Things To Do
in Türkistan
Turkistan, Kazakhstan is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient monuments such as the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. It is located in the southern part of Kazakhstan and serves as a major religious and pilgrimage center for Muslims. The city is also known for its vibrant bazaars, where locals and tourists can find a variety of traditional goods and handicrafts.
Turkistan's picturesque landscapes and hospitable locals make it a popular destination for those seeking to explore the history and culture of Kazakhstan.
- "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 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take in the stunning architecture and learn about its historical significance.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring traditional Kazakh cuisine. Afterward, explore the adjacent archaeological sites that reveal more about the region's history.
Relax at a local café, enjoying a cup of traditional tea. Reflect on the day's experiences while observing the vibrant local culture.
Start the day with a hike in the nearby Sairam-Ugam National Park. Experience breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Visit a local village to experience the daily life of the Kazakh people. Engage with the community and try your hand at local crafts.
Enjoy a sunset picnic in the park. Savor local dishes while surrounded by nature's beauty.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical significance.
- Diverse natural landscapes including mountains and steppes.
- Growing urban infrastructure and development.
- Strategic location along trade routes, enhancing economic opportunities.
- Hospitality of local people and preserved traditions.
- Limited access to some modern amenities in rural areas.
- Environmental concerns, including pollution and resource management.
- Economic dependency on specific industries, impacting stability.
- Challenges with infrastructure development in some regions.
- Political and social issues affecting governance and civil liberties.
Best Activities in Türkistan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site to admire its stunning architecture and learn about its historical significance.
Enjoying scenic hiking trails in the Türkistan Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Exploring the fascinating ruins of the ancient city of Sauran, with its rich history and archaeological significance.
Tours
Uncover the best of Türkistan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Türkistan
Visit one of these nice places.
This ancient mausoleum offers stunning architecture and panoramic views of Türkistan.
A sacred site with beautiful surroundings and great photo opportunities.
The airport area provides aerial views of the city and surrounding landscapes for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Türkistan
Türkistan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish consisting of boiled meat, typically lamb or beef, served with thin, flat noodles and usually accompanied by broth and onions. Recommended to try at Restaurant Beshbarmak House.
Must-Try!
Samsa is a savory meat pastry with a flaky crust, often filled with seasoned lamb or beef, onions, and spices. Visit street vendors or local bakeries for authentic samsa.
Shubat is a traditional Kazakh beverage made from fermented camel's milk, known for its tangy flavor and potential health benefits. Look for shubat at traditional milk bars or markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to sample fresh produce, local spices, and traditional snacks like dried fruits and nuts. Street food stalls offer an array of kebabs, plov, and breads for a true taste of local cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Türkistan, Kazakhstan, it is important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time. It is also customary to use formal titles and last names when addressing others, particularly in professional settings.
Hospitality is highly valued in Türkistan, and guests are often welcomed with food and drinks. It is customary to show appreciation for the hospitality by expressing gratitude and respect for the host.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Türkistan. It is customary to address older individuals with deference and to listen attentively to their advice and wisdom.
Safety
Tipping in Türkistan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Türkistan, Kazakhstan, tipping is not as common as in some other Western countries. It is appreciated to leave a small tip in restaurants, around 5-10% of the bill, if the service was good, but it is not necessarily expected in all establishments.
Cash is widely used for small transactions in Türkistan, although credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, especially in urban areas. However, it's always best to have some cash on hand, especially when traveling to smaller towns or more rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Türkistan, Kazakhstan. The weather is mild, and the city is surrounded by beautiful blossoming gardens and trees. Expect to see vibrant colors and enjoy various outdoor activities.
During the summer, Türkistan experiences warm temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the historical sites and monuments in the city. Summer also offers opportunities for outdoor adventures and festivals.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it great for sightseeing and exploring Türkistan's cultural and historical attractions. It's also a good time for hiking and enjoying the changing landscapes.
Winter in Türkistan can be cold, but it offers a different kind of beauty. Visitors can experience traditional winter activities, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and witness the city covered in a blanket of snow.
Türkistan at Night
Hiking in Türkistan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Aksu-Zhabagly is the oldest nature reserve in Kazakhstan, known for its diverse flora and fauna, featuring numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
The Karatau Mountains offer various hiking routes that allow hikers to explore the unique landscapes, including canyons, ridges, and endemic plant species.
Located a bit further but worth the trip, Charyn Canyon is famous for its spectacular natural beauty and offers several hiking opportunities along the canyon's edge.
This area provides a mix of steppe and river landscapes, ideal for multi-day hiking trips, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Tengri Tagh is a mountain range that offers challenging treks through rugged terrain, ideal for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
Aiports
How to reach Türkistan by plane.
Located approximately 160 km from Türkistan, Shymkent International Airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Situated about 300 km from Türkistan in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, this airport is one of the largest in the region, providing extensive international connections.
Located around 1000 km from Türkistan, Almaty International is the largest airport in Kazakhstan and serves as a key transit point between Europe and Asia.
Approximately 1200 km from Türkistan, Astana International Airport is located in the capital city of Kazakhstan, Nur-Sultan, and offers various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Türkistan, comprising the majority of the population, Kazakhs are a Turkic people with a rich cultural heritage and history.
The second largest ethnic group in the region, Uzbeks have a significant presence in Türkistan and share historical and cultural ties with their Kazakh neighbors.
A smaller demographic group in Türkistan, Russians have historically been present in the region, particularly during the Soviet era.
A Turkic ethnic group that also resides in Türkistan, Karakalpaks are closely linked to Uzbeks and are known for their unique cultural practices.
A Central Asian ethnic group, Uyghurs represent a minority in Türkistan and are known for their distinct language and cultural traditions.
A small ethnic group, Tats are Persian-speaking people in the region with unique cultural customs and identity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Türkistan, with numerous local clubs and a strong following among the residents.
Traditional wrestling, known as 'kures', holds a significant cultural importance in Türkistan and is widely practiced and celebrated.
Basketball has grown in popularity, especially among the youth, with various schools and amateur leagues promoting the sport.
Track and field events are popular, with local competitions encouraging participation at schools and community events.
Judo has a strong following in Türkistan, with many schools offering training and local competitions being held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Türkistan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat plays a prominent role in local cuisine, many restaurants in Türkistan offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as vegetable stews, salads, and pilafs. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Those requiring gluten-free options can find dishes like rice pilaf, grilled meats, and yogurt-based soups that align with their dietary needs. However, it's recommended to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods due to potential cross-contamination.