Shymkent, Kazakhstan

Welcome to Shymkent, Kazakhstan: A Traveler’s Guide

Shymkent is a city located in southern Kazakhstan, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. As a traveler, you’ll find plenty of exciting places to visit, delicious food to eat, and comfortable accommodations to rest in. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best of Shymkent, from top attractions to insider tips.

Places to Visit

Historical Landmarks

  • Ak-Buura Museum: A museum showcasing the history and culture of Kazakhstan’s southern region. The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building with stunning architecture.
    • Address: Dostyk Avenue, Shymkent
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
  • Shyngystanov Museum: A historic house-museum showcasing the life and work of a renowned Kazakh poet. The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens and features an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
    • Address: Turkestan Street, Shymkent
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Cultural Attractions

  • Shymkent Philharmonic Hall: A modern concert hall hosting various cultural events throughout the year. Catch a performance by local musicians or attend one of the many festivals and concerts.
    • Address: Dostyk Avenue, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33
  • National Museum of Kazakhstan: A museum showcasing the country’s rich history, from ancient times to modern-day achievements. The museum features an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
    • Address: Dostyk Avenue, Shymkent
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

Nature Reserves

  • Sauran Canyon: A breathtaking canyon with stunning natural scenery. Take a hike through the canyon and enjoy the beautiful views.
    • Address: Sauran Canyon, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33
  • Turgen Gorge: A picturesque gorge featuring stunning rock formations and scenic hiking trails. Explore the gorge and take in the breathtaking views.
    • Address: Turgen Gorge, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33

Activities

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful nature reserves surrounding Shymkent. Hike through the Sauran Canyon and Turgen Gorge for breathtaking views.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the city’s scenic routes. Take in the sights and sounds of Shymkent while getting some exercise.
  • Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in one of the many lakes and rivers surrounding Shymkent.

Cultural Activities

  • Attend a cultural event: Catch a performance by local musicians or attend one of the many festivals and concerts held throughout the year.
  • Visit a traditional market: Experience the vibrant culture of Shymkent by visiting one of the many traditional markets. Try some delicious food, shop for souvenirs, and take in the sights and sounds.
  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare traditional Kazakh dishes with a local cooking class.

Where to Eat

Traditional Kazakh Cuisine

  • Torten: A popular restaurant serving traditional Kazakh cuisine. Try their delicious beshbarmak (horse meat noodles) and kuyrdak (boiled meat).
    • Address: Dostyk Avenue, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33
  • Ak-Tam: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Kazakh cuisine. Try their delicious shashlik (skewers) and beshbarmak.
    • Address: Turkestan Street, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33

International Cuisine

  • Italian Restaurant: A popular restaurant serving Italian cuisine. Try their delicious pasta dishes and pizzas.
    • Address: Dostyk Avenue, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33
  • Chinese Restaurant: A cozy restaurant serving Chinese cuisine. Try their delicious stir-fries and noodle dishes.
    • Address: Turkestan Street, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33

Where to Stay

Hotels

  • Hotel Dostyk: A luxurious hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent service. Try their delicious breakfast buffet.
    • Address: Dostyk Avenue, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33
  • Hotel Turkestan: A cozy hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location. Enjoy their delicious breakfast buffet.
    • Address: Turkestan Street, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33

Hostels

  • Shymkent Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with comfortable dorms and a social atmosphere. Meet other travelers and enjoy the city’s sights.
    • Address: Dostyk Avenue, Shymkent
    • Contact: +7 (7252) 36-32-33
  • Turgen Hostel: A cozy hostel with comfortable dorms and a convenient location. Enjoy the beautiful views of Turgen Gorge.

Things to Know

Language

  • Kazakh: The official language of Kazakhstan is Kazakh, but Russian is widely spoken.
  • English: Many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.

Currency

  • Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT): The local currency is the Kazakhstani tenge. Credit cards and ATMs are available throughout the city.

Climate

  • Desert climate: Shymkent has a hot desert climate, with very little rainfall.
  • Summer: Summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F).
  • Winter: Winter temperatures can drop as low as -10°C (14°F).

Transportation

By Air

  • Shymkent International Airport: The airport is located about 5 kilometers from the city center.
  • Flights: Regular flights to major cities in Kazakhstan, such as Almaty and Astana.

By Train

  • Shymkent Railway Station: The train station is located in the city center.
  • Trains: Regular trains to major cities in Kazakhstan, such as Almaty and Astana.

By Bus

  • Bus Station: The bus station is located near the railway station.
  • Buses: Regular buses to nearby towns and villages.

Tips and Other Things

Respect local customs

  • Dress modestly: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or cultural events.
  • Remove shoes: Remove your shoes when entering a mosque or traditional Kazakh home.

Stay safe

  • Avoid walking alone at night: Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas, especially at night.
  • Keep valuables secure: Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of pickpocketing.

Enjoy the city!

  • Try local cuisine: Try local cuisine, such as beshbarmak or kuyrdak.
  • Explore the city: Explore the city’s many attractions, including museums, parks, and historical landmarks.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to Shymkent, Kazakhstan!