Kazakhstan Tour Packages

Vast steppes, snow-capped mountains, nomadic soil

Kazakhstan is Central Asia’s best-kept travel secret, a vast, visually dramatic country where snow-capped mountains meet endless steppes, turquoise alpine lakes, futuristic cities, ancient Silk Road towns, and deeply rooted nomadic traditions. For Indian travellers looking beyond Europe and Southeast Asia, Kazakhstan tour packages offer a rare mix of nature, culture, adventure, and value.

Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world and the ninth-largest country overall, stretching from Eastern Europe to deep into Central Asia. Historically, Kazakhstan was a crossroads of civilizations along the ancient Silk Road, influenced by Turkic tribes, Persian culture, Mongol empires, and later the Soviet Union. Today, it blends nomadic heritage with modern ambition, visible in cities like Astana (Nur-Sultan), which feels almost sci-fi in its architecture.

Kazakhstan at a Glance

  • Capital: Astana (also known as Nur-Sultan)
  • Largest City: Almaty
  • Languages: Kazakh (official), Russian (widely spoken)
  • Latitude & Longitude: 48.0196° N, 66.9237° E
  • Border Countries: Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan
  • Height Above Sea Level: 387 metres
  • Time Zone: GMT +5 to +6 (no daylight saving)
  • Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a year-round destination, but the experience varies dramatically by season. Choosing the right time impacts sightseeing comfort, costs, activities, and accessibility.

April to June

Spring is one of the best times to visit Kazakhstan, especially for first-time visitors. Snow melts across the mountains, valleys turn green, flowers bloom, and temperatures remain pleasant (10–20°C). This is the perfect season for sightseeing, photography, canyon walks, city tours, and lake visits.

September to October 

Autumn brings crisp air, golden landscapes, and fewer tourists. The weather is excellent for city hopping, Silk Road heritage tours, and nature exploration without summer heat.

June to August

Summer is lively and warm (20–30°C), ideal for trekking, camping, lakes, festivals, and outdoor adventures. However, it’s also peak season with higher prices and more visitors.

November to March

Winter transforms Kazakhstan into a snow kingdom. Temperatures drop below zero, but winter sports, ski resorts, ice rinks, and festive markets shine.

How to Reach Kazakhstan

Thanks to its growing international connectivity and strong regional transport networks, Kazakhstan can be reached comfortably by air, rail, or road, depending on your starting point and travel style. 

By Air

The country is served by modern international airports with excellent facilities, smooth immigration, and strong global connections. For first-time visitors and families, flying is the most stress-free way to begin a Kazakhstan holiday.

Major International Airports in Kazakhstan:

  • Almaty International Airport (ALA) – Primary gateway and most popular arrival point
  • Astana / Nur-Sultan International Airport (NQZ) – Capital city hub with modern infrastructure
  • Shymkent International Airport – Convenient for southern Kazakhstan itineraries

By Rail

Kazakhstan boasts one of the strongest and most extensive railway networks in Central Asia, making train travel a rewarding experience for travellers already visiting neighbouring countries. Long-distance trains cross vast steppes, remote villages, and dramatic landscapes, offering a deep sense of place and cultural immersion.

Kazakhstan is well connected by rail from:

  • Moscow (Russia)
  • Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
  • Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)
  • Urumqi (China)

By Road

Travelling to Kazakhstan by road is a picturesque and adventurous option, best suited for seasoned travellers already in Central Asia. Kazakhstan shares borders with Russia, China, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, making cross-border road journeys possible with the right documentation.

Popular Road Routes:

  • Tashkent (Uzbekistan)- Shymkent (Kazakhstan)
  • Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)- Almaty (Kazakhstan)

Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

Almaty

Set against the majestic Tian Shan mountains, Almaty is Kazakhstan’s most vibrant city. Wander through leafy streets, sip coffee in stylish cafés, explore museums, and visit iconic attractions like Kok-Tobe Hill, Big Almaty Lake, Panfilov Park, and the Green Bazaar. In winter, nearby ski resorts such as Shymbulak transform the city into a snowy playground.

Astana (Nur-Sultan)

Bold, modern, and architectural, Astana feels like a city from the future. Marvel at landmarks such as Bayterek Tower, Hazret Sultan Mosque, Khan Shatyr, and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. The city reflects Kazakhstan’s ambition and innovation, making it a must-visit on any Kazakhstan tour package.

Shymkent

Shymkent introduces you to traditional Kazakh life with its bustling bazaars, rich cuisine, and warm hospitality. It also serves as a gateway to ancient Silk Route sites and spiritual destinations, making it culturally significant and deeply authentic.

