was the tallest building in the city - until the construction of the Kazakhstan Hotel in 1977. The Ascension Church is the only building that survived the terrible earthquake of 1910. In the Soviet years, the Ascension Cathedral housed the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan. It has now been returned to the Russian Orthodox Church, services are being conducted.
Green Bazaar
The Green Bazaar is the central city market. The building of the bazaar was built in 1975 on the site of the shopping malls that have existed here since 1868. Here you can buy any typical (horse meat, nuts, oriental sweets, fruits, dairy products), there is also a clothing market. Tourists come here to buy, which are located near the entrance to the market and on the second floor, and to plunge into the atmosphere of the Soviet market.
Few places can be found in the open spaces former USSR a market with counters without refrigerators and authentic blue scales. The meat is stored in a warehouse in refrigerators, but it is on the shelves in the old fashioned way, the smells here in the warm season are very terrible. The prices here are quite high, and the sellers are intrusive.
Arbat
In Alma-Ata there is an old Zhibek Zholy (Silk Road) street, the pedestrian section of the street is called Arbat. There are playgrounds and fountains, people sing songs and dance, play musical instruments, just like on the Moscow Arbat. And there is also a trading house TSUM.
Underground
Moscow metro station
Website: metroalmaty.kz Opening hours: from 6.20 to 00.00. Token cost: 80 tenge (yellow tenge), children from 7 to 15 years old - 40 tenge (red token). The interval between trains is 10-15 minutes. At the entrance to the metro there are frames and inspection of all things through an X-ray machine, as in airports.
Metro station Zhibek Zholy (Silk Road)
The subway in Alma-Ata was opened on December 1, 2011, back in 1978 the metro project was approved in the General Plan of the city, construction began in 1988. At the moment, this is one line of 9 stations: Raiymbek Batyra, Zhibek Zholy, Almaly, Abaya, Baikonur, Mukhtar Auezov Theater, Alatau, Sairan, Moscow.
Moscow metro station
Moscow station was opened on January 18, 2015. The name "Moscow" is the result of international exchange, in Moscow in 2011 the station "Alma-Atinskaya" was opened. The station is decorated in red style, the walls are in the form of a Kremlin wall with battlements. On the second tier of the station, there are photographs on the walls with the main Moscow sights - the Kremlin, Moscow State University, Moscow City, the Bolshoi Theater.
Baikonur metro station
While waiting for the train, you can walk around the station and admire its design. The cars in the Alma-Ata metro are through, silent.
Stations are announced in three languages: Kazakh, Russian and English.
Website: www.csmrk.kz The address: Alma-Ata, microdistrict Samal-1, building 44. Nearest metro: Abay station. Opening hours: from 09.30 to 17.30 (ticket office until 17.00), day off - Tuesday. Price: 450 tenge, pensioners, students - 300 tenge, schoolchildren - 200 tenge, preschoolers, participants of the Great Patriotic War - free of charge. Hall of anthropology and Khludov - 100 tenge, hall of the golden collection - 1300 tenge.
Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan - oldest museum country, it was created in the city of Orenburg in the 30s of the XIX century. One of the founders of the museum is the famous Vladimir Dal, the author of the Explanatory Dictionary of the Russian Language.
Now the museum collections number 300 thousand items, they are located in a beautiful building built in 1985. The building has been a monument of architecture and urban planning since 1986. Before moving to a new building, the museum was located since 1931 in the building of the Ascension Cathedral.
The museum presents seven halls: paleontology and archeology, historical ethnography, Kazakhstan during the Second World War, modern Kazakhstan, an open fund, an anthropology museum and the Khludov N.G. hall.
Website: koktobe.com Opening hours of the cable car: in summer - from 10.00 to 23.30, on weekends until 00.30, in winter - until 21.30. Price: 1000 tenge one way, 2000 tenge round trip.
