Shoqan Walikhanov Memorial Museum
The Shoqan Walikhanov Memorial Museum, situated in the village of Shanhanai within the Jetysu Region, has been a cultural beacon since its inauguration in 1985. It was built on the 150th anniversary of the distinguished ethnographer and historian, Sh. Walikhanov. In proximity, within the Altyn-Emel tract, lies his resting place.
Symbolic architecture
The museum building captivates visitors with its aesthetic charm. The interior, designed to mimic a yurt, symbolizes the ancient nomadic worldview, categorizing the universe into three levels: the world of the deceased, the human world, and the divine realm. The ceiling is adorned with "knots of happiness," signifying a prosperous life. The museum's allure extends further with its "floating" ceilings at varying heights and walls crafted from powdery pink limestone.
Upon entering, a granite bust of Walikhanov welcomes visitors, accompanied by a sizable handmade tapestry depicting the great traveler's routes, encompassing destinations such as Kashgar, Yarkand, Ayaguz, Altyn-Emel, and Gulja.
Descendant of the great Genghis Khan
Delving into the life of Walikhanov and the 19th-century Kazakh aristocracy, the museum features a wealth of materials. Exhibits include information on Shoqan’s interactions with the Russian intelligentsia, his scientific contributions, and depictions of the ethnographer in literature, cinema, and art. There is also a reconstructed apartment from the late 19th century. Figures portraying Walikhanov and his friend Fyodor Dostoevsky, offers a glimpse into their friendship. The museum also houses a model of the Walikhanov family estate.
Among the treasures are personal belongings of the Walikhanov family, descendants of Genghis Khan. These artifacts include a brocade belt, personal weapons, a copper cup, a pepper grinder, maps, manuscripts, and more.
The museum is surrounded by well-maintained greenery. Perched on a nearby hill is a full-length sculpture of Walikhanov, which was installed even before the museum's construction.
How to get there?
Address: Jetysu Region, the village of Shanhanai
To reach the museum from Almaty, take the A-3 highway either in your private vehicle or by taxi. The approximately 214 km (133 mi) journey typically spans around 3 hours.
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sat-Sun – closed
Other tourist attractions near the museum:
- The Grave of Sh. Walikhanov
- Altyn-Emel National Park
- The Singing Dune
- Burial Mounds of Besshatyr
- The Town of Konayev
- Kapchagai Reservoir
Recommended tours:
View all offers_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn-Emel National Park 2-Day Tour")
Visit the stunning Altyn-Emel National Park in Kazakhstan, established to protect endangered species of plants and animals. Witness breathtaking landscapes and wildlife during your visit.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Golden Ring of Jetysu 5-Day Tour")
Embark on a distinctive travel itinerary in the Almaty Region, featuring highlights such as Altyn-Emel National Park, Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lakes, Lake Kaindy, Tamgaly Tas Petroglyph Site, and numerous other captivating attractions.
Discover the highlights of Altyn-Emel National Park, including the iconic Singing Dune and the striking Aktau Mountains, along with Kazakhstan's most awe-inspiring canyon, Charyn Canyon.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn Emel National Park Off-Road Tour")
On request
Off-road journey to Altyn Emel State Natural Park will allow you to make new discoveries and get the unforgettable experiences!
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Altyn Emel National Park and Charyn Canyon Off-Road Tour")
On request
If you like spending time in nature and delight in discovering the new and unusual – come join us on this off-road tour in Altyn Emel Natural Park and Charyn Canyon!
-sergejt_420x650_4ab.jpg "Canyons of Zhetisu Off-Road Tour")
On request
This off-road tour will enable you to see the most beautiful canyons of the south-eastern part of Zhetysu: Kyzylzhar, Temirlik, Bestamak and Valley of Castles of Charyn Canyon.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Golden Ring of Dzungaria Tour")
On request
Embark on a route through the less-explored trails of the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains. This expedition promises encounters with Kazakhstan's tallest waterfall, ancient petroglyphs, the remnants of bygone settlements, an azure mountain lake, and various other natural landscapes!