Turkistan

Home to the UNESCO-listed Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, Turkistan is one of the holiest cities in Central Asia. Pilgrims and travelers alike come here to experience history, spirituality, and Kazakh heritage at its purest.

Karaganda

Karaganda offers a deeper look into Kazakhstan’s Soviet past. Museums, memorials, and historic neighborhoods reveal powerful stories that add historical depth to your Kazakhstan journey.

Natural Tourist Attractions in Kazakhstan

  • Kolsai Lakes- Hidden in the Tian Shan mountains, these peaceful alpine lakes are perfect for nature lovers. Visit during the best season to enjoy mirror-like reflections, cool weather, and serene hiking trails.
  • Charyn Canyon- One of the most photographed places in Kazakhstan, Charyn Canyon’s towering rock formations and winding paths make it an essential stop on every Kazakhstan travel itinerary.
  • Altyn-Emel National Park- Known for its Singing Dunes that hum when the wind blows, this park is a paradise for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
  • Kaindy Lake (Sunken Forest)- A dreamlike lake where submerged tree trunks rise from icy blue waters. You can reach it via hiking or horseback riding, making the journey as exciting as the destination.
  • Nomad’s Land- Originally built as a film set, this open-air cultural site now offers an immersive glimpse into traditional Kazakh nomadic life. A fantastic experience for families and culture lovers.

Beaches & Hill Stations in Kazakhstan

  • Burabay Beach- Often called the Switzerland of Kazakhstan, Burabay features forests, lakes, and rocky hills, perfect for a scenic retreat during peak travel season.
  • Aktau Beach- Located along the Caspian Sea, Aktau is ideal for summer holidays, water sports, and seaside relaxation. A popular inclusion in Kazakhstan holiday packages.
  • Sky Beach Club, Astana- An indoor tropical beach inside a shopping mall, yes, really! A quirky and fun experience, especially popular with couples.
  • Boguty Mountains- These glowing red hills are best visited at sunset. A unique landscape that adds drama and color to your Kazakhstan tour.
  • Shymbulak Ski Resort- Near Almaty, Shymbulak offers world-class skiing, snowboarding, and panoramic alpine views, perfect for winter travel.

Heritage & Cultural Attractions

Kazakhstan’s history comes alive through its monuments and sacred sites.

  • Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Hazret Sultan Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia
  • Ascension (Zenkov) Cathedral, Almaty, one of the tallest wooden churches in the world
  • Tamgaly Tas Petroglyphs, featuring ancient tribal carvings and Buddhist symbols
  • Arystan Bab Mausoleum, steeped in legend and local folklore

Things to Do in Kazakhstan

  • Live like a Nomad with a traditional yurt stay
  • Witness Eagle Hunting and enjoy local folk performances
  • Explore the Aral Sea Ship Graveyard, a haunting reminder of environmental change
  • Ski at Shymbulak Ski Resort (ski pass approx. 5000 KZT)
  • Hike the Bektau-Ata Rocks, a hidden gem for trekkers and photographers
  • Ride cable cars, shop in bazaars, and enjoy cultural shows

Honeymoon Destinations in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan offers romantic escapes that blend nature and serenity.

  • Big Almaty Lake – Peaceful, scenic, and intimate
  • Kok-Tobe Hill – Sunset views and romantic dinners
  • Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral – Perfect for leisurely walks
  • Medeo & Shymbulak – Ideal for adventurous couples and winter lovers

Fairs & Festivals

  • Nauryz Festival (March) – Spring New Year
  • Eagle Hunting Festivals – Nomadic traditions
  • Apple Festival (Almaty) – Local heritage celebration

Cuisine & Local Delicacies

Kazakhstan cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s nomadic heritage, shaped by grasslands, harsh climates, and a culture built around hospitality and communal dining. Meals are generous, comforting, and symbolic, often centered around meat, handmade dough, slow cooking, shared plates and stories.

Below are some of the most famous Kazakhstan dishes one should try during their trip.

1. Beshbarmak- The National Dish of Kazakhstan

Beshbarmak is the heart of Kazakh cuisine and the most iconic dish you’ll encounter on any Kazakhstan holiday. This dish is traditionally served during family gatherings and celebrations, the name translates to  “five fingers,” as it was historically eaten by hand.

The dish consists of slow-boiled horse or lamb meat, served over wide homemade noodles, and topped with a rich meat broth and onions.

Where to try it:

  • Rumi Restaurant, Almaty
  • Eagle’s Nest, Nur-Sultan

2. Kuurdak

For travellers seeking an authentic and bold local flavour, Kuurdak is a must-try. This traditional dish is prepared using lamb liver, kidney, heart, and meat, sautéed with onions and spices. 

