Friday, September 4, 2026

Black and Moon Canyon, Almaty, Kazakhstan

 

Moon Canyon, also known as the Valley of the Moon, Lunar Canyon, or Uzunbulak Canyon, is located approximately 230 kilometers east of Almaty, Kazakhstan, within Charyn National Park. Carved by the Charyn River and shaped over millions of years by wind and water erosion, the canyon is famous for its dramatic cliffs, otherworldly rock formations, vibrant layers of red, orange, yellow, and brown, and striking shadows created by the changing position of the sun. Its barren, moon-like landscape gives the canyon its name and creates an almost extraterrestrial atmosphere, making it a particularly popular destination for photographers and nature lovers. The canyon is approximately 6 kilometers long and forms part of the remarkable network of landscapes surrounding the larger Charyn Canyon. The surrounding park is also known for its rich geological features, diverse wildlife, and rare vegetation, including the ancient Sogdian ash groves. Moon Canyon offers visitors an opportunity to experience a quieter and more rugged side of the Charyn region, away from the more famous Valley of Castles.
The canyon is approximately 6 kilometers long and forms part of the remarkable network of landscapes surrounding the larger Charyn Canyon. The surrounding park is also known for its rich geological features, diverse wildlife, and rare vegetation, including the ancient Sogdian ash groves. Moon Canyon offers visitors an opportunity to experience a quieter and more rugged side of the Charyn region, away from the more famous Valley of Castles.


The Black Canyon, also known as Karaoy Gorge, is located about 180 to 200 kilometers east of Almaty in the Almaty Region of Kazakhstan. It is part of the larger Charyn Canyon National Park and is known for its dramatic, dark-colored rock walls carved over time by the Charyn River. The towering canyon walls create a striking landscape that feels both rugged and mysterious, making it a worthwhile stop for nature and adventure lovers.
The Black Canyon is accessible year-round, although the scenery can vary depending on the season. Travel time is usually around three to four hours from central Almaty, and the destination is often included in multi-day tours covering other attractions in the region, such as Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, and Kolsay Lakes.
For our trip, we booked a 3-day, 2-night tour with Primo PH Travel and Tours, which included two nights of accommodation in Saty Village. Staying in Saty was convenient as it served as our base for exploring the surrounding natural attractions. The journey to the Black Canyon was long but scenic, with beautiful views of Kazakhstan’s vast landscapes along the way. The canyon itself was a memorable part of the trip, especially when viewed up close against the backdrop of the rugged mountains and open steppe.

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Kolsay Lake - The Pearl of the Tien Shan in Kazakhstan 🏔️

 

Kolsay Lake is often called the “Pearl of the Tien Shan”, and after seeing it in person, I completely understand why. It is a stunning trio of alpine lakes nestled in the mountains of southeastern Kazakhstan, surrounded by towering peaks, lush forests, and incredibly clear, turquoise waters.

The three Kolsay Lakes are located at different elevations, ranging from around 1,800 to 2,800 meters above sea level, and each offers a different experience. The air here is so crisp, cool, and fresh—something you can immediately feel the moment you arrive.

Unfortunately, we only managed to visit the Lower Kolsay Lake, as reaching the Middle Lake requires an approximately 8-kilometer hike. Given our limited time, we decided to enjoy the lower lake instead and simply take in the beautiful scenery around us. And honestly, even just seeing the Lower Lake was already worth the trip.

One thing I noticed is that the road going to Kolsay Lake is paved and smooth, unlike the road to Kaindy Lake, which can be quite rough and bumpy. The journey to Kolsay was therefore much more comfortable, allowing us to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Before entering Kolsay National Park, there is a spot where you can rent traditional Kazakh costumes and even have the chance to hold a golden eagle, called “Berkut” in Kazakh. 🦅 We decided to try it because, honestly, it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The fee was 10,000 tenge each, and all the photos were transferred directly to our phones. We ended up with a total of 80 photos for me and my son! 📸 
It was definitely one of those spontaneous travel experiences that we knew we had to try. Wearing the traditional costume while holding such a magnificent bird made the experience even more memorable.
After arriving at Kolsay National Park, it takes only around 10 minutes of walking to reach the main viewing area. The trail is very easy and manageable, so you don't need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the lake. Once you reach the viewpoint, you are greeted by the breathtaking sight of the lake surrounded by mountains and pine forests. 🌲🏔️

The most popular activities here are hiking, horseback riding, and boating. For those who have more time, hiking further toward the other lakes would definitely be worth considering. For us, simply sitting by the lake, enjoying the cold mountain air, and admiring the scenery was already enough.

