If you are traveling to Kazakhstan, be sure to add its western part, one of the most exciting destinations in the country, to your list of places to visit. You will enjoy the beautiful landscapes, interesting activities and discoveries and delicious food.
Mangyshlak
Mangyshlak Peninsula is located in the southwestern part of Kazakhstan. Mangyshlak was a shelter for ancient civilizations. Many monuments from the Paleolithic, Neolithic and Eneolithic times have been found here. During the Great Silk Road, Mangyshlak served as a gateway between East and West. Despite its harsh climate, about 263 plant species and many animal species are found on the territory of Mangyshlak. It is also famous for its healing springs. Here you can even find thermal springs similar in temperature to the unique springs in Kamchatka.
In addition to endless deserts reminding the Martian landscapes, Mangyshlak is surrounded by extraordinarily beautiful mountains like Northern Aktau and Shergala and golden sandy beaches like Blue Bay.
Uralsk
The majority of Uralsk’s history and its distinctively original architecture is tied to the city’s founders – free Cossack. Tourists are attracted to dozens of historical sites, including the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the House-Museum of Yemelyan Pugachev, the Regional Museum of Local History, and the Mikhailo-Arkhangelsk Cathedral. Visit this charming city to discover the fascinating part of Kazakhstan’s history connected to the Russian Empire.
Shakpak-ata mosque
The Shakpak-ata underground mosque is a sacred place surrounded by a special halo of mystery. It was carved into the rock around the 10th century. It resembles white porous chocolate, consisting of a thousand voids. Inside the mosque it is cool, here you can escape from the hot steppe. The walls are decorated with inscriptions, images of horses, riders and open palms. It is known that the Sufis who lived in this cave helped people who came here to get rid of diseases. Until now, the mosque attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over who come to this place to ask for health.
Sultan-apa Necropolis and Mosque
Another well-known highlight of Western Kazakhstan is the Sultan-apa mosque dating back to the 9th-12th centuries. It consists of several rooms, over which domes of an unusual shape are erected. According to legend, Sultan-apa was the protector of sailors and the patron of fishermen. Next to the mosque, there is the tomb of this saint. There is a well near the mosque. According to the locals, it has healing properties.