Rich, rustic, and flavourful, Kuurdak is especially popular in rural areas but can be found in traditional restaurants in cities as well.

Where to try it:

  • Tyubeteika Restaurant, Almaty

3. Baursak

Baursak is one of the most loved Kazakh delicacies and a staple at almost every meal, celebration, and gathering. These are deep-fried dough pieces, golden on the outside and soft on the inside, slightly sweet and incredibly addictive.

They’re often served with tea, honey, or jam and are also placed on ceremonial tables during festivals and weddings. You’ll find Baursak everywhere, but the quality varies.

Where to try it:

  • Navat Restaurant, Almaty
  • Local bazaars across Kazakhstan

4. Plov

Plov is a shared culinary tradition across Central Asia, but Kazakhstan has its own hearty version. Cooked with rice, lamb or beef, carrots, onions, and aromatic spices, plov is a filling and comforting dish commonly enjoyed during communal meals.

Where to try it:

  • Traditional chaikhanas in Almaty and Shymkent

5. Samsa

Samsa are tandoor-baked pastries filled with spiced meat, onions, or pumpkin. Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, they’re one of the most popular street foods in Kazakhstan.

Perfect for travellers exploring local markets or shopping streets, Samsa are affordable, filling, and bursting with flavour.

Where to try it:

  • Tandoor Restaurants, Shymkent
  • Street stalls near bazaars

6. Laghman (Lagman)

Laghman is a beloved dish influenced by Uyghur and Dungan communities. It features hand-pulled noodles, stir-fried or served in broth with meat and vegetables. The noodles are chewy, the flavours bold, and the portions generous.

Where to try it:

  • Dungan House, Karakol
  • Uyghur restaurants in Almaty

7. Kumis

Kumis is one of the most traditional beverages in Kazakhstan and a true cultural experience. Made from fermented mare’s milk, it has a slightly sour taste and mild alcoholic content. While it may be an acquired taste, trying Kumis is a rite of passage for those wanting to experience authentic Kazakh culture.

Where to try it:

  • Rural areas
  • Ethnic restaurants and cultural villages

Why Choose Kazakhstan as Your Next Vacation?

It is an affordable luxury destination, where you can enjoy premium hotels, modern transport, guided tours, and fine dining at a fraction of the cost compared to Europe or other popular global destinations.

What truly sets Kazakhstan apart are its one-of-a-kind landscapes, from turquoise alpine lakes and dramatic canyons to vast steppes, deserts, and snow-covered mountains, many of which remain untouched and uncrowded. The country is known for being safe, clean, and well-organised, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

Above all, Kazakhstan offers a perfect blend of adventure and culture, combining trekking, skiing, and nature experiences with Silk Route history, spiritual landmarks, and rich local traditions, all in one unforgettable journey.

Why Choose Cholan Tours for Holidays in Kazakhstan?

If you’re planning a Kazakhstan trip and want something more personal, immersive, and intelligently crafted than a generic package, Cholan Tours stands out as the ideal tour partner. While large global operators focus on volume, Cholan Tours focuses on experience quality, destination expertise, and traveller satisfaction, ensuring your Kazakhstan holiday feels personal. 

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Cholan Tours is customisation. Unlike template-driven itineraries, Cholan Tours builds bespoke Kazakhstan trip packages based on your travel style, whether you’re a couple seeking scenic romance, a family wanting comfort and safety, a solo traveller chasing culture, or a group looking for adventure. You’re never left figuring things out on your own in a foreign country.

  • Custom itineraries, not templates, because every trip is personalised
  • Handpicked hotels & authentic experiences, not mass-market stays
  • Local Kazakh partners & English-speaking guides for deeper cultural insight
  • Transparent pricing with excellent value for money

24/7 on-trip support, ensuring a stress-free Kazakhstan holiday

...
Showing 1-4 packages from

Kazakhstan Tour Packages

Grand Kazakhstan Tour – Almaty, Medeu, Shymbulak & Singing Dunes

Grand Kazakhstan Tour – Almaty, Medeu, Shymbulak & Singing Dunes

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

Duration6 Nights 7 Days
Tour Highlights

Almaty city tour, Kok-Tobe sunset views, Shymbulak cable car, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, Saty village stay.

Classic Kazakhstan Heritage and Nature Tour

Classic Kazakhstan Heritage and Nature Tour

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

Duration11 Nights 12 Days
Tour Highlights

Explore Kazakhstan from alpine peaks to ancient Silk Route cities. Experience Almaty’s culture, Tian Shan mountains, Charyn Canyon, steppe capitals, Soviet history, sacred Turkistan, and southern traditions through immersive landscapes, heritage monuments, and authentic local life.

