Shymkent is the jewel of southern Kazakhstan, a remarkably beautiful city with an eight-century history and a mild climate. It is home to a plethora of historical and architectural landmarks, sacred sites, and picturesque locations, capable of delighting travelers of all preferences. Positioned at the crossroads of the Great Silk Road, Shymkent is a must-visit destination on any Central Asian travel itinerary.
Recognized as the best city among the CIS countries, Shymkent offers everything one could hope to see in Kazakhstan and even more. From ancient ruins and mausoleums to mosques and unique natural wonders, the city harmoniously blends masterpieces of ancient and modern architecture. It is also a vibrant urban center, rich in theaters, techno and water parks, and resorts. This overview of Shymkent’s top attractions will help you choose the most intriguing places to explore in this ancient city.
One of the city’s main attractions is the monument dedicated to Baidibek Bi, a prominent historical figure in Kazakhstan. A poet, free thinker, and great military leader, he played a crucial role in uniting the Kazakh people. Baidibek Karashauly not only brought together various tribes but also rallied the nation to defend against foreign invasions. He is celebrated for his bravery, fairness, and wisdom.
Baidibek Bi passed away at the age of 63 in 1419. His grave is marked by a monument situated on a 220-meter elevation, featuring a 10-meter tall statue of the esteemed bi. This monument is among the tallest in the world and has become a significant architectural landmark in Kazakhstan, embodying the ideals of unity and courage of the Kazakh people.
The opening of Zhaylaukol Park in 2016 transformed it into a key attraction and a true gem of Shymkent. The park offers numerous opportunities for relaxation and sporting events. One of its highlights is an artificial lake that provides a refreshing escape during the hot summer months, along with options for boating or pedaling on a catamaran.
However, the park’s main pride is the Ferris wheel named Shymkent Altyn Eye. With a diameter of 50 meters, it stands approximately the height of a 20-story building. Its uniqueness lies not only in its size; the cabins of the Ferris wheel are equipped with air conditioning and heating systems, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the city year-round.
Another picturesque and ancient attraction in Shymkent is the Koshkar-Ata Spring. This crystal-clear spring is located in the heart of the city, maintaining a consistent temperature of +11 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The ancient inhabitants of the area regarded this small river and its banks as sacred, visiting to perform prayers and national rituals. Numerous legends are associated with this water source.
The spring is named after a legendary 12th-century Sufi, who was a scholar of Ahmed Yasawi, a prominent thinker, poet, and leader of the Turkic branch of Sufism. It is believed to be a source of life, with its water said to energize those who drink from it. The city of Shymkent began to develop around this spring, and significant funding has been allocated for its modernization and the enhancement of its surroundings. During the summer season, the area around the spring attracts many visitors seeking relaxation and refreshment.
The best place for a leisurely stroll in Shymkent is undoubtedly Independence Park. This vibrant modern attraction was inaugurated in 2011 with the participation of Nursultan Nazarbayev. Nestled in the historical heart of the city, the park impresses with its stunning design. At its center stands a magnificent monument crafted from 137 metallic elements, symbolizing the unity of all 137 ethnic groups in Kazakhstan.
Along the park’s avenues, granite plaques commemorate significant events in the country’s history. The lush greenery throughout the park is complemented by cozy cafes, benches, and drinking fountains. Flowerbeds burst with colors from blooms imported from the Netherlands. A highlight of Independence Park is the unique “singing” fountain, designed by a Chinese architect, which creates mesmerizing shapes of water synchronized to modern and classical music.
Shymkent’s Old Town is the only place in all of Kazakhstan that has preserved its historical core. Here, you can explore the ancient citadel and the surrounding urban area, all situated amid modern development. The ancient fortress allows visitors to witness 2,200 years of history in a single walk. The story of Shymkent began here, and its historical and cultural visage has been meticulously restored, transforming it into an open-air museum.
The ancient inhabitants referred to it as “Iski Chymkent.” The archaeological site, with its citadel, rises on a hill and represents a distinct core of the city, complete with tall walls and rabats. Among its remnants are adobe houses, remains of a citadel standing over 25 meters tall, and defensive walls that still exhibit the remains of towers. The site also features 19th-century structures, including the residence of the district military commander and the Koshkar-Ata Mosque.
The ancient layers of the settlement reach up to 14 meters deep. Archaeologists have unearthed fragments of pottery dating back to the 3rd century BC, a cult building, and an ossuary containing numerous burial urns. Artifacts found in the citadel indicate that affluent residents once inhabited the area.
