Explore Almaty, Kazakhstan: Travel Guide for Indian Tourists - 2025

Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, is an underrated gem that blends natural beauty, Soviet-era architecture, and rich cultural history. For Indian tourists seeking a unique and refreshing travel experience, Almaty offers a range of attractions, from snow-capped mountains to bustling markets. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything they need to know about exploring this vibrant city, from must-visit landmarks to local experiences.

Travel Guide to Explore Almaty, Kazakhstan for Indian Tourists

1. Getting to Almaty: Flights from India

Almaty is well connected to major cities in India, making it an accessible destination for Indian tourists. Direct flights operate from cities like Delhi and Mumbai, and the flight duration is approximately 4-5 hours. With Kazakhstan’s recent visa-on-arrival policy for Indian citizens, planning a trip to Almaty in 2025 has never been easier.

Best time to visit: March to November for pleasant weather, or December to February for winter sports enthusiasts.

Flight tip: Book tickets early to get the best deals on direct flights from India.

2. Accommodations in Almaty

Almaty caters to the needs of travelers with a variety of hotels, guesthouses and AirBnBs (mansions, villas or flats) that accommodate different traveler preferences. Several luxury hotels and mid-range accommodations also offer Indian cuisine, along with authentic Kazakh vegetarian and vegan options.

Top hotels for Indian tourists: InterContinental Almaty, The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty, and Rixos Almaty.

Accommodation tip: Specifically look for hotels that advertise that offer a few Indian or desi meals (especially if you have fussy eaters) or kitchens that can prepare vegetarian food to suit your dietary needs.

Also read: 10 amazing reasons for Kazakhstan to be your next destination

3. Must-visit attractions in Almaty

Almaty is rich in both natural wonders and historical landmarks. These are some of the must-see attractions that will delight Indian travelers:

Kok Tobe hill: Take a cable car ride to the top of Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic views of Almaty. The hilltop is home to an amusement park with restaurants, shops, and even a small zoo.

Zenkov Cathedral: An architectural marvel made entirely of wood without any nails, Zenkov Cathedral is one of the few remaining structures that survived the 1911 earthquake. Its colorful exterior makes it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Shymbulak Ski Resort: If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the opportunity to hit the slopes at Shymbulak Ski Resort, located in the scenic Tian Shan mountains. For Indian tourists unfamiliar with skiing, there are instructors and beginner-friendly slopes.

4. Exploring the Big Almaty Lake

Just outside of Almaty lies the stunning Big Almaty Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and alpine forests. This serene location is a popular spot for Indian travelers looking to experience Kazakhstan’s natural beauty.

Best time to visit: June to September for hiking, and October to April for breathtaking snow-covered views.

5. Discover Kazakh culture at the Central State Museum

For Indian tourists interested in Kazakhstan’s history and culture, the Central State Museum offers an in-depth look at the country’s past. The museum houses exhibits on Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage, Soviet-era history, and independence.

Cultural tip: If you’re curious about Kazakhstan’s shared history with India, don’t miss the sections on Silk Road trade and ancient connections between the two regions.

6. Shopping in Almaty

Indian tourists will enjoy exploring Almaty’s vibrant markets and shopping malls, where they can buy unique souvenirs and gifts. The Green Bazaar is the go-to spot for picking up local delicacies like dried fruits, nuts, and spices, while the Zhibek Zholy pedestrian street is perfect for leisurely shopping and people-watching.

Top souvenirs to buy: Traditional Kazakh carpets, felt hats, and local jewelry.

Shopping tip: Don’t forget to taste and buy the local pickles, dairy, apples and honey Kazakhstan is famous for at the Green Bazaar.

7. Cuisine in Almaty

You should not miss the chance to taste authentic Kazakh cuisine in Almaty. Traditional dishes like beshbarmak (a hearty meat and noodle dish), kazy (horse meat sausage), and baursak (fried dough) are must-tries for a true taste of the region. Many local restaurants also serve plov, a rice dish with vegetables and meat that shares similarities with biryani, making it a familiar yet unique experience for Indian travelers.

Top local restaurants with best reviews: Gakku, Alasha, and Kishlak.

Food tip 1: Vegetarian options can be found, but ask for custom dishes or visit Indian restaurants in the city if needed.

Popular Indian restaurants: Tandoor, Namaste, and Spice Mantra.

Food tip 2: Kazakhstan has many amazing Korean food places due to the ethnic Korean population that owns restaurants. They are a must-visit if you enjoy Korean food!

8. Day trip to Charyn Canyon

For Indian tourists who enjoy adventure and nature, a day trip to Charyn Canyon is a must. Often compared to the Grand Canyon, Charyn Canyon is a stunning natural formation located about 200 kilometers from Almaty. The canyon’s unique rock formations and deep gorges make it a perfect spot for hiking and photography.

Best time to visit: March to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration.

Travel tip: Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the area can get quite hot during the summer months.

9. Nightlife in Almaty

Indian travelers looking to experience Almaty’s nightlife will find plenty of options. From trendy bars to nightclubs and cultural performances, the city offers a lively atmosphere after dark. The Republic Palace hosts concerts and cultural events, while places like Sky Bar and Icon Bar are popular spots for drinks and live music.

Best nightlife venues: Sky Bar, The Shakespeare Pub, and Republic Palace.

Nightlife tip: If you’re interested in cultural performances, check local listings for Kazakh music and dance shows.

10. Tips for Indian travelers visiting Almaty

Language: While Kazakh and Russian are the official languages, many people in Almaty speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Currency: The local currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in major hotels.

Visa: Indian tourists can take advantage of Kazakhstan’s visa-on-arrival policy, making it easier to plan a last-minute trip.

Almaty is a perfect destination for Indian tourists looking to explore a new culture, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and experience the warmth of Kazakh hospitality. With direct flights from India and a range of attractions to explore, Almaty should definitely be on your travel radar for 2025.

Whether you’re hiking in the Tian Shan mountains, shopping for souvenirs at the Green Bazaar, or savoring the taste of Kazakh cuisine in the heart of Central Asia, Almaty promises an unforgettable experience for Indian travelers.

Also read: Complete Travel Guide to Kazakhstan from India