How to Plan Your Turkistan: 19th-to 21st-Century City Tour and Cooking Class

If you are planning a trip to Turkistan, Kazakhstan, you have an opportunity to take a unique city tour and cooking class, where you can explore the rich history and culture of the city, taste traditional Kazakh cuisine, and learn how to make one of their beloved pastries – Baursak. In this guide, we’ll go over how you can plan your Turkistan: 19th-to 21st-Century City Tour and Cooking Class and what you can expect from the experience.

Experience

The Turkistan: 19th-to 21st-Century City Tour and Cooking Class is a fully guided tour that takes approximately three and a half hours. Here are the highlights of the experience:

Make a Wish by Rubbing the Original Door Handles of the 1907 Train Station

Turkistan was one of the main stops on the Silk Road, and the city has a rich history that goes back thousands of years. The 1907 train station is one of the architectural marvels of the city, and it served as an important transportation hub for the region. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to touch the original door handles of the train station, make a wish, and absorb the energy of the city.

Learn to Make Traditional Beloved Pastry of Kazakh People – Baursak

Kazakh cuisine is known for its hearty and delicious dishes. Baursak is a traditional pastry that is made from flour, eggs, milk, and yeast. It is a beloved pastry of the Kazakh people and is often served with tea. During the tour, you will learn how to make Baursak, and you can enjoy the treat afterward.

Take a Glance at One of the First Locomotives to Dash the TurkSib Railways

The TurkSib railways were built in the early 20th century, connecting the cities of Tashkent, Almaty, and Novosibirsk. During the tour, you will get up close with one of the first locomotives to dash the TurkSib railways and explore the history of this important transportation project.

Enjoy the Beautiful Frescoes at the Walls and Ceiling of the 1907 Train Station

The 1907 train station is not only an impressive feat of architecture, but it is also decorated with beautiful frescoes. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to admire the frescoes on the walls and ceiling of the train station.

Witness the Amazing Transformation of the Downtown of Turkistan

During the tour, you will explore the downtown area of Turkistan, witness its amazing transformation in recent years, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the old oriental bazaar where Turkestanis still buy everything they need – from crispy tandoor samsa to counterfeit ‘Ray Bans’.

Full Description

The Turkistan: 19th-to 21st-Century City Tour and Cooking Class is a unique experience that allows you to explore the rich history and culture of Turkistan. The tour will take you to several locations throughout the city, and you will have the opportunity to learn about the city’s past, present and cooking traditions. Here’s what you can expect from the tour:

Eastern Market

The tour starts at the Eastern Market, where you will get the chance to explore the bustling bazaar and witness Turkistanis go about their daily life. You can observe vendors selling local produce, spices, textiles, and other goods. Treat yourself to some traditional street food such as the crispy tandoor samsa, or try a popular drink like ‘shubat,’ made from fermented camel milk.

Nineteenth-Century Quarters and the Turkestan-Siberia Highway

Next, you will explore the 19th century quarters of the city and the Turkestan-Siberia Highway, which was built in the early 20th century. You will see the silhouettes of the builders of the legendary TurkSib railways, which was one of the most significant infrastructure projects in the region during the time. You may even hear the whistle of an old locomotive nearby the train station built by Tzar in 1907.

Turkestan 21st Century

Lastly, the tour takes you through the winding old streets where you immerse yourself in the contemporary city view of the citizens of Turkistan in the 21st century, admiring the amazing transformation of the downtown.

Booking Your Tour

The tour lasts for approximately three and a half hours, and it’s offered by a third-party company. You can book the tour online through the following link: Book the tour here It’s recommended that you book in advance to secure your spot, and comfortable attire is recommended. Please note that the tour involves quite a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. In conclusion, the Turkistan: 19th-to 21st-Century City Tour and Cooking Class is an ideal way to experience the rich history and culture of Turkistan, Kazakhstan, which is a unique city with a fascinating story. Book your tour today and start exploring!

Frequently Asked Questions about Turkistan

Turkistan is a city located in Kazakhstan that once served as the capital of the Kazakh Khanate. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring the city’s historic landmarks, shrines, and mausoleums. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Turkistan:

1. What is the best time to visit Turkistan?

The best time to visit Turkistan is from April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. July and August are summer months that bring hot and dry weather, while December to March is winter, with its biting cold.

2. What are some must-visit places in Turkistan?

Turkistan has many historical and cultural sites that are worth visiting, including:

– The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi:

This is the most famous landmark in Turkistan and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It was built in the 14th century and is the final resting place of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a famous Sufi philosopher and poet.

– The Mausoleum of Arystanbab:

This is a mausoleum dedicated to the famous Kazakh sage Arystanbab. The complex consists of several buildings, including a mosque and a madrasah.

– The Mausoleum of Rabiga Sultan Begim:

This is the final resting place of Rabiga Sultan Begim, a powerful woman in Kazakh history known for her charitable acts.

