Shymkent is the third largest city in Kazakhstan, located in the south of the country near the border of Kyrgyzstan. It is a vibrant and rapidly growing city, with a population of over 1.5 million people. The city is known for its ancient history, beautiful architecture, and its unique blend of Central Asian and Soviet culture.
Shymkent has plenty to offer travelers, from its bustling city center with its bustling bazaars and souvenir shops, to its stunning mosques and historical buildings. The city is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
For those looking to explore the local culture, Shymkent offers a variety of cultural activities, such as traditional song and dance performances, traditional cuisine, and even camel rides. The city is also home to a number of traditional crafts, such as pottery and woodcarving.
Shymkent is a great destination for travelers looking to explore Central Asia. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life, and stunning natural beauty, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Medeu District: This area is known for its beautiful parks and great restaurants. It is home to the State Historical and Cultural Museum and is close to the city center.
2. Zhibek Zholy District: This area is full of bustling cafes and markets, and is a great place to find souvenirs, as well as a variety of international cuisines. It is famous for its diverse cultural events, such as the Shymkent International Music Festival.
3. Abay District: This district is known for its historical sites and monuments, such as the Mausoleum of Ybyrai Altynsarin. It also has a variety of cafes and restaurants that have a more local atmosphere.
4. Baiterek District: This district is a great place to stay for nature lovers, as it is home to many parks and nature reserves. It also has a variety of cultural attractions, such as the Shymkent Puppet Theater.
5. Bostandyk District: This district is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a range of clubs and bars to choose from. It is also close to the city center and has great shopping opportunities.
1) Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: This impressive mausoleum is located in the city of Turkestan and is dedicated to the famous Sufi poet Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. The mausoleum consists of a large domed hall, with a courtyard and a sundial. It is an iconic landmark of the city and a popular tourist attraction.
2) Shymkent Zoo: The Shymkent Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from all over the world. It offers visitors the unique opportunity to observe exotic animals such as tigers, lions, bears, and zebras in their natural habitats.
3) Kazakhstan Central State Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the ancient and modern history of Kazakhstan. The exhibits range from traditional Kazakh artifacts to Soviet-era memorabilia.
4) Duman Entertainment Center: The Duman Entertainment Center is a great place for families to spend a day. It features a variety of exciting activities, such as a roller coaster, bungee jumping, and a 3D cinema.
5) Yntymak Shopping Mall: This shopping mall is one of the largest in the city. It features a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it the perfect spot for a shopping spree.
1. Plov: Plov is a traditional dish of Uzbek cuisine that is made from boiled rice, meat, carrots, and onions. It is often served with a variety of condiments, including sour cream, garlic, and herbs.
2. Samsa: Samsa is a savory pastry that is filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. It is popular in Shymkent and can be found in many restaurants and street stalls.
3. Beshbarmak: Beshbarmak is a traditional dish of Kazakh cuisine that consists of boiled horse meat served with noodles. It is usually garnished with thinly-sliced onion and garlic.
4. Kazy: Kazy is a type of sausage made from horsemeat and served with sour cream and onions. It is a popular dish in Shymkent and is often served as part of a traditional Kazakh meal.
5. Manty: Manty are steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. It is a popular dish in Shymkent and can be served as a side dish or a main meal.