Kazakhstan Vacations

Kazakhstan embraces Nomadic traditions. Though modern influences have penetrated, still today elements of Nomadic traditions are visible. Even today, many locals live in Yurt, which is a Nomadic way of living. A yurt is a portable dwelling primarily used by locals in rural areas. Besides this, Nomadic hospitality is ingrained in their culture. When you enter the house of a Nomadic person, the person will treat you with great respect and generosity.

A trip to Kazakhstan is incomplete without trying the local traditional dresses. The men wear chapans, which is a gown with a belt. Along with this, they cover their heads with skullcaps. On the other hand, the women wear a white cotton or coloured silk dress with a velvet waistcoat and a skullcap. Try their traditional dresses and experience their culture firsthand.

Music is ingrained in Kazakhstan's culture. Kazakhs love the art of wordplay. In competitions, the poet improvises poetry accompanied by stringed musical instruments. When you are in Kazakhstan, make sure to pay a visit to these competitions to experience a unique side of their culture.

Along with Nomadic traditions, Kazakhs also embrace Soviet culture. Since it was part of the Soviet Union, Soviet influence is still prevalent in Kazakhstan's culture. Cities like Astana blend both modern and Soviet influences. To get a first-hand experience of Soviet architecture, visit Astana.

If you are interested in outdoor activities and being amidst nature, Spring (April to June) is the best time to visit Kazakhstan. The weather is mild, and the skies are clear, perfect for sightseeing. Plus, the landscapes and flowers come to life, making Spring the ideal time to enjoy nature and sightseeing.

For travellers who want to explore the mountainous region, summer (June to August) is the best time to visit Kazakhstan. During the summer, the cities experience hot and humid conditions. To escape the heat, travellers go to the mountainous region, which is pleasant all year round. That's not all. The steppes and mountain meadows come to life during this period, giving travellers a picturesque view of the landscapes.

If you enjoy winter sports, winter (November to March) is the time to visit ski resorts and experience a variety of adventure sports. Apart from this, cities like Astana hold festivals and events showcasing their culture and traditions.

In short, Kazakhstan is a year-round vacation destination.

When visiting any country, it's helpful to know certain aspects of that country's customs and practices. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when taking a Kazakhstan vacation:

Know the local language. It is important to learn a few basic words and phrases of the Khazak language. Knowing a bit of the language will help you get assistance from the locals. Other than the Khazak language, locals also speak Arabic, English, and Uzbek.

Check your visa requirements. Some nationalities may be required to obtain a visa in advance, while others are eligible for free visa entry.

Respect local customs. Khazaks expect travellers to respect their traditions and customs. When you visit a local home, make sure to carry a gift with you, which is a local tradition.

Be prepared to experience Nomadic hospitality. Nomadic people treat guests as gods. When you visit a local home, they will treat you to delicious local food. One thing you must remember is to remove your shoes when you enter a local's house.

Carry cash. Though credit cards are widely used in urban areas, it is advised to carry cash in rural areas.

Food found in Kazakhstan is heavily influenced by its Nomadic culture and even by Russia, Turkey, and the Middle East. The single most popular dish in Kazakhstan is Beshbarmak. The name Beshbarmak means five fingers. It is made from layers of pasta, horse meat, onions, and broth. At a restaurant, if the server serves you with the best cuts, it means you are a very important person. So, watch out for that.

Another popular dish to have is Lagman, which is originally from the Xinjiang region. The dish consists of thick noodles spiced with pepper along with onions and tomatoes. Additionally, a spicy vinegar-based sauce is added. In short, the dish satisfies your hunger.

When it comes to drinks, Kazakhstan offers a variety of drinks. Shubat is a traditional drink made from fermented camel's milk. It is considered a refreshing drink in summer. If you want to end your meals with a drink that helps with digestion, try Ayran. The drink is a blend of yogurt with water and salt.

Explore the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the country's rich culinary traditions.