The Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is the city’s undisputed highlight, but it’s not the only reason to visit Turkistan. You can also step into an underground mosque, visit the steppe museum, or see the city’s contemporary side at the Karavansaray complex.
If you have extra time to explore Turkistan you can add even more depth to your visit at nearby sites like Otrar and the Arystan Bab Mausoleum.
Also read: Kazakhstan Itinerary | 9 Days Of Cities, Canyons & Culture
A Short History of Turkistan
Turkistan’s history stretches back over 1,500 years. Located on an important branch of the Silk Road, it became a major trading hub and religious centre in Central Asia.
The city’s prominence grew in the late 14th century when Timur (Tamerlane), the ruler of the Timurid Empire, commissioned the construction of the grand Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a Sufi mystic whose influence spread across the steppe.
In the 16th century, Turkistan became the capital of the Kazakh Khanate It cemented its role as both a political and spiritual heart of the region. While its importance declined in later centuries, it remained a place of pilgrimage for Kazakhs and other Central Asian peoples.
Since Kazakhstan’s independence in 1991, Turkistan has seen renewed investment, with major restoration work on historic sites and a wave of modern construction projects transforming the city into a key cultural destination.
How Much Time Do You Need in Turkistan
You can see all the main sights of Turkistan in a day trip from Shymkent. The journey takes around 2.5 hours each way by marshrutka, and a single day (3 to 5 hours) is enough to cover the highlights.
There isn’t much need to stay longer unless you want to see the city illuminated at night, when the mausoleum and modern Karavansaray complex are beautifully lit.
If you do decide to overnight, the Hampton by Hilton Turkistan is a great option, located right next to the main sights. Otherwise, Shymkent is generally a nicer base with more dining and accommodation choices.
Also read: Things To Do In Shymkent, Kazakhstan | Complete Travel Guide
How to Get to Turkistan
Turkistan is well connected, so you have several options to reach it depending on your schedule and budget.
- From Shymkent by marshrutka | The most common option is to travel by marshrutka (shared minibus) from Samal bus station. The ride takes about 2.5 hours and costs 1,500 KZT (~2 USD). Marshrutkas leave once full, which usually doesn’t take long in the morning.
- Back to Shymkent by marshrutka | Jump in a taxi using the Yandex Go app and head to either the Altyn Orda or the Merey bus station. They’re opposite each other, so simply check which one has the next departure.
- From Shymkent on a tour | If you prefer more stops on your way to Turkistan, then book this guided tour. The tour stops at Otrar and the Arystanbab Mausoleum along the way.
- By train | Turkistan is on Kazakhstan’s railway network, with regular connections to Shymkent, Almaty, and Astana. Trains are modern and comfortable, making this a relaxed way to travel if you have the time.
- By air | The city has its own Turkistan International Airport (HSA), with flights to Almaty, Astana, and some international destinations such as Istanbul. If you’re short on time, flying in and out could be an option.
Things to See and Do in Turkistan
Now that you’ve made it to Turkistan let’s explore all of the city’s things to do.
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
The highlight of Turkistan is without a doubt the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. This massive 14th-century structure was commissioned by Timur (Tamerlane) to honour the revered Sufi mystic, who played a key role in spreading Islam across Central Asia.
Although the mausoleum was never fully completed, it remains one of the most important Timurid monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The turquoise dome is the largest of its kind in Central Asia, and inside you’ll find ceremonial halls and the tomb itself.
The Yasawi compex is the spiritual heart of Kazakhstan and draws pilgrims and visitors from across the region. It’s really one of the best things to do, not just in Turkistan, but in Kazakhstan.
Also read: 10 Spectacular Things To See & Do In Kazakhstan
Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mosque
A short walk away from the mausoleum, closer to the Karavansaray, stands the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mosque. Completed in 2015, it’s a modern landmark that highlights Turkistan’s continuing role as a spiritual hub.
With its white exterior, large dome, and active congregation, it complements the historic mausoleum by showing how the city’s religious life remains active today. You are welcome outside of prayer times, but dress modestly and be respectful inside.
Mausoleum of Rabia Sultan Begum
Just a short walk from the main Yasawi complex stands the Mausoleum of Rabia Sultan Begum, wife of a 15th-century Timurid ruler.
Originally built in 1485, the mausoleum was later reconstructed but retains its beautiful character. It’s a lot smaller than the Yasawi complex, but every visitor to Turkistan also visits this place, so it can feel crowded at times.
Hilvet Underground Mosque
Hidden beneath the ground near the Yasawi mausoleum, the Hilvet Underground Mosque offers a very different experience. Its semi-subterranean chambers were once used by Sufi followers for meditation and prayer in seclusion.
The atmosphere here is calm and introspective, and it gives you a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the time. You’ll also find some beautiful paintings and rugs from the region here.
Uly Dala Eli Ortalygy (Great Steppe Heritage Museum)
Opened in 2020, the Uly Dala Eli Ortalygy is a strikingly modern museum that explores the culture and history of the Kazakh steppe. The building itself is impressive with its blue-tiled façade and yurt-inspired design.
Inside, exhibits cover ancient metallurgy, horsemanship, the Silk Road, and Kazakhstan’s nomadic traditions. All brought to life through some pretty impressive multimedia and interactive displays.
