SERVICES & PLACES

Karaganda Zoo

One of the oldest and largest zoos in Kazakhstan, located in the city of Karaganda. 📅 Founded: 1936–1938 📍 Address: 111 Yermekov Street, Karaganda 🌿 Area: about 43–107 hectares (different sources indicate different sizes) Animals The zoo houses hundreds of animals of different species. Visitors can see: lions, tigers, and jaguars bears (brown and Himalayan bears) wolves and lynxes zebras, llamas, and camels birds and birds of prey reptiles, amphibians, and aquarium animals In total, the zoo collection includes more than 200 species and over a thousand animals. Interesting facts Karaganda Zoo is famous for the elephant Batyr, who was reported to imitate human speech and produce more than 20 words and sounds. In recent years the zoo has been actively modernized: new spacious enclosures are being built, modern exhibits are being introduced, and new animal species are added. The zoo regularly receives animals from other countries, including zebras and rare birds from Africa, as well as different species of monkeys and other exotic animals. For visitors The zoo hosts holidays, competitions, and educational events. 🕒 Opening hours: usually 09:00 – 18:00 (ticket office until 17:00) 📅 Days off: Monday and Tuesday 🎟 Ticket prices: Adult ticket — 800 KZT Children’s ticket — 500 KZT Children under 5 — free

The Temirtau Winter Garden

The Temirtau Winter Garden is a unique "tropical island" located in the heart of one of Kazakhstan's major industrial hubs. Opened in January 1993, it has become one of the city's most beloved landmarks. Its grand 15-meter-high glass-domed structure creates a sanctuary where exotic flora thrives regardless of the harsh outside climate. Highlights of the Garden: Botanical Collection: The garden features over 120 species of plants brought from tropical, subtropical, and desert regions. Visitors can admire papyrus, Japanese birch, oriental arborvitae, and towering palm trees. Exotic Fruits: The conservatory is famous for its fruit-bearing trees, including lemons, figs, pomegranates, and ornamental bananas that ripen throughout the year. Wildlife Corner: Beyond the lush greenery, the garden is home to peacocks, parrots, and various other birds. There is also an adjacent aquarium and terrarium showcasing diverse fish and reptile species. Resilience and History: During the challenging 1990s, when the city faced heating crises, the dedicated staff saved the plants by using improvised wood-burning stoves to maintain the necessary warmth inside the dome.

Legends of Shaitankol

Lake Shaitankol is located 5 kilometers from the city of Karkaralinsk, Karaganda region. It is surrounded by dilapidated granite rocks. The lake is full of many legends and riddlesға толы. Local residents say that there are no animals or birds within a radius of several hundred meters from the reservoir. For a long time, people do not swim in the lake and do not drive cattle to drink. Locals say they regularly see devils and mermaids here. First legend During the war with the Dzungars, the forces are not equal, and a situation arises when the Dzungars win. Then the Kazakh children ask for help from their gods, their gods turn them into stone statues that firmly protect the settlements of the Kazakhs. And the tears of the mothers of these guys who filled the lake with water. Second legend Karatai Bai's daughter Altynshash and кson K. eating Altai fell in love with each otherа. Bai opposes their joining and tries to persuade his daughter to go to another guy- Arystanka, a descendant of the Kazakh khans. g. richgroom asyryn sees a man with a large kalym ask, designate the date of the weddingof yny. Meanwhile, Altynshash and Altai were enjoying the sunset on one of the rocks nearthe lake. Suddenly, a mermaid devoid of water flakes appeared in front of their eyes. "Don't worry, Iе won't do anything wrong in XIE. I own this lake, and have been watching you for a while. You are a very beautifulcouple, but you are in danger, "п youngtar tells p about Karatai's dishonest thoughts. Leaving, the owner of the lake said: - In case of trouble, come to the lake and safely jump into the water.You won't drown, you'll enter my world. I will be happy, you will behappy!. The next night, the lovers ranедaway. Bai knew this and ordered his men to bring the fugitivesаback. But Altynshash and Altay saw horsemen from afar and jumped into the water, holdingеhands. For three days, their bodies are waiting on the bank of the Karataifor them to swim. On the fourth day, the girl: "Don't worry, Father, I'm happy with Altay! "I heard her voice. Third legend It is connected with modernity. In 1905, on the Western Bank of the Russian Shaitankol, Bishop Michael was shot down by a Kipchak cross, which meant: "now this lake is called Auliekol." It will disappear soon. The lake will still be named Shaitankol. And the same cross still lies at the bottom of the lake.

