Almaty

Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and the nation’s cultural and financial hub, home to around 2 million people in a leafy grid of low rise streets set against the snow capped Trans Ili Alatau mountains, which soar to 4,000 metres just 15 km south of downtown. A comprehensive Almaty travel guide often begins with its Soviet era legacy as capital of the Kazakh SSR and later independent Kazakhstan until 1997. Today, Almaty tourism highlights a cosmopolitan atmosphere rare in Central Asia, with tree lined boulevards, bold Soviet architecture, a thriving cafe culture and a seamless blend of Russian and Kazakh influences. The mountains provide a dramatic backdrop and easy access to some of the top attractions in Almaty, including Medeu, Shymbulak ski resort and Big Almaty Lake. Many travellers visit Almaty as a base for Charyn Canyon and the Kolsai Lakes. The best time to visit Almaty is May to September for hiking or December to March for skiing.