Mount Kok-Tobe (Green Mountain) is located near Alma-Ata, its height is 1130 meters above sea level. On it is the Kok-Tobe TV tower, 371.5 meters high, which began its work in 1984. The TV tower is the symbol of the city.
You can go up the mountain by bus or car, or, which is much more interesting, climb in a closed cabin by cable car, 1620 meters long. The capacity of one cabin is 8 people.
Monument to the Beatles on Kok-Tobe On the mountain there is a Kok-Tebe park with a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, an upside-down house, attractions, a mini-zoo with peacocks, ostriches, llamas, goats and other animals and birds. It offers stunning mountain views from the observation decks, and there is also an apple fountain and a monument to The Beatles, as well as cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops.
Medeo skating rink in winter
Everyone who comes here knows about this attraction of Alma-Ata. Medeo (currently Medé at) - the most famous ice rink in the world, it is located at an altitude of 1691 meters above sea level, built in 1972. It is a sports complex, there is a hotel and a cafe with restaurants. Medeo hosted championships in speed skating, bandy, Winter Universiade 2017.
The skating rink is protected from mudflows by a dam built above it. You can look at the dam and the mountains around it by climbing the stairs with verandas of 824 steps or bypassing the stairs along the roads. Speed marathons are held on the stairs - who will climb up the fastest.
The mudflow protection dam was built in 1980 at an altitude of 1750 meters above sea level, its construction has been carried out since 1966 using an explosive method.
Mudflow protection dam
The last powerful mudflow in the history of Alma-Ata happened on July 15, 1973. Thanks to the dam, which held back the huge destructive pressure of water, stones and mud, thousands of people were saved, including the city itself. However, on this Sunday, the victims of the mudflow were vacationers on the slopes of the mountains above the dam, including those in the Gorelik camp. The exact number of all the dead is unknown.
The Gorelik camp, which suffered from the mudflow, was never restored and is now abandoned. Once there was a school for mountain shooters, and then a training center for training instructors in sports mountaineering and a camp site.
Shymbulak
The ski resort "Chimbulak" (Kazakh Shambulak) is located at an altitude of 2200-2500 meters above sea level. From Medeo to Chimbulak can be reached by cable car with a length of 4.5 kilometers. There are hotels, restaurants, a ski and snowboard school, as well as various entertainments: paragliding, a climbing wall, a rope park, horseback riding and others.
Kapchegay
70 kilometers north of Alma-Ata is the Kapchagay reservoir, the so-called local sea. This is an artificial reservoir, created in 1970, a dam, a hydroelectric power station and the city of Kapchagay, now renamed Kapshagay, were built here.
People come to Kapchagay to swim, sunbathe on the sand, fish and just relax in nature. Sandbanks alternate with depth, high waves are frequent. The average depth of the reservoir is 15 meters, the maximum is 45 meters. It is 180 km long and 22 km wide.
There are several casinos and a water park in the city of Kapchagay. The city itself is a small town with typical Soviet buildings, but many gamblers come to Kaz-Vegas, combining it with a vacation on the Kapchegai reservoir.
220 kilometers from Alma-Ata is the Charyn Canyon - an amazingly beautiful natural monument on the territory of the Charyn national park. It is called the little brother of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. The canyon stretches along the Charyn River for a distance of 150 km, the height of the rocks reaches 150-300 meters. There is a relic ash grove here, which is 5 million years old. The most interesting place in the Charyn Canyon is the Red Canyon or "Valley of but mkov", its length is 2 km.
You can come to this grand landmark of Almaty at any time of the year, but in the summer months it is unbearably hot here. Water, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen are required. And, of course, a good camera to capture all the beauty of the canyon.
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, and today are of interest and benefit both tourists and residents of the city. Don't know what to see in Almaty? We have compiled a list especially for you. popular places of this city, which included the most interesting sights.
