Nurzhol Boulevard: The Modern Heart of Nur-Sultan
Explore Nurzhol Boulevard in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan: A blend of modern architecture, cultural landmarks, and lush green spaces in the heart of the capital city.
Nurzhol Boulevard is the vibrant and modern heart of Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan's capital city. This stunning boulevard stretches from the Presidential Palace to the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, showcasing an impressive array of architectural marvels and lush green spaces. Designed by the renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa, Nurzhol Boulevard is a testament to the city's rapid development and forward-thinking vision. Visitors to Nurzhol Boulevard can explore a variety of attractions, including the iconic Bayterek Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The boulevard is also home to the National Museum of Kazakhstan, where tourists can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the nation. For those seeking relaxation, the peaceful gardens and fountains along the boulevard provide a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. As you stroll down Nurzhol Boulevard, you'll encounter a blend of contemporary and traditional Kazakh elements, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. The boulevard is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering a taste of local cuisine and a chance to purchase traditional Kazakh crafts. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the sights, Nurzhol Boulevard is a must-visit destination in Nur-Sultan.
Local tips in Nurzhol Boulevard
- Visit Bayterek Tower early in the morning to avoid long lines and enjoy a peaceful view of the city.
- Wear comfortable shoes as Nurzhol Boulevard is best explored on foot.
- Try local dishes at the cafes and restaurants along the boulevard for an authentic Kazakh culinary experience.
- Take a guided tour of the National Museum of Kazakhstan to fully appreciate the country's history and culture.
- Carry a water bottle, especially during the summer months, as it can get quite warm.
Local Phrases
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- HelloСәлем
[Salem] - GoodbyeЖақсы көріңіз
[Jaqsy köriniz] - YesИя
[Iya] - NoЖоқ
[Joq] - Please/You're welcomeРахмет
[Rakhmet] - Thank youРахмет
[Rakhmet] - Excuse me/SorryКешіріңіз
[Keshiriniz] - How are you?Қалайсыздар?
[Qalaisyzdar?] - Fine. And you?Жақсы. Сіз күйсіз бе?
[Jaqsy. Siz kúısiz be?] - Do you speak English?Сіз ағылшынша сөйлейсіз бе?
[Siz ağılşınsha sóylesiz be?] - I don't understandМен түсінбеймін
[Men túsinbeymin]
- HelloСәлем
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseМенюді қарау керек
[Meniudi qaraw kerek] - I don't eat meatМен мал тамақтамаймын
[Men mal tamaktamaymin] - Cheers!Тамаққа қосылыңыз
[Tamakqa qosylyniz] - I would like to pay, pleaseТөленуге болады
[Tólenúge bolady]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseМенюді қарау керек
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- Help!Көмек!
[Kómek!] - Go away!Аралас!
[Aralas!] - Call the Police!Полицияға қоңырау шалу
[Politsiıağa qoñırau şalw] - Call a doctor!Дәрігерге қоңырау шалу
[Därıgerge qoñırau şalw] - I'm lostМен алдағым
[Men aldagım] - I'm illМен аурудамын
[Men awrudamın]
- Help!Көмек!
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- I'd like to buy...Сатып алғым келеді
[Satıp alğım keledi] - I'm just lookingТек көріп жатамын
[Tek körıp zhatamın] - How much is it?Ол канша болады?
[Ol kansha bolady?] - That's too expensiveОл тым дорын
[Ol tım dorın] - Can you lower the price?Бағаны төменге алуға болады ма?
[Baqany tómenge aluğa bolady ma?]
- I'd like to buy...Сатып алғым келеді
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- What time is it?Қандай уақыт?
[Qanday waqıt?] - It's one o'clockБір уақыт
[Bir waqıt] - Half past (10)Он жетінде
[On jetinde] - MorningТаң
[Tań] - AfternoonКеш
[Keş] - EveningКешкі
[Keşki] - YesterdayКеше
[Keşe] - TodayБүгін
[Búgín] - TomorrowЕртең
[Erteñ] - 1Бір
[Bir] - 2Екі
[Eki] - 3Үш
[Üsh] - 4Төрт
[Tórt] - 5Бес
[Bes] - 6Алты
[Altı] - 7Жеті
[Jeti] - 8Сегіз
[Segiz] - 9Тоғыз
[Toğız] - 10Он
[On]
- What time is it?Қандай уақыт?
