Things to Do in Nur Sultan Kazakhstan

Things to Do in Nur-Sultan:

Nur-Sultan, the capital of Kazakhstan, offers a unique blend of modern architecture, traditional culture and bustling city life. Here are some suggestions for your trip:

Modern Marvels:

  • The Bayterek Tower: This iconic structure symbolizes the “golden apple” from the legend of Astana’s founding. Climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • Nur-Astana Mosque: One of the largest mosques in Central Asia, its impressive size and architecture are sure to leave you awestruck. Admire the intricate designs and experience the tranquility of this beautiful mosque.
  • Palace of Peace and Reconciliation: This unique pyramid-shaped building houses a concert hall, university, and museum dedicated to interfaith dialogue and cultural understanding.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Astana Opera House: Attend a performance at this stunning architectural marvel and enjoy world-class opera and ballet.
  • National Museum of Kazakhstan: Explore the rich history and culture of the country from ancient times to the present day.
  • Astana Opera House: Enjoy a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and classical music concerts.

Parks & Recreation:

  • Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center: This futuristic tent-shaped structure houses a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including an indoor beach, amusement park, and even a Ferris wheel!
  • Astana Baiterek Mall: Located beneath the impressive Nur-Astana Opera House, this mall offers a modern twist on traditional Kazakh architecture.

Other Activities:

  • Astana International Financial Center (AIFC): This international hub is home to various events and exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing local and international artists.
  • The Astana Palace of Science & Technology: Explore interactive exhibits and learn about science and technology in a fun and engaging way.

Beyond the Tourist Trails:

  • Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center: The “tent” is more than just a shopping center. It houses a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including an amusement park, a cinema, and a concert hall.

Shopping & Dining:

  • Traditional bazaars: Experience the vibrant culture firsthand by browsing the stalls at a local bazaar. You can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs and souvenirs.
  • Modern shopping malls: For a more contemporary shopping experience, explore the numerous malls in Astana, including the Khan Shatyk Gallery, offering luxury brands and international boutiques.

Tips for Tourists:

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Russian or Kazakh: While some English is spoken in the tourist areas, knowing a bit of the local language can be helpful when venturing out further.
  • Respect local customs: Kazakhstan is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to be respectful of their religious and cultural practices. For example, dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Embrace the culture: Visit local restaurants and try traditional Kazakh cuisine like beshbarmak (a dish with boiled meat and noodles), kuurdak (fried meat with onions) and plov (rice dish with meat and vegetables).

Remember:

  • This is a sample itinerary for tourists to experience the unique blend of modern and traditional that makes Nur-Sultan so interesting.
  • Be sure to check travel advisories and local conditions before your trip.
  • You can try different cuisines in the city, such as Asian, European, and Kazakh.

Embrace the culture:

  • Explore the diverse culinary offerings at the Astana International Financial Center (AIFC) Food Court.

For a truly immersive experience:

  • Visit during a festival: Experiencing one of the many festivals held in Nur-Astana (e.g., the annual Astana Day celebrations) allows you to immerse yourself in local traditions, music, and dance.
  • Learn about Kazakh history: Explore museums like the National Museum of Kazakhstan and the Nazarbayev Center for Development.

Budget:

  • Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons: Prices are generally lower in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October).
  • Utilize public transportation: The city has a reliable bus and trolleybus system, making it easy to explore on a budget.

For the adventurous:

  • Take a day trip outside of Nur-Sultan: The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the natural beauty of Kazakhstan.
  • Learn about traditional Kazakh activities: Visit the Astana International Financial Center (AIFC) to see what it’s like to live in a modern city while experiencing the excitement of a bustling financial center.

Enjoy the outdoors:

  • Go for a hike in the mountains: The surrounding mountains offer stunning views and beautiful hiking trails.
  • Visit a local horse farm: Many locals are involved in the equestrian tradition, so you can find beautiful horses to ride in the area.

This is just a starting point - there’s much more to discover!