Archaeological trip to Kazakhstan: learn the history of Central Asia

At first glance, Kazakhstan is not a destination renowned for its historical tourism. However, upon closer inspection, one discovers a country rich in historical remains, often hidden beneath its vast landscapes. These traces of history, deeply rooted in Kazakh culture, are a true heritage to be preserved.

This article offers a few ideas for places to discover, to encounter these witnesses of time, scattered throughout Kazakhstan.

1. Tamgaly (Tanbaly) and Tamgaly-Tas: ancient art engraved in the rocks

The Tamgaly (or Tanbaly) Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to more than 5,000 rock carvings dating back over 2,000 years.

These petroglyphs, created by nomadic peoples of the Bronze Age, were only discovered in 1957 and offer a glimpse into the daily life of the ancient inhabitants of the steppes through depictions of wild animals, warriors on horseback, hunting scenes, and mystical figures.

➜ About 2 hours from Almaty

➜ Accessible by car or taxi

➜ Best seen in the afternoon, when the light is strongest

Just 50 kilometers away, discover Tamgaly-Tas, a site rich in petroglyphs dating from the 12th to the 16th century, depicting Buddhist deities and offering greater artistic diversity than Tamgaly.

2. The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi: a masterpiece of Islamic architecture

In the historic city of Turkestan stands the majestic Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, which impresses with its Islamic architecture.

Built to replace the former tomb of the poet and Sufi teacher of the same name, who died in 1166, it was the subject of experimentation with new architectural and structural solutions during its construction from 1389 to 1405, and remains unfinished following the death of the ruler, Timur, who commissioned its construction. To this day, it remains one of the largest and best-preserved buildings of the Timurid era.

➜ Accessible by train from Almaty to Altyn Orda station, then 3 km by bus or taxi

3. Sauran: the lost city of the Silk Road

The city of Sauran was once a vibrant center of trade, learning, and military strategy along the Silk Road from the 10th to the 18th century.

The site covers 50 hectares and is located 15 km from the modern village of Sauran, near Turkestan.

Built from clay and crisscrossed by an ingenious water supply system, it is the only medieval city in Kazakhstan to have remained so well preserved, transporting visitors back in time to the fascinating commercial history of the Silk Road.

➜ Accessible from Almaty by car, bus, and train (nearly 800 km), or by plane to Turkestan Airport.

4. Aksu-Zhabagly: a blend of nature and history

The Aksu-Zhabagyly Nature Reserve was founded in 1926, between the Tien Shan mountains and vast expanses of steppes, canyons, and caves.

In addition to its rich flora and fauna, it hides a few treasures from prehistoric history and monuments from the Bronze and Iron Ages on its outskirts.

It also has two paleontological sites: Auliye and Karabastau.

➜ Accessible in 10 hours by train from Almaty to Tulkibas, then by bus or taxi

➜ Allow several days to explore the area. Book a guide, a horseback or jeep trek, and enjoy a night in a yurt.

➜ As everywhere else, respect for nature is essential, so bring all the amenities you need.

5. Issyk: the tomb of the golden man

During construction work for a parking lot, numerous burial mounds, known as kurgans, were discovered. Although most had been looted, one treasure remained buried, which later became the symbol of modern Kazakhstan: the remains of a young adult.

Their gender remains open to interpretation, but what is certain is that this young individual, found wearing their battle armor and other objects totaling nearly 4,000 gold items, was of princely descent.

You can see a replica of this armor in the Issyk Museum, while the original, like the few others found later in different regions of Kazakhstan, is located in Astana.

➜ About 70 km from Almaty, accessible by car, or by marshrutka and then taxi from the Sairan bus station.

➜ Enjoy the nearby Issyk Alpine Lake, formed by a powerful earthquake about 10,000 years ago.

6. Mangystau

Mangystau is a fascinating region, both for its spectacular landscape and its rich historical and archaeological heritage.

Its unique landscapes, marked by impressive rock formations and desert expanses, are the ideal setting for discovering remains dating back to the Khazar Empire, as well as Buddhist and Zoroastrian sites.

Among the must-see attractions are the Shakpak-Ata mausoleum complex, prehistoric rock carvings in the Tamgaly Valley, and spectacular natural formations in the desert.

→ Accessible from Almaty with a 2-hour flight. Then take a taxi or bus.

→ Avoid winter and summer, as temperatures in the desert reach extremes during these seasons.

There are numerous sites that bear witness to the history of Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Contact local guides to benefit from their expert knowledge and learn more about the country's traditions and hidden treasures.

💬 Whether you're already planning your trip or still undecided, contact us for personalized advice and off-the-beaten-track ideas. Write to us on Instagram, WhatsApp, email (easternpathsdata@gmail.com) or book a call !

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