Ethnic Park in Turkestan

The Ethnic Park, located in the city of Turkestan, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the cultural traditions of Kazakhstan’s nomadic peoples, showcasing the daily life and customs of ancient times. This park is part of the Azret-Sultan State Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum.

The ethno-village is divided into two distinct sections. On one side, visitors will find yurts, including the grand Khan’s yurt, which can be accessed by a paved path. Here, you can explore the intricacies of this traditional nomadic dwelling, both inside and out, while learning about the yurt’s history and significance. On the opposite side, a medieval-style craftsmen’s street features rectangular straw and clay buildings with arched windows. Tourists can observe traditional nomadic crafts like carpet weaving, felt-making, woodworking, stone carving, jewelry-making, and pottery. Each workshop is equipped with specialized tools, allowing for an authentic experience. There’s also a gastronomic area where you can savor dishes from the national cuisine.

In addition to the yurts and workshops, the village includes a performance stage, a decorative wagon, an ancient well, altybakan swings, gazebos, an archery range, traditional ovens, and more.

The park’s location is truly ideal—it sits just behind the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. The sweeping views of these ancient structures create an immersive medieval city atmosphere, heightening the sense of history and culture. Recognized as the spiritual capital of the Turkic world, Turkestan draws thousands of visitors from across the globe. Around the ethno-village, you’ll find many of the city’s most famous attractions.

Address: Turkestan Region, Turkestan, behind the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.

By car or taxi, follow Bayburt Street to the Azret-Sultan Museum, which is only a few minutes’ walk from the park. Several buses also serve this area, including routes No. 1, 1a, 2, 2a, 5, 5a, 6, 7, 9, 9a, 10, 14, 15, 18, 30, and 31a (get off at the “Amphitheater” stop).

From Shymkent, Turkestan is 170 km away via the E-38 highway.

From Kyzylorda, the journey takes just under four hours, also via the E-38 highway.