ShymQala Ethnic Village
In the ShymQala Ethnic Village, visitors are transported back in time to a medieval Central Asian town, thoughtfully designed to resemble a fortress and an ancient caravanserai. Nestled within the historic Old Town of Shymkent, this ethnic village comes to life every year from early spring to autumn. Its primary purpose is to provide visitors with an immersive experience of the life and traditions of the Kazakhs. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the ambiance of an authentic eastern market, a visit to the section dedicated to souvenirs and various handicrafts is a must.
The village boasts two entrances, one to the north and another to the east. At one of these entrances, guests are welcomed by the sight of a colossal taikazan, a large cauldron steeped in symbolic significance, representing hospitality and unity among the Turkic peoples.
At the center of the ethnic village, craftsmen showcase their talents, including the art of carpet weaving, the crafting of traditional musical instruments, pottery, woodwork, leather craftsmanship, and much more. Guests of ShymQala can participate in these handicraft activities. In five yurts situated throughout the complex, visitors can gain insight into the nomadic way of life, offering a glimpse into how these people constructed their homes. Here, one can try their hand at archery or enjoy the sway of a traditional altybakan swing. The village frequently hosts fairs and outdoor screenings of animated films for children. Moreover, this charming place serves as an ideal backdrop for photo shoots infused with national flair. Visitors can also witness traditional Kazakh ceremonies.
Opening hours:
Tue-Sun from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
There are many other ethnic villages scattered across the country. To learn more about them, read this article.
How to get there?
Address: Shymkent, 30/29 Aiteke Bi Street (between Independence Park and the old citadel).
The closest bus stop is called "Magnum," and it's accessible via several bus routes: #6, #18, #23, #27, #32, #57, #60, #84, #96, #147, and #158.
Other attractions near the ShymQala Ethnic Village:
- Independence Park
- Ordabasy Square
- Old Citadel
- Altyn Shanyrak Monument
- Koshkar Ata River
- Mir Shamshi Square
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Ancient Cities of Kazakhstan Tour")
On request
South Kazakhstan boasts numerous ancient cities, making it a treasure trove of historical monuments unparalleled anywhere else in the country. The region attracts thousands of pilgrims, making it a popular destination for religious tourism. If you have a passion for history, legends, and mysteries, this journey is for you!
On request
During this tour, you will explore the most interesting places of Southern Kazakhstan, retracing the paths of the ancient Silk Road. En route, you will encounter monuments of archaeology and medieval architecture that have withstood the test of time.
On request
Shymkent, the third most populous city in Kazakhstan, boasts a history that spans 2200 years. The city, which was once a prominent stop along the Silk Road, has a rich historical heritage.