Things To Do
in Zharkent
Zharkent is a picturesque town located in the Almaty Region of Kazakhstan, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural surroundings. The town serves as a gateway to the nearby Tien Shan mountains, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse ethnic composition, Zharkent showcases a blend of Kazakh, Russian, and Chinese influences.
The town's vibrant markets and historic sites offer visitors a unique glimpse into the region's past and present.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Zharkent Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture.
Explore the Zharkent Market to experience local life and shop for unique handicrafts and traditional foods.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Kazakh restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk through the town's parks.
Head to the nearby mountains for a morning hike, taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Zharkent and its people.
Wind down your day with a visit to a local tea house, enjoying traditional Kazakh tea and pastries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $5-$15 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $20-$40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-$30 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (within town) | $1-$3 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1-$3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes
- Affordable cost of living and dining
- Welcoming and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife options
- Language barrier in some areas
- Public transport may not be very reliable
- "Сәлем!" - Hello!
- "Рақмет!" - Thank you!
- "Кешіріңіз" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Сізді қайда баруға болады?" - Where can I go?
- "Менің аты-жөнім..." - My name is...
Places to Visit in Zharkent
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning mosque features intricate woodwork and vibrant colors, making it a perfect spot for architectural photography.
The backdrop of the majestic Tien Shan mountains provides breathtaking landscapes, ideal for nature photography.
Capture the lively atmosphere and vibrant colors of local life at this bustling market.
Food in Zharkent
Zharkent Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made with boiled meat, often served over flat noodles, typically enjoyed with broth.
Must-Try!
A type of sausage made from horse meat, seasoned and traditionally served during celebrations.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food such as shashlik (skewered meat).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common, but when greeting elders, it's respectful to bow slightly and use both hands.
When dining, wait for the host to invite you to start eating, and always finish your plate as a sign of appreciation.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; avoid wearing revealing clothing.
Safety
Tipping in Zharkent
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, typically around 10% of the bill.
Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash is preferred in markets and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a beautiful time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.
Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). It's ideal for hiking and exploring the mountains.
Autumn brings cooler weather and stunning fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography.
Winter can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, but it offers opportunities for winter sports in the mountains.
Zharkent at Night
Hiking in Zharkent
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 100 km from Zharkent, this park offers various hiking trails with unique landscapes, including the Singing Dunes.
A stunning alpine lake surrounded by mountains, accessible for day hikes with breathtaking views.
Airports
How to reach Zharkent by plane.
Located about 200 kilometers from Zharkent, Almaty International Airport is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in the region, the Kazakhs have a rich cultural heritage, often showcasing their traditions through music and dance.
The Russian community in Zharkent contributes to the town's diversity, with many Russian-speaking residents and a blend of cultural influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.
Reflecting the nomadic culture, horse racing events are common and attract many spectators during local festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zharkent.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes are meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as salads and vegetable pilafs.
Gluten-free options may be limited, so it’s advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.