Taraz, Kazakhstan

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Taraz, Kazakhstan

Region: Zhambyl Region

---

Geographic Coordinates: 42.900000, 71.366700

Climate: Cold winters and hot summers with a dry climate overall.

Population: 357795

Language: Kazakh

---

Taraz is a stunning city located in the southern region of Kazakhstan. With a history that dates back over 2, 000 years, It’s one of the oldest cities in the country and has been an important hub for trade and commerce since ancient times. As part of the Silk Road, Taraz was once a significant stop for travelers. One of Taraz’s most remarkable landmarks is the Aisha Bibi Mausoleum. Built during the 11th century to honor Aisha Bibi, It features intricate carvings and decorations that are typical of Islamic architecture from that era.

Another notable attraction in Taraz is the Karakhan Mausoleum. This structure was constructed during the 12th century and boasts an impressive dome-shaped roof supported by eight pillars. Like many other buildings in Taraz, It showcases stunning examples of Islamic architecture. For those interested in learning more about local history and culture, There are several museums to visit while exploring Taraz. The Regional Museum offers exhibits on everything from ancient artifacts to modern art pieces created by local artists.

Visitors can also immerse themselves into nature while visiting Taraz by heading out to nearby sites such as Lake Issyk or Mount Talgar. These natural wonders offer breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking or camping. The food scene in Taraz is also worth exploring as it offers delicious dishes unique to Kazakh cuisine such as beshbarmak (a noodle dish with meat) or kazy (a type of sausage made from horse meat). There are plenty of restaurants throughout town offering traditional Kazakh fare as well as international options.

Overall, Taraz provides visitors with an opportunity to experience Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage through its historic landmarks, Museums, Natural beauty and cuisine. Whether you’re interested in history or simply want to immerse yourself into everyday life here, This city is definitely worth a visit!

---

---

1. Aisha Bibi Mausoleum
2. Taraz Regional Museum of Local History
3. Karahan Mausoleum
4. Babaji Khatun Mausoleum
5. Tekturmas Historical and Cultural Complex
6. Taraz Zoological and Botanical Park
7. Kok-Tobe Hill
8. Central Mosque of Taraz
9. Zhambul State Academic Drama Theatre
10. Victory Park

---

1. Agriculture
• Wheat
• Barley
• Cotton
• Fruits and vegetables
2. Textile manufacturing
3. Construction
4. Food processing
• Dairy products (cheese and butter)
• Meat products (sausages)
5. Chemicals production
• Fertilizers
• Other chemicals used in agriculture
6. Retail businesses
• Clothing stores
• Supermarkets
• Electronics shops
7. Service sectors
• Finance
• Law firms

---

1. The city was founded in the 1st century AD as a trading post on the Silk Road.
2. In the 10th and 11th centuries, Taraz was an important center of trade and culture under the Karakhanid dynasty.
3. In the 12th century, it became part of the Khwarazmian Empire before being conquered by Genghis Khan in 1218.
4. The city played a key role in Timur’s campaigns against China in the late 14th century.
5. It was also a center of resistance against Russian colonial rule during the Kazakh Wars of Independence in the late 19th century.
6. Notable people from Taraz include Abay Qunanbayuli (1845-1904), a poet and philosopher who is considered one of Kazakhstan’s greatest cultural figures; Mukhtar Auezov (1897-1961), a writer who wrote extensively about Kazakh history and culture; and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (born 1953), current President of Kazakhstan who served as Prime Minister from 1999 to 2002 and again from 2003 to 2007.
7. Taraz is home to several historical landmarks including Aisha Bibi Mausoleum, Karakhan Mausoleum, Babaji Khatun Mausoleum, Tekturmas Mosque Complex, Talas River Bridge etc., which are significant for their architectural design or religious importance.

