Winter in Kazakhstan: festivities, activities and traditions

When asked about the best time to visit Kazakhstan, the first answer is often April to June and September to October, when temperatures are most pleasant and most places are accessible.

But if you like the cold, knee-deep snow, and unique, unforgettable experiences, then winter in Kazakhstan will not disappoint!

Winter sports in Kazakhstan: an ideal playground

Kazakhstan is dotted with mountains in the north and south where you can enjoy every winter sport imaginable. Winter sports enthusiasts are sure to find the thrills they are looking for here.

Whether you are a beginner or an expert looking for new ski or snowboard slopes, Kazakhstan has something for all levels.

Enjoy the most popular resorts such as Shymbulak, Medeu, or Zailiyskiy Alatau, or contact a local guide who will find you the best place for off-piste skiing!

Want to discover Kazakhstan through its winter sports but don't know where to start? Contact us for advice or to help you find a local guide suited to your trip!

Winter celebrations in Kazakhstan

Winter in Kazakhstan is also a time of traditional festivals and celebrations linked to the country's history and customs.

1. New Year (January 1)

New Year is a major holiday in Kazakhstan, when family and friends gather for hearty meals, dancing, and singing.

Festive markets and concerts enliven public squares, and the streets are the scene of celebrations.

Tradition dictates that gifts are given on that day rather than on Christmas eve and traditional dishes are shared, including plov, beshbarmak, and shashliks.

2. Orthodox Christmas (January 7)

Celebrated on January 7, Orthodox Christmas illustrates the cultural diversity of Kazakhstan, a secular country where Muslim and Christian traditions coexist harmoniously. This date is also a public holiday, underscoring its national importance.

Unlike in the West, Santa Claus and large family celebrations are mainly associated with New Year's Eve, but the festive atmosphere continues until January 7. Decorations, lights, and markets remain in place throughout the winter, giving Kazakh cities a warm and multicultural atmosphere that accompanies this period of celebration.

3. Krechenia (January 19)

In Kazakhstan, Krechenia is a Christian Orthodox holiday marking the baptism of Christ. In the middle of winter, sometimes in temperatures as low as -40°C in the north of the country, believers—and now also curious onlookers—plunge into holes cut in the ice, called jordans.

The atmosphere is both solemn and impressive, combining contemplation, courage, and solidarity. This ritual symbolizes the purification of body and spirit. Today, it is seen as much as a spiritual tradition as a powerful cultural experience, which people attend to understand the faith, endurance, and identity of local communities.

4. Nauryz (March 21)

Although Nauryz (Persian New Year) is mainly celebrated in spring, as soon as the cold season ends, preparations begin for one of Kazakhstan's most important holidays.

But you'll have to wait until spring to see the decorations on the houses, taste the multitude of traditional dishes prepared for the occasion, such as naryn, and take part in cultural events. Horse races, folk dances, and purification ceremonies punctuate this celebration.

What to do in Kazakhstan in winter?

• ‍Explore the mountains: Take advantage of the exceptional landscapes to go winter hiking, or why not try horseback trekking?
• Try winter sports: Try winter sports: In addition to skiing and snowboarding, go sledding! You may even find guides who organize dog sled rides for an extraordinary experience.

• Ice skating: Take advantage of the frozen lakes at high altitude to go ice skating, or visit the natural ice rink in Medeu, in the Almaty region, which offers spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains (please note that this rink is undergoing modernization work until 2027, with the aim of hosting international competitions in the near future). You can also enjoy the many ice rinks set up in cities for the season!

• Discover Kazakh culture: Winter in Kazakhstan has a special atmosphere: despite the intense cold, life goes on and the streets remain lively. Snow covers the cities and landscapes, giving them a striking beauty. It is also a season conducive to socializing and conviviality. After going out, people gather in chaikhanas—traditional Central Asian tea rooms—or restaurants to warm up and discover the rich and comforting local cuisine in a warm atmosphere.‍
• Relaxing in spas: Kazakhstan is home to several spas and health resorts offering numerous benefits. After a hike in the snow-capped mountains, relax in hot springs surrounded by a unique environment, in a sauna or banya, then, when you come out, dive into the snow to cool off!

📘 If your trip to Kazakhstan is no longer just an idea but a real plan, then you might be interested in our 64-page travel guide ebook. It contains practical advice, itineraries, and inspiration to help you organize your adventure with peace of mind. And if you prefer to talk to us directly, don't hesitate to contact us!

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Budget to go to Kazakhstan