Popular Tourist Attractions In The Mountains Of Almaty

Whether you are visiting Almaty for pleasure or for work, there is a great opportunity to enjoy the unique beauty of the Tian Shan mountains without a big time commitment. Here are two popular spots to visit for beautiful views and fresh air within a couple hours from the city.

Shymbulak ski resort

No matter what season you visit Almaty in, you should definitely take the Shymbulak cable car all the way up to an elevation of 3200 meters to the Talghar pass – if not for the breathtaking view of the city below, then for the breathtaking view of the glacier above. Personally, I have never been that close to a glacier before, and it was an unforgettable experience!

You can get to the cable car station by bus or by taxi from virtually any part of the city. It is located in the Little Almaty valley, following south on Dostyk avenue and eventually turning into a mountain road winding up towards the Medeu skating rink. All locals know where it is, so you won’t get lost. It is very close to the city, so you can make the whole trip within 4 hours.

The first leg of the cable car will take you to the Shymbulak ski resort itself, where in winter you can rent ski equipment, and enjoy tasty food and souvenir shops all year. A mediocre hotel is also located there, but we don’t recommend to stay there due to bad service and high prices.

The second and third cable car stations will take you all the way up to the Talghar pass, but please make sure to check the time and leave before the cable car line is closed in the evening if you are visiting outside of the ski season, so you don’t have to walk all the way down the mountain on foot.

Up on the pass you can enjoy the amazing views, stay at the small eco-hotel at the top if you have a desire to drink in some mountain air or ski to your hearts content, walk around, take a tour to the glacier in winter, drink a hot chocolate in the cozy cafe, or just take a few pictures and leave if you don’t have a lot of time.

Comfort level: High

Cost: from 20 USD

Time needed: 4 hours round trip

Pros: unforgettable views, easy access

Cons: weather can be unpredictable, big crowds on winter weekends

Issyk Lake

Issyk Lake, nestled near Almaty in southeastern Kazakhstan, is a breathtaking alpine lake surrounded by the majestic Tian Shan Mountains. This glacial lake sits at an elevation of approximately 1,760 meters, creating a stunning natural retreat just a short drive from the city. The lake’s vibrant turquoise waters, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, make it a picturesque destination that attracts locals and tourists alike.

One of the fascinating aspects of Issyk Lake is its historical significance. The lake’s surroundings house the Issyk Kurgan, an ancient burial mound dating back to the 5th century BCE. Archaeological excavations at this site have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including the famous Golden Man, a beautifully adorned Saka warrior, now an iconic symbol of Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage.

Visitors to Issyk Lake can enjoy not only the breathtaking scenery but also engage in various outdoor activities. Hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the surrounding mountains, providing panoramic views of the lake and the picturesque landscapes. The clear, refreshing waters of Issyk Lake also make it a popular spot for swimming and relaxation, especially during the warmer months. Whether for its natural beauty, historical significance, or recreational offerings, Issyk Lake stands as a captivating destination, inviting individuals to connect with the pristine wilderness of Kazakhstan.

Comfort level: Medium

Cost: about 100 USD

Time needed: full day trip

Pros: fresh air, gorgeous lake, swimming and boating in the summer

Cons: cold water