– The Great Silk Road Museum:

This museum provides an insight into the history and traditions of the Great Silk Road. It has many interesting exhibits and displays, including ancient artifacts and maps.

3. Is Turkistan safe to visit?

Yes, Turkistan is a safe city to visit. However, like any other city, tourists should exercise caution when traveling, particularly at night and in areas that are not well lit. Tourists should also be mindful of their belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

4. What is the official language in Turkistan?

The official language of Turkistan, and Kazakhstan as a whole, is Kazakh. However, Russian is also widely spoken in the city and is recognized as an official language alongside Kazakh.

5. What is the local currency used in Turkistan?

The local currency used in Turkistan is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). Visitors can exchange their currency at banks or exchange bureaus located in the city.

6. What are some traditional foods to try in Turkistan?

Turkistan is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Central Asian, Russian, and Turkish influences. Some traditional dishes to try in Turkistan include:

– Beshbarmak:

This is a national dish in Kazakhstan made from boiled meat, usually lamb or beef, and served with noodles and onions.

– Lagman:

This is a hearty noodle soup made with meat and vegetables.

– Shashlik:

This is a popular dish in Kazakhstan that consists of marinated grilled meat, usually lamb or beef, served with vegetables.

– Baursak:

This is a fried dough snack that is commonly eaten in Central Asia. It is usually served with tea and is a popular breakfast item.

7. What is the best way to get around Turkistan?

The best way to explore Turkistan is on foot, as many of the city’s attractions are located close to each other. Taxis and public transportation are also available, including buses and minibusses. Tourists can also rent private cars or take guided tours to explore the city at their own pace. In conclusion, Turkistan is a great destination for tourists interested in exploring the history and culture of Central Asia. With its beautiful landmarks, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Turkistan has something for everyone.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Turkistan

Are you planning a vacation to Turkistan and looking for things to do? Turkistan is a city rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of activities to keep any tourist entertained. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time in Turkistan.

1. Visit the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum

Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum is one of the most popular attractions in Turkistan, and it’s not hard to see why. It is a stunning mausoleum dating back to the 14th century and is considered to be the most important Islamic site in Kazakhstan. The mausoleum is a masterpiece of Timurid architecture, and its intricate details and stunning tile work are sure to leave you in awe.

How to Get There

To get to the mausoleum, you can take a taxi from the city center, which will cost approximately 500 tenge ($1.15 USD). Alternatively, you can take a bus from the main bus station, which is located near the market area.

2. Explore the Old City

The Old City of Turkistan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many historic buildings and monuments. Tourists should take the time to explore the Old City to experience the rich history of the city. There are many narrow streets, bazaars, and ancient buildings that give a glimpse into Turkistan’s illustrious past.

What to See in the Old City

When exploring the Old City, be sure to visit the following attractions:

• The Fortress Walls
• The Friday Mosque
• The Eastern Bathhouse
• The Underground Water System
• The Kaskabulak Mausoleum

How to Get There

The Old City is located in the center of Turkistan, and it is easily accessible by walking or taking a taxi. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and are very affordable.

3. Visit the Mausoleum of Rabiga Sultan Begim

The Mausoleum of Rabiga Sultan Begim is one of the most beautiful and unique Islamic monuments in Central Asia. It was built in the late 16th century and is known for its intricate tile work and stunning design. The mausoleum is located outside the city center, but it is definitely worth the visit.

How to Get There

To get to the mausoleum, take a taxi from the city center. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and will cost approximately 2000 tenge ($4.60 USD).

4. Discover the Town of Turkestan

Turkestan is a small town located outside the city center of Turkistan, and it is home to many historic sites and interesting places to visit. The streets of Turkestan are lined with small shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect place to explore.

What to See in Turkestan

When visiting Turkestan, be sure to check out the following attractions:

• The Mausoleum of Arystan Bab
• The Turkistan Regional History Museum
• The Necropolis of Ismail Yasawi

How to Get There

To get to Turkestan, take a taxi from the city center. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes and will cost approximately 2500 tenge ($5.75 USD).

5. Try Kazakh Cuisine

Kazakh cuisine is a unique blend of flavors, and there are many delicious dishes to try in Turkistan. From the famous Beshbarmak, a dish made of boiled meat and noodles, to the sweet Shubat, a refreshing drink made from fermented camel milk, you are sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds.

Where to Eat

There are many restaurants and cafes in Turkistan that serve traditional Kazakh cuisine. Some popular places to try include:

• Beshbarmak Restaurant
• Shashlyk Cafe
• Sultan Kebab House

How to Get There

Most restaurants and cafes are located in the city center and are easily accessible by walking or taking a taxi.

Book Your Tour Now

Turkistan is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to do and see, from exploring the Old City to trying traditional Kazakh cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Turkistan has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable vacation in Turkistan.