Kunanbai Kagi Mosque

The building of the Kunanbai Uskenbayev Mosque is located at an altitude of 860 meters above sea level, in the Karkaraly district in the east of Karaganda region, between Toktar Aubiakirov and Kunanbai Kazhy streets in the village of Karkaralysk. In 1849, Kunanbai Uskenbaevich built a mosque with his own money in Karkaralinsk. The building is 15 meters wide,ы 11 meters long, and 6 meters high. The original appearance is not completely preserved. The mosque is a two-story wooden building made of local forest wood. Although it was originally built of logs, it was later lined with planks. For many years, the mosque has been a place of worship for Muslims. Here they preached high moral truths, taught morality, common sense, tolerance, and performed many national rituals. During the Sovietera, the mosque, unique in its architecture and beauty, ceased to function. The mosque's minaret was demolished in 1920, and the buildingitself was converted into a School I and thena storage room, which was later completely closed. In the 1980s, the mosque was restored and todayoperates again under the original name of MAKS, being a place of worship for everyone. According to reports, Abai repeatedly visited the mosque. The name of the C dynasty that built the mosque is unknown. Kunanbai Mosque - is one of the first mosques in the northern regions of Kazakhstan.

Matak Batyr Mausoleum

Matak Batyr, who fought for independence during the Kazakh-Dzungarian wars of the eighteenth century , was born in 1750. According to folk legends, he was known for his fighting skills from a young age. He began his military career at the age of 17 in the battle of Yesil-Nur under the leadership of Bogenbai Batyr. In the same battle, he demonstrated his horsemanship, and swordsmanship skills-impaling his opponents with a spear while standing on a horseтүйреп, and chopping off their heads with a sword. Chokan Valikhanov was the first to explore this battle. He went there with an expedition. When Matak batyr turns19, he becomes mynbasy next to Abylai Khanna and replaces his father togalak. At that time, having united the country, Abylai Khan declared Karkaraly possession of the Irtysh-Balkhash-Bayanaul region. In 1769, Mata k was appointed his duanbas. He held this position for three years. As proof of this appointment, the hero «was awarded the seal "Al Sultan, Al Adil Mataq". It has been preserved to this day and is now kept in the Museum of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the capital. Matak 89 died at the age of 89, and the river at the site of his death was later named after Matak. The mausoleum is located along the Karaganda-Karagaily railway, near the village of Matak, Karkaraly district. This tomb is popularly іconsidered sacred. Local residents say that heavily moving train once overturned here. Since then, all drivers have significantly slowed down the speed to the Matak Batyr mausoleum by less than 200 meters. The Batyr mausoleum, was included in the Map of sacred objects of Kazakhstan, mirrors of the lpr instead of pilgrimage.

Oshaganda Canyon

The Oshagandy tract is a magnificent natural structure located near the village of Oshugandy with the same name. Its extraordinary beauty and scale create a magnificent landscape that attracts the attention of tourists. The highvertical walls of the gorge rise tens of meters, forming magnificent geological formations. Deep crevices and slopes carved over the centuries by natural forces attest to the greatness of this place. The river flowing from the bottom of the canyonadds to the beauty, enriching nature. At different times of the day, the thistle is painted in different colorsand takes on different shades of light. This is an ideal place for nature lovers, photographers and those who want to experience the atmosphere of the wild. Visitors to the canyon can hike trails, take in the views, or evenclimb the heights, which offer magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Each corner of the Osha and Andes Gorge is filled with history and uniqueness, whichmakes it an unforgettable experience for everyone who has visited this place.

The Ancient Settlement of Kent

Location and Geography The Kent archaeological site is located in the Karkaraly district of the Karaganda region, approximately 6 km from the village of Kent. It is situated in a picturesque mountain-forest area on the right bank of the Kyzylkenysh River valley. Historical Significance According to scientific research, the Kent settlement (13th–9th centuries BC) was one of the largest centers of the Begazy-Dandybai culture of the late Bronze Age, spanning the territory between the Ural and Altai Mountains. The scale of the settlement is impressive: residential and outbuildings occupied approximately 30 hectares across both banks of the river. Archaeologists estimate that the population reached 2,500 to 3,000 people, making it a significant protocity (early urban center) for that era. Archaeological Findings Since the 1980s, the monument has been studied by the archaeological group from the Buketov Karaganda University. The cultural strata reach a depth of 1.2 meters, revealing a wealth of artifacts: Bronze Objects: More than 100 items discovered, including spearheads, arrowheads, knives, daggers, sickles, and hammers. Bone Carving: A highly developed craft, evidenced by decorated combs, buttons with rich patterns, and various tools. Stone Tools: Axes, hoes, and grain grinders crafted with high technical skill. Economic and Administrative Status Kent was not a typical settlement but a sophisticated protocity with distinct functional zones: residential quarters, metallurgical production areas, ritual complexes, and trading posts. Residents did not limit themselves to copper mining; they also controlled the production and trade of tin—a strategically vital metal of the Bronze Age—serving as key intermediaries on ancient trade routes. A Sacred and Political Center Surrounded by majestic mountains, Kent was one of the holiest sites of its time. The discovery of temples and places of worship suggests that the settlement served as the center of a tribal association. It was a place where spiritual rituals were performed and major administrative decisions were made by the rulers of the time.