Silk Route Sojourn: Kazakhstan- Azerbaijan Tour

Silk Route Sojourn: Kazakhstan- Azerbaijan Tour

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

Duration9 Nights 10 Days
Tour Highlights

Experience alpine escapes at Oi Qaragai, turquoise Issyk Lake, falconry traditions, cable car rides to Kok Tobe and Shymbulak, vibrant Almaty bazaars, Baku’s Flame Towers, Old City UNESCO heritage, Gobustan mud volcanoes, and the futuristic Caspian Sea promenade.

Mesmerising Almaty Alpine Tour

Mesmerising Almaty Alpine Tour

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

Duration6 Nights 7 Days
Tour Highlights

Stay at the scenic Oi Qaragai Mountain Resort, explore Almaty’s cultural heart, visit turquoise Issyk Lake, enjoy a traditional falcon show, ride cable cars to Kok Tobe and Shymbulak, shop at vibrant local bazaars, and experience Kazakhstan’s stunning alpine landscapes.

FAQs on Kazakhstan's Tour Packages

Is Kazakhstan visa-free for Indians?

Yes, Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to Kazakhstan for up to 14 days for tourism purposes. This makes Kazakhstan one of the easiest international destinations for Indians to visit. For longer stays (30–90 days), travellers can apply for a Kazakhstan tourist visa (B12) or e-visa.

Is Kazakhstan safe for tourists?

Kazakhstan is considered one of the safest countries in Central Asia for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan are clean, orderly, and well-policed. Locals are generally warm, respectful, and curious about visitors. As with any destination, basic precautions are advised, but solo travellers, families, and senior citizens usually feel comfortable moving around.

Is Kazakhstan expensive or budget-friendly?

Kazakhstan is best described as β€œaffordable luxury.” Compared to Europe, Japan, or even parts of the Middle East, travel costs are significantly lower. Hotels, transport, food, and experiences deliver excellent value for money.

What is the local currency of Kazakhstan?

The official currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller towns, while cards work well in cities. Locals prefer cash for taxis, bazaars, and small eateries, so carrying some Tenge is recommended.

How many days are ideal for a Kazakhstan trip?

For a meaningful experience, 7 to 10 days is ideal. This allows travellers to explore Almaty, nearby lakes and canyons, one additional city (like Astana or Turkistan), and experience local food and culture without rushing. Short trips of 4–5 days work well for Almaty-focused itineraries, while 10–12 days suit nature lovers and slow travellers.

Is Kazakhstan suitable for family travel?

Yes, Kazakhstan is excellent for families. Cities are spacious, traffic is manageable, and attractions like cable cars, parks, museums, and lakes are child-friendly. Resorts such as Shymbulak and places like Medeu Ice Rink appeal to all age groups. Clean environments, less crowding, and calm public spaces make it comfortable for children and elderly travellers alike.

Is English spoken in Kazakhstan?

English is not widely spoken, especially among older locals, but tourism-facing staff in hotels, airports, cafΓ©s, and guided tours generally speak basic English. Russian and Kazakh are the dominant languages. Having a local guide (as included in Cholan Tours itineraries) or translation apps greatly enhances comfort and cultural connection.

What is Kazakhstan famous for?

Kazakhstan is famous for its vast steppes, nomadic heritage, snow-capped Tien Shan mountains, alpine lakes, Silk Road cities, and space exploration history (Baikonur Cosmodrome). It’s also known for traditional horse culture, yurts, hearty cuisine, and landscapes that feel untouched and immense, a rarity in today’s travel world.

Can vegetarians manage food in Kazakhstan?

Yes, vegetarians can manage, especially in major cities like Almaty and Astana. While traditional Kazakh cuisine is meat-heavy, international restaurants, cafΓ©s, Indian eateries, and vegetarian-friendly dishes are widely available. Local breads, soups, salads, dairy products, and dumplings offer variety. Informing guides in advance helps with meal planning.

What is the best time to visit Kazakhstan?

The best time to visit Kazakhstan is April to June and September to October. These months offer mild weather, clear skies, and beautiful scenery. Summer is great for outdoor adventures, while winter attracts snow lovers and skiers. Your ideal travel time depends on whether you prefer lakes, landscapes, festivals, or snow experiences.

How is local transport in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan has excellent infrastructure. Cities offer clean metros, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps like Yandex. Long-distance travel is smooth via trains and domestic flights. Roads are wide and well maintained, especially on tourist routes. Guided tours make movement seamless, especially for first-time visitors.
Kazakhstan Tour Packages | Almaty & Astana Trips