Things To Do
in Qashyr
Qashyr is a small town on the central Kazakh steppe, known for its wide horizons and tranquil pace. Its streets blend traditional Kazakh hospitality with modest modern amenities, including cozy cafes and family-run guesthouses. The town sits near gentle hills and the Shalkar River, attracting birdwatchers and hikers especially in spring and autumn.
Visitors can expect warm welcomes, clear night skies, and chances to connect with local artisans and farmers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Qashyr and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy breakfast at a local café while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Spend some time exploring the quaint streets and local shops.
Visit the Qashyr Historical Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Engage with friendly locals who share tales of their ancestors and traditions. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant, sampling regional delicacies.
Stroll through the park as the sun sets over Qashyr. Find a cozy spot to enjoy dinner, featuring freshly caught fish from nearby rivers. Conclude the night with a local folk music performance.
Take a guided tour to the majestic Boztau Mountains. Prepare for a morning of invigorating hiking amidst stunning landscapes and picturesque views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora.
Enjoy a packed lunch atop a scenic viewpoint, soaking in the vastness of the mountains. Continue your exploration with a visit to a nearby waterfall, where you can relax and take photographs. Perhaps take a short swim in the refreshing waters.
Return to Qashyr for a traditional dinner featuring local cuisines. Spend the evening visiting an artisan market where you can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs. End your day with a peaceful walk along the riverbank.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $24-40 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and genuine hospitality
- Access to wide-steppe landscapes and wildlife
- Limited nightlife and occasional language barriers
- Fewer high-end dining and shopping options compared to larger cities
- "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello
- "Рақмет" - Thank you
- "Сіз ағылшын тілін сөйлей аласыз ба?" - Do you speak English?
- "Қайда жақын әжетхана?" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
- "Бағаны түсіндіріп беріңізші" - Could you explain the price?
Places to Visit in Qashyr
Visit one of these nice places.
A raised vantage point offering sweeping views of the town, steppe, and distant hills—ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Colorful market stalls and old storefronts set against warm evening light; great for candid shots and street color.
A calm riverside stretch with reflections of the sky and birds in flight, perfect for tranquil landscape photography.
Short blocks of preserved architecture and pastel facades that capture a historical mood and character.
Food in Qashyr
Qashyr Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Kazakh dish of boiled meat with broad noodles and onion sauce; best enjoyed in a family-style setting.
Must-Try!
A traditional horse-meat sausage served with flatbread and onions; often part of celebratory meals.
Steamed dumplings filled with lamb or beef, commonly found at markets or roadside eateries.
Light, puffy fried dough pastries enjoyed warm as a snack or breakfast accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals buy dairy, fresh produce, bread, and ready-to-eat bites like manty and shashlyk skewers.
A row of little grills offering kebabs and grilled vegetables, ideal for a quick, flavorful meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common for both men and women; greet elders first in formal settings. A nod or brief bow may accompany the handshake in some contexts.
Moderate dress is appropriate in towns; rural areas benefit from modest attire when visiting religious or cultural sites. Men and women should be respectful in conversation and avoid public displays of anger.
If invited to a home, accept tea or light refreshments; it's customary to bring a small gift for the host. Accepting food and conversation shows appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Qashyr
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in cafes and restaurants is appreciated but not always expected. 5-10% is common for satisfactory service; 10-15% for excellent service if not included in the bill. In smaller establishments, rounding up the bill is also appreciated.
Cash (Kazakh tenge) is widely accepted; many places also take cards. Mobile payment apps are increasingly common in towns and larger cafes. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming steppe flowers; carry a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings. Rain is possible but usually brief.
Warm to hot days with clear skies; temperatures often reach the mid-20s to low-30s °C. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated; occasional thunderstorms can occur.
Comfortable temperatures with golden landscapes as leaves turn; evenings can be cool; good time for hiking and photography.
Cold, with strong winds and possible snow; temperatures can drop well below freezing. Pack warm layers, insulated footwear, and plan indoor alternatives for very cold days.
Qashyr at Night
Hiking in Qashyr
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate 3–6 km loop with panoramic steppe views, best in spring and autumn.
Flatter, scenic shoreline path along a nearby lake, suitable for a relaxed half-day hike.
A short 2–4 km route across open plains with wide horizons and opportunities for photography.
Airports
How to reach Qashyr by plane.
Primary regional airport serving central Kazakhstan with domestic flights and some international connections; about a day trip away by road from Qashyr.
Large international hub in Astana; provides extensive international and domestic connections; longer travel time from Qashyr but convenient for long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with a strong sense of community and tradition.
Visible presence in daily life, with cultural exchange in markets and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in towns and regional leagues; local matches are common in the warmer months.
A traditional Kazakh activity, popular for exploring the steppe and nearby hills.
Cultural sport with historical roots; demonstrations and local competitions occasionally organized.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qashyr.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature meat, but vegetarian options are available in most cafes; request vegetable-based dishes or simple sides like dairy, bread, and dumplings. When ordering, ask for no meat broth and request dishes to be prepared without meat stock.