Most of the tourists we encountered were either on a two- or three-day tour, and we were also part of a three-day tour organized by Primo PH Travel and Tours.

Our three-day tour package was pretty convenient because almost everything was already taken care of, including two nights of accommodation in Saty Village. The only additional expenses we had were for activities such as horseback riding and boating, as well as food at some of the tourist spots.

Overall, Kolsay Lake was one of the highlights of our Kazakhstan trip. 🇰🇿❤️ There is something incredibly peaceful about being surrounded by mountains, forests, and crystal-clear alpine water. It is the kind of place where you don't need to do much—you can simply stand there, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate how beautiful nature can be.

Kolsay Lake is definitely a place I would love to visit again someday, hopefully with more time to hike toward the other lakes. 🏔️💙

Saturday, August 29, 2026

Khujand Fortress, Tajikistan

Khujand, Tajikistan’s second-largest city after Dushanbe, is a fascinating destination for travelers interested in ancient Silk Road history, vibrant local markets, and rich cultural heritage. With more than 2,500 years of history, the city offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and Soviet-era architecture.



One of the highlights of Khujand is the Khujand Fortress, one of the largest fortifications in Central Asia. Located along the Syr Darya River, the fortress played an important role in the history of the Great Silk Road. Although the original fortress was destroyed by the Mongols in the 13th century, the present complex is a reconstruction that offers visitors a glimpse into Khujand’s remarkable past. The beautifully landscaped gardens and impressive main building, with its stunning interiors, make it a memorable place to explore.

The complex features restored citadel walls, traditional artisan workshops, and five exhibition halls showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of the Tajik people.
Have you visited this amazing fortress? What was your favorite part of Khujand?

We got here on a day tour booked through GetYourGuide, with hotel pick-up in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.  Since this is a day trip, you will need to cross the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border twice - once when entering Tajikisan and again when returniong to Uzbekistan.  It is therefore very important to note that you must obtain a double-entry visa for Uzbekistan if this is your planned route.  Khujand can also be reached from Tajikistan's capitan, Dushanbe.  Alternively, there is a rail connection from Samarkand, Uzbekistan, making it another possible route to consider.

The areas we visited are:

1. Park Imeni Kamola Khudzhandi

2. Historical Museum of Sughd Region

3 Khujand Fortress

4. Panjshanbe Bazaar

5. Arbob Palace (The Grand Palace)

A big thank you to the best guide ever, Shahrom Makhsumov, who took us around Khujand, showed us the very best of the city, and assisted us in every way possible.  Your kindness, hospitality, and effort made our experience truly unforgettable.  We're so grateful for everything!

Wednesday, August 26, 2026

Magic City, the Disneyland of Uzbekistan

Known as the “Magic City” or the “Disneyland of Uzbekistan,” Magic City is one of the largest amusement and entertainment parks in Central Asia. Located in the heart of Tashkent, the sprawling 21-hectare complex combines amusement rides, themed attractions, entertainment, shopping, dining, and impressive architecture, making it a popular destination for both families and tourists.

One of the park’s most eye-catching landmarks is its 60-meter-tall fairy-tale castle, inspired by the grand castles of classic fairy tales, Disney-inspired architecture, and Germany’s famous Neuschwanstein Castle. The castle creates a magical centerpiece and is especially spectacular when illuminated at night.


Walking through Magic City feels like taking a mini trip around the world. Its beautifully designed themed streets recreate the atmosphere and architecture of famous international destinations, with areas inspired by cities such as Paris, London, and Barcelona. Colorful buildings, decorative facades, fountains, and European-style streets make almost every corner of the park a great spot for photos.


Magic City is also home to Central Asia’s first public aquarium, where visitors can explore an underwater world and see a variety of marine life. Beyond the aquarium, the park offers plenty of entertainment, including a Magic Museum, cinemas, carnival games, simulators, bumper cars, roller coasters, and other indoor attractions, making it possible to enjoy the park even when the weather isn't ideal.


In the evenings, Magic City becomes even more spectacular with its daily laser and fountain shows, adding music, lights, and colorful water displays to the already lively atmosphere. There are also numerous restaurants, cafés, shops, and other entertainment venues throughout the complex, so visitors can easily spend several hours—or even an entire day—exploring.