Bektau Ata: The Granite Giant of the Steppe

Rising above the vast Saryarka plains, the Bektau Ata massif impresses with its architectural complexity and unique geological structure. These rocks are not just a natural creation but an ancient monument holding secrets of millennia. Historical Heritage At the foot of the mountain lie ancient petroglyphs carved into stone by human hands thousands of years ago. These mysterious drawings provide a window into a unique past, revealing the mystical traditions of ancient tribes. Natural Ecosystem Bektau Ata boasts a unique ecosystem, home to rare plant species and majestic birds of prey. The magnificent granite formations serve as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, creating a stunning blend of natural resources. Spiritual Sanctuary For centuries, the mountain served as a sanctuary for indigenous peoples. Rituals were performed here to honor nature spirits. Bektau Ata remains a meeting place for spiritual and cultural traditions, creating a unique harmony of holiness and grandeur. Legends and Myths Prison of Dark Forces: According to legend, ancient gods created these mountains to imprison evil spirits. The strange stone formations are believed to be these forces frozen in time. Stone Guardians: Some legends tell of stone sentinels who wake up at night to protect secret knowledge and treasures hidden deep within the mountains. Echo Valley: Deep within the mountain lies the Echo Valley, where every spoken word returns as a magical echo. Locals come here to offer prayers and wishes, hoping the mountain will hear them. The Mountain Healer: Bektau Ata is considered a place of healing energy. Pilgrims visit for spiritual renewal and believe in the mountain's power to strengthen the soul and heal the body.

Lake Balkhash: A Unique Treasure of Kazakhstan

Lake Balkhash - is a geographically unique lake located in the central part of Kazakhstan, Karaganda region. Its scale and scale have given this body of water a special character. The water in Lake Balkhash, painted in various shades of blue and green, creates a magnificent, picturesque landscape. The eastern side of the lake is salty, while the westernside of the lake is fresh, which rovides a variety of aquatic ecosystems and contributes to the diversity of flora and fauna. Lake Balkhash bioалуанplays an important role in preserving diversity. Thanks to the nature reserves located around the lake, you can observe many species of birds and other animals. From an economic point of view, Lake Balkhash offers significant resources. Fishing on the lake is an important industry that provides the local population and the regionты with valuable food. In addition, mineral resources such as salt and copper ores complement the economic activity around the lake. However, despite all its unique characteristics, Lake Balkhashalso faces environmental challenges. Increasing salinity in the eastern part of the lake poses challenges for biodiversity, requiring attention in terms of environmental sustainability and natural resource management. Thus, Lake Balkhash not only impresses with its natural beauty, but is also an important resource that needs to be carefully managed to preserve its unique ecosystems and maintain a balance between nature and human activities.

Buiratau Nature Park

The Republican state institution "Buiratau State National Nature Park" was established on March 11, 2011 on the plains of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The twelfth national park in Kazakhstan was created by the Committee of Forestry and Hunting of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan within the framework of the sectoral program "Green development for 2011-2014" with the support of the project "Conservation and Sustainable management of wild ecosystems" of the United Nations Global Environment Facility (WB/WEF) development program. Kazakhstan has a significant part of all the natural Pontic steppes preserved on Earth, and since ancient times the steppes here have played an important economic and ecological role for the local population. However, today the steppe is the least protected type of ecosystem in Kazakhstan. Buiratau National Nature Park is located in the transition zone between the moderately arid and arid steppe subzones. The territory of SSPP "Buiratau" belongs to the second category of specially protected natural territories that have the status of a nature conservation and scientific institution of national significance, contributes to the preservation of biological and landscape diversity, the preservation of unique natural complexes and objects of the state nature reserve fund that have special ecological, scientific, historical, cultural and recreational value, ecological, ecological and educational development, scientific, intended for use in tourism and recreational purposes. The objects of the SPNA fund are forest, geological, hydrogeological, geomorphological, zoological and botanical objects. The regional nature park of local significance,the territories of the Belodymovsky and Yerementau state nature reserves of republican significance, and the zoological reserve of local significance became part of the RSU "SSPE" Buiratau"."Sokolinye gory". There are four tourist routes on the territory, three of which are located in the territory of Akmola region, one-in the territory of Karaganda region. The largest reserve in Central Kazakhstan with an area of 400 hectares, located in the Karaganda region, is located on the territory of the RSU SSPE "Buiratau". There you can meet deer (stags) and bison. Among the animals of the Buiratau National Park is the North Kazakhstan Argali Duck, listed in the Red Book of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The territory of SSPE "Buiratau" has a fairly large area, әрі and is located at a great distance from major cities 170 km to the territory of the Zhaginsky Belodymsky branch of Karaganda and 120 km to the territory of the Yerementau branch of Astana.

