Things To Do
in Kökshetaū

Kökshetaū is a picturesque city located in central Kazakhstan, known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes. It serves as the administrative center of the Akmolinsk Region and boasts a unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. The city is surrounded by majestic mountains and steppe, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities.

Kökshetaū is also steeped in cultural heritage, with several historical sites that attract visitors from around the world.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kökshetaū
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Holy Ascension Cathedral, an architectural gem in the heart of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the local museum to learn about the region's history and then take a stroll through the city park to enjoy the natural beauty.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Kazakh restaurant and experience authentic local cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a day trip to the Burabay National Park, where you can hike and admire the stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby lakes and enjoy a picnic lunch by the water while soaking in the scenic views.

evening
:

Return to Kökshetaū for a relaxed evening at a local café, sipping on traditional tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$8-15
Cup of Coffee$2-4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$30-70
🍺Local Beer$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Kazakh speakers.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent.
  • "Салеметсіз бе?" - Hello.
  • "Рахмет!" - Thank you!
  • "Сізді қайдан білесіз?" - Where are you from?
  • "Мен түсінбеймін." - I don't understand.
  • "Кешіріңіз." - Excuse me.

Places to Visit in Kökshetaū

Visit one of these nice places.

Burabay Lake

A stunning lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Kökshetaū City Park

A vibrant park filled with flowers, sculptures, and peaceful pathways, ideal for leisurely photography.

Holy Ascension Cathedral

An impressive architectural landmark with intricate designs and beautiful surroundings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kökshetaū

Kökshetaū offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culture of Kazakhstan.

Kökshetaū Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kazakh dish made of boiled meat served over wide noodles, typically accompanied by a rich broth.

Must-Try!

Kazy

A sausage made from horse meat, often served as a delicacy during special occasions.

Plov

A rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, commonly found in Central Asian cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kökshetaū Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local specialties.

Street Kebab Stalls

Try delicious skewered meats and traditional flatbreads from various street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kökshetaū has a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. Winter temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is customary when greeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kökshetaū is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. It's advisable to have emergency contact numbers handy and be aware of local customs and laws.

Tipping in Kökshetaū

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated; a tip of about 10% is standard in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), ideal for hiking and lake visits.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage and cooler weather, perfect for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Winter can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing; however, it's a great time for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Kökshetaū at Night

Kökshetaū has a modest nightlife scene with several bars and cafes that offer a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors. While it may not be as vibrant as in larger cities, you can find places that host live music, karaoke, and dance nights. Most nightlife options center around socializing with friends over drinks and enjoying casual evenings out.

Hiking in Kökshetaū

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zheke Batyra Trail

A scenic hiking trail offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Kokshetau Mountain Trail

This trail leads you through beautiful forests and up to the summit for panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Kökshetaū by plane.

Kokshetau Airport (KOV)

The main airport serving Kökshetaū, offering domestic flights to major cities in Kazakhstan.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kökshetaū is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious of traffic when crossing streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kazakh Ethnic Group

The majority ethnic group in the region, known for their rich traditions and customs.

Russian Community

A significant portion of the population is of Russian descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Kökshetaū, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is celebrated in Kazakhstan, and local events often showcase this sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kökshetaū is generally manageable, with most roads being in decent condition. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable. It's advisable to plan your travel during non-peak hours to avoid congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kökshetaū.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is central to Kazakh cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as salads and vegetable plov.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options can be limited, but it's best to communicate your needs to restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kökshetaū consists of several local clinics and hospitals. While basic medical care is available, it is recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Major hospitals are equipped to handle emergencies, but more specialized care may require travel to larger cities.

Discover Kazakhstan

Read more in our Kazakhstan 2025 Travel Guide.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide