Kazakhstan Travel Guide, Part 2: Itinerary/Cost Breakdown and more

Summary

This video is a detailed 7-day travel guide to Almaty, Kazakhstan, by Indian travel creator KL. It covers local attractions like Almaty Central Mosque, Green Bazaar, Sharyn Canyon, Kandy Lake, Big Almaty Lake, Issyk Lake, and Chimbulak Ski Resort. KL shares tips on transportation, group vs. private trips, and hiking routes, along with practical advice on SIM cards, currency exchange, and avoiding scams. The video also provides a comprehensive cost breakdown for flights, accommodation, food, and activities, helping travelers plan a budget-friendly yet immersive Kazakh adventure, highlighting the scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, and unique natural wonders of the region.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kazakhstan is visa-free for 14 days for Indian travelers and has direct flights from Delhi to Almaty.
• 😀 Day 0 of the trip is mainly for arrival, currency exchange, getting a SIM card, and settling into your accommodation.
• 😀 Day 1 focuses on exploring local Almaty, including Almaty Central Mosque, Ascension Cathedral, Panfilov Park, Monument of Musical Instruments, and Green Bazaar.
• 😀 Day 2 is dedicated to Charyn Canyon, with a 3–4 hour drive from Almaty and a 2–3 km hike to the river, offering stunning landscapes.
• 😀 Day 3 includes visiting Kaindy Lake, with options for level 1 (15–20 min hike) or longer hikes to levels 2 and 3; most visitors stop at level 1.
• 😀 Day 4 involves visiting Big Almaty Lake, with transport options from the checkpoint via bicycle or scooter, and optional visits to Kok-Tobe or local cafes.
• 😀 Day 5 features a private day trip to Issyk Lake and SE Plateau, offering picturesque meadows, wildlife, and a stargazing observatory.
• 😀 Day 6 includes visiting Chimbulak Ski Resort with cable rides to levels 1–3, showcasing green areas, cafes, and snow-peaked mountains.
• 😀 Day 7 is reserved for departure after a full week of exploring Almaty and nearby attractions.
• 😀 Total trip costs vary depending on flights, accommodation, private vs group tours, and activities, ranging from roughly 50,000 to 100,000 INR.
• 😀 Yandex taxis are convenient for local travel, and careful planning is required for excursions like Big Almaty Lake and Charyn Canyon to manage costs and timing.
• 😀 Travelers should be aware of local scams and plan activities considering seasonal conditions, such as water levels in lakes and weather in Chimbulak.

Q & A

What makes Kazakhstan a popular destination for Indian travelers?

Kazakhstan is popular among Indian travelers because it offers a visa-free entry for 14 days, direct flights from Delhi to Almaty, and a European vibe without actually being in Europe. It’s also affordable, with a 7-day trip costing around ₹60,000 if planned well.

What should you do on Day 0 of your trip to Almaty?

On Day 0, after landing at Almaty Airport, you should focus on relaxing, exchanging currency, getting a SIM card, checking in to your accommodation, and exploring the local area if time permits. Most likely, you’ll arrive late, so you can call it a day.

What are some must-see attractions in Almaty on Day 1?

On Day 1, you should visit Almaty Central Mosque, Ascension Cathedral, Panfilov Park, Monument of Musical Instruments, and the Green Bazaar. The Green Bazaar is a highlight where you can experience local culture and buy souvenirs, spices, fruits, and more.

How can you get to Sharyn Canyon and what makes it special?

To get to Sharyn Canyon, it takes about 3-4 hours by car. The landscape along the way is constantly changing, and the canyon itself is often compared to the Grand Canyon due to its unique beauty. The hike to the Sharyn River involves walking 2-3 km through a stunning and unusual landscape.

What are the hiking options around Kandy Lake?

Kandy Lake has three levels. Level 1 is a short 15-20 minute hike, while Levels 2 and 3 involve more strenuous hikes of 5-6 hours and 6-7 hours, respectively. Most visitors stick to Level 1, which is still incredibly beautiful, but you can extend your trip to explore Levels 2 and 3 if you have the time.

What should you expect when visiting Big Almaty Lake?

Big Almaty Lake can be a bit disappointing depending on the season, as the water can be dried up. You will need to take a Yandex ride to the checkpoint and then hike or rent a bicycle or scooter to reach the lake. The cost for renting a bicycle is around 20,000 Tenge (~₹3,600).

What’s the best way to explore the Chimbulak Ski Resort?

Chimbulak can be visited by cable car to reach its three levels. Level 1 is green with cafes and views, Level 2 offers a mix of green and rocky mountains, and Level 3, where you can see snow even in June, is more rugged. It's worth visiting even in summer for the scenic landscapes.

How much does a typical trip to Issyk Lake and ESS Plateau cost?

A day trip to Issyk Lake and ESS Plateau is typically a private trip, as there aren’t many group tours. Costs can vary, but you can expect to pay around ₹3,000 per person for a trip to Issyk Lake and the nearby Bear Waterfall. The private trip to ESS Plateau and Issyk Lake is a highly recommended experience for its breathtaking landscapes.

What is the average cost breakdown for a 7-day trip to Almaty?

A 7-day trip to Almaty can cost anywhere from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on factors such as flights, accommodation, group or private tours, and food. Flights can cost around ₹20,000-25,000, SIM cards around ₹800, accommodation in hostels from ₹800 per night, and food around ₹2,500-3,000 a day.

What are some activities you can do in Almaty on Day 4, and why is it worth visiting?

On Day 4, you can explore Big Almaty Lake or visit Kok-Tobe. If you're short on time, skipping Kok-Tobe and exploring the local area, enjoying a wine-tasting experience or exploring cafes, might be a better option. This day gives you time to relax after an action-packed itinerary.