I really enjoyed my visit here and I think it’s well worth it to include on your list of things to do in Turkistan to get a broader perspective on Kazakh identity.
Karavansaray (Keruen-Saray)
Turkistan isn’t only about history. The Karavansaray is a modern cultural-entertainment complex designed to evoke the caravanserais of the Silk Road. Inside, you’ll find shops, cafés, restaurants, and even evening performances such as equestrian shows and music.
The highlight for many visitors is the golden egg shaped building that houses the Samruk Flying Theater. This immersive show is well worth your time as you’ll go on a virtual flight over the whole country. And while the show is fun, the building itself is the real show-stopper. Either way, it’s a fun way to end your day in Turkistan.
More Things to Do in Turkistan on Day Trips to Nearby Sights
While most visitors come to the city mainly for the Yasawi Mausoleum and nearby attractions, there are even more things to do in Turkistan’s wider region.
You can visit these places with a private driver or guided tour, since marshrutky head straight between Shymkent and Turkistan without stopping. If you have a full day or are keen to explore further, here are a few places worth adding to your route:
- Sauran Ancient Settlement | Sauran was once a major Silk Road city and even served as a capital of the Kazakh Khanate. The settlement is mostly in ruins today, but its extensive mud-brick walls and city layout are still visible. Walking along the remaining fortifications gives you a real sense of scale.
- Otrar | Once a major Silk Road city, Otrar is known as the birthplace of philosopher Al-Farabi. The ruins include old city walls, gates, and a small museum. Although largely in ruins today, it’s historically significant. The Mongols sacked Otrar in 1219 after its ruler executed Genghis Khan’s envoys, sparking the Mongol invasion of Central Asia.
- Arystan Bab Mausoleum | Close to Otrar, this mausoleum is dedicated to the revered teacher of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Pilgrims often stop here before continuing on to Turkistan. The site has been rebuilt several times, most recently in the 20th century.
- Domalak Ana Mausoleum | This mausoleum commemorates a respected female figure in Kazakh history and is a popular pilgrimage spot. The modern building is simple but striking, and the legend of Domalak Ana makes it an interesting cultural stop.
- Ak Meshit Cave | Although technically closer to Shymkent, the Ak Meshit Cave is sometimes included on extended day trips from Shymkent to Turkistan. The cave’s enormous dome-shaped entrance lets sunlight flood into the cavern, creating a magical effect.
Where to Eat in Turkistan
Turkistan has a growing number of cafés and restaurants, many clustered around the Karavansaray complex. Here are a few good options for a meal or a break as you tick off your list of things to do in Turkistan:
- Global Coffee Turkistan | A modern café with good coffee and cakes. I stopped here for an iced latte and cheesecake. Perfect on a hot day, and the air conditioning was a welcome bonus.
- Sandyq | A stylish restaurant serving traditional Kazakh dishes with a contemporary twist. I ate at their Astana branch, but the Turkistan location offers a similar menu and atmosphere.
- Wow Plov | A popular spot for hearty Central Asian comfort food, especially their namesake plov. Portions are generous, making it a great choice if you’re hungry after sightseeing.
Where to Stay in Turkistan
Most travellers will base themselves in Shymkent and visit Turkistan on a day trip, since Shymkent has more accommodation and dining options.
But if you’d like to stay overnight in Turkistan, the best choice is the Hampton by Hilton Turkistan. It’s right next to the main sights, including the Yasawi Mausoleum and Karavansaray, and offers the comfort and reliability of an international hotel brand.
Staying overnight also gives you the chance to see the mausoleum and modern developments beautifully illuminated after dark.
Also read: Where To Stay In Kazakhstan | My Favourite Hotels
Best Time to Visit Turkistan
The best months to visit Turkistan are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). During these seasons, the weather is usually pleasant to explore the city’s historic sights on foot.
Summer can be extremely hot, often over 35°C, which makes sightseeing in the middle of the day challenging. Winter is much colder and windier, though the city remains accessible year-round.
Final Tips for Visiting Turkistan
- Clothing | Dress modestly, especially when visiting active places of worship.
- Stay connected | Get an eSIM via Saily or buy a local SIM card when you arrive. Use my referral code MARTIN84627 when using Saily for 5 USD off your first eSIM purchase.
- Sun protection | Summers are hot, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- Getting around | Most sights are within walking distance of one another, but for day trips further afield it’s best to hire a driver or join a guided tour. A taxi via Yandex Go can easily get you back to the bus station for a marshrutka to Shymkent.
- Base yourself in Shymkent | The city is a lot livelier, but an overnight stay in Turkistan is worthwhile if you want to experience the city lit up at night.
- Travel Insurance | Always a good idea. Readers of Next Journey Ahead get 5% off Heymondo travel insurance that covers Kazakhstan.
Also read: Kazakhstan Travel Tips | What To Know Before You Go
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Turkistan
Turkistan combines centuries of Silk Road history with Kazakhstan’s bold modern vision. While most travellers see it on a day trip from Shymkent, those who linger a little longer will find even more layers to explore.
Did you visit Turkistan already or do you have questions? Then leave a comment below or reach out to me on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you. For more travel inspiration you can also subscribe to my newsletter and receive the latest itineraries and tips.
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