Asia

Turkistan, Kazakhstan

Turkistan is recognised as Central Asia’s ancient city. Turkistan’s lovely metropolis is reminiscent of a fairytale, with patterned ceilings, gorgeous interiors with fresco tiles, and fringes and frills aplenty. The ancient city defied the vicissitudes of nature to reveal its enigmatic tales buried beneath the sands of time. Turkistan’s magnificent monuments are the city’s pride and draw visitors of all ages and ethnicities. Turkistan’s architectural marvels are influenced by Russian and Persian architecture. Various prominent mosques and churches built by Russian settlers may be found here.

Turkistan’s history is as old as the city itself. The city is said to have existed for about 1500 years and has a rich culture and history. The city was once known as Yassy and achieved fame as a result of its renowned Sufi master and mystical poet, Khodja Akhmed Yasaui. Although Turkistan means “the country of Turks” in Persian, the city has not always been the homeland of Turks, and the majority of Turks do not now dwell here.

The climate of Turkistan is continental. In Turkistan, major temperature highs and lows occur not just throughout different seasons, but also on a daily basis. The months of April to September are ideal for a pleasant visit to Turkistan’s capital city.

Main Tourist Attractions of Turkistan

Mausoleum of Rabia-Sultan Begum

Rabia-Sultan Begum’s tomb is a noteworthy piece of Central Asian architecture in Turkistan. Throughout the monument, intricate ceramic sculptures may be discovered. There are also 60 various types of cornices and designs to see. Various portions of the tomb are adorned with styled Islamic inscriptions. The mausoleum’s vast interiors have clay columns with stunning artwork.

Yasaui Mausoleum

The Yasaui Mausoleum is a major Muslim pilgrimage destination and is considered the country’s most important edifice. The tomb is named after Khodja Akhmed Yasaui, a renowned Sufi saint who created the Yasaui Sufi branch in the 12th century. King Timur built the current tomb in his honour in the late 14th century. The ‘kazan,’ a massive iron pot with holy water that weighs over 2 tonnes, is a significant attraction here.

Archeology & Ethnography Museum

The Yasaui Mausoleum is located to the east of this museum. The museum’s walls are impressive and sturdy. Exhibits on ancient Turkistan and historic settlements of the Syr-Darya region are among the fascinating exhibitions.

Sauran Valley

Because of its strategic location along the Syrdarya River on the Great Silk Route, the Sauran Valley near Turkistan was an important trade destination in ancient times. Between the 10th and 18th centuries, Sauran was transformed into a formidable stronghold. During Timur’s reign, it reached its pinnacle of wealth. The stronghold is famous for its one-of-a-kind water system, which consists of a network of canals built by hand.