Hostels in ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN

City Almaty – Experience the Charm of the Land of Apples

Almaty, literally means the land of apples in Kazakh language and true to its name there are vast expanses of wild apple tracts in this city. The largest city of Kazakhstan, Almaty is famous for its stunning natural spectacles, exquisite buildings and a lip smacking cuisine.

History
Almaty was founded by Russians in 1854. The earlier inhabitants included the Saka tribes and Uisun tribes, during whose reign, Almaty became an education center. In the middle ages, it became part of the Silk Road. Kazakh state was founded close to Almaty in the 18th century, which also saw the war between Kazakhs and Dzungars. The modern history of the city began with the strengthening of the Russian piedmont Fort Verniy in the early 19th century. The city witnessed much turmoil including the World War I & II. In 1993 the Government renamed it as Almaty and in 1997, it ceased to be the capital of Kazakhstan when the capital was shifted to Astana.

Popular places:
Almaty is famous for winter sports facilities like skiing apart from adventure activities like mountain climbing, canyoning and hiking apart from water based leisure activities. Some of the noteworthy attractions include Charyn Canyon and Turgen Gorge.  The Panfilov Park is home to an elegant cathedral in exquisite Soviet-era architecture. A cable car ride across the Kök Töbe Mountain is another attraction in this city. It ensures a panoramic view of the city and its enchanting surroundings.

Some of the other attractions include the National History Museum, The Republic Square, the Presidential Palace and the Oriental Calendar Fountain among others. Almaty has a vibrant night life and has many night clubs, casinos, bars and cafes where you can enjoy your favorite drinks or explore its wine and dine options.

The diverse landscape of Almaty comprising of snow capped mountains, forests and lakes are well suited for an array of sporting and leisure activities like horse riding, mountain climbing or nature trails.

Getting around:
Public buses and trolleys are the most affordable and convenient modes of transport in this city, a good guide is to keep some small notes and coins handy to pay for your journey. Taxis and private vans are also available.

Places of Entertainment:
The spectacular mountain lakes around Almaty, including the  famous  Big Almaty Lake surrounded by three mountain peaks is one of the popular tourist spots in Almaty. Horse riding and trekking are the most favored leisure activities here.

Accommodation Options:
There are various types of accommodation options in Almaty including budget hotels, guesthouse, bed & breakfast, youth hostels, inns, motels, Inns and apartments.

Currency:
Tenge is the currency of Almaty, which is easily available with Banks and with any authorized travel agencies, to get the most for your money check the news and internet for the latest exchange rates.

Almaty group accommodation | Cheap hostels & budget hotels