Things To Do
in Sharbaqty
Sharbaqty is a small Kazakh town nestled in the eastern steppe, where a blend of nomadic heritage and modern life shapes daily rhythms. The landscape around it is open and expansive, with low hills, grasslands, and the distant silhouettes of traditional yurt homesteads. In town, you’ll find a lively market scene, modest museums, and tea houses that echo the region’s hospitality.
Visitors are drawn by the warm locals, the sense of vast space, and opportunities to explore nearby nature and cultural traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a guided hike in the picturesque mountains surrounding Sharbaqty. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you traverse scenic trails, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes. Capture breathtaking views at the summit as the sun rises, illuminating the beauty of the region.
After descending, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature while soaking in the tranquility. Visit a nearby traditional village to learn about the local culture and crafts, where you can interact with friendly locals and perhaps try your hand at some traditional weaving. The afternoon ends with a visit to a local tea house, sampling exquisite Kazakh tea and snacks.
As the sun sets, prepare for a traditional Kazakh dinner featuring hearty dishes and local delicacies. Engage in storytelling sessions around a warm fire, where you can share experiences with fellow travelers and locals alike. End the evening with stargazing, marveling at the breathtaking night sky unmarred by city lights.
Start your day with a visit to the ancient petroglyphs at the Tamgaly Gorge, which date back thousands of years. A guided tour will unveil fascinating insights into the life of prehistoric nomads who once roamed this beautiful landscape. Take time to appreciate the artistry and history etched into the rocks.
Savor a local lunch at a nearby eatery before embarking on a leisurely walk along the gorge. Explore the natural beauty surrounding you while keeping an eye out for wildlife, including eagles and mountain goats. Your afternoon culminates with a visit to the local museum, offering deeper insights into the history and culture of the region.
Return to Sharbaqty for dinner at a cozy family-run restaurant, where you will be welcomed with open arms. Experience traditional music performances that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Kazakhstan. Wind down the evening with a relaxing stroll through the village, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛏️Night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚍One-way local transport | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a strong sense of place
- Access to authentic Kazakh cuisine and markets
- Pleasant day trips to nearby steppe scenery and rural crafts
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Smaller infrastructure for some Western-style conveniences
- Language barrier in more rural areas; English is not widely spoken
- "Сәлеметсіз бе?" - Hello
- "Қалайсыз?" - How are you?
- "Рақмет" - Thank you
- "Өтініш" - Please
- "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Су қайда?" - Where is the water?
Places to Visit in Sharbaqty
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, textiles, and everyday market scenes provide vibrant candids and portraits.
Traditional wooden houses and courtyards offer rustic architectural textures during golden hour.
Open sky, grassland silhouettes, and gentle water reflections at sunset.
Decorative gateways and cultural exhibits create cinematic composition opportunities.
Low hills framing the town with sweeping landscapes and dramatic skies.
Food in Sharbaqty
Sharbaqty Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Boiled meat served over wide noodles with a rich broth; a centerpiece at family meals and traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Horse meat sausage cured with spices, often sliced thin and served as an appetizer or part of a larger dish.
Steamed dumplings filled with meat and onion, sometimes with pumpkin variations in season.
Rice pilaf cooked with meat, carrots, and onions, a staple at gatherings and casual meals.
Traditional fermented dairy beverages—shubat (yak/horse milk) or kumis; rich and tangy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub of fresh meat, dairy, produce, and baked goods; perfect for sampling samsa and baursak, and observing daily life.
A string of small stalls offering fried pastries, savory pies, and herbal teas; ideal for quick, inexpensive bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes if required, and ask before entering or photographing sacred spaces.
A warm handshake is common; address elders with respectful language and wait for introductions in social settings.
Avoid showing the soles of your feet in sacred spaces and ask permission before photographing people, especially in private homes.
Safety
Tipping in Sharbaqty
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated in restaurants and cafes (about 5-10% if service is not included). Small tips for guides and drivers are common.
Cash in Kazakh tenge is widely accepted, with foreign cards increasingly usable in towns. ATMs are available in the center; some places may not accept cards in rural outskirts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh green growth; occasional rain. Pack layers, a light rain shell, and good walking shoes for muddy paths near markets and trails.
Warm to hot days with frequent sun; carry water, sun protection, and a hat. Evenings are pleasant for strolls and outdoor dining.
Crisp air and turning colors; good visibility for photography and outdoor walks. Layered clothing and a light jacket recommended.
Cold, with potential snowfall and strong winds; temperatures often drop below freezing. Bring insulated outerwear, gloves, and warm footwear.
Sharbaqty at Night
Hiking in Sharbaqty
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle loop with scenic views of open steppe and distant ridges; suitable for a half-day hike.
Flat, easy riverside path offering birdlife and calm landscapes, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Sharbaqty by plane.
Regional gateway serving the eastern Kazakhstan area; provides connections to larger hubs and domestic destinations.
Another eastern hub with domestic and some international services; useful for regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of the population, with strong cultural traditions and language use in daily life.
A historical minority group contributing to local culture and cuisine.
Includes people from nearby regions and other Central Asian backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common pastime in towns and local clubs; matches and informal games happen on weekends.
Traditionally important and still popular for recreation and short tours.
Kazakh variants of traditional wrestling are part of cultural events and festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sharbaqty.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can navigate by choosing dairy- and vegetable-focused dishes such as manty without meat, beshbarmak with mushroom substitutes where available, lentil or bean soups, and fresh salads. Communicate clearly with staff about meat avoidance and request vegetable sides to accompany meals.