Almaty (Kazakhstan)

Almaty moves to rhythm of mountains and markets, tradition and modernity intertwined. Days begin with crisp air in Panfilov Park, where Zenkov Cathedral glows in morning light, its wooden spires painted in color. Around it, locals stroll shaded paths, laughter mixing with birdsong. From Kok-Tobe Hill, the city spreads below — tree-lined boulevards, glass towers, snow peaks beyond. The ride up by cable car feels like transition from city to sky, panorama widening with each ascent. Beyond city, Big Almaty Lake astonishes — turquoise waters ringed by peaks, reflection flawless in stillness. Higher still, trails lead into alpine meadows where wildflowers bloom, air thins, silence deepens. Markets bring contrast — Green Bazaar alive with spices, fruit, dried apricots, horsemeat delicacies, vendors calling in multiple tongues. Flavors are rich, unfamiliar, layered with Silk Road heritage. Evenings soften. In Arasan Baths, steam rises, marble halls echo with quiet ritual. Heat, plunge, rest — cycle of renewal unchanged through centuries. Further afield, Charyn Canyon stretches vast and ochre, its “Valley of Castles” carved in sandstone. Walking its floor feels like journey through time, light shifting, silence immense. Winter turns Almaty into playground — Shymbulak’s slopes filled with skiers, chalets warm with mulled wine. Summer brings hikers into meadows alive with edelweiss and streams. Almaty is city that holds contrasts with ease — bazaar and boulevard, canyon and cathedral, modernity and memory — always with mountains near.