Things to do in Ili River Valley
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ili River Valley has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient and landmark sites along the Ili River Valley that reveal Kazakhstan's storied past.
Tamgaly Gorge (Tamgaly Tas)
Ancient Buddhist petroglyphs carved into cliff faces along the Ili River, a sacred site with striking rock art.
Charyn Canyon
A dramatic canyon with multi-colored, layered rock formations revealing the region's ancient landscape.
Kapchagay Dam area
Modern infrastructure with historical significance in regional development and water management.
Museums
Gain insights into Kazakh art, history, and culture with museums you can reach from Almaty’s Ili River corridor.
Kasteyev Museum of Fine Arts (Almaty)
Kazakhstan’s premier art museum housing a broad collection of Kazakh and international works.
Almaty City History Museum
A local museum exploring the development and heritage of Almaty and its surroundings.
Religious Monuments
Visit places of spiritual and architectural significance along the Ili River valley.
Zenkov Cathedral (Ascension Cathedral)
A historic wooden Orthodox cathedral in Almaty with striking towers and intricate interiors.
Tamgaly Gorge sacred sites
Ancient religious carvings and shrine clusters along the rocky slopes by the Ili River.
National & Theme Parks
Natural parks protect the dramatic landscapes of the Ili River basin, offering trails and scenic drives.
Altyn-Emel National Park
Home to the Singing Dunes and the otherworldly Aktau Mountains, a showcase of Kazakhstan’s desert-steppes.
Charyn National Park
A vast canyon with vivid red rock formations along the Charyn River, part of the Ili River system.
Neighborhoods
Discover towns and districts around the Ili River where you can sample local life and scenery.
Kapchagay
A lakeside resort town on the Ili River known for its recreational harbor and summer vibes.
Esik
A town in the Ili River valley offering markets, local eateries, and gateway to alpine scenery.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to enjoy the Ili River Valley's outdoors and scenery.
Walk along Kapchagay Dam and promenade
Take a stroll along the dam and enjoy views across the lake and hills.
Sunrise at Big Almaty Lake viewpoint
A free to access scenic lookout for dramatic morning light on the surrounding peaks.
Gastronomy
Taste Kazakh staples and local flavors in the Ili River Valley.
Besbarmak
The national kazan dish with boiled meat and hand-cut noodles, beloved across Kazakhstan.
Plov (Pilaf)
A hearty rice dish flavored with meat and spices, a staple of local feasts.
Nightlife
Evening venues in and around Almaty offer bars, lounges, and live music.
Almaty city bars and clubs
Casual nightlife options in central Almaty with live music and cocktails.
Kok Tobe entertainment area
Rooftop venues with city views and light entertainment.
Entertainment
Cultural venues and performances to enjoy after sunset.
Almaty Opera and Ballet Theatre
A grand venue offering classical performances and concerts.
Shymbulak Mountain Resort entertainment options
Evening events and scenic rides around the mountains near Almaty.
Sports
Active pursuits in the region range from skiing to skating and hiking.
Medeu Skating Rink
Iconic high-altitude skating rink in the mountains surrounding Almaty.
Shymbulak Ski Resort
Popular ski destination offering runs, scenery, and mountain trails.
Off the Track
Get off the beaten path with adventures in the Ili River Valley.
Hiking in Charyn Canyon slopes
Trail routes that weave through the canyon’s dramatic rock formations.
Horseback riding in Kolsai Lake region
Experience Kazakh steppe horseback trails around the lakes.