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Turkestan
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Discover Turkestan, Kazakhstan's spiritual capital, home to the awe-inspiring Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and a vibrant hub of culture and tradition.

Turkestan, a city in southern Kazakhstan, is a treasure trove of history and culture. It is often referred to as the spiritual capital of Kazakhstan. Steeped in centuries-old traditions and home to some of the country's most significant historical landmarks, Turkestan offers a unique glimpse into the past.
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One of the city's most famous sites is the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of Timurid architecture and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The mausoleum, built in the 14th century, is a pilgrimage site for many Muslims and a symbol of Kazakhstan's rich cultural heritage.
Turkestan is not just about historical monuments. The city is also a vibrant hub of local culture and traditions. Visitors can explore bustling bazaars, sample delicious Kazakh cuisine, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people. The city's location at the crossroads of ancient trade routes adds to its charm, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike.

When is the best time to visit Turkestan?

Best: May, August–September · 22–31°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January-217
February116
March721
April1723
May (best)2529
June3136
July3632
August (best)3125
September (best)2220
October1318
November416
December-115

Getting to and around Turkestan

How to get there

Turkestan is accessible via several routes. The nearest international airport is Shymkent International Airport, approximately 160 kilometers away. From Shymkent, you can take a taxi, a shared minibus (marshrutka), or a train to Turkestan. The journey by road typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, there are direct train services from major Kazakh cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan, which offer a scenic route through the Kazakh steppe.

Transportation

Turkestan is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are readily available and inexpensive, making them a convenient option for getting around the city. Public buses and marshrutkas operate within Turkestan and connect with nearby areas. Renting a car is also an option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding regions at your own pace.

Best attractions in Turkestan

Turkestan offers a rich tapestry of historical and cultural attractions for visitors to explore. From the awe-inspiring mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Central Asia, to the ancient city of Sauran with its well-preserved ruins, there is no shortage of fascinating landmarks to discover. Visitors can also wander through the bustling bazaars, sample traditional Kazakh cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. With its stunning architecture, intriguing history, and warm hospitality, Turkestan is a must-visit destination for any traveler with a passion for exploration and discovery.

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Best landmarks in Turkestan

Turkestan, Kazakhstan, offers visitors a rich cultural and historical experience with its impressive landmarks. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases stunning Islamic architecture and intricate tilework. The Turkestan Archaeological Museum provides insight into the region's ancient history, while the Azret-Sultan Mosque is a peaceful place of worship. Visitors can also explore the vibrant bazaars, taste local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the traditional Kazakh way of life.

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Explore Turkestan on the map

Plan your Turkestan trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Turkestan

Turkestan offers a diverse dining scene that reflects its rich cultural history. Visitors can indulge in traditional Kazakh cuisine, such as hearty meat dishes like beshbarmak and manty, as well as flavorful pilafs and shashlik. The city also boasts a variety of international restaurants, serving up everything from Turkish kebabs to Russian dumplings. For a unique dining experience, tourists can dine in yurts or enjoy a meal at a local teahouse, immersing themselves in the vibrant culinary traditions of Turkestan.

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Best bars in Turkestan

Turkestan offers a vibrant nightlife scene that combines traditional Kazakh culture with modern entertainment. Visitors can experience lively bars serving local beverages and delicious snacks, as well as nightclubs with energetic music and dancing. The city comes alive after dark, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the buzzing atmosphere and diverse entertainment options. Whether you're looking to relax with a drink or dance the night away, Turkestan's nightlife has something for everyone to enjoy.

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Best nightclubs in Turkestan

Turkestan offers a vibrant nightlife scene that combines traditional Kazakh culture with modern entertainment. Visitors can experience lively bars serving local beverages and delicious snacks, as well as nightclubs with energetic music and dancing. The city comes alive after dark, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the buzzing atmosphere and diverse entertainment options. Whether you're looking to relax with a drink or dance the night away, Turkestan's nightlife has something for everyone to enjoy.