The main sights of Almaty
Photos and names of Alma-Ata sights are unusual. The mountain Kok-Tobe strikes with its beauty, the name of which is translated from Kazakh as “Green Hill”. It is located near the city, and there is a television tower on it, which, due to this location, is the tallest building in Alma-Ata.
Symbols of Almaty
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 to the observation deck by cable car, which starts almost from the city center. In just six minutes of climbing, you will see Alma-Ata from various angles. Climbing the rock, visit 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 Almaty tjabeljan - visit the climbing wall;
- visit an art gallery.
Monument of Independence in Almaty tjabeljan Monument of Independence
The historical development of Alma-Ata and the country as a whole is symbolized by the Independence Monument, which rises 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 Almaty Nomosb Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Almaty!
Palace of the Republic
In addition to the Kok-Tobe TV tower, which can be seen from all points of the city, among the religious buildings of Alma-Ata, one can note the Palace of the Republic, which can accommodate 3,000 people. Exhibitions and important conferences are constantly held here, as well as concerts by world stars.
Palace of the Republic in Alma-Ata tjabeljan Other interesting places in Almaty
Not far from the Palace of the Republic there are such well-known buildings of the city as the hotel Kazakhstan and the Arman cinema. The first establishment is a hallmark not only of Alma-Ata, but of the entire republic, since the high-rise 102-meter 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 built of wood and its beauty has no equal in the whole world. The exterior of the cathedral impresses with its colorfulness, and especially the 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 been preserved since the beginning of the 20th century.
Central Mosque in Alma-Ata MaratD In Alma-Ata, the main religious object is the Central Mosque. It has an unusual appearance: a building made in white, decorated with blue domes, which symbolize harmony and simplicity. The courtyard of the mosque is equipped with a cozy square 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 Alma-Ata Tisoiso The city is famous for its 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;
- objects of nomadic tribes;
Household items - museum exhibits in Alma-Ata Jean-Pierre Dalbéra - armor and weapons of warriors;
- embroidered products;
- jewelry.
Museums in Almaty
The history of Alma-Ata can also be studied in the museum of the city. Although it was opened recently, it has already collected a considerable number of historical objects: from the time of 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 excavations in Kazakhstan, many important and valuable objects were found, including the bones of ancient animals, fossils and disappeared minerals. All this today can be seen in the museums of Alma-Ata, so the tour of the exhibitions will be informative and unforgettable.
Giraffes in the zoo in Almaty Aiganym Kairbekova Where to go with a child in Almaty
It is interesting to visit the Alma-Ata Zoo. On its fairly large area there are sections with a variety of animals and an aquarium. Many of the presented species are in the Red Book. To relax 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 Almaty Andrey.moiseyev It will be interesting for children and adults to watch the bright circus performances. In the city, the circus building is decorated with a hyperbolic dome, erected in 1972 and recognized as a model of civil architecture. The key number in the circus arena is an equestrian performance with the participation of Zhaidarbek Kunguzhinov. Basically, the artists taking part in the performances are gymnasts, tightrope walkers, equestrians, who have been awarded various prizes and won first places at many festivals and competitions.
Green Bazaar in Almaty 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 active recreation
Ice skating rink of the Medeo sports complex in Alma-Ata Vmenkov Interesting photos sights of Alma-Ata are presented in the winter. So, you should definitely visit the Medeo high-altitude sports facility, which is the largest in the world, at this time of the year. It is located in the eponymous tract of the Zailiysky Alatau not far from Alma-Ata at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level. During the free period from competitions, and this is from October to April, tourists and Almaty residents in the Medeo complex like to skate. On the outskirts of the city there are also ski resorts where skiers, snowboarders, and ski freestylers like to spend time. Favorite places include:
- Chimbulak - there are slopes for beginners and skiers with experience, and there are also routes for downhill skiing. During the summer period for ski resort organize a camp for children, a rope park and sightseeing tours in the mountains;
- Tabagan is a sports and recreation complex that operates all seasons, where in summer you can ride mountain bikes, skate, 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 Kapchagay Lake Torekhan Sarmanov Ecological tourism in Almaty
Getting to know everyone interesting places, be sure to take a photo of the sights of Almaty. Ecological tourists love to travel here, as numerous tourist routes pass near Almaty. Those who like walking should visit the Ile-Alatau Natural Park. It is large and occupies over 200,000 hectares. In the reserve you can see more than 1000 different plants, and the number of different animal species exceeds 1500. Most of the animals and birds inhabiting the Ile-Alatau nature Park are in the Red Book. No less attractive is the Almaty Reserve with lush coniferous and deciduous forest vegetation.
