Northern Kazakhstan is a land of lakes, steppe and forests, enriched by a deep and multilayered historical heritage. Here, scenic landscapes intertwine with historic attractions and archaeological discoveries, and nearly every place has a story to tell. In a single journey, you can explore ancient settlements, mausoleums, and striking natural landmarks.

This guide focuses on the highlights of the North Kazakhstan Region. For a closer look at the regional capital, see our separate article, “A Guide to Must-Visit Attractions in Petropavlovsk.”

Imantau-Shalkar Resort Area

One of the region’s top destinations is the Imantau-Shalkar resort area, centered around Lakes Imantau and Shalkar. It is often compared to Burabay, with its pine forests, rocky hills, and clear lakes but with fewer crowds and more affordable prices.

Lake Shalkar is among the most picturesque spots in Northern Kazakhstan. Its southern shore features sandy beaches and a gentle entry into the water, making it a popular base for resorts.

Lake Imantau, by contrast, appeals to those seeking peace and solitude. With less developed infrastructure, it offers a stronger sense of untouched nature and peace.

Beyond the main lakes, the area is rich in natural attractions, including Lake Aiyrtauchik, Akan Sery Hill, Mount Imantau, Two Brothers Hill, and more.

Aiganym Manor and the Legacy of Shoqan Walikhanov

The Aiganym Manor is also part of the broader resort area. It once belonged to Aiganym, the grandmother of Shoqan Walikhanov – an outstanding geographer, historian, and explorer of Central Asia. He spent his childhood here until the age of twelve.

Aiganym was the widow of Khan Wali, son of Abylai Khan, a prominent ruler who helped unite the Kazakh tribes. In 1824, by decree of Emperor Alexander I, a residence was built for her. Today, the restored estate houses a museum that offers a glimpse into the life and traditions of the 19th-century Kazakh nobility. It is located near the village of Syrymbet in the Aiyrtau District.

The Shoqan Walikhanov Historical and Ethnographic Museum, situated in Syrymbet itself, is another must-visit. Its exhibits provide deeper insight into the life, work, and legacy of this remarkable scholar.

A Land of Picturesque Lakes

Not far from the village of Syrymbet lies the Sergeevskoye Reservoir, a vast artificial lake created in 1969. In summer, it becomes a popular destination for beach vacations, boating, and catamaran rides. Anglers are especially drawn here, as the waters are rich in pike perch, pike, and bream.

Just 10 kilometers north of Petropavlovsk is Lake Kishtibish, another favorite among fishermen. During the summer months, its water level drops, and the lake divides into three smaller basins.

Further south, along the Ishim River near the village of Birlikskoye, lies one of the region’s most unusual natural sites – Kazakhstan’s Kara Gates (Karskiye Vorota). This place is named after a similar formation in Russia. Here, the river narrows, flanked by steep gray cliffs, while large, smooth stones rest in the water.

About 100 kilometers west of Petropavlovsk is Lake Minkeser. Its mineral-rich mud is believed to help with skin and musculoskeletal conditions, as well as metabolic, gynecological, and nervous disorders. The lake’s water is sodium chloride enriched with iodine and bromine. Today, Minkeser attracts many visitors, offering recreation centers and even traditional yurt stays.

Mausoleums and Memorial Complexes

Near Lake Imantau stands the memorial complex of Karasay and Agyntai Batyrs, legendary warriors remembered for their fierce resistance against the Dzungars. In 1999, two impressive mausoleums and a mosque were built at their burial site.

Seven kilometers south of the village of Bulak lies the burial site of Kulsary Batyr, a close companion of Ablai Khan. He was known not only for his bravery but also for his eloquence, leadership, and hospitality. Today, the site attracts pilgrims and newlyweds seeking blessings.

Near the village of Madeniet in the Taiynshinsky District is the mausoleum of Akan Sery, a prominent poet, composer, and educator. The mausoleum was built in the 1990s through public donations and recently restored.

A few kilometers south of Kara Gates stands the Toksan Bi Mausoleum. Toksan Bi is renowned for his wisdom, fairness, and deep knowledge of Kazakh traditions.

About 8 kilometers northeast of the village of Dokuchayevo is the mausoleum of Sary Batyr and Suyir Batyr, who took part in defending their homeland from Dzungar raids in the 18th century.

Ancient Settlements and Archaeological Discoveries

A few kilometers north of the village of Vysokoye lies the Botai settlement – one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The researchers concluded that in this very place humans first domesticated horses. Today, the site features reconstructed dwellings of the Botai culture, along with both replica household items and original artifacts.

A related museum, the Botai-Burabay Museum in Borovoe, also presents reconstructed Botai dwellings. However, it is important to note that the Botai people originally lived and bred horses in what is now the North Kazakhstan Region, not in Borovoe.

Near the Russian border, close to the village of Dolmatovo, lie the ruins of the Ak-Iriy settlement, dating back to the 5th century BC. It is considered the northernmost known settlement of the ancient Scythian people. Excavations here have uncovered metallurgical furnaces as well as animal and fish remains.

Numerous burial mounds and ancient necropolises are scattered along the shores of the Sergeevskoye Reservoir and around the village of Sergeevka. Among the most significant is the Bekteniz burial ground, located on the southern shore of the reservoir near the confluence with the Ishim River. Archaeologists discovered unique burials here, believed to belong to Sarmatian priestesses. The burials contained bronze mirrors, stone altars, and intricate jewelry.