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Best shops in Turkestan

In Turkestan, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant shopping scene that offers a unique mix of traditional markets and modern shopping centers. The bustling bazaars are filled with colorful stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and textiles to spices and traditional Kazakh souvenirs. Visitors can haggle with friendly vendors and experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional market. For those looking for a more modern shopping experience, Turkestan also boasts several shopping centers with a variety of shops selling clothing, electronics, and more. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or simply want to explore the local shopping scene, Turkestan has something for every type of shopper.

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Turkestan essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available throughout Turkestan, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand if you plan to venture into more remote areas.
Safety
Turkestan is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Turkestan does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Turkestan. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
Local Tips
To experience Turkestan like a local, visit the local bazaars where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Kazakh goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, attend a traditional Kazakh music performance or try horseback riding in the surrounding steppe.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloСәлем[Salem]
GoodbyeҚош келдіңіз[Qoş keldiniz]
YesИя[Iya]
NoЖоқ[Joq]
Please/You're welcomeРахмет[Rakhmet]
Thank youРахмет сізге[Rakhmet sizge]
Excuse me/SorryКешіріңіз[Keshiringiz]
How are you?Қалайсыз ба?[Qalaisyz ba?]
Fine. And you?Жақсым. Сіздің жағдайыңыз қалай?[Jaqsym. Sizdiń jağdaiyynyz qalai?]
Do you speak English?Сіз ағылшынша сөйлейсіз бе?[Siz ağılşınşa söylesiz be?]
I don't understandМен түсінбеймін[Men tüsinbeymin]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseМенюді көруге болады маған, рахмет[Menyudi köruge bolady mağan, rakhmet]
I don't eat meatМен тамақ қазық жемемін[Men tamaq qazıq jememin]
Cheers!Сау болыңыз![Saw bolıńız!]
I would like to pay, pleaseТөлеуге болады маған, рахмет[Töleuge bolady mağan, rakhmet]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Көмек![Kömek!]
Go away!Ауырсың![Awırsıń!]
Call the Police!Полицияға қоңырау шақырыңыз![Politsiıağa qońırau şaqırıńız!]
Call a doctor!Докторға қоңырау шақырыңыз![Doktorğa qońırau şaqırıńız!]
I'm lostМен абзалым[Men abzalım]
I'm illМен аурулым[Men awrulım]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Сатып алуға болады маған...[Satıp aluga bolady mağan...]
I'm just lookingТек көріп тұрмын[Tek körip tурмын]
How much is it?Ол канша болады?[Ol qansha bolady?]
That's too expensiveОл тым де арзан[Ol tım de arzan]
Can you lower the price?Бағаны төмендеуге болады ма?[Bağany tömendeuge bolady ma?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Қандай уақыт?[Qanday waqıt?]
It's one o'clockБір жеткізді[Bir jetkizdi]
Half past (10)Он бесіктен алтыға[On besikten altığa]
MorningТаң[Tań]
AfternoonКеш[Keş]
EveningКеш[Keş]
YesterdayКеше[Keşe]
TodayБүгін[Bügin]
TomorrowЕртең[Erteñ]
1Бір[Bir]
2Екі[Eki]
3Үш[Üsh]
4Төрт[Tört]
5Бес[Bes]
6Алты[Altı]
7Жеті[Jeti]
8Сегіз[Segiz]
9Тоғыз[Toğız]
10Он[On]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?... қайда?[... Qayda?]
What's the address?Мекенжайы қандай?[Mekenjayı qanday?]
Can you show me (on the map)?Карта/картада көрсетсеңіз бе?[Karta/kartada körsetsengiz be?]
When's the next (bus)?Келесі (автобус) кезінде кейін[Kelesi (avtobus) kezinde keyin]
A ticket (to ....)Билет (... -ге)[Bilet (... -ge)]

History of Turkestan

Ancient Beginnings

Turkestan, known as Yassy in ancient times, has roots stretching back to the 4th century AD. It was a significant settlement along the Silk Road, serving as a hub of commercial and cultural exchange between the East and West. The city's strategic location made it a melting pot of various cultures and traditions.

