This is an exciting new country for fellow Malaysians to explore!
The majority of the people resemble East Asians but primarily speak Russian. It is the 9th largest country in the world and is rich in natural resources. A young nation, it was heavily influenced by its Soviet past for decades until gaining independence in 1991. The majority of the population practices Islam.
Welcome to Kazakhstan!
Since March 2024, direct flights have connected Almaty and Kuala Lumpur.
Here’s my story of Kazakhstan!
I managed to catch a flight to Kazakhstan as early as the first week since the commence of KL-Almaty direct flight.
Of course, I embarked on this exciting journey to Almaty, Kazakhstan, with my father. The trip felt like a perfect blend of adventure and discovery, especially since it coincided with Nauryz, the Kazakh New Year. In fact, I did not know that there was a Kazakh New Year celebration until I was being told personally by my Kazakh friend in Almaty. “Will all shops and restaurants close for business during my trip?”, that was exactly my thought before landing there.
But this trip just turned out to be one of the best trips in my life!
The entire city was buzzing with energy, and the celebrations were a feast for the senses. Everywhere we went, we saw people in beautiful traditional costumes, enjoyed the melodies of Kazakh music, and admired festive performances that showcased the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The timing of our visit was particularly special because direct flights from Malaysia to Almaty had just started earlier that month, and we were among the first Malaysians to take advantage of this new connection. It added an extra layer of excitement to the trip, knowing we were venturing into a destination that felt relatively new and unexplored by many back home. The cabin crew even asked us about our trip to Kazakhstan as most passengers on board at that time were mostly Russian and Kazakh.
One of the most memorable parts of our trip was the food. Meeting my Kazakh friends in Almaty was a highlight, as they introduced us to local dishes and shared their favorite spots in the city. We started with Beshbarmak, a traditional Kazakh dish made of boiled meat and pasta, which lived up to its reputation as a hearty and satisfying meal. But the culinary journey didn’t stop there. Almaty’s food scene was incredibly diverse, and I found myself enjoying a mix of Georgian and Russian cuisines.
The Georgian dishes, in particular, left a lasting impression. I still think about the Khachapuri, a delicious cheese-filled bread that I couldn’t get enough of. Pairing these meals with stories and laughter made the dining experiences even more memorable. The blend of flavors and cultural influences in the food truly reflected the history and diversity of the region.
Almaty itself is a city of contrasts, where old-world charm meets modern development. Walking through the city, I was captivated by its mix of Soviet-era architecture and contemporary buildings. The Almaty Cathedral was a standout. Its vibrant colors and intricate details made it one of the most striking landmarks I’ve ever seen. As I stood there taking in the beauty of the cathedral, I couldn’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship and history behind it. The Ascension Cathedral was built without any single nail and it still stay even until today!
We also explored other historical areas that gave me a deeper appreciation of Almaty’s past. Despite the city’s ongoing modernization, there is a palpable sense of history that lingers in its streets, making it a fascinating place to explore for any history enthusiast. We went to Central state museum of Almaty and Abilkhan Kasteev State Art Museum to appreciate the history and the culture of Kazakhstan.
Another unforgettable experience was the trip to Kok-Tobe Hill. Taking the cable car up the hill was an adventure in itself, offering stunning panoramic views of the city below and the snow-covered Tian Shan mountains in the distance. At the top, the air was crisp and fresh, and the scenery was breathtaking. It was one of those moments that makes you pause and appreciate the beauty of nature.
As a first-time visitor to Central Asia, I was struck by the cultural nuances of Almaty. The city is modernizing rapidly, but it still holds onto its Soviet and Russian roots. Most people I encountered spoke Russian, even though Kazakh is also an official language. This blend of cultures and histories made the city feel unique and intriguing. For me, coming from Malaysia, it was a completely new and enriching experience.
Getting around Almaty was surprisingly easy and budget-friendly. We used Yandex Go, a ride-hailing app that worked seamlessly, and the Almaty Metro, where tickets cost just 100 tenge. It was refreshing to find such affordable public transport options in a city that is modernizing so quickly. Walking around the city was also a joy, as it allowed me to soak in the charm of Almaty at my own pace. However, the food prices are quite pricey even for breakfast which is sometimes that you have to take note when going to Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Our accommodations in a hotel were comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience of the trip.
Reflecting on my time in Almaty, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore such a unique destination. From the warm hospitality of the people to the rich tapestry of cultures and the delicious food, everything about the trip exceeded my expectations.
Almaty is a city that stays with you, and I am already looking forward to returning one day. If you are considering venturing into Central Asia, I wholeheartedly recommend starting with Almaty. It’s a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone looking for a new adventure. After that, you can also travel to other parts of Central Asia such as Tashkent, Samarkand and Bishkek which are very near to Almaty.
So, are you ready to choose Kazakhstan as the next destination for travel?
Let me know your comments! :)
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