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Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, is known for its towering buildings, rich culture, and stunning architecture. A must-visit is the Astana Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic art and a significant cultural landmark. Beyond being a place of worship, it symbolises Kazakhstan’s heritage and beliefs. Whether seeking tranquillity for prayer or admiring exquisite design, the mosque offers a profound experience in the heart of the city.
History
Photo: Lucha / Wikimedia Commons
The Astana Grand Mosque opened in 2022. It was built to show Kazakhstan’s Islamic history and to be a symbol of peace and unity. Local leaders and religious groups helped in its construction. It is one of the biggest mosques in Central Asia. The design includes both old and new styles. The mosque has beautiful calligraphy, large domes, and colourful mosaics. Every part of the mosque shows the beauty of Islamic culture. Visitors can see the detailed artwork and feel the peaceful atmosphere.
Location
Photo: Dmitry A. Mottl / Wikimedia Commons
The Astana Grand Mosque is in the centre of Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan. It is an important place and easy to reach from anywhere in the city. The mosque is surrounded by pretty gardens and open spaces, making it a peaceful place for visitors and people who come to pray. Locals and tourists can visit easily because it is in a central area. The mosque looks very beautiful, especially in the evening when the golden light of the sunset shines on its white walls.
How To Reach
Photo: Jjm2311 / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach the Astana Grand Mosque by air, train, or road, with convenient transport options available from various locations:
By Air: The nearest airport, Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport, connects to major cities like Dubai, Istanbul, Moscow, and London. A taxi or local transport takes around 30 minutes to reach the mosque.
By Train: Astana Railway Station, 15 km away, offers easy access. Taxis and public buses provide convenient transport to the mosque.
By Road: Well-maintained roads and local bus routes make travel easy. If staying in the city centre, walking offers a scenic way to explore Astana.
Places To Visit Near Astana Grand Mosque
After visiting the Astana Grand Mosque, you can explore several other attractions nearby:
1. Bayterek Tower
Photo: Ken and Nyetta / Wikimedia Commons
Bayterek Tower is a famous landmark in Astana and is 97 metres tall. It is a symbol of Kazakhstan’s independence. The tower has a unique design with a golden sphere at the top. Visitors can take a lift to the top and see a beautiful view of the city. It is a popular place for tourists. Many people visit to take pictures and enjoy the view. The tower looks very beautiful, especially at night when it lights up.
Location: Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
Best Time To Visit: March – May; September – November
2. Khan Shatyr
Photo: Bgag / Wikimedia Commons
Khan Shatyr is a very big tent made of clear material. Inside, there are many shops, restaurants, and even a beach with warm water. It is a fun place to visit after seeing the Astana Grand Mosque. People can shop for clothes, eat different types of food, or relax on the indoor beach. It is a great place for families and tourists. The cost to visit depends on what you do inside. Shopping and dining prices vary, and the entry fee for the beach area is about 1,500 to 3,000 rupees.
Location: Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
Best Time To Visit: Anytime
3. National Museum Of Kazakhstan
Photo: Национальный музей РК / Wikimedia Commons
The National Museum of Kazakhstan is a good place to learn about the country’s history. It has old objects, traditional clothes, and displays about Kazakhstan’s culture. Visitors can see how people lived in the past and learn about important events. The museum interests anyone who wants to know more about the region. The museum is big and has many things to see, so you can spend a few hours exploring. It is a must-visit in Kazakhstan.
Location: Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
Best Time To Visit: March – May; September – November
4. Nur-Astana Mosque
Photo: Ilya Varlamov / Wikimedia Commons
The Nur-Astana Mosque is an important religious place in Astana. It has golden domes and a white marble design, making it one of the most beautiful mosques in the city. Visitors can walk around and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The mosque is a special place for prayer and also a popular spot for tourists. People can admire its beauty and learn more about its history. Entry is free, and if you wish to donate, you can give any amount.
Location: Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
Best Time To Visit: Anytime
5. National Library Of Kazakhstan
Photo: abdrashidovyerden / Wikimedia Commons
The National Library of Kazakhstan is a great place to visit in Astana for people who love books, history, and culture. It is a modern building with a large collection of books, old manuscripts, and important documents about Kazakhstan. The library has a quiet reading space and the latest technology to help visitors learn more. People can see rare books, explore the country’s past, and enjoy a peaceful time inside. It is close to the Astana Grand Mosque, making it easy to visit both places in one trip.
Location: Astana, Kazakhstan
Best Time To Visit: March – October
Where To Stay
Photo: ManuelaJaeger / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
There are many places to stay near the Astana Grand Mosque, from expensive hotels to budget-friendly ones. The Ritz-Carlton, Astana, is a luxury hotel with top services, and rooms start from about ₹30,000 per night. Hilton Astana is a modern hotel with good facilities, and prices begin at around ₹12,000 per night. For a cheaper option, Ibis Astana offers a comfortable stay at about ₹4,000 per night. Visitors can choose a hotel based on their budget and needs while exploring the city.
Where To Eat
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Astana has many restaurants that serve tasty local and international food. If you are near the Astana Grand Mosque, you can try different places to eat. Line Brew is well known for its grilled meats and traditional Kazakh dishes, and a meal here costs around ₹2,500. Qazaq Gourmet serves real Kazakh food with a modern style, and you can eat here for about ₹3,000. If you just want a coffee or a light snack, Rafe Café is a nice place to relax, with prices around ₹1,500.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Frederick Wallace / Unsplash
The Best Time To Visit the Astana Grand Mosque is from March to May and September to November because the weather is nice and comfortable. Summers can be hot, while winters are very cold and have a lot of snowfall. If you like winter views, December and January can be a beautiful time to visit. The mosque looks stunning in the snow, making it a special experience.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Alexander Serzhantov / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
Visiting the Astana Grand Mosque does not cost any money, but you may need to spend on travel, food, and a place to stay. The total cost of your trip depends on what you choose. If you travel by bus or shared taxi, it will be cheaper, but private taxis cost more. Food prices change based on where you eat. Simple meals cost less, but fancy restaurants are expensive. Hotels also have different prices, from budget rooms to luxury hotels. On average, you may need around ₹4,000 – 16,000 per day for a comfortable trip.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear modest attire when visiting the mosque.
- Respect the mosque’s rules and keep noise to a minimum.
- Experience a serene atmosphere by visiting during prayer times.
- Join a guided tour to explore the mosque’s history and architecture.
The Astana Grand Mosque is a stunning symbol of Islamic art and Kazakhstan’s culture. Beyond being a place of prayer, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors. Its magnificent design makes it a must-see while exploring the city. If you enjoy visiting remarkable landmarks, plan your trip with TripXL for a seamless experience.
Cover Photo: Basil D Soufi / Wikimedia Commons
