How Kazakhstan became a hit with Indian travel influencers on Instagram
In recent times, Instagram has emerged as a primary source of inspiration for many of our travel plans. From the hot air balloon rides in Turkey to the iconic white buildings of Santorini, Greece, Instagram has not only sparked our wanderlust but also motivated us to book our next adventure.
Now, it appears that Indians have uncovered their latest dream destination - Kazakhstan. But how did this country suddenly gain such popularity in the first place?
What
- If you're a travel enthusiast, you've likely noticed an influx of reels on Instagram showcasing Kazakhstan, the world's largest landlocked country, with its awe-inspiring beauty and more.
- Situated in Central Asia and Eastern Europe, Kazakhstan shares its borders with Russia to the north, China to the east, and Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, while also being adjacent to the Caspian Sea to the west.
- Now that we've established its location, let's delve into why Kazakhstan has become the current obsession of many Indians.
Cheap flights
Surprisingly, flight tickets to Kazakhstan are considerably cheaper than many domestic flights within India. For example, a direct flight from Delhi to Almaty, Kazakhstan, can cost as low as 5-6K INR, and sometimes it goes as low as 4.5K INR.
At the time of our recent check, ticket prices to Kazakhstan were as low as 6K INR.
Visa-free travel
Another enticing aspect is that Kazakhstan offers hassle-free travel for Indians, as it is visa-free for stays of up to 14 days. This means you can explore the country for two weeks without the need for a visa, which is ample time to experience its beauty.
Affordable accommodation
Accommodation in the country is also quite budget-friendly. According to Skyscanner, prices for hostel stays can be as low as 500 INR per night.
Favorable exchange rate
With 1 Indian Rupee equaling 5.72 Kazakhstani Tenge, the exchange rate is favorable for Indian travelers compared to many other countries.
Stunning natural beauty
Apart from the practical advantages, Kazakhstan has gained fame for its breathtaking landscapes. Here are some must-visit places:
- Charyn Canyon: Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon's little brother," Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder known for its striking red rock formations, deep gorges, and unique geological features, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Charyn Canyon National Park, Kazakhstan. #travel #NaturePhotography #nature #naturelovers pic.twitter.com/JH0rG50y1B
— Worldwide Travelling (@travel_lovers20) July 20, 2020
- Lake Kaindy: This surreal and enchanting place is famous for its submerged forest. Created by an earthquake in 1911, it is surrounded by the Tien Shan Mountains. The sunken trees in the crystal-clear waters make for a truly otherworldly sight, and it's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
The submerged forest of Lake Kaindy. Kazakhstan 🇰🇿💚 pic.twitter.com/AZsCgmwQ2R
— Thierry Gauthier (@gauthie74757302) May 27, 2021
- Almaty: Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty, nestled at the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains, offers a blend of modern city life and natural beauty.
- The Zenkov Cathedral, the largest wooden church globally, stands out, known for being constructed without any nails.
Influence on social media
Due to the above-mentioned reasons, Kazakhstan quickly became a favorite among social media influencers, and it started going viral, with people sharing their travel stories on Instagram.