Kazakhstan: Its capital and other cities
The first stop on our tour of Central Asian countries is Kazakhstan. One of the world’s largest nations, Kazakhstan has a land area of 2.7 million square kilometers and is rich in natural resources. Astana, the country’s capital and most populous city, was named a UNESCO “City of Peace” on July 6, 1999. The country is divided into five regions and seventeen states; its mountains, deserts, and forests provide opportunities to experience various states of nature. The best time to visit Kazakhstan, which stretches from Europe to Central Asia and shares the Aral and Caspian seas, is in the spring months – Kazakhstan’s summers are extremely hot, and its winters are harsh. However, if you do enjoy winter and nature sports, the Shymbulak ski resort might be your ideal cold weather destination!
Note: Turkish citizens do not need a visa to travel to Kazakhstan. Turkish Airlines operates flights to Almaty, the country’s largest city, as well as to Astana, its capital, and to the city of Aktau. When you visit Kazakhstan, do include the Charyn Canyon, Zenkov Cathedral, and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation on your list of destinations.
For more information, just click on Kyrgyzstan: Its capital and other cities!
Uzbekistan: Its capital and other cities
Uzbekistan is the next Central Asian country on our list. Some of the most important cities in this fascinating country include Namangan, Fergana, Andijan and Samarkand, as well as Tashkent, which is currently the largest capital city in Central Asia. Uzbekistan, a landlocked country, has a continental climate and is similar to Kazakhstan in that a springtime visit can ensure that you get the most out of your vacation. We recommend that you sample the famous pilafs of Uzbekistan. In terms of souvenirs, the embroidered skullcaps known as dobbi are always a welcome gift!
Note: Turkish citizens do not need a visa to travel to Uzbekistan. Turkish Airlines operates flights to five destinations in Uzbekistan – Samarkand, Tashkent, Bukhara, Urgench and Fergana, are only a plane ticket away!
For more information, click on Uzbekistan: Its capital and other cities to learn more about Uzbekistan, one of the most beautiful Central Asian steppe countries.
Kyrgyzstan: Its capital and other cities
Kyrgyzstan is the third stop on our tour of Central Asia. With its exquisite natural beauty and massive mountains, Kyrgyzstan is a Central Asian oasis worth visiting. In a country where the Kyrgyz are the majority, a significant number of citizens are of Uzbek and Russian origin, in addition to other various ethnic groups, large and small. Kyrgyzstan, a popular mountaineering destination, welcomes numerous mountaineers each year to its Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges. Spring is the best time to visit the country, as it is in other Central Asian countries, although skiing in the winter is as appealing as trekking in the summer. One of Kyrgyzstan’s many places of interest is the Ala-Archa National Park, located south of Bishkek – definitely put it on your list of destinations in Central Asia.
As for dining, when you’re in Kyrgyzstan, do sample the country’s national dish of besh barmak (five fingers) and shashlik, which is made with horse or mutton meat! ☺
Turkish Airlines operates flights to Bishkek on a regular basis – we wish you a wonderful holiday season in advance!
For more information, click on Kyrgyzstan: Its capital and other cities and explore the country a little further.
Turkmenistan: Its capital and other cities
Fourth on our list of countries in Central Asia is Turkmenistan, established in 1991. Holding 12 percent of the world’s gas reserves and, indeed, the world’s fourth-largest country in terms of natural gas resources, Turkmenistan is undoubtedly one of Central Asia’s most intriguing nations. Containing traces of extraordinary natural beauties and a deep history, Turkmenistan’s location has also contributed to its richness. Turkmenistan was often referred to as the ‘heart of the Silk Road’ due its central location amid ancient cultures in regions that are now Iran, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Afghanistan. Featuring unique touristic points, Turkmenistan is most certainly a Central Asian country to visit.
Turkish Airlines operates direct flights from Istanbul to Turkmenistan’s capital, Ashgabat. From Istanbul, you can fly to Ashgabat in just under four hours!
For more information, click on Turkmenistan: The capital and other cities and learn more about Turkmenistan and its most famous cities!
Tajikistan: Its capital and other cities
Tajikistan, a Central Asian nation surrounded by mountains and far from the sea, is our final destination. The famous Pamir Mountains extend into Tajikistan and include the country’s highest peaks. Divided into five major regions, Tajikistan’s capital is Dushanbe. Tajik, as well as Russian, are the official languages in Tajikistan. The country has a continental climate and harsh winters but, with a population of less than 10 million, it is calm and peaceful. When you visit Tajikistan, do sample plov, the traditional rice dish, as well as the halwa dessert – all accompanied with plenty of tea.☺
Note: Turkish citizens do not need a visa to travel to Tajikistan. Turkish Airlines operates direct flights to Dushanbe; the flight is about four hours and 40 minutes. In advance, we wish you a wonderful Central Asian holiday!
For more information, click on Tajikistan: The capital and other cities to round out your Central Asian adventure!
