Nestled in the northeastern part of Kazakhstan, Pavlodar is a city that blends modernity with a rich historical heritage. It is often overlooked by travelers, although this vibrant city offers a myriad of attractions that cater to diverse interests. From its natural landscapes along the Irtysh River to its well-preserved architectural landmarks, Pavlodar invites visitors to explore its unique cultural tapestry.

Irtysh River Embankment

The Irtysh River, the world's longest tributary, traverses the territories of Russia, Kazakhstan, and China. Notably, the Irtysh River embankment in Pavlodar stands out as Kazakhstan's longest embankment, extending over 6 kilometers (3.7 mi). This well-landscaped area offers benches, sports grounds equipped with exercise facilities, and beautiful fountains. In the summer, the outdoor stage comes alive with concerts. For the most picturesque views, we recommend visiting the embankment at sunset.

Mashkhur Zhusup Mosque

The mosque, opened in 2001, is named after the orientalist scientist Mashkhur Zhusup Kopeyev. Designed in the shape of an eight-pointed star, the mosque captivates with its harmonious blend of sand and turquoise colors. The building is constructed from brick with a dome made of metal structures. It reaches a height of 63 meters (207 ft). The mosque has two floors. The first floor houses a madrasah (Muslim educational institution), a nikah (marriage) hall, a separate prayer room for women, and a dining room. The second floor features a library, an extensive prayer hall, a museum of religious-Islamic culture, and office space.

Address: 107 Kairbayev St.

Cathedral of the Annunciation

Built in 1999, the Cathedral of the Annunciation features an architectural style reminiscent of the cathedrals of the Moscow Kremlin. Constructed from red brick, the building looks particularly striking in the sunlight. The cathedral is adorned with seven domes, symbolizing the seven sacraments and seven ecumenical councils. The nine bells correspond to the nine levels of spiritual beings in angelology. Adjacent to the cathedral is a small chapel housing an icon of St. Nicholas and a piece of his relics.

Address: 1/5 Toraigyrov St.

G. Potanin Pavlodar History Museum (Trading House of Merchant Derov)

The Pavlodar History Museum is named after the famous Russian traveler Grigory Potanin, who studied the countries of Central Asia. The museum opened in 1942 and now houses about 72,000 exhibits across its eight halls. Visitors can explore the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Pavlodar region. The museum complex also features an open-air museum that frequently hosts master classes and exhibitions.

Architecture enthusiasts will find the museum particularly interesting. It is located in the former trading house of merchant Derov, built in the late 19th century. Designed in the Siberian Art Nouveau style, this architectural monument was once the largest private residence in Pavlodar. Today, visitors can tour this historic house and appreciate its architectural significance.

Address: 149 Astana St.

Bukhar Zhyrau Museum of Literature and Art (House of Merchant Zaitsev)

The Museum of Literature and Art houses over 13,000 unique exhibits and is named after the outstanding akyn (improvised poet) Bukhar Zhyrau Kalkamanuly, who once served as the chief adviser to the legendary Kazakh Khan Abylai. The museum's collection includes manuscripts, books, and personal materials of famous poets and writers such as Shaken Aimanov, Vsevolod Ivanov, Jusupbek Aimautov, and many others.

The museum building itself is an architectural monument, built in 1897. This building is a fine example of Russian wooden architecture, featuring intricate carved elements. The walls, shutters, windows, and facades are all adorned with detailed carvings, characteristic of this style.

Address: 97 Academic Margulan St.

Gorsad Park

The city park is a fantastic choice for a walk or quality family time. It boasts numerous attractions for both children and adults. In the summer, the outdoor stage frequently hosts events and concerts, adding to the park's vibrant atmosphere.

Address: the intersection of Yestay and General Dyusenov streets

Monument to the Victims of the Holodomor

One of the most tragic chapters in the history of Kazakhstan has been commemorated by a monument dedicated to the victims of the Holodomor. This famine, which occurred in Kazakhstan from 1929 to 1933, was a consequence of the Bolsheviks' collectivization and livestock confiscation policies. Estimates suggest that between 2 to 5 million people perished due to the famine, with about a million more migrating to neighboring regions. In the Pavlodar region alone, over 300,000 people died.

