
Souvenirs & What to Buy in Almaty, Almaty, Kazakhstan
1. Kazakhstan Embroidery (Shyzbacha)
Traditional embroidery featuring intricate patterns and designs, making a beautiful souvenir for your home.
- Unique Designs: Each design has a unique story or meaning embedded in it.
- High Quality Materials: The embroidery is done using high-quality silk threads and traditional techniques.
- Handmade Craftsmanship: Each piece is handcrafted, making it a unique and special souvenir.
2. Kazakhstan National Dress (Dastarkhan-Shymkasak)
Ornate national dress showcasing traditional Kazakh patterns and colors. Ideal for a cultural keepsake.
- Rich Symbolism: Each element in the design has a specific meaning, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle.
- Highly Detailed Craftsmanship: The dress is adorned with intricate embroidery and beadwork.
- Available in Various Sizes: Dresses are available in various sizes, making it suitable for both adults and children.
3. Kazakhstan National Musical Instruments
Traditional musical instruments like the Dombra (lute) and Kazakh Kobyz offer a taste of the local music.
- Authentic Sound: The unique sound of these instruments adds an authentic touch to your Almaty experience.
- Skilled Craftsmanship: Each instrument is crafted with precision and expertise by skilled artisans.
- Versatile Uses: These instruments are used for both traditional music performances and as decorative pieces.
4. Baikonur Cosmodrome Souvenirs
Mementos from the historic Baikonur Cosmodrome, where many space missions were launched.
- Space Exploration History: These souvenirs carry a piece of space exploration history and make a unique keepsake.
- Official Merchandise: You can find official merchandise such as patches, pins, and models of spacecrafts.
- Limited Edition Items: Some items are limited edition, making them collectible pieces.
5. Almaty Market Spices
Spices from the bustling Almaty markets offer a taste of Central Asian flavors.
- Authentic Flavors: The spices have strong, authentic flavors that bring your meals to life.
- Versatile Uses: Spices can be used in a variety of dishes, adding depth and complexity to your cooking.
- Affordable Prices: Compared to other souvenirs, spices are quite affordable, making them a great option for travelers on a budget.
6. Kazakhstan National Hats (Tamga and Kalpak)
Traditional hats featuring unique Tamga symbols, reflecting the nomadic heritage.
- Distinctive Design: The hats are designed with distinctive Tamga symbols representing family or clan.
- Comfortable and Practical: The hats are comfortable, practical, and suitable for both men and women.
- Versatile Uses: In addition to being a souvenir, the hats can also serve as sun protection during your travels.
7. Kazakhstan National Jewelry
Ornate jewelry pieces showcasing traditional Kazakh designs and techniques.
- Beautiful Craftsmanship: Each piece is crafted with intricate detail and beautiful designs.
- Unique Gift Idea: The jewelry makes a unique and special gift idea for loved ones back home.
- Versatile Styles: Available in various styles, making it suitable for different tastes and preferences.
8. Almaty Semipalatinsk Oblast Souvenirs
Souvenirs from the Semipalatinsk Oblast, a region famous for its unique cultural and natural attractions.
- Cultural Richness: The souvenirs reflect the rich culture and history of the Semipalatinsk Oblast.
- Natural Beauty Representation: The souvenirs also represent the natural beauty of the region, including its flora and fauna.
- Rare Finds: You can find rare items unique to the Semipalatinsk Oblast, making your souvenir stand out.
9. Kazakhstan National Carpets
Beautifully crafted carpets showcasing traditional Kazakh designs and techniques.
- Rich Designs: Each carpet features rich, intricate designs that reflect the nomadic heritage.
- Quality Materials: The carpets are made using high-quality wool and silk threads.
- Versatile Uses: Carpets can be used as a beautiful addition to your home, or as a practical floor covering.
10. Almaty Craft Beer
Taste the local brews from Almaty's thriving craft beer scene.
- Unique Flavors: Each brewery offers unique flavors, reflecting the creativity and innovation of local brewers.
- Support Local Businesses: By purchasing craft beer, you're supporting local businesses and the Almaty economy.
- Great for Gifts: Craft beers make great gifts for friends and family back home.
11. Almaty Mineral Water (Kumys)
Famous mineral water known as Kumys, said to have healing properties.
- Healing Properties: The water is believed to have various health benefits due to its rich minerals.
- Authentic Taste: The authentic taste of Kumys makes it a unique and interesting souvenir.
- Available in Various Forms: Kumys is available in various forms such as drinks, candies, and cosmetic products.
12. Almaty Wine (Tamdy)
Taste the unique flavors of Tamdy wine, a local specialty.
- Unique Flavors: The wine has distinct flavors due to the specific grape varieties and terroir.
- Support Local Vineyards: By purchasing Tamdy wine, you're supporting local vineyards and wineries.
- Great for Gifts: Tamdy wine makes a great gift idea for friends and family back home.
13. Almaty Local Artwork
Purchase artwork created by local artists, showcasing the beauty of Almaty.
- Talented Artists: The artwork is created by talented and skilled local artists.
- Beautiful Representations: The artwork beautifully represents the landscapes, people, and culture of Almaty.
- Great for Home Decor: The artwork makes a great addition to your home decor, showcasing your travels.
14. Almaty Traditional Music CDs
Experience the sounds of Almaty with traditional music CDs.
- Authentic Sounds: The music offers an authentic taste of the local music scene.
- Versatile Uses: The CDs can be used for personal enjoyment or as a gift idea for friends and family.
- Affordable Prices: Compared to other souvenirs, traditional music CDs are quite affordable.
15. Almaty Traditional Games (Kok-boru and Tug of War)
Participate in or purchase traditional Kazakh games like Kok-boru (goat polo) and Tug of War.
- Unique Experiences: Experience the thrill of participating in these unique games.
- Cultural Understanding: Participating or watching these games offers a better understanding of Kazakh culture.
- Collectible Items: Purchase equipment or memorabilia as collectible items to remember your experience.