Turkestan

The Persians originally used the term Turkistan to refer to the area across what is now Central Asia, which was inhabited by the Turks and includes areas of modern day Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. In the 1860s, as the Persian Empire was weakened, the Russians were able to take the city in Kazakhstan that is known today as Turkistan. The city is located in the Kazakh south, near the Syr Darya River. The site's legacy dates back to the 4th century and has a long history, being at times known as Yassay and Hazrat. It is the burial place of the Sufi Sheikh Khoja Akhmet Yassawi and for this reason, it's considered an important seat of Islamic learning and is a sacred destination for Muslim pilgrims. In its history, it has been ruled by the Chinese Han dynasty and Tamerlane, and is the site of many historical and architectural places of interest. With its desert climate, the winters are short and cold and the summers long, hot and dry.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

History Museum

Located within the Yassawi Mausoleum complex, the History Museum is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims. The artefacts and exhibitions focus on the teachings of Khoja Akhmet Yassawi, Sufism and Islam. Visitors can explore the exhibits, many of which are labelled in English.

Khoja Ahkmet Yassawi Mausoleum

The vast mausoleum complex commemorates the 10th-century Muslim mystic Khoja Akhmet Yassawi, who died in the city and is buried on the site. The vast mazar built over the mausoleum was commissioned by Tamerlane, and its distinctive turquoise dome attracts flocks of pilgrims every year.

Medieval bathhouse

This beautifully-restored and maintained bathhouse dates back centuries and is a popular destination with visitors from all over. Travelers explore the shady rooms with their exposed brick work, arranged in elaborate domes overhead and the curved alcoves with their cast iron basins.

Tombs

Many important personages from Turkic history are laid to rest in Turkistan. They include Tamerlane's granddaughter, Roghbia Sultan Begum - and her tomb is just one of the many beautifully-designed Khanate mausoleums throughout the city, popular among enthusiasts of ancient architecture.

Turkistan railway station

Considered an important landmark, the city’s railway station was built in 1903 as part of the Orenburg-Tashkent rail route. With its spacious square and fountains to the front, the station is a bustling hub of action with passengers mingling with food sellers.

Kazakhstan Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Turkestan Itineraries

Ancient Kazakhstan: A Journey Back in Time from Almaty to Turkestan

Tribal people have roamed through Kazakhstan for centuries, leaving behind rock carvings, underground mosques, catacombs and so much more for you to discover on this exciting 11-day archaeological tour through Almaty, Issyk Lake, Sairam, and more. Get ready to explore ancient cultures and natural wonders. 

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,900
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Blast Off in Central Asia: 14 Days in Kazakhstan & Uzbekistan

Fourteen days, two countries, eight cities and one rocket launch: there are not many journeys that you’ll make quite like this one. Over the course of two weeks, you’ll be treated to all the important historic sites of Uzbekistan and its ancient Silk Road cities, as well as witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime event – the “Soyuz” rocket being launched into space from the cosmodrome in Baikonur.

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,600
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Cities of Kazakhstan

From Nur-Sultan, formerly known as Astana to Almaty, Shymkent to Turkestan, take in the major cities and sites of Kazakhstan in just six days with this expertly-crafted itinerary. By taking flights instead of overland transportation, you will be able to explore a slew of museums, mausoleums, canyons and caves in less than a week, hitting all the major hot spots and igniting your appetite for Central Asian history and culture. The trip ends at the Uzbekistan border at Chernyaevka, the perfect place for you to continue on, or end your journey.

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
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Cities, Lakes & Mountains of Kazakhstan

Welcome to Kazakhstan, the largest Central Asia country, packed with mountains, deserts, and lakes. This action-packed 11-day itinerary showcases the best of Kazakhstan, from its glistening cities of Nur-Sultan, formerly known as Astana, and Almaty to the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve and Big Almaty Lake. 

 

 

 

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,500
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Cultural Highlights of Kazakhstan

From carved Buddhas to a Muslim shrine, an underground mosque, to the site where Noah’s ark came to rest, this nine-day trip through Kazakhstan will introduce you to this country’s central historical and spiritual elements. Exploring glittering cities and tranquil landscapes, marvel in the rich culture of this Central Asian gem. 

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,000
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Highlights of Kazakhstan: Almaty, Shymkent & Turkestan

It’s impossible to see all the sites of Kazakhstan in just over a week, but we’ve got an action-packed itinerary to show you the highlights! From the glistening city of Almaty to Sairam Ugam National Park and a visit to Turkestan, this itinerary packs in everything from underground mosques to mountain skating. 

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,500
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The Ultimate Kazakhstan Adventure

For two-and-a-half weeks in Kazakhstan, visit modern and ancient cities, local museums and sites of ancient petroglyphs, canyons and gorges, deserts and wildlife preserves. From the capital city of Almaty to the largest city of Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana, this tour is truly The Ultimate Kazakhstan Adventure!

 

 

 

Duration
18 days / 17 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,800
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Epic Kazakhstan: Nur-Sultan to Almaty via the Aral Sea

From large cities to nature reserves, mausoleums to museums, this comprehensive 18-day trip through Kazakhstan provides an excellent overview of what this diverse Central Asian country has to offer. Whether you like to stroll through a major city or hike through the mountains, this itinerary has it all!

 

 

 

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $11,300
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Hampton by Hilton Turkistan

Hampton by Hilton Turkistan

Turkestan, Kazakhstan

The Hampton by Hilton Turkistan is a chic standard hotel in the town center that offers convenient access to many historic sights and highlights. The modern interiors feature pops of bold color and touches of local Oriental flavor. Rooms feature King or Twin beds, a work area with desk, sofa, and modern tech and amenities such as complimentary WIFI. Other hotel facilities include a spacious restaurant, a fitness center, and business center.
Karavansaray Kun Hotel

Karavansaray Kun Hotel

Turkestan, Kazakhstan

The first true luxury hotel in Turkestan, the Kavaransaray Kun Hotel makes a grand entrance combining with 37 specially-designed plush rooms and suites with a fully decked entertainment space. Rooms start at 40 sqm with views featuring the inner square or surrounding foliage. Some rooms and all suites come with private balconies. Facilities and amenities within the hotel include a spa with nail and hair salon, 24-hour dining, laundry services, and complimentary wifi throughout the property. The all-day restaurant, Eposia, serves both local and continental selections. The Kun Hotel is a part of the Karavansaray complex which includes the family-friendly Khaganate hotel, premium boutiques, a food court, outdoor theatre, a show arena, cinema, covered and open bazaars, and a flowing canal feature. The property is centrally-located and approximately 13.5 miles from the airport.

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