Left Bank Complex
The Left Bank Complex, also known as the Levoberezhny Complex, is a network of attractions in Ust-Kamenogorsk. It features a zoo, a family recreation area, a botanical garden, a beach, a boat station, an ethnic village, a military complex, and the Zhibek Zholy Park.
Entry to the complex is free, though there are charges for visiting the zoo and some exhibitions. Signs are conveniently placed throughout the area to guide visitors.
Zoo tickets are available at the ticket offices within the complex. The zoo houses a variety of domestic and wild animals and birds, including some exotic species.
Visitors can stroll through the botanical garden en route to the zoo, which boasts a diverse collection of trees, flowers, and plants.
Zhibek Zholy Park features a miniature replica of the Silk Road and its key cities. In the past, caravans traveled through regions represented here by the "Raja’s Palace" for India, the "Emperor’s Palace" for China, the "Khan’s Palace" and "Caravanserai" for Kazakhstan, and the "Emir’s Palace" for Central Asian countries. Walking along the paths that connect these "palaces" is a truly enjoyable experience.
The military complex includes two pavilions with exhibitions on the Afghan War, the Chernobyl disaster, and World War II. It also showcases historical military equipment such as tanks, guns, combat vehicles, and anti-aircraft missile systems.
The ethnic village highlights the cultures of various ethnic groups in Kazakhstan, including Tatars, Uyghurs, Chechens, Germans, Koreans, Poles, Russians, Azerbaijanis, and others. Each group is represented by a cottage designed in its traditional style, complete with authentic settings, carpets, furniture, curtains, and clothing. In summer, the area around the ethnic village blooms beautifully, featuring zen gardens and a lovely rose garden.
Children will enjoy the Fairytale Land, which includes playgrounds, swings, and gazebos for relaxation after play.
The complex also offers a beach, equipped with sun loungers and gazebos. Visitors can rent boats and catamarans at the nearby boat station. Fishing enthusiasts can catch trout in a designated area of the Irtysh River within the complex, though a fee is required for the fish caught.
Several charming alleys can be found within the complex, including the Alley of Weddings, the Alley of Sculptures, and the Alley of Classical Music.
Important note: The Left Bank Complex is not suitable for cycling, scooters, or rollerblading. However, velomobiles can be rented near the City of Masters and are allowed only in a designated area within the complex.
The Left Bank Complex is a serene oasis in the bustling city. It is part of the East Kazakhstan Regional Architectural and Ethnographic Museum Reserve.
How to get there?
Location: Kazakhstan, Ust-Kamenogorsk, left bank of the Irtysh River, the intersection of Zhibek Zholy St. and Kanysh Satpayev Ave.
Public transport does not go directly to the complex, but you can take buses #4, 53, 54, 55, 55A, or 253 to the Arzan or Museum Complex stops on Zhibek Zholy Street, and then walk to the complex.
Opening hours:
Tue-Sun from 10:00 am to 7:00 or 8:00 pm (depending on the attraction)
Mon – closed
The zoo is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Other tourist attractions near the Left Bank Complex:
- Khalifa Altai Mosque
- Holy Trinity Cathedral
- WWII Memorial Complex
- Replica of the Baiterek Monument