1. Fascinating Kazakh Collections
As you'd hope from Kazakhstan's national museum, there's plenty to discover and digest in this massive attraction, so divert a day from your schedule and dive in. The core of the museum tells the Kazakh story, from prehistoric times, through nomadic eras, Russian domination, and independence, and it's a great primer. But pride of place goes to more humble exhibits, like a crumb of bread carried by a survivor of the Soviet-era Great Famine. Less powerful, perhaps, is the homage to Nursultan Nazarbayev, the father of modern Kazakhstan, but the hero worship is still fascinating.
2. Shopping, Rides, And Cosiness In An Incredible Setting
Astana isn't short of eye-catching architecture. The Kazakh state has gone all-out to put the capital on the map (literally, as it was hardly there 30 years ago). The centerpiece of this drive for glory has to be Khan Shatyr. Designed by big-name architect Norman Foster, this slanted dome is 150 meters tall and made from an advanced form of plastic, which keeps it warm, even in the depths of the Kazakh winter. Inside there's a grand shopping mall, a beach club, and rides, but the real appeal is the totally unique building itself.
3. A Pyramid Of Understanding And Hope
Elegantly simple in its conception, this pyramid made from steel and glass is a symbol of modern Kazakhstan's position between east and west, Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity. The aims may be lofty, but the architecture measures up, with gorgeous stained glass doves, a cavernous opera theater, and an artful use of light and shade to create intriguing interior atmospheres. Tours are recommended, and take just 30 minutes, while the nearby flower gardens are also a great place to unwind.
4. Superb Views From Astana's Icon
Located on Nurzhol Boulevard in the very center of Astana, Bayterek is unmissable, largely due to its massive size. The monument soars to a height of 97 meters, like an oversized vase, with a sphere at its tip. The whole thing is intended to be an allegory for Kazakhstan's founding story, where the sphere represents an egg laid by a mythical bird in a poplar tree. You'll learn the story when you visit the on-site museum, but more importantly, you'll get superb views from the observation deck.
5. Central Asia's Most Beautiful Mosque
Another of modern Astana's unforgettable buildings, Hazrat Sultan only opened in 2012, but has the look and harmony of mosques dating back centuries. Among Central Asian places of worship, Hazrat Sultan is bested only by Turkmenistan's central mosque in terms of size, but may be more elegant, both inside and out. Prayers are an awesome sight, with 5,000 worshippers present at one time, but the 51 meter high dome is inspiring as well. Intended to be a bridge between a palace and a mosque, it achieves that, and more.
