Always trying to offer future visitors some ideas for what to see, I have compiled a small list for this unique Kazakh city. With no historical buildings, well none older than 1860, the sites are less plentiful than in other destinations. Here are 5 free things to do in Almaty Kazakhstan that might just offer a full day of adventure.
Ascension Cathedral
What a stunner! My very first example of a Russian Orthodox church and it is this beautiful one. Located in Panfilov Park, you won’t be able to miss it rising tall at the centre through the trees. It is in fact the worlds second tallest wooden church. And….made without any nails!
An absolutely incredible structure. I did not take any photos of the inside as both times I visited, there were services going on; however you must see the interior. Most of it was made in workshops in Moscow and Kiev.
Kazakh-British Technical University
A massive structure that began construction in 1938 and was completed in 1957. Once referred to as the Supreme Soviet Building is now the Kazakh-British Technical University. It is an iconic part of the city’s landscape and unless you walk right up to the façade, you can’t really appreciate just how monstrous this building is.
Directly across the street is a beautiful park that contains a special statue. It depicts two female Kazakh warriors from WWII and is called the Memorial of Aliya Muldagulova and Manshuk Mametova. Of all the statues I saw in Almaty, this one moved me the most.
Arbat Almaty & Market
A pedestrian only street in the heart of the city, it is always a fun place to be and hang out. On Sundays, a lively market opens up all along the street, filled with handicrafts, souvenirs and traditional and cultural items.
Down a side street are local artist selling their paintings and even creating portraits right there. Its such a vibrant and eclectic part of the city to see and is perhaps my favourite area in Almaty.
Military History Museum
Completely free to enter, it was only the military equipment outside and the building itself that I had the opportunity to explore. The architecture and details alone are worth seeing, and remind one instantly that this land was once part of the USSR. Inside are two floors filled with displays of mostly Soviet and Kazakh military history from WWII.
Independence Monument
Or locally known as the Golden Warrior, the monument soars high above Republic Square and represents the independence of Kazakhstan. The design was based off a 1969 archaeological discovery of young Saka noble. He dates from the 2-3BC, and was discovered buried in a gold suit of armour and surrounded by a hoard of golden items. Currently under renovation, this large space is also filled with other statues and often the sight of events and festivals.
Almaty is not what I expected but I have come to enjoy this vibrant and gentle city. Once the capital of Kazakhstan, it remains the largest municipality population wise. Nestled in beside the Trans Ili-Alatau snow capped mountain range, the picturesque metropolis is highly enjoyable during the spring months.
