Astana to Kartaly

Language

The official languages spoken in Astana are Kazakh and Russian. In Kartaly, Russian is the primary language.

Currency

Kazakhstan uses the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). Russia uses the Russian ruble (RUB). It's recommended to exchange currency before your trip or use ATMs upon arrival.

Distance

The distance between Astana and Kartaly is approximately 550 kilometers (342 miles).

How to Reach

• Train: Direct trains operate between Astana and Kartaly. The journey takes around 10-12 hours.
• Bus: Buses ply between the two cities. The journey is longer than by train, taking approximately 12-15 hours.
• Flight: While there are no direct flights, you can connect via Moscow or Almaty.

Expenses

Your expenses will vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Here are approximate costs:

• Train ticket: 15-25 USD
• Bus ticket: 10-20 USD
• Hotel: 20-50 USD per night
• Food: 10-20 USD per day
• Activities: 10-30 USD per day

Best time to go

The best time to visit Kartaly is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

What to Eat

• Borscht (beetroot soup)
• Pelmeni (dumplings)
• Shashlik (grilled meat skewers)
• Blini (pancakes)
• Kvas (fermented bread drink)

Where to Go

• Kartaly Fortress
• Holy Trinity Cathedral
• Kartaly Museum of Local Lore
• Victory Park
• Lenin Square

FAQ

• Do I need a visa? Citizens of most countries do not require a visa for stays under 90 days in both Kazakhstan and Russia.
• Is it safe to travel? Both Astana and Kartaly are generally safe destinations for travelers.
• Is English widely spoken? English is not widely spoken, so it's helpful to learn some basic Russian phrases.
• Can I use my credit card? Credit cards are accepted in major establishments, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
• What type of outlet adapter do I need? Kazakhstan and Russia use Type C and F electrical outlets.