Astana - Capital of Kazakhstan

On December 10 of 1997 the city was named to Akmola and pronounced as the capital of Republic of Kazakhstan. Next year on May 6 of 1998 it was renamed to Astana. Today Astana is an important industrial and cultural center of Kazakhstan, railway and auto-transport junction.

History of Astana

It was founded in 1844 as military base, in 1868 Altana obtained the status of the town, and in 1950s of 20 century it became a leading center of development of undercovered and disused lands in the north of the Republic Kazakhstan. The main industries of Altana were represented by agri-mechanical engineering, food industry, refining of the agricultural raw material, and transport. In the earlier times it used to be the fortification found by the Russian Kazakhstani troops in 1830 on the bank of the Ishim river in Karaotkel natural boundary.

Akmolinsk was given the status of a town in 1862. In the past it was famous for its fairs. Merchants from different regions of Kazakhstan, Russia and other Central Asian countries used to gather there and display their goods. As the development of virgin lands of Kazakhstan began, the town was then renamed to Tselinograd and clasified to be the administrative center of an agricultural region.

Since Astana became capital in 1997 the city's look has changed dramatically. The architects and builders working in Astana made beautiful architectural ensembles, that now harmoniously combine modern design and oriental flavor.


The Tower of Baiterek became city's symbol. Height of the Baiterek Tower is 105 meters. At the height of 97 meters located an observation deck providing a bird's eye view of the entire city of Astana. Height of 97 meters was chosen to symbolizes the year of changing the capital of Kazakhstan from Almaty to Astana. The Baiterek Tower accommodates an art gallery, large aquarium and a traditional restaurant.

Astana was turned into one of the main business centers of Kazakhstan and Central Asia. All governmental organizations, diplomatic missions of 44 countries of the world and 113 joint ventures and foreign companies are now located in Astana.

Every year the city of Astana hosts various of different international exhibitions, musical contests and festivals of the people of Kazakhstan.

In 1999 UNESCO awarded Astana with the title of World City. Astana has ballet theater, a drama theater and a variety of museums. Monuments of Astana are a linking element between the new capital of Kazakhstan and its' history held by all peoples of Kazakhstan.

At present time many administrative buildings, business and entertainment centers are under construction in the city Astana. Among one of which is Duman entertainment complex. A place for public recreation featuring an large oceanarium ,3D movie theater, a movie theater, area for slot machines and other interactive games, bowling, a modern night club, casino, beautiful hotel, many cafes and restaurants and indoor aquapark.

Among other attractions of Astana is the ethnopark called "Map of Kazakhstan - Atameken" presenting a unique outdoor museum. The unique map area of 1.7 hectares featuring different cities andhistorical memorials of Kazakhstan.

Climate of Astana, Kazkahstan

The climate in Astana region is extreme with typically long and snowy winters an average temperature in January is -15 ° C to 17 °C with dropdown to temperature below -39°C. Spring is generaly late but amazingly beautiful. It starts at the end of March. During this time of the year steppes of Kazkahstan look especially good with its' blooming toffees and tulips. Summers are usually moderately hot, with plenty of showers as well as sunny days. Average temperature in July is 21° to 22°C.

Places to visit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Central Asia

The Korgalzhin National Park - Astana, Kazakhstan
Duman Entertainment Complex - Astana, Kazakhstan