Kazakhstan

Medeu is the world’s highest mountain skating rink and one of the most iconic places to visit in Almaty. Built in 1972 at 1,691 metres above sea level in a dramatic glacial valley 15 km south of the city, it is surrounded by peaks rising above 4,000 metres. The 10,500 square metre rink hosted the 1972 and 1974 World Speed Skating Championships, where Soviet athletes set 126 world records aided by thin mountain air. A highlight of Almaty tourism, Medeu is often featured in every Almaty travel guide as a gateway to Shymbulak, Central Asia’s leading ski resort. A 4.5 km cable car climbs 1,500 metres higher to reach its 25 km of pistes, operating from December to April, with summer access for hiking and panoramic views. The best time to visit Almaty for skiing is winter, while warmer months suit outdoor exploration.

Ascension Cathedral, also known as Zenkov Cathedral, is one of the most remarkable wooden structures in the world and among the top attractions in Almaty. Rising 56 metres high, this Russian Orthodox cathedral was built between 1904 and 1907 entirely from Tien Shan spruce without the use of nails. Designed by architect Andrei Zenkov to withstand earthquakes, it famously survived the devastating 1911 Kebin earthquake with minimal damage while many masonry buildings collapsed. Its pastel pink, blue and yellow exterior crowned with five golden onion domes makes it a highlight of Almaty tourism. Inside, restored frescoes and a richly carved iconostasis reflect its early 20th century origins. The cathedral stands in Panfilov Park, a historic green space often featured in every Almaty travel guide and one of the most peaceful places to visit in Almaty.