Perhaps one of the best things about Magic City is that entrance to the park is completely free. Visitors only need to pay separately for individual rides, games, and selected attractions. The park is generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, giving visitors plenty of time to experience both its daytime attractions and its spectacular nighttime atmosphere.

With its fairy-tale castle, international-themed streets, aquarium, amusement rides, entertainment venues, and free admission, Magic City is more than just an amusement park—it is an entire entertainment destination and one of the most unique places to visit in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Kaindy Lake in Almaty, Kazakhstan


Lake Kaindy is a famous 400-meter long alpine reservoir located 130 kilometers east-southeast of Almaty in the Kolsai Lake National Park.  It is located 2000 meters above sea level.  It was formed during the 1911 Kebin earthquake, which caused a major landslide, effectively creating a natural dam. It is known for its submerged spruce forest rising from turquiose water.
The water temperature at Kaindy Lake remains extremely cold even during summer, ranging from around 3°C to 6°C. The lake’s mineral-rich water has helped preserve the submerged trees for more than a century, creating its iconic and breathtaking scenery. The best time to visit is generally from May to September. However, we visited in April, and the weather was already perfect for exploring the lake and enjoying its stunning surroundings.

From our accommodation in Saty Village, we were picked up by a rugged Soviet-era van, which was the perfect vehicle for the journey to Kaindy Lake. The road is rough, rocky, and mostly unpaved, with steep and uneven sections that require a sturdy four-wheel-drive vehicle. The ride itself was already an adventure, taking us through the beautiful mountain landscape and rugged terrain of the area.

From the main parking area, visitors can either rent a horse or hike to the lake. We chose to hike, which took us about 45 minutes. Although the trail was challenging in some parts, the scenic surroundings, fresh mountain air, and anticipation of seeing the famous sunken forest made the trek well worth the effort.

horse ride from the main parking to the lake


To get to Kaindy Lake from Almaty, you can either drive yourself or join a guided tour. We booked our trip with Primo PH Travel and Tours, which offered a 3D/2N package covering Almaty and Saty Village.
Our package included visits to Shymbulak, Kok Tobe, Zenkov Cathedral, Kaindy Lake, Kolsay Lakes, and the Black, Moon, and Charyn Canyons. It also included two nights of accommodation in Saty Village, making it a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the stunning natural attractions around Almaty.

Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Historical Museum of Sughd Region, Khujand, Tajikistan


The Historical Museum of Sughd Region is located within the reconstructed Khujand Fortress in Khujand, Tajikistan. Established in 1986, the museum houses an extensive collection of more than 15,000 artifacts, with some sources noting collections of up to 30,000 items, showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Sughd region.

The museum’s exhibitions offer a fascinating journey through the region’s ancient past, including dioramas depicting prehistoric life and archaeological artifacts from different historical periods. Among its notable displays are original mosaic panels made of colored marble, depicting scenes associated with Alexander the Great and Alexandria Eschate (Alexandria the Farthest), the ancient city he founded in the region. The museum also pays tribute to Temurmalik, the celebrated Tajik folk hero who is remembered for his courageous resistance against the Mongol invasion in the 13th century.

Beyond its historical collections, the museum provides a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the Sughd people through displays of traditional national costumes, intricate embroidery, and beautifully hand-woven Tajik carpets. Visiting the museum offers a deeper appreciation of Khujand’s long history and its importance as one of Central Asia’s ancient cultural centers.

We got here on a day tour booked through GetYourGuide, with hotel pick-up in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Since this is a day trip, you will need to cross the Uzbekistan–Tajikistan border twice—once when entering Tajikistan and again when returning to Uzbekistan. It is therefore very important to note that you must obtain a double-entry visa for Uzbekistan if this is your planned route. Khujand can also be reached from Tajikistan’s capital, Dushanbe. Alternatively, there is a rail connection from Samarkand, Uzbekistan, making it another possible route to consider.

A big thank you to the best guide ever, Shahrom Makhsumov, who took us around Khujand, showed us the very best of the city, and assisted us in every way possible. Your kindness, hospitality, and effort made our experience truly unforgettable. We’re so grateful for everything!

 

Monday, August 17, 2026

Medeu in Almaty, Kazakhstan

 

Medeu is the highest-altitude large outdoor ice-skating and bandy rink in the world.  It sits 1,691 MASL, located about 14to 15 kilometers away from downtown Almaty, Kazakhstan.  But the iconic Medeu Skating Rink is closed today for two to three-year modernization to meet international standards.

