Have you ever imagined being surrounded by soft snowfall, quiet landscapes, and sparkling winter scenery? This is the beauty of Kazakhstan in Winter. The country becomes a cosy, snowy world where every time feels relaxing and serene. You can enjoy warm local food, walk through snowy streets, or watch frozen lakes shining under winter sunlight. Whether you enjoy adventure or slow travel, Kazakhstan offers a wonderful experience that feels exciting and soothing at the same time. Next time you’re craving a winter escape, plan a trip to Kazakhstan for an experience you’ll remember.
Weather of Kazakhstan in Winter
The Kazakhstan weather in winter is cool, crisp and very magnificent. The thick snow is mostly in many parts of it and particularly in the mountains around Almaty and the north side. Frequent Kazakhstan snowfall turns cities, forests, and open steppes into bright white landscapes. Days are typically sunny with cold temperatures, and nights become even colder, giving a real winter atmosphere, which seems magical and serene.
Kazakhstan's temperature in winter varies according to location. In the north, the temperatures may reach as low as –20°C or even lower. Some cities, such as Almaty, tend to be around -5°C to -15°C. The cold may feel strong, but it provides clear skies and fresh air. For snow lovers and those seeking serene winter scenery, the best time to visit Almaty and other parts of Kazakhstan is during these winter months when the landscape transforms into a magical snowy wonderland.
How to Reach Kazakhstan
Travelling to Kazakhstan by air is the most convenient mode of transport. The majority of the planes arrive at Almaty International Airport (ALA) or Astana/Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ). The two airports have good access to major cities in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Airlines such as Air Astana, FlyDubai, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates offer airlines that provide direct or connecting flights to travellers in India, the UAE, Turkey, and many other regions. Air transport is the most convenient and quickest mode of travelling to Kazakhstan during winter.
Kazakhstan currently offers visa-free entry for Indian citizens for up to 14 days per visit. This applies to tourism, family visits, and business trips.
Places to Visit in Kazakhstan in Winter
If you are searching for the best Places to visit in Kazakhstan in Winter, the country has snow-capped cities, iced lakes, and scenic mountain ranges.
1.Astana (Nur-Sultan)
Astana is among the attractions in Kazakhstan in Winter as it transforms into a radiant snow-filled city of lights and modern buildings. The weather during winter is freezing, yet the city is glorious with decorated streets, gleaming towers, and warm interiors. You can visit the Bayterek Tower, Khan Shatyr and beautiful winter squares. The light snow of Kazakhstan makes the entire city appear to be enchanted at night. Astana has a perfect combination of winter beauty, future architecture, and serene snowy scenery, which is thrilling and calming at the same time.
Location: Capital city of Kazakhstan
2. Kolsai Lakes
Kolsai Lakes is one of the fantasy-like places to visit in Kazakhstan in winter, when the lakes become frozen and forests are covered with soft snowfall. The entire valley is quiet, snowy and very beautiful. The weather here in winter is cold, though the environment is quiet, and each moment is worth it. The snowy trees, frozen water, and silence of the mountains make Koloksi Lakes a magical winter getaway. It is ideal for those travellers who prefer enjoying nature, relaxing and appreciating a pure winter environment away from noise and crowds.
Location: Tien Shan mountain area
3. Burabay National Park
Burabay National Park is a peaceful attraction in Kazakhstan in winter and is a favourite of nature lovers. In winter, snow covers forests, lakes and hills, forming a peaceful winter heaven. The snowy hiking trails, pine trees, and frozen lakes make the area beautiful for taking peaceful walks and photos. The weather remains refreshing and calming, making it an excellent way to escape the hectic cities. This is a great location to breathe in clean air, quietness, and be in touch with nature during the snowy season.
Location: Akmola region
4. Almaty
Almaty is among the most favoured places to visit in Kazakhstan in winter since it has a combination of city life with the mountains covered with snow. The snow turns the city into a gorgeous white snowy scene, and the winter atmosphere makes it delightful to walk in the city. The places to visit in Almaty include parks, cafes, winter markets, and scenic viewpoints. Kazakhstan in winter is cold yet ideal to go out and experience the snow-covered streets and local warm food. The city of Almaty also acts as the gateway to numerous winter attractions in the area. Almaty has a relaxed atmosphere and snowy landscapes, making it ideal for a winter holiday.
Location: Southern Kazakhstan (Tien Shan mountains)
5. Charyn Canyon
Charyn Canyon is a unique addition to the places to visit in Kazakhstan in winter list because its red rock formations look magical under soft Kazakhstan snow. In the winter, the canyon is quieter, with fewer people visiting it, and the snowy contrasts on the cliffs are beautiful. Although the temperature is cold, the experience is unique and adventurous. The snow-covered trails, the open vistas and the winter sunlight provide ideal photography opportunities. Hiking the canyon during winter is like entering a desert scenery with the unbelievable beauty of nature.