Karkaraly National Nature Park

Karkaraly is a stunning mountain oasis in the middle of the Kazakh steppe, famous for its pine forests, unique rock formations, and alpine lakes. 📍 Must-See Locations Lake Shaitankol (Devil's Lake): A mysterious lake at 1,200m altitude, surrounded by granite cliffs. Lake Bassein (The Basin): A natural rectangular pool carved into the rock by nature. Zhirensakal Peak: The highest point (1,403m) offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire park. Three Caves: An easy-to-reach archaeological site and natural wonder. Kyzyl-Kensh Palace: Ruins of an ancient Buddhist temple located in the Kent Mountains. Wildlife & Nature Keep an eye out for Argali (mountain sheep), red deer (maral), and roe deer. The park is a "botanical museum" with rare plants like the Karkaraly barberry

Shunak meteorite crater

Shunak is a unique impact crater (astrobleme) located in the vast steppes of Central Kazakhstan. It is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and those interested in geology and space history. Origin: Formed by a massive meteorite impact approximately 12 to 45 million years ago. Dimensions: The crater has a nearly perfect circular shape with a diameter of about 3 km and a depth of up to 400 meters (from the rim to the base). Landscape: It is surrounded by a ring-shaped rocky ridge rising 50–80 meters above the plain, creating a spectacular "natural stadium" effect.

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Begazy-Dandybay Mausoleums: The Heritage of the Steppe

Begazy-Dandybay refers to unique megalithic burial structures of the Late Bronze Age (12th–8th centuries BC). It represents a critical transitional period between the Andronovo and Saka cultures. Location: Shet District, Karaganda Region. The site covers 10 hectares in the mountain valleys of Central Kazakhstan. Architecture: The mausoleums are constructed using massive granite slabs weighing up to 3 tons. These square-shaped structures reach up to 4 meters in height and feature complex internal chambers, sarcophagi, and surrounding galleries. Cultural Significance: The monumentality of the site reflects a highly stratified society, marking the burial places of tribal leaders and elites. Global Recognition: Since 1998, the site has been on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. It was extensively studied by the renowned archaeologist Alkey Margulan, who defined this unique culture.

Aksoran Peak is the highest point of the Kyzylarai Mountains and the Kazakh Uplands (Saryarka) in general, with an elevation of 1,565 meters. The panorama of the mountain-steppe oasis opening from the summit is well worth the climb of approximately 600 meters. From Aksoran Peak, one can overlook the surroundings for up to a hundred kilometers, and a keen observer can spot the contours of the Bektau-Ata Mountains on the horizon, located 120 kilometers away. The Kyzylarai Mountains are considered the largest habitat of Argali (mountain sheep) within the territory of Kazakhstan. The local pine forests growing on granite rocks are of interest to scientists as the most abundant pine-growing site in the Central Kazakhstan ecosystem bordering the desert. The Kyzylarai Mountains are distinguished by their pristine nature.

Aksoran Peak is the highest point of the Kyzylarai Mountains and the Kazakh Uplands (Saryarka) in general, with an elevation of 1,565 meters. The panorama of the mountain-steppe oasis opening from the summit is well worth the climb of approximately 600 meters. From Aksoran Peak, one can overlook the surroundings for up to a hundred kilometers, and a keen observer can spot the contours of the Bektau-Ata Mountains on the horizon, located 120 kilometers away. The Kyzylarai Mountains are considered the largest habitat of Argali (mountain sheep) within the territory of Kazakhstan. The local pine forests growing on granite rocks are of interest to scientists as the most abundant pine-growing site in the Central Kazakhstan ecosystem bordering the desert. The Kyzylarai Mountains are distinguished by their pristine nature.

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