Khazakhstan - Shymbulak Ski Resort

Shymbulak is one of the destinations that is definitely not worth skipping in Almaty, Kazakhstan. It is surprising that this breathtaking beauty is only 20-30 min away from Alamaty city. Usually to get such raw treasure from Mother Nature, we have to first pay it forward by travel. 

Nestled 3200m above sea level, the peak at Combi 2 (the highest peak) is liberating with vast snow laced landscapes for hike. In June, glaciers were still intact and sufficient to trick tropical dwellers like yours sincerely to think that winter never left. 

Kazakhstan - Landing in Almaty, Currency Exchange, SIM Card, YandexGo Ehailing and Accommodation

The view outside the plane window

Landing in Kazakhstan might sound inconvenient due to language difference but its easier than you think!

1. Prepare USD or Euros to buy Tenge when you reach. You can also change near the Green Bazaar. There are plenty of counters there. Cash is still predominantly used. Credit card is accepted in larger stores.

2. Getting a SIM card is a breeze at the airport.

3. Prior to the trip, download Yandex Go, Kazakh and Kyrgys version of Grab. Pay in cash.

Malls will be malls and they are quite similiar to the Malaysian ones with food court and a supermarket. Their version of Lotus's is Magnum.

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Almaty Airport

Change Tenge currency when you reach

You can get a simcard at the airport so that you can hire ehailing - Yandex

There was only one choice at that time for 6000KZT

At the arrival exit of Almaty Airport

Waiting for Yandex at the ehailing area

In the Yandex transport on the way to the accomodation

Comfortable homes rented from Booking.com

Went to the nearest mall for some food

Food court on the first day

Mornings with the view of ice-capped mountains from the apartment

Cooking simple breakfast

Out and about to explore Almaty!