Things to do in Almaty Region
Discover the best attractions and experiences Almaty Region has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient sites and rock carvings that reveal the region's early cultures and spiritual heritage.
Tamgaly Tas
A famous cluster of petroglyphs and Buddhist imagery along the Ili River, offering a glimpse into ancient Central Asian spirituality.
Tamgaly Gorge
A dramatic canyon area adjacent to the Tamgaly Tas site, with rugged rock formations and historic carvings.
Museums
Learn about the local history, culture, and daily life of Alpine Kazakhstan through regional museums.
Taldykorgan Regional Local History Museum
Shows archaeology, ethnography and regional history with rotating exhibits.
Kapchagay Local History Museum
Small museum highlighting the district’s heritage and traditional crafts.
Religious Monuments
Discover the region's diverse religious architecture and sites of community worship.
Kapchagay Mosque
A central place of worship reflecting local Muslim community life.
Turgen Mosque
A rural mosque near Turgen that serves as a communal gathering spot.
National & Theme Parks
Vast landscapes, alpine lakes and desert dunes offer spectacular natural scenery.
Altyn-Emel National Park
Home to the famous Singing Dunes and diverse steppe ecosystems.
Ili-Alatau National Park
Protected mountains and forests above the northern Tian Shan.
Kolsai National Park
Three turquoise lakes framed by pine forests and rugged peaks, perfect for multi-day hikes.
Neighborhoods
Regions and towns that form the gateway to mountain scenery and lakes.
Kapchagay
Lakeside town known for the Kapchagay Reservoir and summer resort atmosphere.
Talgar
foothill town that serves as a base for exploring the northern Tian Shan.
Turgen
Scenic village at the edge of Turgen Gorge, popular with day-trippers and hikers.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy nature and outdoor activities that don’t require an entrance fee.
Hike Turgen Gorge
Walk the forested trails to waterfalls and viewpoints along the river.
View Big Almaty Lake from the overlook
Capture photos and soak in the alpine scenery from free viewpoints.
Stroll along Kapchagay Reservoir
Relax by the water, watch birds, and enjoy sunsets across the water.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Kazakh dishes and regional specialties.
Beshbarmak
A hearty Kazakh meat-and-noodles dish enjoyed in local eateries.
Kumis
Fermented mare's milk beverage with a distinctive tang, a regional staple.
Manty
Steamed dumplings filled with meat, a common comfort food in the region.
Nightlife
Evening options range from lakeside relaxation to casual eateries and clubs.
Kapchagay casino strip
Casinos and entertainment venues by the lakeside for evenings out.
Talgar tea houses and cafés
Cozy venues with tea, music, and light bites after a day in the hills.
Entertainment
Local performances and cultural venues showcase regional arts.
Taldykorgan Drama Theater
Local stage productions and performances in the regional capital.
Kapshagai City Concert Hall
Regular concerts and community events in the lakeside town.
Sports
Adventure and sport opportunities in mountain terrain and on the water.
Medeu Skating Rink
High-altitude skating complex often used for training and events.
Shymbulak Ski Resort
Mountain ski resort with trails for all levels near Almaty region.
Kapchagay Water Sports
Water-based activities like jet-skiing and boating on the reservoir.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the crowds to explore wild gorges and crystal lakes.
Charyn Canyon
Spectacular canyon with dramatic rock formations and scenic viewpoints.
Kolsai Lakes
Three alpine lakes set in pine forests, ideal for multi-day hikes.
Turgen Gorge
Forest trails, waterfalls and pristine landscapes a short drive from the towns.