The Rise of Yasawi Sufism

In the 12th century, Turkestan became the epicenter of Yasawi Sufism, a mystical Islamic belief system. This rise was largely due to the influence of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a renowned Sufi poet and philosopher. His spiritual teachings and poetry attracted followers from across Central Asia, establishing Turkestan as a major religious center.

The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

Commissioned by Timur (Tamerlane) in the 14th century, the grand Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is Turkestan's most iconic landmark. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to Timurid architecture, featuring intricate tile work, massive domes, and expansive courtyards. It remains a major pilgrimage site for Muslims in Central Asia.

Timurid Influence

The Timurid Empire, under the leadership of Timur, left a significant mark on Turkestan. Timur's patronage of the arts and architecture led to the city's flourishing as a cultural hub. The period saw the construction of numerous madrasas, caravanserais, and public baths, enhancing the city's status and infrastructure.

Khanate Era

During the 16th to 18th centuries, Turkestan was a key city within the Kazakh Khanate. It served as the political and spiritual capital, where Kazakh khans were crowned and buried. The city's strategic importance continued to grow, and it became a center of resistance against various invading forces.

Russian Imperial Rule

In the late 19th century, Turkestan fell under Russian control as part of the Russian Empire's expansion into Central Asia. The city saw the introduction of new administrative and infrastructural developments. However, Russian rule also led to significant cultural and social changes, impacting the traditional way of life.

Soviet Era Transformation

Under Soviet rule, Turkestan underwent considerable transformation. The Soviet authorities implemented industrialization and collectivization policies, altering the city's economic landscape. Despite these changes, efforts were made to preserve Turkestan's historical and cultural heritage, including the restoration of the Yasawi Mausoleum.

Post-Independence Revival

Following Kazakhstan's independence in 1991, Turkestan experienced a cultural and historical revival. The government undertook significant restoration projects to preserve the city's ancient sites and promote its heritage. Turkestan was declared a city of national significance, further boosting tourism and international interest.

Modern Turkestan

Today, Turkestan is a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern developments. It continues to attract pilgrims, historians, and tourists from around the world. The city's ongoing efforts to balance preservation with progress make it a unique destination, reflecting the rich tapestry of its historical and cultural legacy.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Turkestan

Download Evendo, the 100% free travel guide app for Turkestan, and unlock detailed info on landmarks, attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more for an unforgettable trip.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • Rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details for each location
  • Easy hotel, tour, ticket, and experience bookings
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Explore Turkestan like never before with Evendo, your comprehensive, free travel guide app. Discover the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, and more.

  • History of Turkestan and travel essentials
  • Curated local advice to experience the city like a local
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Planning a trip to Turkestan, Kazakhstan? Evendo is your perfect travel companion, designed to help you make the most of your adventure. This 100% free app-based travel guide provides detailed information on all the must-see attractions, historical landmarks, and top-rated restaurants Turkestan has to offer.

Visit the iconic Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient city. Explore the vibrant local bazaars for unique souvenirs, or unwind at the picturesque Aisha Bibi Mausoleum. Craving a culinary experience? Evendo lists the best local eateries like Zhibek Zholy Restaurant and Alasha, ensuring you savor authentic Kazakh cuisine.

Evendo goes beyond just listing attractions. Each location comes with rich descriptions, stunning images, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it effortless to plan your itinerary. The app also allows you to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly, eliminating the hassle of separate bookings. With features like travel essentials, curated local advice, and easy navigation, Evendo ensures you experience Turkestan like a local. Plus, the 'Near me' feature helps you discover nearby attractions no matter where you are.

Whether you're interested in history, shopping, nightlife, or dining, Evendo has it all in one place. And the best part? It's entirely free with no hidden costs or in-app purchases. Download Evendo today and start exploring Turkestan and over 7,000 other global destinations.

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