Tour Overview
Duration
5N / 6D
Difficulty
Easy
Max Altitude
3,200m
Start/End
Almaty
Best Season
May to October / Dec to March (Skiing)
Stay Type
4-Star Hotel
Embark on an adventure to Central Asia. Explore Almaty, the largest city of Kazakhstan. See the majestic Charyn Canyon (cousin of the Grand Canyon), relax by the mountain-ringed Kolsay Lakes, and ride cable cars up to the Shymbulak ski resort.
Tour Highlights
Explore the red clay formations of Charyn Canyon (Valley of Castles)
Ride the cable car to Shymbulak Ski Resort at 3,200m
See the majestic high-altitude Kolsay Lakes surrounded by pines
Visit the Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden church built without nails
Ride the Kok Tobe Hill cable car for panoramic city views
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Almaty. Transfer to hotel. Half-day city tour covering Republic Square, Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov Park, and Green Bazaar. Overnight in Almaty.
Drive to Charyn Canyon. Walk through the spectacular 2km Valley of Castles. Enjoy a picnic lunch near Charyn River. Return to Almaty. Overnight.
Take a day trip to the alpine Kolsay Lakes. Walk through spruce forests, take a boat ride on the lake, and enjoy pristine mountain scenery. Return to Almaty. Overnight.
Visit Medeu, the world's highest speed skating rink. Take the gondola cable car to Shymbulak Ski Resort. Walk around the ski slopes. Return to Almaty. Overnight.
Take the cable car to Kok Tobe hill (highest point in Almaty) to see the TV tower and mini zoo. Visit Arbat street and local malls for shopping. Overnight.
Check out from hotel. Transfer to Almaty International Airport for your departure flight back home.
Inclusions
- 5 Nights stay at a 4-star hotel in Almaty
- Daily breakfast at the hotel
- Charyn Canyon and Kolsay Lakes park entry permits
- Cable car tickets to Shymbulak (Phase 1 & 2) and Kok Tobe
- AC private vehicle for transfers
Exclusions
- Kazakhstan Visa charges (Visa-free for Indian passport holders up to 14 days)
- International flights to Almaty
- Lunch and dinner not mentioned
- Personal expenses
Things to Carry
Gear & Bags
- Backpack (50-60L) with rain cover
- Daypack (20-30L) for daily essentials
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- Headlamp or torch with extra batteries
Clothing
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- Warm layers (fleece / down jacket)
- Quick-dry trekking pants & shirts
- Woolen socks, gloves, and beanie
Personal Essentials
- Water bottles / hydration pack (2L)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm
- Personal medical kit & toiletries
- Power bank & camera spare batteries
Know Before You Go
- Please note that high-altitude activities require proper physical conditioning.
- Carry a valid government ID (Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID) at all times. PAN Card is not accepted as proof of identity at army checkpoints.
- Climatic conditions at high elevations can change rapidly. Always follow instructions of the tour guide/expedition leader.
- Consumption of alcohol or drugs during active trekking or riding hours is strictly prohibited.
- Ensure you are adequately covered by adventure travel insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best season is May to October / Dec to March (Skiing), offering optimal weather and trail/road conditions.
This tour is graded as Easy. Daily physical conditioning (cardio, jogging, stairs) 2-3 weeks prior is recommended.
We provide 4-Star Hotel on twin sharing basis. Single supplements are available upon request.
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