A striking religious landmark in Shymkent is the Central Mosque, located in the western part of the city. Constructed with financial support from the President of the UAE, this grand and opulent white complex features atypical architecture, an impressive dome, and majestic minaret towers. The mosque can accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers, and its central hall captivates with its grandeur, creating a unique atmosphere.
The most attractive cultural and entertainment center in the city is Shymkent Arbat, situated in the very heart of Shymkent. The Arbat is adorned with 12 glowing angels that hover above the leisure area. Within its premises, you will find a plethora of original fountains, light fixtures, arches, and a dedicated selfie zone. At the center of the Arbat stands a granite map featuring architectural forms that depict the Atlas of Kazakhstan.
The area is richly landscaped, providing all the amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. There are bike paths, benches, cozy cafes and restaurants, and various boutiques. At the end of the street, you’ll find a theater, while to the right lies a park with the grand Ferris wheel known as the “Golden Eye.” Arbat has rightfully become a popular tourist street, an excellent recreational area, and a key city landmark. This popularity has significantly increased the demand for one-bedroom apartments for rent and sale in this district compared to others.
Ethnographic Park “Ken-Baba” is a must-visit for guests of Shymkent. Located in the city center, it is a favorite retreat for locals. The park is beautifully designed, comfortable, and filled with intriguing sculptures and installations. Within its grounds, you will find fountains, ponds with swans, sports and children’s playgrounds, a tennis court, amusement rides, and a sandy play area called “Safari.” Particularly appealing to visitors is the green enclave known as “Gifts of the South.”
At the heart of the park lies a demonstration installation called “Kazakhstan in Miniature.” The soothing sound of the Ak-Su waterfall adds to the tranquility. The ethnopark features a craftsman village and an artist gallery, with pavilions dedicated to various national cultures. In the small shops, you can purchase national souvenirs. Throughout the ethnopark, there are numerous cafes serving both national and European cuisine.
Another fascinating place for both adults and children is the Shymkent Zoo, a true green oasis that houses rare animals. Spread across a beautifully landscaped area, the zoo features 50 enclosures with lakes and even a pool for seals. The collection includes over 1,300 animal specimens, such as Amur tigers, lions, pumas, giraffes, various monkeys, Himalayan bears, kangaroos, tiger pythons, and even Nile and caiman crocodiles.
At the zoo, visitors can encounter animals listed in the Red Book, including the elusive snow leopard and graceful jungle cats, along with many other rare species. One of the most captivating spots for photographs is the African zone, adorned with original installations and habitats inspired by African tribes. The zoo also features a beautiful fountain with statues, a pond filled with waterfowl, and numerous cozy spots for relaxation.
Just 50 kilometers from the city lies the breathtaking Burgulyuk Gorge. Gracefully situated at an altitude of 1,100 meters in the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, it is part of the protected area of the Sayram-Ugam National Park. The Burgulyuk River flows through the gorge, its crystal-clear waters nourishing the lush greenery that flourishes in the area. The verdant cover of the mountains saturates the air with phytoncides.
The gorge features several attractions, including a stunning waterfall, canyons, and a moonlit glade where rock climbing competitions are held. Numerous monuments from the late Middle Ages have been discovered along the riverbanks. Additionally, a comfortable sanatorium operates in the area, offering visitors relaxation and therapeutic treatments.
This significant historical monument dates back to the 12th-14th centuries and is one of the main pilgrimage sites for Muslims in Kazakhstan. It is built over the grave of Arystan-Bab, the spiritual mentor of Ahmed Yasawi, and is steeped in numerous legends. According to these tales, Arystan-Bab was a companion of Muhammad, who taught the prophet how to cultivate gardens. Legends also suggest he lived for 900 years. The name Arystan-Bab frequently appears in the poetry and writings of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
Located 150 kilometers from Shymkent, the mausoleum consists of a mosque and a tomb connected by a vaulted corridor. Inside, you will find a large gravestone marking Arystan-Bab’s resting place, surrounded by the graves of his followers and disciples. Historians assert that the original mausoleum was destroyed, and a new structure was commissioned by Tamerlane on the same site. Today, only intricately carved columns from that original building remain.
The mausoleum of the mother of the great creator Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is a historical monument of Kazakhstan. It is situated in the center of the village of Sayram and dates back to the 19th century. Kara-Shash-Ana (Aisha-Bibi) embodies the ideals of motherhood and nurturing.
Constructed from burnt brick and topped with a square dome that rises over 7 meters high, the mausoleum features a marble-tiled grave of Kara-Shash-Ana at its center, surrounded by the burials of her loved ones.
