40 Interesting Facts about Kazakhstan

Dan October 12, 2023

Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, is a vast and diverse nation situated in Central Asia. Bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west, its strategic geographical location has shaped its history and culture. The capital and largest city is Nur-Sultan (previously known as Astana), a modern metropolis renowned for its futuristic architecture and vibrant urban landscape.

Kazakhstan’s history is deeply rooted in nomadic traditions, dating back to ancient times when various nomadic tribes roamed the expansive steppes. Over the centuries, it witnessed the rise of powerful nomadic empires such as the Kazakh Khanate. Later, it became a part of the Soviet Union until gaining independence in 1991, following the collapse of the USSR.

The country is celebrated for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, including vast steppes, rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and the Caspian Sea coast. The Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon’s little brother,” showcases stunning geological formations and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Kazakhstan is also home to the Altai Mountains, which boast breathtaking scenery and unique flora and fauna.

Kazakhstan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with a fusion of traditions from various ethnic groups. The Kazakh people take pride in their hospitality and have preserved their nomadic customs, traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Kazakh cuisine often includes dishes like beshbarmak (a meat and noodle dish) and koumiss (fermented mare’s milk), reflecting their nomadic roots.

In recent years, Kazakhstan has made significant strides in economic development, fueled by its abundant natural resources, including oil, gas, minerals, and metals. The country is a major player in the global energy market, and its ambitious infrastructure projects and investments aim to position it as a hub for trade and connectivity between Europe and Asia.

To know more about Kazakhstan, let’s take a look at these 40 interesting facts about Kazakhstan.

