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Kazakhstan
Itinerary and Tour Package details
Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrival in Almaty - Gateway to the Tien Shan Mountains
Arrive at Almaty International Airport , where your Kazakh adventure begins. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening walk in Panfilov Park , admire the charming Zenkov Cathedral , and explore the energetic Arbat Street . Savor a cozy welcome dinner with local favorites like kuurdak and beshbarmak .
Day 2: Almaty City Highlights & Kok Tobe Escape
Today, explore Almaty's cultural heart . Visit Republic Square , the National Museum , and the impressive Central Mosque . Ride the Kok Tobe cable car for breathtaking city views and quirky attractions like the Beatles monument. Later, visit Green Bazaar to shop for local dried fruits, herbs, and Kazakh sweets before dinner at a local caf'.
Day 3: Big Almaty Lake & Medeu Ice Rink
Post breakfast, journey to the stunning Big Almaty Lake , a glacial alpine beauty set in the Ile- Alatau National Park . Spend time enjoying the fresh mountain air and pristine views. On your return, stop at Medeu , the world's highest skating rink, and ascend to Shymbulak Ski Resort for an optional lunch with a view.
Day 4: Drive to Charyn Canyon - Kazakhstan's Grand Canyon
Today, head east (approx. 3.5 hrs) to the dramatic Charyn Canyon , often called the 'Grand Canyo n of Central Asia.' Explore the Valley of Castles , with rock formations sculpted by millennia of wind and water. Camp or stay in a nearby eco -lodge for a night under the stars. Enjoy traditional grilled food by the fire and a peaceful, starlit night.
5 : Journey to Turkistan - History Comes Alive
After an early breakfast, return to Almaty and take a domestic flight or overnight train to the holy city of Turkistan (or optional drive via Shymkent). Upon arrival, check in and rest. In the evening, stroll t hrough local bazaars and enjoy dinner in a traditional yurt-style restaurant.
Day 6: Turkistan Exploration - Pilgrimage & Heritage
Visit the iconic Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore ancient caravanserai ruins, spiritua l centers, and colorful mosques. Learn about the Silk Road history that shaped Turkistan's culture. Spend the evening soaking in the spiritual aura and enjoying folk performances, if available.
Day 7: Return to Almaty - The Final Stretch
Fly or take the train back to Almaty and check into your hotel. Enjoy your last evening with optional activities like a Kazakh folk dinner show , shopping for souvenirs at Dostyk Plaza , or simply relaxing with mountain views.
Day 8: Departure from Almaty
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Almaty International Airport for your onward flight. Depart with rich memories of Kazakhstan's wild canyons, sacred cities, and hospitable traditions.
Inclusions
3★/ 4★ / 5★ hotel accommodation (selectable) in Almaty, near Charyn, Turkistan
Daily buffet breakfast
Airport pickup & drop in Almaty
Domestic flights or train transfers (Almaty ↔ Turkistan / Shymkent, as appropriate)
Sightseeing by private vehicle for all tours
Entrance fees for parks, museums, mausoleums, cable cars, etc.
Overnight stay near Charyn Canyon (camp, eco‑lodge or basic lodge)
Assistance by local representative
Local taxes (where applicable)
Exclusions
Air tickets
Visa fees (if applicable)
Personal expenses (laundry, phone/internet, tips)
Extra meals & beverages not specified
Early check‑in / Late check‑out charges
Tourism / city taxes not covered
TCS and GST
Anything not mentioned under inclusions
Local Cuisine
Best time to visit
Best things to do
_ Veg: Samsa, Lagman noodles, Pumpkin manty, Dried fruit compotes
_ Non-Veg: Shashlik, Kuurdak (fried meat with potatoes), Zhaya (smoked horsemeat)
April to June and September to October - Best for outdoor travel and canyon hiking
Temperature : Almaty (15 - 28'C), Charyn (18 - 32'C), Turkistan (22 - 35'C)
_ Hike through Charyn Canyon's Valley of Castles
_ Visit the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
_ Ride the cable car to Kok Tobe Hill
_ Discover Big Almaty Lake and Medeu
_ Shop at Green Bazaar and dine in a yurt
Special events
Things to carry
Nauryz Meyrami (March 21) - Celebrated nationwide with music and rituals
Turkistan Spiritual Festival (June - July) - Pilgrimages, crafts, and local art
Charyn Nature Fest (May/Oct) - Eco-tourism event with trekking, yoga & music
Almaty Apple Festival (September) - Celebrating the birthplace of apples
_ Hiking boots and sun protection for Charyn
_ Light jacket for mountain areas
_ Torchlight and basic camping items (if overnighting near canyon)
_ Local currency (Kazakhstani Tenge), camera, and power adapter (Type C/F)
_ Reusable water bottle and travel snacks for long drives
Faqs
Q1: How many countries are visa‑free for Indian passport holders?
As of 2025, Indian passport holders enjoy visa‑free or visa‑on‑arrival access to about 57–60 countries.
Q2: Do Indian citizens need a visa for Kazakhstan?
No, Indians are granted visa‑free entry to Kazakhstan for up to 14 consecutive days, and total stay up to 42 days within any 180-day period.
Q3: Is overnight stay near Charyn Canyon feasible?
Yes, but options are limited — eco‑lodges, basic bungalows, or camping are available, though they tend to be basic and sometimes pricey.
Q4: What is Charyn Canyon’s geological importance?
Charyn Canyon extends ~154 km and features dramatic red sandstone formations up to 300 m deep. Known as the “Valley of Castles.”
Q5: Are domestic flights included between regions?
Yes — domestic flights or train transfers according to the itinerary (Almaty ↔ Turkistan / Shymkent) are included.
Q6: Can this tour be done in winter?
Winter travel is possible but challenging — snow may block road access, especially to Charyn Canyon. Some attractions may be limited.
Q7: Can solo travellers join this tour?
Absolutely — solo travellers are welcome (single supplementation applies for room occupancy).
Q8: What is your cancellation & payment policy?
Free cancellation up to 15 days prior to start. A deposit is required at booking; full payment due before travel. Detailed terms provided upon booking.
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