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- Where's a/the...?... қайда?
[... Qayda?] - What's the address?Мекен-жайы қайда?
[Meken-jayı qayda?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Меніңге (карта бойынша) көрсете аласыз ба?
[Menińge (karta boyınşa) körsete alasız ba?] - When's the next (bus)?Келесі кезде (автобус) кетеді ме?
[Kelesi kezde (avtobus) ketedí me?] - A ticket (to ....)Билет (...ға)
[Bilet (...ğa)]
- Where's a/the...?... қайда?
History of Nurzhol Boulevard
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Nurzhol Boulevard, often regarded as the heart of Nur-Sultan, was conceived in the early 2000s as part of President Nursultan Nazarbayev's vision to transform the capital into a modern metropolis. The boulevard was inaugurated in 2001, aligning with Kazakhstan's independence and the ambition to showcase the country's development. Its design reflects a blend of modern architecture and Kazakh cultural elements, symbolizing the nation's progress.
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Nurzhol Boulevard is flanked by several iconic buildings, including the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, designed by renowned architect Norman Foster. This pyramid-shaped structure was completed in 2006 and serves as a symbol of Kazakhstan's commitment to peace and unity. The boulevard itself became a cultural hub, hosting various events, exhibitions, and festivals that celebrate Kazakh traditions and contemporary arts.
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Over the years, Nurzhol Boulevard has evolved into a symbol of national pride for Kazakhstanis. The boulevard hosts the annual 'Nauryz Meyrami' celebrations, marking the Persian New Year, which is significant in Kazakh culture. As a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, it reflects the aspirations of a young nation seeking to establish its identity on the global stage.
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In recent years, Nurzhol Boulevard has been at the forefront of Nur-Sultan's urban development initiatives focusing on sustainability and green spaces. The city has invested in landscaping and pedestrian-friendly designs, promoting a healthy lifestyle and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. These efforts align with the broader goals of Kazakhstan's green economy strategy, emphasizing environmental sustainability.
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Nurzhol Boulevard has become a venue for various cultural events, including art exhibitions, music festivals, and fairs that showcase local artisans. The boulevard's atmosphere is vibrant, particularly during the summer months when outdoor activities and performances draw crowds, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange among residents and visitors.
Nurzhol Boulevard Essentials
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Nurzhol Boulevard can be easily accessed from various parts of Nur-Sultan. The city has a well-connected public transport system. You can take the bus (routes 10, 12, 21, 34, and 50) to reach the boulevard. Alternatively, taxis are readily available and can provide a quicker option, especially from locations like the airport or downtown Nur-Sultan. For those arriving from other cities, the Nur-Sultan Railway Station is around 10 km away, and you can take a taxi or bus to reach Nurzhol Boulevard.
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Nurzhol Boulevard is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, the public bus system is efficient, with several routes running along the boulevard. Bicycles are another great option, as bike lanes are available. You can rent bikes from various rental services nearby. Ridesharing apps operate in the city as well, providing a convenient way to get around.
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Nurzhol Boulevard is generally a safe area for tourists, with a visible police presence and well-maintained surroundings. However, like any urban area, it's advisable to be cautious. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep valuables secure. There are no specific high-crime zones targeting tourists, but staying aware of your surroundings is always prudent.
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In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospitals; the National Research Center for Emergency Medical Aid is one option. Having travel insurance that covers emergencies is recommended. In case of minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the area.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Don't wear overly casual or beach attire in urban settings. Religion: Do respect local customs; when visiting religious sites, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to the elderly. Don't use your phone loudly or eat in public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a handshake. Don't assume everyone speaks English; learning a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and drinks. Don't waste food, as it's considered disrespectful.
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To experience Nurzhol Boulevard like a local, visit the numerous cafes and restaurants lining the boulevard for a taste of Kazakh cuisine. Engage with local vendors at the nearby markets, where you can find handmade crafts and traditional foods. Attend any cultural events that may be happening in the area, as they provide a great opportunity to learn about local traditions. Don't miss the opportunity to take a stroll along the river, especially at sunset, to enjoy the stunning city skyline.
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