Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

We promise not to spam you!
  • How It Works
  • Get Inspired
  • Pricing
  • Blog
  • Login

Navigation

  • Blog
  • Destinations
  • Contact

Follow us

Terms & ConditionsPrivacy Policy
© 2026, TravelPal, Inc. All rights reserved.
0/200
Get InspiredAsiaKazakhstanTurkistanTurkestan

Turkestan

Turkistan, Kazakhstan
City·Historic, Spiritual, Culturally Rich
Turkestan
Photo by Leonid Ulyev from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Kuanysh BAYBAKTY from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Ingrid Orzesek from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Leonid Ulyev from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Leonid Ulyev from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Leonid Ulyev from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Kuanysh BAYBAKTY from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Ingrid Orzesek from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Leonid Ulyev from Google Places
Turkestan
Photo by Leonid Ulyev from Google Places

Turkestan, located in southern Kazakhstan, is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. It is home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts pilgrims and tourists. Known as the 'Spiritual Capital of the Turkic World', Turkestan boasts a wealth of historical monuments and architectural wonders that reflect its storied past. With its designation as a top tourist destination in Kazakhstan, the city is increasingly accessible to international visitors, thanks to the Hazrat Sultan International Airport. Turkestan's rich cultural tapestry and spiritual legacy make it a must-visit for those interested in the history of Central Asia.

Turkestan, located in southern Kazakhstan, is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. It is home to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts pilgrims and tourists. Known as the 'Spiritual Capital of the Turkic World', Turkestan boasts a wealth of historical monuments and architectural wonders that reflect its storied past. With its designation as a top tourist destination in Kazakhstan, the city is increasingly accessible to international visitors, thanks to the Hazrat Sultan International Airport. Turkestan's rich cultural tapestry and spiritual legacy make it a must-visit for those interested in the history of Central Asia.

Highlights

  • Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Designated as the 'Spiritual Capital of the Turkic World'.

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical monuments.

  • Growing tourist infrastructure.

  • Accessible via Hazrat Sultan International Airport.

Before you go: Turkestan essentials

  • Close access to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical monuments and mosques.

  • Designated as the 'Spiritual Capital of the Turkic World'.

Getting Around

Turkestan is well-connected by the Trans-Aral Railway, making travel to nearby cities convenient.

Local Cuisine

Explore local Kazakh dishes at traditional eateries for an authentic experience.

Best For

History enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Currency

KZT ₸

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Kazakh, Russian

Cultural Etiquette

When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and respect local customs.

Historical Sites

Allocate time to explore the numerous historical monuments and mosques.

Best time to visit Turkestan

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is a pleasant time to visit Turkestan with mild weather, ideal for sightseeing.

Best Season

Summer

Summers can be hot, but it's a vibrant time with many cultural events.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring historical sites.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a good time to visit without the crowds.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

We promise not to spam you!

Location

Turkestan, Turkistan, Kazakhstan
Open in Maps

Things to do in Turkestan

Astana City Tour: Authentic Private Full Day with Lunch + Pickup
From $149

Astana City Tour: Authentic Private Full Day with Lunch + Pickup

4.9(19)
Duration: 6h
Nur-Sultan
Private Half-Day City Tour of Astana in Comfort
From $80

Private Half-Day City Tour of Astana in Comfort

5.0(59)
Duration: 3h
Nur-Sultan
Astana City Tour Explore Night City with a Certified Guide
From $70

Astana City Tour Explore Night City with a Certified Guide

5.0(1)
Duration: 3h
Nur-Sultan
Trip to Kazakh family of Eagle hunters in Astana (6 hours)
From $290

Trip to Kazakh family of Eagle hunters in Astana (6 hours)

4.6(14)
Duration: 24h
Nur-Sultan
Steppe, Saddles and Sauna: Horse Tour to a Historic Mausoleum
From $311

Steppe, Saddles and Sauna: Horse Tour to a Historic Mausoleum

5.0(3)
Duration: 10h
Nur-Sultan
2-Day, 1-Night Horse Ranch Stay with Visit to Historic Mausoleum
From $357

2-Day, 1-Night Horse Ranch Stay with Visit to Historic Mausoleum

5.0(2)
Duration: 36h
Nur-Sultan
Astana: A Private City Comfort tour with Lunch
From $179

Astana: A Private City Comfort tour with Lunch

4.9(15)
Duration: 5h 45min
Nur-Sultan
Full Day (6 hours) City Tour in Astana
From $150

Full Day (6 hours) City Tour in Astana

3.7(22)
Duration: 6h
Nur-Sultan
Explore on Viator