Taraz - Discovering Kazakhstan

Travelling to Taraz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Taraz, a pretty good destination in Kazakhstan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Taraz and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Taraz, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Kazakhstan, here's everything to know about Taraz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Taraz

Taraz is a city located in southern Kazakhstan, near the border with Kyrgyzstan. It is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a rich history that dates back over 2000 years. Taraz is known for its historical and cultural monuments, such as the Aisha-Bibi Mausoleum and the Karakhan Mausoleum. It is also a popular destination for trekking and mountaineering, as it is located near the Tien Shan Mountains. The city has a vibrant local bazaar, where visitors can find traditional Kazakh goods and handicrafts. Taraz has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, and is generally considered to be a safe and welcoming destination for visitors.

What to visit in Taraz

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Taraz along with some information about each of them: 1. Aisha Bibi Mausoleum - The mausoleum of Aisha Bibi is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Taraz. This 12th century structure is believed to be the burial site of the wife of the Seljuq ruler, Ersari. The mausoleum is an excellent example of Seljuk architecture and is known for its intricate brickwork and elegant dome.
2. Karakhan Mausoleum - This multi-level mausoleum is the tomb of the famous warlord and poet Karakhan, who lived in the 12th century. The structure is notable for its arched entrance and stunning green dome. Visitors can explore the intricate maze of staircases and chambers inside the mausoleum.
3. Babaji Khatun Mausoleum - This mausoleum is located outside of Taraz, in the nearby village of Zhane-Aul. It is believed to be the burial site of a local queen, Babaji Khatun, who was the wife of the ruler of the Karakhanid Empire. The structure is known for its striking brickwork and intricate carvings.
4. Taraz Regional Studies Museum - This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Taraz and the surrounding region. It features exhibits on the region's ancient history, as well as displays of traditional clothing, handicrafts, and agricultural tools. Visitors can also learn about the traditional Kazakh yurt, which is on display inside the museum.
5. Tekturmas Fortress - This fortress dates back to the 7th century and was an important strategic location for many centuries. The fortress was built on a hill overlooking the city and was used to defend against invading armies. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Taraz Central Park - This park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It features beautiful gardens, fountains, and a lake where visitors can rent paddle boats. There are also several amusement park rides and games for children.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Taraz has to offer. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or just having fun, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Kazakhstan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Taraz.

When to go on holiday to Taraz

The best time to plan your trip to Taraz, Kazakhstan, is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November) seasons, as this is generally when the weather is most comfortable. During these months, the temperatures in Taraz are generally mild, averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Summers in Taraz can be hot and dry, reaching temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F), while winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures sometimes falling below freezing. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid planning a trip to Taraz during the winter months from December to February, and during the peak summer season from July to August.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Taraz

There are several ways to get to Taraz, Kazakhstan: 1. By plane: Taraz has an airport, which means you can get there by plane. The closest major airport is Almaty International Airport, and from there it's a 3.5 hour drive to Taraz.
2. By train: There are daily trains from Almaty to Taraz, which take approximately 6 to 8 hours depending on the train. You can also take a train from Nur-Sultan (Astana), but it takes approximately 24 hours to reach Taraz.
3. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Almaty and Taraz. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
4. By taxi: You can also hire a taxi to take you from Almaty or Nur-Sultan to Taraz. However, this can be quite expensive compared to other modes of transport.
Overall, the easiest and most convenient way to get to Taraz would be by plane or train from Almaty, depending on your budget and time constraints.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Taraz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Taraz

Sure, here are some typical foods from Taraz, Kazakhstan: 1. Beshbarmak - This is Kazakhstan's national dish, and consists of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served on top of large, flat sheets of pasta dough. 2. Kuyrdak - This is a popular meat dish in Kazakhstan, made from the heart, liver, and other organs of a sheep or goat, sautéed in onions and seasonings. 3. Lagman - This is a soup dish that is typically made with hand-pulled noodles, vegetables, and a meat broth. Additional proteins such as lamb or beef may also be added to the dish. 4. Samsa - Samsas are baked meat pies that are a popular street food in Kazakhstan. The filling is often made from spiced lamb or beef, and sometimes includes potatoes or other vegetables. 5. Baursaki - These are small, fried dough balls that are often served as a snack or dessert. They are typically made from simple ingredients such as flour, water, and salt, and can be eaten plain or dusted with powdered sugar. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kazakhstan here.