---

1. Aisha Bibi Mausoleum: a 12th-century mausoleum with intricate brickwork and turquoise tiles.
2. Karakhan Mausoleum: an ancient tomb of the Kazakh ruler, Karakhan.
3. Taraz Regional Local Lore Museum: a museum showcasing the history and culture of Taraz and its surrounding regions.
4. Central Mosque of Taraz: a beautiful mosque built in the early 20th century.
5. Suleiman-Too Sacred Mountain: a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient petroglyphs, shrines, and tombs.
6. Zhambyl Regional Museum of Fine Arts: an art museum featuring works by local artists as well as international pieces.
7. Auezov House-Museum: the former home of famous Kazakh writer Mukhtar Auezov, now turned into a museum showcasing his life and work.
8. Kultobe Archaeological Complex: an archaeological site dating back to the Bronze Age with impressive stone structures and artifacts on display.
9. Zhambul State Drama Theater: one of Kazakhstan’s oldest theaters known for its excellent productions and performances.
10. Abay State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater: another renowned theater in Taraz that showcases classical ballets, operas, musicals, etcetera.

---

---

1. FC Taraz: Established in 1936, this football club has a long-standing tradition of competing in the Kazakhstani football leagues. They have won multiple championships, including the Kazakhstani Cup in 2005.
2. BC Astana-Taraz: Founded in 1998, this basketball club has participated both nationally and internationally. They have earned several accolades, including six Kazakhstani Basketball League titles.
3. Taraz Volleyball Club: This volleyball club was established in 1970 and has been one of Kazakhstan’s most successful clubs throughout its history. They have won numerous national championships and represented Kazakhstan at international competitions.
4. Taraz Handball Club: This handball club was founded back in 1989 and has competed at both national and international levels since then. They have claimed multiple titles, including four Kazakhstani Handball League titles.

---

---

1. Aulie-Ata History and Culture Festival celebrates the rich history and culture of Taraz with traditional music, dance performances, and exhibitions.
2. Taraz Day is held every year on May 22nd to celebrate the city’s founding anniversary. It includes a parade, concerts, and other cultural activities.
3. Kurban Ait is celebrated in Taraz with special prayers at mosques and feasts with family and friends.
4. Nauryz marks the beginning of a new year in Kazakh culture. It is celebrated with traditional food, games, music, dance performances, and horse racing competitions.
5. Shashu-Ayak Festival celebrates the ancient tradition of falconry in Kazakhstan with demonstrations of hunting skills by trained birds of prey.
6. Koshpendiler Alemi brings together nomadic communities from across Kazakhstan to showcase their traditional way of life through music, dance performances, handicrafts exhibitions etc.
7. Zhas Kanat International Youth Festival aims at promoting cultural exchange among young people from different countries through various cultural events like dance performances etc.

---

• Beshbarmak – a traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) and served with noodles.
• Shashlik – grilled skewered meat (usually lamb or beef) served with vegetables and bread.
• Manty – steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions.
• Lagman – a noodle soup made with vegetables, meat, and spices.
• Kuyrdak – a stew made from lamb or beef liver, heart, lungs, kidneys, onions, potatoes, and spices.
• Samsa – baked pastry filled with minced meat or pumpkin.

Restaurants in Taraz that serve these dishes include:

1. Akku Restaurant
2. Alasha Restaurant
3. Dolan Cafe & Restaurant
4. Raimbek Restaurant
5. Kazakhstanskaya Usadba Restaurant

---

1. Taraz Central Park is a popular destination in the city, boasting walking paths, playgrounds, and an impressive fountain.
2. Aisha Bibi Park is located just beyond the city limits and offers visitors stunning gardens, picnic areas, and even an amusement park.
3. The Taraz Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys.
4. Sairam Lake can be found just outside of the city and provides opportunities for fishing as well as boating and picnicking.
5. Dostyk Park features walking paths for leisurely strolls or jogging along with sports fields for soccer or basketball enthusiasts.
6. Abay Cultural Palace hosts various cultural events throughout the year such as concerts or plays.
7. The Taraz Ski Resort located in nearby mountains provides skiing opportunities during winter months for those seeking outdoor adventure.
8. Visitors can explore ancient ruins at Kultobe Archaeological Site situated just outside of Taraz making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts to explore.

---

---