ASTANA – In 2017, the North Kazakhstan region generated $2 million from the tourism industry. The data indicates a steady increase of tourist flow to North Kazakhstan, which was included in the national tourism development concept as part of the Unity of Nature and Nomadic Culture touristic cluster.
Lake Imantau. Photo credit: travelblog.kz.
The Aiyrtau district with Imantau and Shalkar lakes serve as the base for the development of tourism in the region. This year,the regional akimat (administration) has invested $1.2 million into building lodging and camping facilities and $12 million has been allocated for road repairs around the resort area.
Existing facilities were tasked to improve the comfort level and the number of services provided. A local association of restaurateurs and hoteliers have urged the launch of marketing and social media campaigns to boost the tourism potential in the region.
Hence, the word of mouth marketing established a clientele of domestic and foreign tourists from neighbouring Russia, who choose natural beauty of North Kazakhstan. They mostly prefer weekend tours and choose to camp or caravan on the lake shores. To satisfy the demand, territory next to the Turpan Recreation Centre will be equipped with utilities and a platform for tents.
“We should create favourable conditions for camping. A special zone with security should be here for vehicles. Tourists need various types of entertainment. An area for beach volleyball should be provided. The shore of the lake must be clean. We need to provide safety and security measures. We will be glad to welcome tourists here,” said North Kazakhstan Region Akim (Governor) Kumar Aksakalov during his June 5 visit to the Imantau-Shalkar resort area.
The six-car Astana – Kokshetau electric train to Saumalkol, an Aiyrtau district capital, runs twice a week on Fridays and Sundays connecting Imantau and Shalkar with the Kazakh capital. The five-hour train ride offers an opportunity to enjoy serene landscapes, crystal clear lakes and the historic sites of North Kazakhstan.
