Major Highways & Driving Tips in Astana, Kazakhstan
1. Astana Ring Road (DK-3),
The main circular highway connecting all significant points in Astana, providing smooth travel around the city.
- Circular Structure: Uniquely designed as a ring to encircle the city for efficient movement.
- Multi-lane Highways: Multiple lanes ensure fewer traffic jams, making travel smoother and faster.
- Constantly Developing: Undergoing continuous development to meet the growing needs of the city.
2. Akmola Prospect (DK-1)
The primary north-south route in Astana, connecting key locations like the Presidential Palace and Nursultan Nazarbayev University.
- Boulevard Style: Designed as a wide boulevard for easy access to various destinations.
- Lined with Buildings of Interest: Unique architecture, museums, and embassies along the route add charm to travel.
- High Pedestrian Footfall: Heavy pedestrian traffic makes it a popular spot for leisurely strolls or shopping.
3. Bozembay Batyr Avenue
A significant east-west route connecting key attractions like Nur-Astana Mosque and Astana Opera.
- Iconic Buildings Nearby: Proximity to notable structures adds cultural and architectural value.
- Business District: Home to many businesses, making it a bustling area during work hours.
- Well-lit at Night: Proper lighting makes travel safe and comfortable even after dark.
4. Astana-Beket Ata Highway (M32)
Connects Astana with the historical city of Beket Ata, offering a glimpse into Kazakhstan's rich history.
- Scenic Drive: A beautiful drive through rolling hills and grasslands for nature lovers.
- Historical Destination: Provides access to ancient ruins and cultural heritage sites in Beket Ata.
- Long-distance Drive: A longer drive of approximately 3 hours one way, perfect for a day trip.
5. Nur Sultan International Airport Highway (M34)
Connects the city with Nur Sultan International Airport and other major destinations.
- Quick Access to Airport: Direct connection to the airport for convenient travel.
- Highway Quality: Good road condition ensures a comfortable journey.
- Efficient Access to City Center: Direct access to the city center, reducing travel time significantly.
6. Tulpar Embankment
Follows the Ishim River in Astana, offering scenic views and pedestrian walkways.
- Scenic River Views: Beautiful vistas of the Ishim River provide a peaceful setting.
- Pedestrian Friendly: Wide pedestrian paths for leisurely walks or jogs.
- Night Lighting: Proper lighting makes the area enjoyable to visit day or night.
7. Kabardy Koyandy Prospect (DK-2)
An important north-south route in Astana connecting key destinations like the National Museum of Kazakhstan and the Kazakhstan Exhibition.
- Cultural Landmarks: Close proximity to cultural landmarks enhances the travel experience.
- Busy Pedestrian Area: High pedestrian footfall adds energy and life to the area.
- Well-maintained Road: Good road condition ensures easy travel for vehicles.
8. Baiterek Tower Access Road
The main access road to the iconic Baiterek Tower in Astana's center.
- Iconic Structure Proximity: Immediate proximity to the Baiterek Tower provides a unique viewpoint.
- Pedestrian Friendly: Designated pedestrian areas make it easy and safe for visitors.
- Continuous Development: Surrounding area is under continuous development, offering new experiences.
9. Kok Tobe Hill Road
Winding road up Kok Tobe Hill offering stunning views of Astana from the top.
- Scenic Drive: Beautiful views of the city make the drive enjoyable.
- Funicular Access: Alternative funicular access available for those who prefer not to drive.
- Restaurants and Attractions: Top of the hill features restaurants, souvenir shops, and amusement park rides.
10. Saryarka Avenue (DK-7)
An important east-west route in Astana connecting key locations like the Central State Television and Radio Company of Kazakhstan and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
- Historical Architecture: Nearby historical buildings add cultural significance to the route.
- Busy Commercial Area: Home to many businesses, providing shopping and dining options for travelers.
- Well-maintained Road: Good road condition ensures easy travel for vehicles.
11. Abai Avenue (DK-4)
A major north-south route in Astana connecting key locations like the Central Park and the National Library.
- Central Green Spaces: Proximity to Central Park adds a touch of greenery to urban travel.
- Cultural Landmarks: Nearby cultural landmarks like the National Library enrich the travel experience.
- Busy Commercial Area: Home to many businesses, providing shopping and dining options for travelers.
12. Shevchenko Prospect (DK-5)
An important east-west route in Astana connecting key locations like the Kazakhstan Independence Monument and the National Museum of Kazakhstan.
- Cultural Landmarks: Nearby cultural landmarks add historical significance to the route.
- Busy Pedestrian Area: High pedestrian footfall adds energy and life to the area.
- Well-maintained Road: Good road condition ensures easy travel for vehicles.
13. Zhangir Khan Avenue (DK-6)
An important east-west route in Astana connecting key locations like the Central Communications Tower and the National Scientific Library.
- Cultural Landmarks: Nearby cultural landmarks add historical significance to the route.
- Busy Pedestrian Area: High pedestrian footfall adds energy and life to the area.
- Well-maintained Road: Good road condition ensures easy travel for vehicles.
14. Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center Access Road
The main access road to the massive Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center in Astana's center.
- Iconic Structure Proximity: Immediate proximity to the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center provides a unique destination.
- Pedestrian Friendly: Designated pedestrian areas make it easy and safe for visitors.
- Entertainment Options: Amusement park rides, shops, and restaurants available inside the center.
15. Astana-Petropavlovsk Highway (M36)
Connects Astana with Petropavlovsk, offering a scenic drive through the Kazakh steppe.
- Scenic Drive: Beautiful views of the Kazakh steppe make the drive enjoyable.
- Historical Destination: Provides access to historical sites and traditional villages in Petropavlovsk.
- Long-distance Drive: A longer drive of approximately 3.5 hours one way, perfect for a day trip or overnighter.