Nuts and Bolts of Almaty
A good friend, after reading all my posts on Kazakhstan, suggested that I include some “nuts and bolts” information for the aspiring traveller. So here’s a practical guide to Almaty. Getting Around The city centre is about 30 minutes from the airport. Almaty is compact — most attractions lie within a 3 km square grid of tree-lined boulevards and right-angled streets, making it almost impossible to get lost. The traffic is disciplined, and drivers are respectful. Pedestrian signals appear at intervals of about 100 metres. Broad boulevards, leafy parks, and fountains at every turn make Almaty a delight to explore on foot — a city that feels distinctly European in spirit. For those whose legs protest too much, there are plenty of alternatives. Buses are frequent, including the photogenic trolley buses, though stops can get crowded during rush hours. The Metro, with just one line and eleven stations, offers an economical and efficient option. The flat fare is 120 Tenge (₹20), s...
