Translated as “Blue Hill”, Kok Tobe is the highest point in the city of Almaty standing on a 1,100-meters hill at the Southeast edge of the city. Famous for its panoramic view, there are several observation platforms from which you can have a magnificent view of Almaty and the snowy peaks of the Zailiysky Alatau ridge. Home to a Ferris Wheel, Toboggan slide, a mini zoo and various activities at the top, Kok Tobe is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.
Getting to Kok Tobe
By Cable Car
For a spectacular experience, the bottom cable car station is located near Hotel Kazakhstan on Dostyk Avenue. The nearest metro is Abay. The approximately 10-minutes cost 1,000 KZT (US$2.40) one-way and most days run from 11 am to 9 pm.
By Shuttle Bus
The cheaper option to Kok Tobe is by bus #95 or #99 to Omrava Bus Terminal. From here, you may catch a shuttle minibus (one way/return 350 KZT/600 KZT) every few minutes from 10 am to 1 am. Alternative, you may walk the final 1.25-kilometres up the hill.
Things to do at Kok Tobe
In 2006, the mountain opened a recreational entertainment center with newly added 17 cable cars which was the start of Kok Tobe Park. There are rock climbing wall, high ropes courses, amusement rides and carnival games for both adults and children. Generally, this is a good place for a family day out or to go in the evening to view the city lights.
Almaty TV Tower
Standing at 371.5-meters, the Almaty TV tower is the 14th tallest tower today and holds the title as the tallest free-standing tubular steel structure in the world. In addition, the tower has another outstanding feature: its seismic resistance can withstand earthquakes of 8.0 on the Richter scale!
Fast Coaster
Fast Coaster is the only roller coaster in Kazakhstan that is located on a side of a mountain. It goes down with a speed of 45 km/h and the picturesque view of the city landscape along with adrenaline rush is unimaginable.
Ferris Wheel
With a height of 30-meters, the Ferris Wheel has 20 closed highly comfortable and safe cabins. There is great view on Almaty from cabins.
Mini Zoo
There is basically a small “zoo” which is basically a few caged birds and animals where you can buy food to feed them.
The Beatles Monument
In 2007, a bronze monument of British rock group The Beatles was mounted at Kok Tobe. The entire Fab Four are here: John Lennon is sitting on a bench with a guitar and around him are Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. Around the statues, you can listen to some of the English rock hits.
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