Park of Lovers (Gashyktar Park)
Located in Astana's administrative center, in front of Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Center, lies the Park of Lovers or Gashyktar Park. Since its opening in 2005, this small green oasis has flourished amidst the surrounding skyscrapers and architectural marvels of Astana's center.
The park offers an ideal setting for a leisurely family stroll, providing benches where you can pause and relax while admiring the picturesque views. As a popular destination for wedding photo shoots, you may frequently encounter brides and grooms within its grounds. For those embarking on new relationships, be sure to discover the Kissing Bench, while the Bench of Reconciliation beckons visitors to reconcile their differences, designed to bring people seated on opposite ends closer together towards the center.
At the heart of the park, you will find the Fountain of Lovers, a metal structure crafted by renowned sculptor Gabriela von Habsburg. Comprising 16 horseshoes representing four horses, the sculpture symbolizes Kazakhstan's openness to the world, as these horses gallop towards the four corners of the earth, signifying the country's development in all directions.
The park spans 14 hectares and showcases meticulously planned landscaping and small architectural forms. Over three thousand trees, including lindens, pines, birches, poplars, firs, maples, and elms, adorn the park, arranged according to the principles of German landscape construction.
Adding to the park's charm is a bronze sculpture of a couple in love, created by architect Yerbolat Tolepbay. The sculpture, also known as "Bakyttym Menin" (My Happiness), epitomizes eternal love and fidelity, as the young couple appears to stroll along the path, with the girl in a light dress engaged in conversation while the boy gently holds her waist.
Another feature within the park is the composition "Altyn Zhurek" (Golden Heart), symbolizing compassion and assistance to sick and disabled children. Crafted by Chinese artisans, the monument stands as a 10-meter-high bronze heart mounted on a steel pedestal, representing a person's heart overflowing with love.
Numerous decorative structures grace the park, including a white jug, a large inscription that reads "I LOVE ASTANA," and a playground near the park's exit, guaranteed to bring joy to your children's hearts.
How to get there?
To reach the Park of Lovers, board buses #10, 26, 29, 29A, 32, 46, 50, 56, 804, or 808 and alight at the "Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Center" stop. The park is conveniently located just across the street from Khan Shatyr.
Other tourist attractions near the park:
Almaty Highlights: City Tour
Duration: 3 Hours
Embark on a captivating 3-hour tour where you'll explore Almaty's prominent attractions. Visit the Museum of Almaty, marvel at the exquisite Ascension Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of trade at the Green Bazaar.
Almaty Highlights: Mountain Tour
Duration: 3 Hours
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain landscapes just a stone's throw away from the center of Almaty! Explore the awe-inspiring wonders nestled in the Ile-Alatau Mountains and ascend to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level.
Charyn Canyon One-Day Private Tour
Duration: 10 Hours
Embark on a journey to one of Kazakhstan's unique natural wonders – Charyn Canyon! Prepare for an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Burabay National Park One-Day Tour
Duration: 10 Hours
Embark on a day tour to Burabay (Borovoe), often called the "Kazakh Switzerland." This enchanting region boasts azure lakes, majestic mountains, pine forests, and deciduous groves, creating a unique and incomparable beauty.
Kolsay Lakes And Charyn Canyon 3-Day Tour
Duration: 3 Days
Embark on a journey to see the natural jewels of the Almaty region – Kolsay Lakes, Lake Kaindy, and Charyn Canyon. Kolsay Lakes are a cascade of three mountain lakes situated at 1000, 2250, and 2700 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, Charyn Canyon stands as the most breathtaking canyon in the region.
Ultimate Almaty Day Tour
Duration: 7 Hours
A fantastic option for a day-long adventure that involves discovering Almaty's most fascinating landmarks. This excursion allows you to explore the best attractions of Almaty and also takes you to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level, providing a delightful experience amidst the breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Mangystau Mysteries Off-Road Tour
Duration: 7 Days
Join us on a jeep tour around Mangystau, known for its vast desert plateaus, unique rock formations, and cultural heritage sites. This tour is a blend of adventure and spirituality, revealing the heart of Kazakhstan's wild west.
Tanbaly Petroglyph Site One-Day Tour
Duration: 9 Hours
Immerse yourself in history by embarking on a tour of the Tanbaly Petroglyph Site. This place boasts several thousand rock paintings, representing a treasure of global significance safeguarded by UNESCO.
Sunny Land of Mangystau Tour
Duration: 3 Days
The Mangystau region of Kazakhstan harbors a wealth of historical mysteries and natural marvels. From ancient burial sites to towering buttes, Mangystau never ceases to amaze. Don't miss the opportunity to unravel the secrets of this sunlit land!