With its historical and natural attractions, picturesque views, and therapeutic underground springs, Saryagash is one of the most popular resort and sanatorium zones in Kazakhstan. Located in the village of Kokterek, it is a must-visit to admire beautiful landscapes and rejuvenate by drinking mineral water that flows naturally from underground sources.
It is a well-established fact that the mineral water of Saryagash possesses anti-inflammatory, choleretic, and healing properties. It aids in stomach ailments, boosts the immune system and metabolism, and helps regulate emotional well-being. The area is blessed with stunning nature, crystal-clear air, and a tranquil atmosphere, all of which invigorate the spirit.
Located just 40 kilometers from the city is the Sacred Kazyghurt Mound, known as the Cradle of Humanity. This site was part of the Great Silk Road and features two peaks that are interconnected. Modern architects have placed a symbolic Noah’s Ark at the summit, which illuminates the night with its glowing lights. From the heights of this sacred mound, breathtaking panoramic views unfold, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Legend has it that this site possesses unique healing properties. Tourists and pilgrims from around the world flock here, drawn by the many myths associated with the mound. One such tale suggests that it was once the highest point in the universe. When God decided to cleanse the world of its sins, He instructed Noah to build an ark for the salvation of himself and his family. An enormous cross made of stones was found on the mountain, adding to its mystical allure.
The rock of Adam and Eve is among the most enigmatic locations in Kazakhstan, situated within the Kazyghurt mountain range. Standing 4 meters high and approximately 6 meters long, the rock is split into two halves, symbolizing the male and female forms.
According to local legend, only those with pure souls and no sins can pass through the cleft in the rock. It is said that Adam and Eve threw a massive stone toward the sacred mountain, creating the fissure at its peak.
The Sauran archaeological site is one of the significant monuments of medieval culture in Kazakhstan. The ruins of the Sauran fortress attract history enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Within the Sauran settlement, numerous fascinating ancient structures can be explored. The most notable remnants include the preserved sections of the fortress walls and underground aqueducts that stretch over 110 kilometers.
Just an hour’s drive from Shymkent lies the captivating and mysterious Akmeshit-Ata Cave, known for its natural dome-like structure. At night, visitors can gaze upon millions of twinkling stars from within. In ancient times, this cave housed a grand underground mosque where miracles were said to have occurred. It is rightfully considered one of Kazakhstan’s ten wonders and is recommended for tourists looking to capture its unique landscapes and hear its legends.
For centuries, access to the cave was blocked by stone debris. In the early 20th century, a cave-in revealed the entrance, which has since been equipped with a staircase. Pilgrims visit this site to pray for their loved ones, while childless couples come to seek miracles for the blessing of children. Many who hope for healing also frequent the cave. Inside, there are designated prayer areas, as well as platforms for resting.
The city of Otrar, renowned for its well-preserved medieval structures, is a fascinating destination for tourists. Steeped in numerous legends, it is historically known as Farab. The city comprised a citadel, rabat, and shahristan, all surrounded by tall fortress walls. Scholars believe that Otrar played a crucial role in the spread of Islam throughout the region. Today, it is recognized as an archaeological museum.
Otrar is also linked to the great commander Tamerlane. In the 14th century, it became part of Tamerlane’s empire, and by 1405, he had established residence in one of Otrar’s palaces—Bardibek. Archaeologists have made many remarkable discoveries here, including remnants of a cathedral mosque, ancient Iranian pottery, Chinese porcelain, and various ornaments. The city was known for minting silver and gold coins, making it a treasure trove of history and intrigue.
Located 70 kilometers from Shymkent, the Boralday petroglyphs represent one of Kazakhstan’s key historical attractions—a series of ancient rock carvings from the Bronze Age and early Iron Age. The discovery of the Boralday petroglyphs made international headlines. These rock engravings stretch along the bend of the Boralday River, set in an incredibly picturesque location. They are part of the ancient rock art heritage of Central Asia.
These engravings hold significant historical and artistic value. The patina-covered stones depict wild animals, numerous hunting scenes, tribal symbols, and glimpses into the lives of ancient peoples. The petroglyphs are located along the riverbank and further up the slopes, with over 300 ancient stone engravings already identified.
There are countless fascinating, sacred, and stunning sites to explore in Shymkent, including the Martobe settlement, the picturesque Sayram-Su gorge, the Domalak Ana mausoleum, the largest Ferris wheel in Asia, and many other destinations worth visiting. Additionally, the region boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes, making it a true paradise for travelers and adventurers alike. Whether you are drawn to its rich history, cultural treasures, or breathtaking scenery, Shymkent and its surroundings promise an unforgettable experience.