Because the touristy skating rink is closed, we climbed the 842 stairs for a magnificent view offering panoramic vantage.  The view is surrounded by snow-dusted ridges, alpine trees and winding mountain roads.  From here, you can see the cable car lines going to Shymbulak Mountain Resort.



If you want to experience snow in Almaty, the ideal month to visit are in mid-December to February.  If you visit outside these months, you can still find snow year-round by heading up to the nearby mountains like in Shymbulak Mountain Resort.

To get to Medeu Sports Complex from Almaty, take Bus No. 12 and the ride takes 30 to 40 minutes and will only costs you 150 Kazakhstan Tenge.  

To get to Medeu Sports Complex from Almaty by taxi, use the Yandex Go App to book a ride.  The ride takes also around 30 to 40 minutes and will costs you 2500 to 4500 Kazakhstan Tenge depending on your starting point in Almaty.

We booked our whole 3 Days and 2 Nights Kazakhstan tour via Primo PH Travel and Tours but you can do the Medeu, Shymbulak, Kok Tobe tour by DIY and it will costs you must cheaper and enjoy your self-paced or untimed tour lets you explore at your own speed without a strict schedule. 

Saturday, August 8, 2026

Chimgan Mountains, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

 

Chimgan Mountains is home to popular ski areas like the traditional Chimgan ski slopes, Beldersay and the popular Amirsoy Mountain Resort.  It also offers scenic open air chair-lifts and modern gondolas that carry visitors up the slopes for panoramic views.


What we did in Chimgan is horse backriding that costs us 200,000 Uzbek Soms per pax.  The mountain offers scenic alpine valley trails.  It is located around 80 kilometers from Tashkent and are available at all skill levels.  The trip was part of our Get Your Guide tour to Amirsoy, Chimgan and Charvak Lake at Php7,491 or 1.5 million Soms for 3 pax.

If you will not get the tour via GetYour Guide app, book a direct ride using a ride-hailing app "Yandex Go" for a fixed price.  The 80-85 kilometer ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours north into the mountains and it will costs you around US$ 9-15.  By comparing hailing a taxi and booking at GetYourGuide, it is much cheaper to DIY.

We went on a tour that started in Tashkent, included a day trip to Khujand in Tajikistan and another to Chim gan, and spent the remaining days in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Friday, July 10, 2026

Panjshanbe Market in Khujand, Tajikistan

 

Panjshanbe Market is located in the heart of Khujand.  It also rhymes with the country's capital, the Dunshanbe that means Monday, and Panjshanbe means Thursday.  They used to have trading days during Mondays and Thursdays in both cities.

The construction of the pavilion tooks place in the middle of the 20th century and finished in 1964.  It is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in Central Asia.  It is a vibrant hub featuring fresh produce like pomegranates, melons, persimmons, traditional spices, dired fruits, traditional Tajik bread, colored textiles, street food like plov, skewered meats, meat-stuffed dumplings, and dried yogurt cheese balls.  You can also buy here crafts and souvenirs.
The recommended time to visit the market is from 6am to 7pm.  It is located at the Southern end of town off Ismoili Somoni Avenue in Khujand.

The Panjshanbe Market or Bazaar is opposite the Sheikh Muslihiddin Mausoleum.  The Mausoleum is built as a resting place for Sheikh Muslihiddin Khujandi, a prominent 12th century ruler of the city, who is also a poet, a philosopher, teacher, and a respected Islamic theologian.

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Amirsoy Mountain Resort, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Amirsoy Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in Uzbekistan and the most modern in Central Asia. There are eleven ski slopes for skiers and snowboarders for all levels and a gondola ski lift with a lift height of 2290 meters.
The roundtrip cable ride costs 225,000 uzbek soms for adults and 112,500 uzbek soms for kids. 

The non-ski activities in Amirsoy includes scenic cable car rides, snow-tubing, quad biking and of course dining at the resorts modern restaurants.

Discover the region’s natural beauty with excursions to Chimgan Mountain, where you can experience chairlift rides and horseback riding, and to the breathtaking Charvak Water Reservoir, a perfect destination for relaxation and sightseeing.



The resort is roughly 80 kilometers from Tashkent City Center.  You can take a taxi using the Yandex Go app and the cost is usually US$12 to US$25 or 150,000 to 300,000 uzbek soms.  But in our case, we got our tour from GetyourGuide and the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off,  Amirsoy Mountain Resort, Chimgan Mountains and Charvak Lake for Php7500 or US$120 for the three of us.  
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