Budget Travel Guide: How to Explore Kazakhstan for Under ₹1.10 Lakh

Kazakhstan, the ninth-largest country globally and the wealthiest in Central Asia is rapidly becoming a sought-after destination for Indian travelers. With Astana as its capital and other cities like Almaty, Baku, Semey, Shymkent, and Turkistan gaining popularity, Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of vast steppes, rich cultural traditions, delicious food, and a strong space program.

If you’re visiting Kazakhstan for a week, it’s best to focus on Almaty and Astana rather than overloading your itinerary with too many cities.

Must-See Attractions:

Almaty:

• Big Almaty Lake: Enjoy the stunning views of this high-altitude lake.
• Central State Museum: Learn about Kazakhstan’s history and culture.
• Zenkov Cathedral: Visit this beautiful wooden church located in Panfilov Park.
• Almaty Central Mosque: The city’s largest mosque, known for its grand architecture.
• Medeu Skating Rink & Shymbulak Ski Resort: Visit one of the highest outdoor skating rinks in the world.
• Kok-Tobe Hill: Take a cable car for panoramic views of Almaty.
• Green Bazaar & Arbat Street: Shop for local goods and explore cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

Nightlife in Almaty:

• China Gold, Barcode, Esperanza, Sova.

Day Trips from Almaty:

• Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes & Charyn Canyon: Explore stunning natural landscapes.
• Ancient Petroglyphs of Tangly & Nomadic Life: Discover Kazakhstan’s ancient culture.

Astana:

• Baiterek Monument, Palace of Peace & Reconciliation, Ak Orda Presidential Palace: Admire the modern architecture.
• Khan Shatyr Shopping Mall: Visit the world’s largest tent-shaped mall.
• Nur Alem Museum & Astana Grand Mosque: Explore the largest mosque in Central Asia.
• Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve: Take a half-day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nightlife in Astana:

• Zaza Club, Pub 69, Fashion Night Club, Barberry.

Must-Try Kazakh Food:

• Kazakh Pilaf: A local version of pulao, available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian varieties.
• Kuurdak: Roasted meat with garlic, onions, and potatoes.
• Beshbarmak: Boiled meat, thin pasta, and a flavorful meat broth sauce.
• Koktal: Smoked fish with spices.
• Manti: Steamed dumplings filled with meat.
• Shelpek: Flatbread served with cheese, jam, or sour cream.
• Chak Chak: A sweet treat made from flour, oil, and honey.
• Irimshik: A wheat-based dessert with butter and sugar.

Visa Information: Indian citizens can visit Kazakhstan for up to 14 days without a visa. A visa is required for stays longer than 14 days, and you can apply online through the government portal.

Flights:

• Almaty is typically cheaper to fly into than Astana.
  • Delhi-Almaty-Delhi: Direct economy flights from ₹23,000+ (2h 30m).
  • Mumbai-Almaty-Mumbai: One-stop flights from ₹34,000+ (7h 05m).
  • Flights from Bengaluru and Chennai are also available.

Accommodation:

• • Prices are lowest from May to June.Almaty: Holiday Inn Express for ₹28,000+ and Ibis Almaty for ₹32,000+ for 4 nights (for two adults).
  • Astana: Holiday Inn and Wyndham from ₹26,000-₹28,000 for 4 nights.
  • Cheaper options include homestays or guesthouses. Backpacker hostels start at under ₹1,000 per night.

Currency:

• Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). 1 KZT = 0.17 INR.

Getting Around:

• Overnight trains are convenient for travel between cities, and buses are cheaper.
• Taxis are affordable, especially when booked through ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go.
• Rental cars are more expensive at ₹5,000-₹6,000 per day.
• Air Astana offers domestic flights to 13 destinations.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Consider package tours for better deals, such as a 7-night holiday package for Almaty & Tbilisi starting at ₹78,000+.
• Eat where locals eat to save money on meals.
• Buses are cheaper than trains but may be uncomfortable.
• Some hostels have communal kitchens to help save on food costs.
• Look for free entry to tourist attractions and save on walking tours, where you only tip what you choose.

Dos & Don’ts:

• Avoid traveling alone at night.
• Only display small amounts of cash.
• Be cautious when approached by strangers.
• Petty theft is common, particularly around tourist locations.
• Use licensed accommodations to ensure safety.
• Credit card fraud is a risk—always be mindful when someone handles your cards.
• Public Wi-Fi networks are insecure—use a VPN for safety.
• Be cautious of individuals posing as police officers asking for fines.