This is a fun post to create as there are numerous interesting and cool things to see in this new capital city. I have had no shortage what-so-ever of places to go and checkout during this visit. Usually, I limit these posts to 5, but here there is too much I want to pass along. Here are 10 free things to do in Astana Kazakhstan that I know you will enjoy.
Soviet Rockets!
I saw these on the side of the road on my drive into the city from the airport on day one. The next day, even though it was -6 degrees and windy as heck, I was out the door to check them out. The coolest and most unexpected find in Astana is no doubt, these model Soviet rockets! There are three in total and a space shuttle. Did you know the world’s first and largest launch site is in Kazakhstan? It’s where the first human to travel into space was launched from in 1961!
At this site there is the Proton Rocket (middle), that was used to launch a section of the international space station. It is 58 metres tall and weights 700 tonnes at launch. Next is the Soyuz Rocket (nearest the shuttle). It’s the most frequently used craft to get people into space standing at 46 metres tall and weighs 312 tonnes at launch. And lastly is the Zenit Rocket on the far end. He is 59 metres tall and weights 470 tonnes at launch. These are located right on the side of a main road and completely free to visit and wander around. How cool is that???
Palace of Peace & Reconciliation
Across the bridge from the centre of the city is a glass pyramid! The Palace was completed in 2006 and first used for the Congress of World and Traditional Religions. It is a non-denominational spiritual centre and also used for events. The palace makes quite a striking presence on the landscape and is located in Presidential Park.
Presidential Park
I wasn’t sure what to expect as this beautiful green space is located right behind the Presidential Palace. One of the largest parks in Astana it was developed in 2008. On the back side closest to the river is a lake that fills and drains each day. The remainder of the park is a series of shallow hills, ponds, fields of flowers and made to look quite unmanicured. Towards the front of the park close to the pyramid are these fantastic stone tunnels. From the sides they appear like a small hill but from the other direction the crushed stone trails pass through.
Wall of Peace
One of the most futuristic architectural pieces is this massive leaf form located in Independence Square. The underside is a digital screen and shows the waving Kazakh flag day and night. Built to symbolize peace, unity and nuclear disarmament, it is such a unique and unusual sight.
Independence Square
An absolutely massive white marble square situated in front of the National Museum. At the centre is the magnificent Kazakh Eli Monument, 91 metres tall with the sacred Samruk bird at its apex. The fountain, statuary and wall of pillars is a stunning new addition for the city of Astana.
Palace of Creativity
One of the more unique buildings in Independence Square is the Palace of Creativity. It was closed when I visited but my hope is that it re-opens in the near future. This space was designed to harbour and ignite the talent of young artist in Kazakhstan. A space for them to showcase their pieces and learn from each other.
Souvenir Shop
This may be a rather strange addition but hear me out. As I do in every destination I travel to, I purchase postcards and mail them to my children back in Canada. For the life of me, I could not locate a souvenir shop, kiosk, newsstand, nothing in Astana This is the very first destination I have ever been to where you are not constantly surrounded by tat.
I had to search and I came across the shop called Talisman (location link here). There is nothing on the exterior that will tell passersby that this is where you need to buy your souvenirs. But inside, is two floors bursting with the most unique and unusual items.
The bottom floor contains clothing, carpets, taxidermy animals, furs, swords, chess sets and what I think are horse whips made from deer legs?? Upstairs find all of the jewellery including gobs of beautiful amber. Pottery, more traditional souvenir items and one tiny row of postcards at the very back. 😂
Mosque Nur-Astana
A beauty, standing tall and white with golden domes and surrounded by bright green trees is this amazing mosque. Kazakhstan is a predominately Muslim country with almost 70% of the population practicing Islam. There are several large and noteworthy mosques around the city, but this is my favourite. Nur-Astana is the third largest mosque in Central Asia and was a gift from the Emir of Qatar.
Keruen Mall
A mall is a must see in each destination for me. It is always interesting to see what type of shops there are, the style of clothing and costs. Here in Astana find Keruen Mall right in the centre of the city. It is glamorous and bright with beautiful décor, especially on the food court floor.
Botanical Gardens
More pyramids and the loveliest green space to stroll through. Construction began in 2016 so this is a fairly new garden with over 9,000 young trees imported from Europe, Asia and North America. The pyramid buildings at the centre contain the tropical plants and cacti and there is a small fee to enter these. The large lake, bicycle and running paths, trails, flower beds and views are of such value to the city. People bringing picnics, hanging out with friends, exercising and otherwise enjoying their day is such a delight to see.
My time in Astana has been memorable and special. From seeing rockets on the first day to walking the botanical garden on the last and everything in-between. Baiterek will always symbolize this fresh new city for me that has opened my eyes to what future cities may look like. Easy to navigate, safe, clean, well managed and maintained and a pleasure to visit.
