The Bayterek Tower is an iconic symbol of Nur-Sultan, the capital city of Kazakhstan, illustrating the city's modern architecture and spirit. Stretching up to 105 meters in height, the monument allows visitors a panoramic view of the city's skyline from its observation deck. The design embodies a tree holding a golden egg, based on a Kazakh folk tale about a mythical tree of life and a magic bird of happiness, Samruk. Inside, you'll find an art gallery, an aquarium, and a restaurant. The touch-screen infotables provide historical and cultural knowledge, making your visit both enjoyable and educational. The tower is particularly stunning at night when it's illuminated with different colors.
The Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, also known as the Pyramid of Peace, is a remarkable architectural feat designed by the renowned British architect Norman Foster. This stunning 62 meter high structure serves not only as a unique tourist attraction but also as a global center for religious understanding, the congress of leaders of world and traditional religions. Comprising an opera house, a museum, and a library, this pyramidal building symbolizes the country's commitment to peace and harmony. Visitors can explore its various facilities, attend exhibitions, and enjoy the serene park surrounding the palace. The top floor offers a splendid view of the city, making it a must-visit landmark in Nur-Sultan.
The Nur-Sultan Opera House is an institution of culture and art in Kazakhstan, offering brilliant performances that enrich the city's cultural scene. This illustrious opera house showcases classic and contemporary works, as well as performances by the Astana Ballet. The building itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, combining elegance with state-of-the-art acoustic design. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of shows, including opera, ballet, and symphonic concerts. Attending a performance here will provide a deeper insight into the local arts scene, as well as an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
The National Museum of Kazakhstan, located in the heart of Nur-Sultan, is a treasure trove of Kazakh history, art, and culture. Spread over seven floors, it consists of several halls each dedicated to different themes like ancient and modern history, ethnography, and independent Kazakhstan. One of the key attractions is the 'Golden Hall' which houses the 'Golden Man', a symbol of Kazakhstan's history and heritage. Visitors can spend several hours exploring the vast collection, which encompasses artifacts from the Bronze Age up to the present day and is beautifully presented with multimedia technology. The museum guides provide insights into the nation's rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Haza Ethnic Center is an open-air museum and cultural hub located just outside the city center. It offers an immersive experience into the nomadic lifestyle and cultural traditions of the Kazakh people. Here, visitors can explore yurts – the traditional tents used by nomads – and learn about ancient customs and crafts, such as felt-making and horse-riding demonstrations. The center also organizes cultural events, folk music, and dance performances, allowing for a lively engagement with the local culture. Dining at Haza provides an opportunity to sample traditional Kazakh cuisine, making it a complete cultural experience. Remember to check the event schedule before planning your visit.
Khan Shatyr is an innovative shopping and entertainment center in Nur-Sultan, housed under a massive transparent tent, which is one of the world's largest membrane structures. Designed by Norman Foster, Khan Shatyr is a marvel of engineering and architecture. Inside, it features a wide range of international brands and shops, a cinema complex, a food court with various dining options, and even an indoor city beach resort complete with sand, wave pool, and tropical plants called Sky Beach Club. The facility is a perfect place for families and visitors to shop, dine, and enjoy leisure activities. In addition to shopping and entertainment, the eco-friendly internal environment replicates a warm summer day all year round.
The Museum of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan offers unique insights into the history and development of the nation through the lens of its first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits spanning from historical documents to gifts received from various heads of state. The museum also features interactive displays and personal items belonging to the president, offering a narrative of how Kazakhstan has navigated its post-Soviet independence and the role the first president played in this transformation. The museum's architecture is impressive, and it's surrounded by a picturesque park that's ideal for a stroll.
The Ak Orda Presidential Palace is the official workplace of the President of Kazakhstan, boasting a grand and imposing facade. While the interior of the palace is not typically open to the public, visitors can admire its neoclassical style architecture from the outside and explore the surrounding gardens. The palace is located on the banks of the Ishim River, set against the backdrop of Nur-Sultan's modern skyline, and serves as an important symbol of the nation's government. Photography enthusiasts will find great opportunities to capture the palace's elegance, and the changing of the guard ceremony is a spectacle to witness.
The Atameken Ethno-Memorial Complex is an open-air museum in the shape of a map of Kazakhstan, showcasing miniatures of important historical and architectural sites, landscapes, and cultural monuments. Spanning over 1.7 hectares, this map-museum allows visitors to see scaled-down renditions of the diverse regions within Kazakhstan all in one place. As an educational attraction, Atameken provides a rich overview of the country's geography and history, and it is a perfect educational outing for families and tourists interested in learning about the nation in a unique and interactive way. Guided tours can enhance the experience with detailed commentary.
Nur-Astana Mosque stands out as one of the most stunning pieces of Islamic architecture in Kazakhstan. As the third-largest mosque in Central Asia, it can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers. The mosque's design is filled with symbolism: its height of 40 meters represents the age of Prophet Muhammad when he received the revelations, and the minarets, standing 63 meters tall, correspond to the Prophet's lifespan. Visitors are welcomed to observe the beautiful interiors adorned with intricate Islamic art, including grand chandeliers and a vast dome. Visits should be timed outside of prayer times, and it's important to dress respectfully, covering arms and legs, with headscarves for women. The mosque provides a serene environment for contemplation as well as an insight into the religious aspects of Kazakh culture.