On May 31, 2012, a monument to the Holodomor victims was unveiled in Pavlodar. It is located at the entrance to the old Muslim cemetery, where many famine victims were buried. The monument portrays a deceased woman and a child crying over her body. Behind the figures of the mother and son is a broken shanyrak, the dome of a yurt, symbolizing a shattered home in Kazakhstan.

Address: Old Muslim Cemetery, Bayan Batyr St.

Pavlodar Regional Art Museum

The Pavlodar Art Museum, established in 1965, showcases an extensive collection of artworks by prominent Kazakhstani artists such as N.G. Khludov, A. Kasteev, A. Galimbaeva, G. Ismailova, L. Leontyev, among others. Notably, some exhibits were generously contributed by Moscow’s Tretyakov Gallery, including etchings by Valentin Serov and watercolor paintings by Nikolai Karazin. One of the museum's highlights is its collection of paintings by the renowned Russian artist V.P. Baturin, who resided in Pavlodar from 1919 to 1929.

Address: 44/1 Toraigyrov St.

Thermometer Installation

A towering thermometer, nearly as tall as a five-story building, adorns the facade of the building situated at 55 Satpayev St. The installation is located in the city center, near the embankment. The thermometer is functional and accurately displays the current outdoor temperature.

Goose Flight Paleontological Site

Near the Cathedral of the Annunciation, along the Irtysh River embankment, erosion has revealed the ancient remains of creatures that inhabited this region millions of years ago. Among the discoveries are the bones of a rhinoceros, a saber-toothed tiger, a giraffe, a hyena, a hipparion horse, as well as various species of rodents, pinnipeds, and birds. These remarkable findings are on display at the Paleontological Hall of the G. Potanin Pavlodar History Museum.

Discovered in 1928, the paleontological site has been the subject of excavations since two years later. Today, the area has been transformed into a park, adorned with sculptures depicting the prehistoric creatures once roaming the land.

Obelisk of Glory and Eternal Flame

In 1974, a year before the 30th anniversary of the victory over fascism, the construction of the Obelisk of Glory commenced. Pervomaiskaya Square was selected as its site, a place where soldiers departed for the frontlines and returning heroes were honored.

Standing at 24 meters (79 ft) tall, the monument takes the form of three arrows, symbolizing the unity of the people, the Communist Party, and the Red Army. At its base lies a bronze wreath adorned with a five-pointed star, with the Eternal Flame burning at its center. Surrounding the Obelisk of Glory is a park, featuring expansive walkways lined with busts honoring Pavlodar residents who achieved the title of Heroes of the Soviet Union.

Address: Victory Square, behind the Pavlodar Region Administration (Pavlodar Region Akimat)

Museum of D.P. Bagayev

Dmitry Polikarpovich Bagayev, a photographer and local historian, was the founder and first director of the Pavlodar History Museum. Today, his former residence has been transformed into a museum, captivating both photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

This museum is a classic example of Russian wooden architecture. However, it boasts a distinctive feature: a glass ceiling that floods the space with natural light, ideal for capturing stunning photographs.

Visitors can explore a collection of Bagayev's personal belongings, early 20th-century photographic equipment, and a wealth of photographs documenting the region's history. Additionally, the museum regularly hosts exhibitions spotlighting the works of contemporary photographers.

Address: 200 Astana St.

A. Chekhov Russian Drama Theater

The Russian Drama Theater opened its doors in November 1945, marking the beginning of a rich theatrical legacy. Over nearly eight decades, the theater has staged over 600 plays and performed more than 50,000 shows, attracting an audience of approximately 15 million people.

The theater showcases both timeless classics and contemporary works. Its notable plays include M. Bulgakov's "The Master and Margarita", A. Rybnikov's "Juno and Avos," B. Shaw's "Pygmalion," A.P. Chekhov's "Uncle Vanya," N.R. Nash's "The Rainmaker," E. Radzinsky's "I’m Standing at the Restaurant," and R. Cooney's "Run for Your Wife".

Address: 166 Astana St.

Roman Catholic Church of Saint Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face

During Stalin's repressions, Volga Germans, Ukrainians, and residents from certain Caucasus republics were resettled to Pavlodar, forming the city's Catholic community. For years, Catholics prayed in a small private house. Fortunately, in 2000, a spacious church was erected in Pavlodar through donations from German church organizations. Adjacent to the church, a convent stands, along with an exhibition showcasing the evolution of Catholicism in the Pavlodar region.

Address: 68 Malaisary Batyr St.