The ninth largest country in the world, Kazakhstan is also the largest landlocked country. For those who love to explore the unexplored sights, trudge along the arid deserts, and learn more about history, Kazakhstan is the place to visit. It has varied types of terrain, ranging from plains, plateaus, to steppes and even rocky hills. The country closest to its border is Russia, and maybe because of this, there is a strong influence in culture and religion.
The lakes that lie in the midst of forested hills, Kol Say lakes are at a height of nearly 2000 meters from the sea level. A great place for camping and spending a few nights under the stars, people come here just to take it all in and live as one with their surroundings. There are even helicopter trips that take off from the Almaty, and land in Saty, which is a lower lake, and can be reached through road as well. In and around this area, there are plenty of walking, trekking and horse back riding opportunities which has families excited and curious.
Kozha Ahmed Yasaui Mausoleum is the place where the famous sufi singer and poet's history is etched on the grave walls. A tomb that was built in the place where he died has become a monument of sorts for those who were fond of his poems and verses. Since the place was built around 1166, it has withered with age, and is now being restored by the Turkish government to preserve its appearance.
Set in the midst of thick mountains, the Almatinsky natural reserve is where one gets to see wildlife in their homes. Snow leopards and other endangered species of animals can be seen roaming the length of this reserve. Within the reserve is the highest peak, Mt Talgar, which can be climbed, but takes nearly 4 days to reach the hill top. Be sure to have permit for the same before venturing out into the trek.
A lake that is half fresh water and half saline is one spot that every visitor to Kazakhstan must see. It is also said ot be one of the largest lakes in the world, surrounding which there is rich history in the buildings and monuments. These have been around since the Bronze age and the early iron ages, and so are nearly thousands of years old.
In the city of Almaty, lies the beautiful grand ballet theatre where one can witness the most exquisite performances. These take place regularly and so if you keep an eye out for the dates, you could catch one being performed by local artists. This is a place where one learns about the rich heritage, art and ofcourse the cultural beauty that lies within Kazakhstan.
A partly recognised country in the South eastern part of Europe, Kosovo was declared Independent only in February 2008. With Albania, Montenegro, and Macedonia bordering the country on three sides, the fourth is the Serbia, which is in the north east. The Albanian name for Kosovo is Kosova, which is how some of the locals refer to this country. A country that has been caught in some conflict or the other has put off tourists for a long time, till recently when it was declared safe and tourist friendly.
While making a trip to visit Kosovo, carry a local guide and have these lists of five things one must see while in that part of the world, to help you have a good time and see all the sights in store.
A city of high spiritual significance lies in the town of Kosovska Mitrovica. A town that was deeply affected during the Kosovo war is a place that should be visited by everyone going to Kosovo. This is the place that was divided with the Mitrovica bridge, that is also another sight that visitors can check out while here.
The huge citadel in the middle of the city is where all the main activities and events take place. The Petrovaradin as it is called is the hub of activity, filled with locals displaying their ware and giving performances during the evenings. A majestic fortress known as the Gibraltar of Danube stands tall amidst all the activities, which is a place that tourists visit to learn about the history of Kosovo.
The Mitrovica Bridge is another popular tourist attraction in Kosovo. An interesting way of symbolising the division of population in Kosovo is through the bridge. This bridge acts like the dividing line between the Serbs and Albanians in Mitrovica, part of the country. For people who are curious, they can walk on to the bridge and catch a glimpse of what it is like on the other side. But be careful, there might be restrictions on when you can visit the place, and when you cannot.
The Rugova Gorge is located to the north western side of the town of Pec and is quite easy to find. If one were to drive down the road that leads to the Pec Patriarchy, they would see the Gorge right in front of their eyes. The huge Gorge is nearly 300 meters deep and has steep walls that go all the way down.
Gjakova Old Bazaar is another popular place with tourists to Kosovo. If you are someone who loves looking at local stores and doing a bit of shopping, there is a very beautiful old shopping centre which has been around since the 17th century. It was initially burned down by the Serbian Army forces but today has been reconstructed and is open to public. One would find plenty of local trinkets and knick knacks here that they can buy and take back home with them. The centre of the bazaar has an old mosque that was built in the 15th century.
Article Source :
Andrew Gibson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Culture and Society, Golf Guide and Travel and Leisure. Andrew Gibson is MD of Direct Holiday Bookings. It has holiday villas and holiday cottages to rent on line as a holiday home rental. To see an example of Holiday Accommodation in Kazakhstan have a look at. Andrew Gibson's top article generates over 550000 views. to your Favourites.