Turkestan is an ancient and beautiful city in Kazakhstan, located in South Kazakhstan, 160 kilometers northwest of Shymkent. It was founded more than a thousand years ago and has played a significant role in the history of Central Asia as a center of trade, culture, and religion. It is located in a semi-desert zone, which influences its climate and natural features. The city has all the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay for tourists.
Its rich history attracts many tourists to these lands. There is really a lot of entertainment and plenty of places to go and things to see. The sacred places of Turkestan are especially popular among tourists, so connoisseurs of culture and history will definitely be interested in the historical sites of Turkestan.
What promises a vacation in Turkestan:
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Scenic and beautiful places
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Hiking
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Sights
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Entertainment
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Nature and bird watching
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Many beautiful areas for photography
There are quite a lot of attractions and entertainment in modern Turkestan. The local culture is so vibrant that every tourist should include not only rest but also an exploration of the cultural heritage of the region in their program. You should definitely try delicious Kazakh cuisine, which is prepared and served in numerous local cafes. We recommend going to a restaurant to taste freshly cooked pilaf, manty, and beshbarmak. Also, visit one of the bazaars where various handicrafts and souvenirs are sold.
The most interesting places to visit
The region is rich in historical and cultural sights, and sacred places that attract tourists from all over the world. Let's find out which places are worth visiting.
Esim Khan Mausoleum
A trip to Turkestan should start from this place. Esim Khan Mausoleum is one of the iconic structures located next to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. This architectural monument was built in honor of Esim Khan, one of the prominent rulers of the Kazakh Khanate. The mausoleum is characterized by its unique architecture and decorative elements reflecting the culture and traditions of the time.
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is the main attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This majestic complex was built in the late 14th century by Tamerlane's order in honor of the great Sufi poet and preacher Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. The place impresses with its scale and beauty: high domes, mosaics, tiles, and stone carvings create a unique atmosphere of antiquity and spirituality.
Mausoleum of Rabia Sultan Begim
The Mausoleum of Abulkhair Khan's wife is another important historical monument. Built in the 15th century, this mausoleum is characterized by its elegance and grace. Inside, you can see unique frescoes and ornaments typical of the period.
Hilvet Underground Mosque
The Hilvet Underground Mosque is located next to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. It was built in the 12th century and was used for meditation and Sufi rituals. The mosque is an underground structure with several halls where you can look at ancient inscriptions and stone carvings. Inside the mosque, there is a special atmosphere that encourages spiritual reflection. Believers should visit this place.
Azret-Sultan Reserve-Museum
This reserve-museum combines several historical monuments, including mausoleums, mosques, and archaeological excavations. It is a historically significant and beautiful place that allows you to explore the history and culture of the ancient people and get acquainted with their architectural heritage and religious traditions. The museum features exhibits found during excavations, as well as documents and artifacts related to the history of the region.
Kultobe Mound
This archaeological monument and ancient settlement, founded in the pre-Islamic period, is of great interest to researchers and tourists. Here, you can see the remains of ancient buildings, religious structures, and defense walls, which provide insight into the life and culture of the ancient inhabitants of the region.
Mausoleum of Gauhar-ana
The Mausoleum of the daughter of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi remains an important religious and cultural site in the city. Built in the 16th century, the mausoleum attracts pilgrims and tourists with its architecture and spiritual significance. Inside, there are sacred relics and jewelry, showcasing the high level of skill of ancient architects. Tourists who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of antiquity should visit this splendor.
What modern Turkestan is like
Today, Turkestan is a beautiful and dynamically developing place, combining ancient traditions and modern achievements with entertainment, where there is definitely something to see. In recent years, the area has been actively modernized: new residential complexes, hotels, shopping centers, and cultural institutions are being built. The city is becoming an important tourist and economic center of the region, attracting more and more investments and visitors. Traveling to these places usually leaves behind a lot of positive emotions, especially if you choose the right places for entertainment.
You can see the modern places for leisure activities at the link.
Where to stay
There are many options for entertainment and accommodation in this historically significant place in Kazakhstan, from budget hotels to comfortable hotels. Among the best hotels is the Rixos Turkistan, which offers upscale accommodations and entertainment, including a restaurant, SPA, and conference facilities.
For those looking for more budget-friendly options, there are many guesthouses and small hotels that provide cozy rooms and guarantee hospitality. You can check out the accommodation options on the website. After a proper rest, you can continue exploring the beautiful places of Turkestan, as well as its attractions.
Summarizing
Turkestan in Kazakhstan is unique, combining a rich historical heritage with modern achievements. Visiting it, you can see majestic mausoleums, ancient mosques, and archaeological monuments, and feel the spirit of Sufi culture and traditions. The modern city offers various opportunities for comfortable rest and interesting activities. There is a lot to see and explore here. It is definitely worth including in the list of places to visit when traveling to Kazakhstan.