A great place for walking is the Kolsai Lakes park. The name of this attraction suggests that on its territory there are beautiful alpine lakes. 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 the mountain reservoirs can go to the Ili River. It begins in the rocks of the Tien Shan, flowing into Lake Balkhash. Here is also located national park Altyn-Amel.
All sights in Almaty amaze with their beauty and diversity. In the city and its environs you can have a great rest according to your taste and financial possibilities. Having been in Alma-Ata, be sure to visit Astana! We have prepared for you a review about the best ones to inspire you on your further journey through Kazakhstan.
Since Soviet times, everyone knows this city as Alma-Ata - “Grandfather's Apple of Kazakhstan”. Later it was renamed to Almaty. Many famous people Russians born in Almaty: Vladimir Zhirinovsky, Vladimir Tolokonnikov, Batyrkhan Shukenov, A'Studio group, Linda Nigmatulina and others. The city is already 1002 years old. In 2017 he hosted the Universiade. In honor of this event, the ice palace "Almaty Arena" was built. On the streets of the city you can find monuments in honor of Mametova, Kunaev, Moldagudova, Satpaev and other important people for the country. It has everything: the mountains in the vicinity, and architecture, and exotic sights that are worth seeing.
What to see in Almaty in one day
You have arrived in Almaty, but you have only one day at your disposal? You will be met by a nice and unusual landscape. You can use the services of a guide for tourists. But if you do not like the same type of excursions, make up your own itinerary. The name of the old city of Almaty. This is the most mysterious city in the world.
For lovers of hiking, you can start from New Square (Republic Square ). Go down to the fountain cascade and go straight down. The street will lead you to the Abai Ballet and Opera Theatre. Cross the road and you are on Panfilov pedestrian street. Walking along the picturesque street, you will reach the Old Square. Going even lower along the Panfilov you will find yourself on the Arbat.
After walking enough, go to the side of the Green Bazaar, one of the main markets in Almaty. Take a look at the company store at the Rakhat confectionery factory. And after climbing a little higher along any street from the Green Bazaar, you will find yourself in the park of 28 Panfilov guardsmen.
Love to ride in a car? Try using public transport. On Pedestrian Street there are two descents to the subway Station Zhibek Zholy and Station Almaly. Ride the subway, go by car. Each station is themed. At the station Theatre of Drama named after Auezov, visit the Circus, the Wedding Palace, the entertainment complex of attractions "Aya", the Central Stadium. To end the tour, take bus 18, 79 or 30 and get to the Atakent Business Cooperation Center. There is a large park, exhibition pavilions.
Where to go in two days
If you have two days at your disposal, be sure to give one day for a walk around Shymbulak and the Medeo ice complex. Devote the second day to sights, concerts, go to the festival, and they are held quite often in the city. Or go beyond. Visit vineyards in the village of Turgen, Trout farm and others.
Where to take beautiful photos in the city
Almaty is located at the foot of the Tien-Shan ridge. Fans of exclusive beautiful photos have a direct path to the mountains. Breathtaking pictures can be taken at:
- BAO (Big Almaty Lake)
- Shymbulak
- Park of the First President.
- Issyk lake
In summer, the city flourishes. Any park, square, street blooms with roses, lilacs and chestnuts. Gorky Park often puts up free decorations for photo shoots.
