City of Turkestan

In 2021, the Turkic Council recognized Turkestan as the "Spiritual Capital of the Turkic World".

What is now known as Turkestan was founded in 490 by nomadic settlers. Over the centuries, it grew into a wealthy and powerful urban centre, various cultures on the Eurasian Steppe gradually transformed it, including up to today as a vibrant and modern city. There was a time when its fortifications protected it from invaders - now the city itself protects the traditions, cuisine, and spirituality of many generations.

This jewel of the Silk Road entices visitors from all over the world. Legacies from conquerors and prophets are laid before you as Kazakh people greet you. In the Friday Mosque, for instance, you can gather with locals and pilgrims to see one of the city's most important sights.

As you continue down these streets of antiquity and follow the history of Central Asia, you'll witness the birth of Timurid Architecture at the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Be sure to also include in your itinerary the Mausoleum of Rabia-Sultan Begum and Azret Sultan Museum-Reserve.

The warm hospitality will likely see you enjoying the local Kazakh cuisine, including aromatic soups, bready cakes, and rolled dough or tortillas of lamb and horse. There are opportunities to buy - or even learn to make - handicrafts like carpets, embroidered felt or wool, and delicate ceramics. The musical culture is also instrumental with traditional sounds of the dombra and kobyz.