7-Day Budget Itinerary in Almaty and Shimkent

Day 1: Friday, April 26 - Arrival in Almaty

In the morning, visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan to learn about the country's history and culture. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore Panfilov Park, where you can see the beautiful Zenkov Cathedral. In the evening, head to the Arbat Street for local street food and souvenir shopping.

• Central State Museum of Kazakhstan: Admission - 1000 KZT ($2.35), Time - 2 hours
• Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral: Free, Time - 1-2 hours
• Arbat Street: Cost varies, Time - 2-3 hours

Day 2: Saturday, April 27 - Almaty City Tour

Start your day by hiking Kok Tobe, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Medeu Skating Rink and explore the Shymbulak Ski Resort. Enjoy the evening at Green Bazaar, where you can find local produce, spices, and traditional Kazakh food.

• Kok Tobe: Cable Car - 2000 KZT ($4.70), Time - 2-3 hours
• Medeu Skating Rink: Admission - 1700 KZT ($4), Time - 2 hours
• Shymbulak Ski Resort: Gondola Lift - 2500 KZT ($5.90), Time - 3-4 hours
• Green Bazaar: Cost varies, Time - 1-2 hours

Day 3: Sunday, April 28 - Big Almaty Lake

Take a day trip to Big Almaty Lake, a stunning turquoise lake nestled in the mountains. Enjoy the scenic beauty, go for a hike, or have a picnic by the lake. You can also visit the nearby Almaty TV Tower for a panoramic view of the city.

• Big Almaty Lake: Transportation - 3000 KZT ($7.05), Time - 4-5 hours
• Almaty TV Tower: Admission - 2000 KZT ($4.70), Time - 1-2 hours

Day 4: Monday, April 29 - Travel to Shimkent

Travel from Almaty to Shimkent by train or bus, which takes around 6-7 hours. After arriving in Shimkent, stroll around the Central Park and visit the Regional History Museum to explore the city's past. Enjoy a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local restaurant.

• Transportation to Shimkent: Cost varies based on mode of transport, Time - 6-7 hours
• Central Park: Free, Time - 1-2 hours
• Regional History Museum: Admission - 500 KZT ($1.18), Time - 2 hours
• Kazakh Dinner: Cost varies, Time - 1-2 hours

Day 5: Tuesday, April 30 - Turkestan

Take a day trip to Turkestan to explore the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Turkestan Archaeological Museum and enjoy a traditional Kazakh tea ceremony. Return to Shimkent in the evening.

• Transportation to Turkestan: Cost varies based on mode of transport, Time - 2-3 hours
• Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: Admission - 200 KZT ($0.47), Time - 2-3 hours
• Turkestan Archaeological Museum: Admission - 300 KZT ($0.71), Time - 1-2 hours
• Kazakh Tea Ceremony: Cost varies, Time - 1 hour
• Transportation back to Shimkent: Cost varies based on mode of transport, Time - 2-3 hours

Day 6: Wednesday, May 1 - Shimkent City Tour

Start your day by exploring the Independence Monument Square and the historic Ascension Cathedral. Visit the Aisha Bibi Mausoleum, known for its unique architecture. In the evening, enjoy a walk along the promenade of Shymkent City Park.

• Independence Monument Square: Free, Time - 1 hour
• Ascension Cathedral: Free, Time - 1 hour
• Aisha Bibi Mausoleum: Admission - 500 KZT ($1.18), Time - 1-2 hours
• Shymkent City Park: Free, Time - 1-2 hours

Day 7: Thursday, May 2 - Departure

Spend your last morning in Shimkent visiting the Regional History Museum. Indulge in some local cuisine for lunch before departing for your return journey.

• Regional History Museum: Admission - 500 KZT ($1.18), Time - 2 hours
• Local Cuisine: Cost varies, Time - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the ancient city of Otrar, an important archaeological site near Shimkent. Explore the ruins, including the Otyrar Fortress and Bathhouse of Sultan Sauran. Another local favorite is the Saty handicraft market, where you can find traditional Kazakh crafts and souvenirs.

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