Things To Do
in Taraz
Taraz is a historic city located in southern Kazakhstan along the Talas River. It is known for its rich cultural heritage dating back to ancient times, with many historical sites and monuments to explore. The city has a diverse population, reflecting its long history of trade and cultural exchange.
Taraz also serves as a regional center for industry, agriculture, and commerce in the region.
- "Salemetsiz be?" - How are you?
- "Rakhmet" - Thank you
- "Keshiriniz" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Iä" - Yes
- "Jok" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient mausoleum of Aisha Bibi, marveling at its stunning architecture and lush surroundings. Afterward, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café.
Head over to the Taraz Regional Museum to learn about the rich history of the region through its artifacts. Take a leisurely stroll in the nearby city park, enjoying the local flora.
End your day with dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Kazakh cuisine. Try dishes like Beshbarmak and Baursaks while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Take a trip to the nearby Aulie Lake, where you can enjoy the serene views and fresh air. Make sure to pack a light picnic for a mid-morning snack.
Visit the Archaeological Park of Taraz, where historical remnants of the Silk Road are preserved. It's a great spot for taking photos and appreciating the history.
Return to Taraz for a relaxing evening at a local tea house. Enjoy a range of herbal teas while chatting with locals and fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including ancient architecture and sites.
- Strategic location on the Silk Road, offering unique cultural exchanges.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and trade.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options.
- Harsh continental climate with extreme temperatures.
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Potential challenges with language barriers for non-Kazakh speakers.
- Environmental concerns, including pollution in some areas.
Best Activities in Taraz
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Akbota Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities in Taraz, featuring walking paths, green spaces, and tranquil surroundings ideal for picnics and relaxation.
Taraz Central Park offers a variety of outdoor activities including walking, cycling, and leisurely strolls amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Aisha Bibi Park is a charming location for outdoor activities with its scenic beauty, ideal for walking, enjoying nature, and taking in the historical and cultural significance of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Taraz with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Taraz
Visit one of these nice places.
Historical fortress offering panoramic views of Taraz
Food in Taraz
Taraz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Kazakh dish consisting of boiled meat (often horse or lamb) served on a bed of flat noodles and accompanied by broth and onions. It can be found at local eateries and traditional Kazakh restaurants like Dastarkhan.
Must-Try!
A savory pastry filled with minced lamb or beef, onions, and spices, typically baked in a tandoor oven. It can be savored at street food stalls and bakeries across Taraz, with popular spots including Samsa House and Gulyam Samsa.
A fragrant rice pilaf dish cooked with carrots, onions, and chunks of meat like lamb or beef, often seasoned with cumin and other spices. It's a staple at local Uzbek eateries such as Choyhona and Central Asian Cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Taraz, Green Bazaar is a bustling market where visitors can sample a variety of fresh produce, dried fruits, local snacks, and street food like shashlik (grilled meat skewers), belyash (fried dough with meat filling), and traditional Kazakh sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Taraz, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It's important to use a firm handshake and make eye contact as a sign of respect.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Kazakh culture. It's important to show deference and use appropriate titles or forms of address when interacting with older individuals.
When giving gifts in Taraz, it's polite to present them with both hands as a sign of respect. Additionally, gifts should be modest and thoughtful, and it's customary to refuse a gift initially before accepting it.
Safety
Tipping in Taraz
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Taraz, Kazakhstan. It is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or other service industries. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated.
Payment in Taraz, Kazakhstan is predominantly done in cash, although credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted in larger establishments. It's always good to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case a particular vendor or service does not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring, from April to June, is a great time to visit Taraz when the city comes alive with beautiful blooming flowers and mild temperatures. It's a good time for outdoor activities and for enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Summer, from July to August, can be hot in Taraz with temperatures reaching high levels. However, this is the time for various cultural events, festivals, and outdoor activities. The days are long, allowing ample time for exploration and sightseeing.
Autumn, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures and the city is adorned with beautiful fall colors. It's a good time for outdoor excursions, and the weather is pleasant for exploring the historical sites and attractions of Taraz.
Winter, from December to March, can be cold in Taraz with temperatures dropping below freezing. However, the city is less crowded, and it's a great time to experience the unique winter activities and traditions of the region such as winter sports and traditional celebrations.
Taraz at Night
Hiking in Taraz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park offering various hiking trails with scenic views, located near Taraz.
Located a bit further from Taraz, this park features lush landscapes and well-marked hiking routes suitable for different skill levels.
Famous for its stunning mountain views, Kordai Pass provides several trails for hiking enthusiasts.
This region offers a variety of terrains for hiking, including forests, rivers, and mountains, with diverse flora and fauna.
Although a bit of travel from Taraz, this area features beautiful high-altitude hiking trails with panoramic views.
Aiports
How to reach Taraz by plane.
The largest international airport in Kazakhstan, located in Almaty, approximately 300 kilometers from Taraz.
International airport serving Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, located about 400 kilometers from Taraz.
Major airport in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, located roughly 600 kilometers from Taraz.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Taraz, making up a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority group with historical roots in the region.
A smaller ethnic community present in Taraz, reflecting the historical ties between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
An ethnic group that has a presence in Taraz, primarily due to historical trade routes.
Includes small populations of various ethnicities such as Ukrainians, Tatars, and others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Taraz, with a strong local following and several clubs representing the city.
Wrestling, particularly traditional styles such as kures, has deep cultural roots in Kazakhstan and is popular among the youth.
Boxing has gained popularity in Taraz, producing some talented athletes who compete at national and international levels.
Basketball is widely played in local schools and clubs, especially among the younger generation in Taraz.
Athletics, including track and field events, is promoted in schools and local competitions, contributing to physical fitness in the community.
Cycling has become increasingly popular as both a competitive sport and as a recreational activity among the residents of Taraz.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taraz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kazakh cuisine tends to focus on meat-centric dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Taraz now offer vegetarian-friendly meals like vegetable kebabs, stuffed peppers, and fresh salads.
Although vegan options may be limited in some establishments, it's still possible to find plant-based dishes such as vegetable stews, pilafs, and lentil soups at certain restaurants and cafes upon request.
Several eateries in Taraz cater to gluten-free diets by offering dishes made from rice, buckwheat, or corn, such as gluten-free pasta, rice pilaf, and cornbread.