Zhetisu Park

In the heart of the Yesil district, where bustling Astana meets the cool breeze of the Ishim River, lies Zhetysu Park. This modern urban space is more than just a place for a walk; it is a true anthem to one of the most picturesque regions of Kazakhstan. Its name translates to "Seven Rivers", referring to the historical region of Semirechye.

Zhetisu Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The park covers an impressive 15 hectares and is a unique landscape ensemble. Following a major reconstruction in 2018, it has transformed into one of the most stylish and conceptual leisure zones in the capital. Here, nature harmoniously coexists with architectural forms that tell the story and culture of the ancient steppes.

The park's special atmosphere is created by a combination of open spaces, cozy alleys, and thematic installations. This is a place where you can feel the spirit of the Great Silk Road without leaving the metropolis, making Zhetysu a must-visit on any tourist's itinerary.

For those planning a visit, here is information on its exact location. The park is situated in a well-developed area of the capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

A stroll through the park feels like a fascinating journey through a miniature Semirechye. Guests are immediately drawn to the entrance group of seven arches, symbolizing the legendary rivers. Moving along the central alley with its dancing fountains, you will arrive at Aport Square — a symbol of the famous Almaty apples, where you can relax in the shade and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

For history and ethnography buffs, the park features unique installations: a scaled-down copy of Charyn Canyon, an imitation of the ancient Tamgaly-Tas petroglyphs, and a sculpture of a merchant with a camel, reminiscent of the caravan era. Young visitors will love Tengri Square, shaped like a huge flower with six petals, each featuring modern and safe playgrounds.

Active tourists will appreciate the long bicycle paths, while those seeking privacy can find refuge in cozy gazebos nestled among hills that mimic the Zailiysky Alatau mountains. It is worth ending your walk at the singing fountain or by the miniature copy of Lake Balkhash, which looks particularly striking in the rays of the setting sun.

Reaching this scenic spot in the Yesil district is quite simple. The park is located within the city of Astana, and the most comfortable way to get here is by taxi or private car. The drive from the center of the Left Bank takes only about 10–15 minutes.

For those who prefer public transport, there are bus stops within walking distance served by the city's main routes. Look for buses traveling along Sarayshyk Street or toward the Chubary microdistrict. A short walk from the nearest stops to the park entrance will be a pleasant addition to your trip.

The history of this location began in 2007, when it was established as a recreation area called Aray Park. At that time, the territory was decorated with sculptures of historical figures, khans, and warriors, creating an atmosphere of deep respect for the past. However, the space acquired its modern look much later.

In 2018, in honor of the 20th anniversary of the capital, the park underwent a massive reconstruction. The project was fully funded by the Akimat of Almaty Region and implemented by BI Group. This served as a symbolic gift from the Almaty region to the nation's capital. It was then that the park received its new name — "Zhetysu".

The grand opening of the renovated space took place on July 1, 2018. The ceremony was attended by the country's first president, Nursultan Nazarbayev. Today, the park serves as a wonderful example of how historical motifs of the Semirechye region can harmoniously blend with modern landscape design.

For a leisurely walk across the entire 15-hectare territory, it is recommended to set aside about 1.5–2 hours. This is enough time to see all the thematic zones, take memorable photos by the fountains, and explore the unique art objects dedicated to Semirechye.

If you plan to relax with children at the playgrounds or want to have a small picnic in one of the cozy gazebos, your visit could easily last half a day. The park is ideal for long family outings where everyone can find something to enjoy at a relaxed pace, away from the city noise.

Zhetysu Park is open to visitors 24/7, allowing you to enjoy its beauty at any time. In the morning, it offers silence and freshness ideal for jogging, while in the evening, the park is transformed by the spectacular lighting of the fountains and architectural forms.

The operating schedule is as follows:

• Monday — Sunday: Open 24 hours

The park's location makes it easy to combine a visit here with other interesting sites in the capital. Exploring nearby monuments and squares will help you feel the city's atmosphere more deeply and see different facets of its cultural heritage.