Is Taraz an expensive destination for tourists?

Taraz is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists, with the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation being relatively inexpensive compared to other destinations in Kazakhstan and around the world. However, as with any travel destination, the cost of your trip will depend on your travel style, preferences, and activities. If you choose to stay in luxury hotels or participate in expensive tours, your costs will be higher. That being said, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options and local eateries in Taraz that offer delicious food at reasonable prices.

Where to find accomodation in Taraz

In Taraz, it is best to search for accommodation in the city center and nearby areas for easy access to the city's historical and cultural landmarks. Some recommended areas you may consider looking for hotels or hostels include: 1. Central district - This area offers convenient access to Taraz's major attractions, including Aisha-Bibi Mausoleum, Karakhan Mausoleum, and the History Museum of Taraz.
2. Tole bi district - This is a peaceful residential area located east of the city center, where you can find affordable hotels and guesthouses.
3. Kazybek Bi district - This area is located south of the city center and is a perfect choice for visitors who want to enjoy a peaceful environment, away from the noise of the city center.
4. Bayzakov district - This is a tranquil, suburban area to the west of the city center, which offers more spacious and affordable hotel options.
It is recommended to check the location of the accommodations you are considering on a map to ensure you have easy access to transportation and can reach your desired attractions easily.
You can check hotel prices at Taraz here:
Booking.com

Is Taraz a safe destination for tourists?

Taraz is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their safety while travelings such as avoiding walking alone after dark, using trusted transportation, and keeping an eye on their belongings at all times. In general, it is always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and exercise caution as you would in any other foreign city.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Kazakhstan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Taraz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Taraz the most?

Taraz, Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that can appeal to a wide range of travelers. However, it's essential to keep in mind that Taraz is not primarily a destination for those looking for nightlife and fun activities like bars, clubs, and amusement parks.
Instead, Taraz is perfect for families and couples interested in exploring ancient and historical sites like the Aisha-Bibi and Babaji Khatun Mausoleums, the Karakhan Mausoleum, and the 11th-century restoration of Kulan Mosque.
Furthermore, the city is situated at the foothills of the imposing Tien Shan mountain range, ideal for adventurous travelers and those who enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and climbing.
Overall, Taraz, Kazakhstan, is an unforgettable experience for travelers who value culture, history, and nature.

How to get around Taraz

In Taraz, you can use several modes of transportation to move around the city. These include buses, minibusses (marshrutkas), and taxis. Buses and marshrutkas are the most affordable options and cover most areas of the city, including the outskirts. Taxis are also widely available, and you can book them through ride-hailing apps or hail them on the street. Taxis are more expensive than buses and marshrutkas but offer more comfort and privacy.

What to see around Taraz

Certainly, here are some of the places you can visit on a day trip from Taraz, Kazakhstan: 1. Aisha-Bibi Mausoleum: It is a 12th-century mausoleum known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings. It is located 18 km east of Taraz.
2. Babaji-Khatun Mausoleum: It is a 11th-century mausoleum known for its impressive architecture and beautiful design. It is located 25 km east of Taraz.
3. Taraz Regional Museum: It is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Taraz region. It is located in the city and showcases a collection of artifacts and exhibits.
4. Karakhan Mausoleum: It is a 16th-century mausoleum known for its unique design and stunning architecture. It is located 15 km south of Taraz.
5. Baba-Ata Mausoleum: It is a 10th-century mausoleum dedicated to the Sufi saint Baba-Ata. It is located 35 km south of Taraz.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Taraz!
For every travel information about Kazakhstan you can click here.

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