The Stans Part I - Kazakhstan

You’ve heard of the ‘stans, even if you don’t realize it. They are quickly becoming the new backpacker circuit in Central Asia, offering great off-road touring, expansive nature, and that slight twinge of discomfort in not knowing how safe really things are, which the more adventurous travelers just can’t get enough of. So here’s your four-part quick guide on the ‘stans, starting with Kazakhstan.

Photo credit - Martijn Munneke

Photo credit - upyernoz

A Russian Legacy

Kazakhstan is the largest of the ‘stans and the world’s nine largest country, bordering on Russia which is just to the north. This part of Asia was under the Soviet Union’s control until 1991, and the communist legacy has left an indelible impression on the country. At first glance, the empty rusting ships that sit on the Aral Sea look like the poor victims of global warming, or perhaps the oddly placed film set. However, it was the Russians who diverted rivers away from this massive lake to irrigate cotton fields. It is a must-see.

Then there is the ever-present radioactive threat from former Soviet nuclear dumps; many villages are death traps where radiation levels are thousands of times higher than safe. Similar to the Aral Sea, across the country entire villages laid empty and abandoned, left to rot.

Photo credit - Irene2005

Photo credit - Colleen Taugher

Almaty Joy

Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and its former capital. It is a popular stop with tourists and expats because of the great urban vibe yet snow-capped mountains within eyesight on a clear day. Some of the best views are from Koktobe , which can be reached by cable car.

You cannot tour the presidential palace in Almaty, but the architecture is worth a visit. Across the street is the National Museum, which has explores Kazahk history. But when you’re finished, it is market time. Barakholka in the northwest section of town is famous for bargain discounts on knock-off products; it is busiest on weekends, especially Sunday, the perfect opportunity for people-watching. Zelyony Bazaar is another loud, crazy place where you can find great spices to take back as souvenirs.

For getting out of town, be sure to check out the Turgen Gorge, famous for its waterfalls. There are several walking trails through the forests as well as hot springs. There is so much near Almaty, hence why it makes such a great tourist base.

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Photo credit - Dan..

Tian Shan Mountains

It seems like most tourists I know who visit Kazakhstan head for the Tian Shan mountains. But why not – its exactly what many countries don’t have: endless miles of desolate mother nature, waiting to be explored and show off its hidden gems. Big Almaty Lake is must-see for sure – the blue of the lake is unreal. But what about the Tian Shan Astronomical Observatory? Better see it while you can – with a lack of funding, its future remains unclear. Or the Alma Arasan ski resort? Or the Kosmostantsia meteorological research center? As if another world, the Tian Shan feels like its stuck in another time. Just read this Tian Shan experience for what a preview of what these mountains are like.

If You Go

Nearly all visitors require a visa to enter Kazakhstan. However, many readers will be eligible for a simple application procedure which will grant you a tourist visa you can obtain at any Kazakhstan diplomatic mission. For details and the application, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan website.

Most will find the people of this country warm and friendly as hospitality is part of the Kazakh culture; the biggest problem is a corrupt police force. Be sure to always have your paperwork on hand in case you are asked for it.

Given the size of the country, you’ll likely make heavy use of local transport. Trains and buses are the most common and most economical; you can also use air transport for a few key routes (planes are new and safe), and within cities using local taxis are cheap and fairly easy.

Exploring Uzbekistan

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Known as the ’sunny republic,’ Uzbekistan is arid with annual rainfall between only 4 and 8 inches. But its heavily irrigated river valleys make it the second largest cotton exporter in the world. It also contains important mineral resources and is a world leader in gold production.

Historically, Uzbekistan is exceedingly rich, making it a truly great tourist destination. More than 4,000 historic sites dot the country, and thus its stature as the pearl of the ancient Silk Road. Civilization was already ancient here when Alexander the Great conquered the region in the 4th Century BC. Up until the discovery of ocean routes to India and China, Uzbekistan lay at the crossroads of communication between East and West and was the center of trade and exchange of ideas.

The conqueror Tamerlane (1336-1405) was born near present day Shahrisabz and created an empire that extended throughout Central Asia to Turkey and south to the Ganges. Tamerlane was also a patron of the arts and transformed Samarkand into a magnificent capital for his empire. Importing artisans from conquered territories, He and later rulers commissioned majestic buildings many of which still stand.

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Central among them is the Registan, which was the heart of the city. Madrasahs or Muslim religious academies face three sides of the square, giving, one built by Tamerlane’s grandson who also built an observatory which he used to advance the science of astronomy during his reign.

Another legendary city is Bukhara, lying to the west. Another oases for Silk Road caravans, Bukhara became one of the great learning centers in the Muslim world and spawned the mystical Sufi sect of Islam. The city today still contains 350 mosques and supports more than 100 religious academies. With narrow streets, many parks and gardens, numerous historical sites and lively bazaars, a visit to this ancient city will satisfy a diverse range of interests. Travel here and you are sure to find something that resonates with your spirit.

Photo credits - Sitomon

Further west still, you come to a museum under the blue sky, Khiva. A city reputed to have been founded by Shem, one of the Biblical Noah’s sons, Khiva has preserved its ancient past and been turned into a living record of its days as a key center of trade along the Silk Road. The historic center of the city contains spectacular examples of Islamic architecture. Palaces, minarets and mausoleums from centuries ago have been preserved and refurbished making Khiva a lens through which you can gaze into history.

About the Author. Julia Feydman, has always been fascinated by the history of the Great Silk Road. Over time, her passion as well as many memorable trips to the area have grown into a successful, U.S. based travel agency - East Site, Inc. Central Asia Travel is one of the major routes her company specializes in. Visit her travel website East-Site.com today and discover Uzbekistan for yourself!