Must-Try Foods In BeketAta Underground Mosque (Aktau) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

BeketAta Underground Mosque Food History

The BeketAta Underground Mosque, located near Aktau in the Mangystau region of Kazakhstan, is considered one of the holiest sites in the country. As a place of pilgrimage, food plays a special role here, closely tied to the traditions and culture of the pilgrims visiting. The meals consumed during the pilgrimage are often simple, reflecting the austere and contemplative environment of the mosque. Traditional Kazakh cuisine, characterized by its nomadic roots, emphasizes meats and dairy products, although some dishes may be adapted to meet the needs of visitors seeking vegetarian options.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes for Tourists

1. Beshbarmak: Traditionally made with horse meat or lamb (non-veg), this dish features boiled meat served over pasta sheets with a meat broth called sorpa. For non-cow meat dietary preferences, the lamb variant is common.
2. Kuyrdak: A flavorful stir-fry made with offal from lamb or other meats (non-veg), onions, and potatoes. It's a hearty dish revered for its rich taste.
3. Baursaki: These are puffy deep-fried bread bites. They’re a simple yet popular snack and are suitable for vegetarians (veg).
4. Kazakh Pilaf: Different from other variants, this pilaf can be prepared with various types of meat (non-veg), commonly with lamb, carrots, onions, and sometimes garlic, raisins, or barberries.
5. Shelpek: A traditional Kazakh flatbread, made from a simple dough and deep-fried to a golden crisp, suitable for vegetarians (veg).
6. Manti: These are steamed dumplings usually filled with minced lamb or other meats, pumpkin, and spices (non-veg). Vegetarian options might be available with a pumpkin or potato filling (veg).
7. Kurt: Salty dried cheese balls made from curd which provide a quick, energizing snack. This is ideal for vegetarians (veg).
8. Zhent: A traditional dessert made of millet or wheat, molasses, and butter. It can also include nuts or dried fruits and is vegetarian-friendly (veg).
9. Chak-chak: A sweet treat made from dough that is deep-fried and coated in honey. This is an addictive dessert and vegetarian (veg).
10. Samsa: Baked pastry with various fillings, similar to Indian samosa. The traditional version is non-vegetarian (non-veg), with meat fillings, but vegetarian versions (veg) may be available.

Top Restaurants near BeketAta Underground Mosque

As the BeketAta Underground Mosque is located in a remote area, most dining options will be found in the city of Aktau or along the journey. Here are notable establishments:

1. Jibek Joly Restaurant
   Address: 14A Microdistrict, Aktau, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Traditional Kazakh dishes, with a highlight on meat skewers (Shashlik) (non-veg) and vegetarian salads (veg).
2. Gakku Kazakh Restaurant
   Address: Microdistrict 11, Building 65, Aktau, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: Authentic Kazakh cuisine with their special lamb Beshbarmak (non-veg) and various vegetarian entrees (veg).
3. Dastarkhan
   Address: Microdistrict 9, Aktau, Kazakhstan
   Famous for: A wide selection of national dishes, including horse meat delicacies (for non-cow meat preferences) and vegetarian-friendly starters.

Keep in mind that the BeketAta Underground Mosque is a pilgrimage site where restaurants and eateries might not be readily available. When visiting, it's recommended to bring along sufficient water and food or to arrange for meals through a tour operator that catulates to dietary requirements, including vegetarian preferences.