1. Largest Landlocked Country: Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world, covering an area of over 2.7 million square kilometers (1.05 million square miles).
2. Diverse Geography: The geography of Kazakhstan is diverse, featuring vast steppes, deserts, mountains, lakes, and the Caspian Sea coastline.
3. Nomadic Heritage: Kazakhstan has a rich nomadic heritage, with nomadic traditions deeply ingrained in its history and culture.
4. Charyn Canyon: The Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon’s little brother,” is a remarkable natural attraction with stunning rock formations.
5. Baikonur Cosmodrome: Baikonur Cosmodrome, located in Kazakhstan, is the world’s oldest and largest space launch facility. It was used for the launch of the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into space.
6. Astana to Nur-Sultan: The capital city was formerly known as Astana but was renamed Nur-Sultan in 2019, in honor of Nursultan Nazarbayev, the first President of Kazakhstan.
7. Population Diversity: Kazakhstan is a multi-ethnic country with over 130 ethnic groups, including Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, Ukrainians, and Tatars.
8. Ethnic Kazakhs: The Kazakhs, a Turkic ethnic group, constitute the majority of the population and have their own language, Kazakh, which is written in the Cyrillic script.
9. Soviet Union Era: Kazakhstan was one of the Soviet republics and gained independence on December 16, 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
10. Lake Balkhash: Lake Balkhash, one of the largest lakes in Asia, is notable for having fresh and salty water in different parts due to its unusual shape and origins.
11. Presidential Palace: The Presidential Palace in Nur-Sultan is a striking building, known for its distinctive blue and gold dome.
12. Second Largest Oil Reserves: Kazakhstan is home to the second-largest proven oil reserves among the former Soviet republics, after Russia.
13. Kazakh Steppe: The Kazakh Steppe, one of the world’s largest steppes, stretches across much of Kazakhstan and neighboring countries.
14. Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center: Khan Shatyr, located in Nur-Sultan, is the world’s largest tent-shaped structure and serves as an entertainment and shopping complex.
15. Kazakh Eagle Hunting: The traditional sport of eagle hunting is practiced by Kazakh nomads, showcasing the deep bond between the Kazakhs and eagles.
16. Astana Opera House: The Astana Opera House in Nur-Sultan is a cultural landmark, known for its grand architectural design and hosting world-class performances.
17. Tian Shan Mountains: Kazakhstan shares the Tian Shan mountain range with Kyrgyzstan and China, known for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor activities.
18. Kazakh Cuisine: Kazakh cuisine features dishes like beshbarmak, koumiss, manti (dumplings), and shashlik (grilled meat), reflecting the nomadic culinary heritage.
19. Mountains and Peaks: Khan Tengri and Peak Pobeda are two of the highest peaks in Kazakhstan, attracting mountaineers and climbers from around the world.
20. Kazakhstan in World War II: Kazakhstan played a crucial role during World War II, providing a safe haven for factories and citizens relocated from European Russia.
21. Kazakh National Instruments: The dombra, a traditional two-stringed instrument, is an essential part of Kazakh music and culture.
22. Almaty: Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, is known for its stunning backdrop of the Tian Shan Mountains and vibrant cultural scene.
23. Borat’s Portrayal: The character Borat, created by Sacha Baron Cohen, although a satirical portrayal, has brought global attention to Kazakhstan.
24. Kazakh Language Script: The Kazakh language transitioned from the Arabic script to the Latin script in 1929, then to the Cyrillic script during the Soviet era, and is now returning to the Latin script.
25. Zailiyskiy Alatau National Park: This national park, near Almaty, offers incredible hiking, skiing, and breathtaking landscapes.
26. Astana International Airport: Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport in Nur-Sultan is one of the busiest airports in Central Asia.
27. Kazakhstan and the Caspian Sea: Kazakhstan is one of the five countries bordering the Caspian Sea, the world’s largest inland body of water.
28. Oil Pipeline Routes: Kazakhstan plays a significant role in global energy transportation, with major oil pipeline routes connecting it to Russia, China, and the Caspian Sea.
29. Land of Apples: Kazakhstan is believed to be the place where apples were first cultivated. The wild Malus sieversii is the ancestor of modern-day apples.
30. Sharyn National Park: Sharyn National Park, located in the Sharyn River Valley, is known for its stunning red rock formations and diverse wildlife.
31. Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU): Kazakhstan is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union, a political and economic alliance of former Soviet republics.
32. Kazakh Eagle Symbolism: The golden eagle, a revered bird of prey, holds great symbolism in Kazakh culture and is associated with strength, freedom, and nobility.
33. Bayterek Tower: The Bayterek Tower in Nur-Sultan is an iconic monument representing a Kazakh folktale and symbolizing the unity of past and future.
34. Kazakhstan’s National Anthem: “My Kazakhstan” is the national anthem of Kazakhstan, reflecting pride in the nation’s natural beauty and progress.
35. Astana Economic Forum: Astana Economic Forum is an annual international event held in Kazakhstan, focusing on economic and financial issues and attracting global leaders.
36. Kazakh Wrestling: Kazakh wrestling, known as “Kazaksha kures,” is a traditional form of wrestling and a significant part of the country’s cultural heritage.
37. Caspian Tiger Extinction: The Caspian tiger, once native to Kazakhstan and the region, is now extinct, marking a sad loss in biodiversity.
38. Kazakhstan’s Independence Monument: The Independence Monument in Nur-Sultan commemorates Kazakhstan’s independence from the Soviet Union.
39. Tulpar-Tash Rock Formations: Tulpar-Tash, also known as the “Rock of Legends,” is a unique rock formation in the Altai Mountains, resembling a horse.
40. Traditional Yurts: Yurts, traditional portable dwellings, are an integral part of Kazakh culture and are often used during nomadic migrations and cultural celebrations.

Kazakhstan stands as a captivating blend of ancient nomadic traditions and modern aspirations, a country where the vastness of the steppes mirrors the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. From the remnants of ancient Silk Road cities to the bustling urban centers showcasing futuristic architecture, Kazakhstan’s journey through history and into the contemporary world is a testament to resilience and evolution. Its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality embody the spirit of a nation embracing its unique identity on the global stage.

As Kazakhstan continues to forge ahead, balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, it beckons to the world with its wealth of natural resources and strategic geographic position. The country’s aspirations to be a bridge between East and West, a hub for trade, and a center for cultural exchange paint a promising picture of what lies ahead. Kazakhstan, with its vibrant tapestry of cultures, astonishing landscapes, and a proud sense of nationhood, welcomes all who venture to explore its remarkable story, and in doing so, discover the promise of its bright future.