Where to go by car
The car gives mobility to move around. But keep in mind, in Almaty, lately, cars are not a priority. The government is actively developing public transport, which makes life difficult for motorists, waiting in traffic jams will not let you enjoy.
There are many interesting places outside of Almaty. Kapchagai reservoir. The locals call it "The Sea", family recreation areas in the mountains, such as "FamilyClub", "Tau Spa", Trout Farm. Tabagan.
On your own or through a Travel Agency, you can purchase a tour to the Charyn Canyon, rafting on the Ili River, Kolsai Lakes.
- kortheatre.kz
It is located at Papanina street 70/1 corner of Yaroslavskaya street. The theater was originally created in Vladivostok. After the deportation of the Koreans, the troupe reunited in Almaty in 1968. The national ensemble "Ariran" serves in the theater.
Someone will say "Korean theater is not for me." But do not rush to draw conclusions. Along with the multinational flavor of Kazakhstan, the Korean theater has preserved the history of its people, language, and traditions.
Raiymbek - batyr - warrior and commander in Kazakh history. The legend about Raiymbek says: when the elder realized that his vitality was fading, he bequeathed to put him on a camel. In the place where the exhausted camel falls, there to give the earth his body.
The batyr's request was fulfilled. During the war, they tried to destroy the grave, but the equipment broke down endlessly and did not allow the plan to be completed. In 1994, the Mausoleum with the ashes of the batyr was erected, and next to it was the same camel. Raiymbek's grave is located along the avenue of the same name. The place is quite busy and noisy. But people from all over Kazakhstan come here, they ask for blessings and health from the sacred place.
The convenient location of the museum will not let you miss it. In the city center on Dostyk Avenue, you have the opportunity to see all the wealth of Kazakhstan.
In the museum you are immersed in the atmosphere of the mine. The elevator, in the form of miners' cages, takes you to the halls of the museum. The founder Satpaev Kanysh Imantayevich collected a large collection of minerals from all over the country. Minerals, agate, crystals, all kinds of ores, etc. The Museum has more than 900 exhibits. At the exit, you can buy original agate souvenirs, fragments of ancient rocks and precious stones.
wikidata.org/wiki/q4062766
The museum is relatively young. Was founded in 1999. It is located in the building of Kazakhstan Temir Zholy JSC, the main railway carrier of Kazakhstan. The central exhibit is a 1:87 scale mock-up of the railway.
The model shows the stations of Turkestan, Astana and Almaty 2. The exhibit is all in motion. Small trains run along it, spotlights shine. Have you ever seen a rail-laying technique? All track equipment, diesel locomotives, electric locomotives, wagons, etc. are presented here. Railway transport lovers will appreciate the museum.
The mosque occupies an important place in the history of the city and in the hearts of believers. The mosque was built over two years from 1995 to 1997. The mosque was designed by Yusupov Sh.
The mosque is the first home for many people. Here, Muslims come together to study Islam, perform rituals and help each other.
On January 13, 1934, the first performance of "Ayman Sholpan" took place. The brilliant play of the actors will make you fall in love with the theater. World classics are played on the stage in the original language. Operas are performed in Italian, French, English, Russian and Kazakh. The plays are mainly staged by foreign specialists. Both locals and tourists go to the theater. Guests of the city always try to attend performances. Get a charge of emotions and cultural enlightenment.
This is the main square of the city on Satpaev Street. Most of the important buildings for the city are located here:
government house - akimat. State institution, workplace for the mayor - akim of Almaty.
Monument of Independence - is a hundred-meter composition. At the very top, the “golden man” sits on a winged leopard.
Along the road there are other compositions performed in the national style.
Central State Museum.
Located under Republic Square. Construction of the facility began in 2007. Residents of the city did not like the changes. Traffic was hampered. Growing in the park Tien-Shan blue with chopped. And after the cracks appeared in the road surface, the residents began to go around the area sideways. Construction was completed in 2012.
