Secrets of Ancient Turkistan: A Journey Through the Centuries

Duration: 1 day
Season: March – October
Route: Turkistan
Hazret Sultan State Historical and Cultural Reserve-Museum
Route Type: historical, ethnic, and educational journey through the spiritual heart of Kazakhstan.

Turkistan is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with a history spanning over two thousand years. It emerged at the crossroads of caravan routes along the Great Silk Road and has long served as a major center of trade, culture, and spirituality. In the 7th–8th centuries, the city was known as Shavgar, and later as Yasy. Turkistan reached its peak in the 14th–15th centuries, when the great Sufi thinker Khoja Ahmed Yasawi lived and preached here. After the construction of his majestic mausoleum by the order of Emir Timur, the city became a site of pilgrimage and a spiritual heartland of the Turkic world. Turkistan played a significant role in the history of the Kazakh khanates and remains a symbol of national unity and Kazakhstan's cultural heritage to this day.

Discover the heart of the Great Steppe!
During our walking tour, you'll stroll through the ancient streets of Turkistan, where every stone holds centuries of history. You'll encounter remarkable landmarks: a 2nd-century BC citadel, the underground cell and mosque of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a legendary oriental bathhouse, vibrant artisan quarters, and captivating stories of fire temples and Turkic rulers.
This tour is more than just a walk — it's a living journey into the past that still breathes through the streets of Turkistan.

Tour Highlights:

• Ancient Fortress (Citadel from the 2nd century BC) — Discover the historical significance of this ancient stronghold and its role in the region’s development.

• Fire Temple of the Kangju and Sarmatians — Located in the Kultobe Archaeological Park, this site reveals unique finds and ancient fire-worship rituals.

• 400-Year-Old Eastern Bathhouse — Learn about the rich bathing traditions of Central Asia and how they reflect the daily life of past centuries.

• Gar — Explore the underground retreat (cell) of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, where the great Sufi mystic practiced spiritual solitude.

• Streets of the Artisan and Trade Quarters — Walk through lively historical neighborhoods that capture the essence of an oriental marketplace.

• Underground Mosque Hilvet — A sacred space used for Sufi meditation and mystical practices.

• Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (Yasawi’s Khanaqah) — The centerpiece of Turkistan, this UNESCO-listed monument features grand architecture and intricate epigraphic inscriptions with deep spiritual meaning.

Tour Price Includes:

  • Services of a certified Russian/English-speaking guide (1 guide)

  • Entrance tickets to all listed attractions

  • Visits to museums included in the itinerary

  • 0.5 L of drinking water per person

Not Included in the Price:

  • Fees for professional photo and video shooting

  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional meals, etc.)

  • Services not listed in the tour program

  • Transfers to/from airport or railway station

Additional Information:

  • Prices for groups over 10 people are calculated upon request

  • Public holiday rates are calculated separately

  • The tour price is based on a Russian/English-language program. Services with guides in other languages are available on request

  • Prices for children under 12 – upon request; children aged 12 and up are charged at the adult rate

Recommended Clothing and Footwear:

Spring / Autumn:

  • Comfortable clothes and walking shoes

  • Light jacket or raincoat

  • Windbreaker and headwear

  • Waterproof shoes

Summer:

  • Sunhat or cap

  • Sunglasses and sunscreen

  • Light, breathable clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

Winter:

  • Warm winter clothing

  • Insulated boots, gloves, hat, and scarf

Visiting Religious Sites:

When visiting mausoleums, mosques, and other sacred places, please follow the dress code:

  • Head coverings are required (especially for women)

  • Shoulders and knees must be covered

  • Avoid bright, revealing, or tight-fitting clothing

Additional Recommendations:

  • Personal first aid kit and medications

  • Water in a personal bottle (if needed)

  • Charged mobile phone and portable power bank

  • Cash (Kazakhstani tenge)

Tour Prices:

Group Size Price per Person (KZT) Approx. USD
2 persons 13,500 ~$27
6 persons 7,500 ~$15
10 persons 6,500 ~$13

Important Notes:

  • If you feel unwell during the tour, inform your guide immediately

  • The program may be adjusted based on weather conditions or the group’s condition

  • Route changes may occur if some paths are impassable

  • Organizers reserve the right to suspend the tour or make urgent changes for participants’ safety

  • Please note: Golf cart rides are not included in the tour price (approx. 5,000–7,000 KZT per ride)