Location: About 200–220 km east of Almaty
Things to Do in Kazakhstan in Winter
Wondering what to do in Kazakhstan in winter? The whole country becomes a snowy playground with thrilling activities, new cultures and relaxing nature retreat.
1. Ice Skating at Medeu
Medeu ice skating is among the best activities to perform in Kazakhstan in winter. Medeu is an international ice rink with snow-white mountains that surround it, and it provides you with a stunning winter mood. The temperature of the place remains very low, and this makes the ice smooth and ideal to skate on. The rink is vibrant, welcoming and energetic regardless of how new or old a skater you are. The snow in Medeu creates an impression of a fairy-tale winter destination. It is one of the activities that one must not fail to do when in Kazakhstan during winter.
Best time: Afternoon or early evening
2. Hot Springs
Hot springs are a great way to relax in winter in Kazakhstan. The weather in Kazakhstan during winter is very cold, but the natural hot springs that are warm make it a perfect balance. It is relaxing and serene to sit in hot water in the middle of snow. The Chundzha hot spring is one of the places that many people visit to experience relaxation, warm pools and healing mineral water. The experience is special as the cold air and the water maintain your ideal warmth at the same time.
Best time: Evening for quiet surroundings
3. Skiing & Snowboarding
Skiing and snowboarding are among the most thrilling things to do in Almaty and Kazakhstan during winter. The mountains are blessed with ideal Kazakhstan snowfall, making the slopes even and safe. Facilities such as Shymbulak and Ak Bulak provide first-time lessons, rentals, and long ski runs that have spectacular views. In winter, the Kazakhstan weather remains cold but adventure-perfect. Fresh snow in Kazakhstan gives the whole experience a magical touch. The resorts here are welcoming, entertaining, and enjoyable to spend the winter with friends or family, even when you are not a pro.
Best time: Late December to February
4. Winter Festivals and Celebrations
Kazakhstan's winter is full of lights, music and cultural performances. The cities such as Almaty and Astana shine brightly in the winter season, particularly towards the time of Christmas and New Year. The cold weather in Kazakhstan in winter might be chilly, but the fun in the festivities makes it warm and jovial. You will get to see performances on the street, colored squares, fireworks, food markets and handmade goods. Celebrations become even more enchanted when paired with gentle snow on the streets. The events can be a good way to experience local culture and also learn new people.
Highlights: New Year festivals, winter concerts
5. Road Trips Through Snowy Landscapes
Winter road tours in Kazakhstan offer breathtaking snowy scenery and plains. The steppe's long roads are magical with Kazakhstan snowfall covering everything in white. Kazakhstan's temperature during winter provides the entire countryside with a serene, dream-like atmosphere. Tourists can enjoy long road trips, winter photography, village visits, and cosy cafes. White mountains, frozen lakes and empty roads are perfect places to think quietly and have beautiful scenery. It is a painless, carefree, and scenic method of exploring Kazakhstan in winter without having to do a lot of walking.
Best regions: Almaty region & Burabay
Travel Tips for Kazakhstan in Winter
Kazakhstan in winter feels absolutely magical. However, the icy temperatures demand smart planning. Days stay cold, nights get colder and snowfall can be quite heavy in a lot of regions, especially Almaty and the mountains. Pack wisely, plan for delays and make sure that you are prepared for outdoor activities so you can enjoy the winter charm without discomfort.
Wear thermal layers - winters often drop below -15°C, and mountain areas can be even colder
Carry good snow boots - streets get slippery after fresh snowfall
Keep lip balm and moisturiser handy - the air gets extremely dry
Drink warm tea (chai) frequently to stay hydrated in the cold
Try to plan outdoor sightseeing between late morning and afternoon when it’s warmer
Expect occasional flight delays due to snowfall in Almaty or Astana
Book mountain activities (like Shymbulak or Big Almaty Lake) on clear-weather days
Keep cash for smaller shops and rural areas - card machines can be inconsistent in winter
Use Yandex Go or local taxis instead of walking long distances in freezing conditions
Always check wind speeds - the “feels like” temperature can dip sharply
Carry a small thermos - warm water or tea helps a lot during long winter walks
Conclusion
Winter is the time when landscapes, cities, and natural wonders of this beautiful country are especially calm. Travelling to Kazakhstan in winter gives tourists an opportunity to experience snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, warm cafes, and special cultural life. The season makes everything magical, no matter if you want to explore nature, taste the local dishes or have quiet walks under the snow. The individual locations are both welcoming and charming during the winter seasons. If you want a winter holiday that is scenic, refreshing, and different from the usual destinations, this country is an unforgettable choice.
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