The fairy tale of an underground store in an earthquake-prone area has become a reality. He is quite safe. The developer designed the project according to all technical standards.
You will visit the Kazakhstan Museum of Musical Instruments while walking in the park of 28 Panfilov's men. The museum contains exhibits from Asia, Africa, Europe, such as sarangi, cymbals, kobyz, biin, kokle and so on. Representatives from Japan presented the museum with a folk musical instrument Shaiym daiko.
www.circusalmaty.kz
On June 10, 1972, the Almaty circus began to receive the first spectators. The circus building resembles a Kazakh yurt in its shape and can accommodate about 2,500 spectators. Bright spectacles with the taste of Kazakh poetry took first place in the CIS. The circus tours all over the world. The constant state support of the circus makes it possible to arrange grandiose performances.
https://vk.com/botsadkz
Residents of Almaty call the Botanical Garden "the lungs of the city". The green area of 103 hectares filters the polluted Almaty air. The high concentration of emissions in the air is an acute problem in Almaty.
IN Botanical Garden families or friends come for a walk along the birch, oak lilac alleys. At the entrance you are greeted by a Japanese garden designed according to all Japanese traditions. Nearby is a greenhouse of rare exotic plants.
This is a large entertainment complex on the peak of Mount Kok-Tobe at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level. You can climb it by bus or cable car, the length is 1620 meters. From Mount Kok-Tobe, a beautiful view of the city opens up.
On the observation decks are binoculars. It has its own petting zoo, exotarium, rides, Ferris wheel, cafes and restaurants.
In 2007, a monument to the British band The Beatles was erected on Mount Kok Tobe. Any visitor to Kok-Tobe can take a picture with the group members. The creation of a bronze monument to the group was granted permission from the Beatles brand owner AppleCorr and the mayor of the city of Liverpool.
Band members Paul McCartney and Ringo Star gave their separate consent to the creation of the monument. Sitting on a bench next to the musicians, you will hear the famous musical compositions of the group.
The park was built back in the seventies of the nineteenth century on the site of the village cemetery. Its first name is Starokladbischensky Park.
The name of the park has changed many times over the years of its existence. In 1942, the park was named in honor of the soldiers of the 1070th Panfilov Regiment of the 316th Rifle Division, who defended the German attack on Moscow in 1942 on their own. personal monuments of each fighter are installed on the alley of memory, blue spruces are planted in honor of them.
People's artists of Kazakhstan, invited Western and Russian stars hold concerts here. REFERENCE After the construction of the Almaty Arena for the Universiade, the Palace of the Republic began to receive guests less often, but did not cease to be the main price of Almaty.
voznes.kz
On the territory of the park there are 28 Panfilov Cathedral Zenkov. One of the city's leading attractions. The cathedral was built from wood using a unique technology without a single nail. It is one of the eight tallest wooden structures in the world. The cathedral survived the strongest earthquake in 1910. But he did not survive the Soviet regime. It was plundered and became the Central Museum of Kazakhstan. In 1995, the cathedral again received the status of a holy place.
The palace has a very beautiful architecture in the form of spirals connecting at one point. There is a large dome in the center of the building. This is the roof of the banquet hall. The Palace of Schoolchildren periodically holds events dedicated to international and national holidays.
This is part of the Tien Shan Range. The gorge is famous for its monastery and the Akzhar landslide. The monastic Scythian was founded in the 20th century. The monks Seraphim and Theognost who suffered for the faith are buried on the territory. The Akzhar landslide was formed after the earthquake on May 28, 1887. Tourists come for hiking. But the passage through the checkpoint is only with passes.
Skating weekends are always going on. The ice on Medeo is made according to the technology that allows maintaining the ice surface for 8 months a year. For several years in a row, the music festival "Voice of Asia" has been held at the rink.
