×

Kazakhstan🇰🇿 | festivalsNauryzspring equinox, communal feasts, street performances | things to do and best time to go

Explore Astana DayExplore Shabyt International Music Festival

Backpacking in Nauryz
🏆 Top pickfestival ranked #1
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 7, 2026

Most guides sell Nauryz as a one-day “Kazakh New Year.” For you as a backpacker, the twist is this: in big cities it often stretches into a loose, week-long run of pop-up stages, yurts, and street food, with the actual 21 March holiday just being the loudest spike. Nauryz hits hardest in Almaty and Astana, plus every mid-sized town square you can reach by marshrutka. It’s a spring rebirth festival, so expect folk ensembles, dombra music, throat singing, and then suddenly chart pop blasting from a temporary stage. Families dominate the daytime; students and young adults linger after dark. The vibe is open, curious, and slightly chaotic, more like a citywide block party than a polished cultural show. It’s usually just a day or two of peak action for you, but the build-up and aftermath linger. Worth it if you like street-level culture; skippable if you hate crowds and noise.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Kazakhstan Travel Guide.


Get your Kazakhstan guide
118 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (445 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #1 festival in KazakhstanWhat makes this festival worth celebrating

Backpackers flock to Nauryz in Kazakhstan for a reason: it’s a cultural explosion that transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of community and celebration. This spring festival, marking the New Year, is a magnet for social energy. You’ll find yourself swept up in a temporary community where locals and travelers unite, sharing stories over traditional dishes and music that resonates deep in your bones.

Planning your route around Nauryz isn’t just smart; it’s essential. The festival offers an affordable way to dive into Kazakh culture without breaking the bank. Compare it to other global festivals, and you’ll see the value. The experiences you gain—dancing with strangers, tasting beshbarmak, or participating in equestrian games—are priceless.

Plus, Nauryz fits seamlessly into longer … read more 👉
Backpackers flock to Nauryz in Kazakhstan for a reason: it’s a cultural explosion that transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of community and celebration. This spring festival, marking the New Year, is a magnet for social energy. You’ll find yourself swept up in a temporary community where locals and travelers unite, sharing stories over traditional dishes and music that resonates deep in your bones.

Planning your route around Nauryz isn’t just smart; it’s essential. The festival offers an affordable way to dive into Kazakh culture without breaking the bank. Compare it to other global festivals, and you’ll see the value. The experiences you gain—dancing with strangers, tasting beshbarmak, or participating in equestrian games—are priceless.

Plus, Nauryz fits seamlessly into longer travel plans. It’s a perfect launchpad to explore the vast steppes or the bustling cities of Almaty and Astana. By timing your journey with this festival, you’re not just visiting a place; you’re becoming part of its heartbeat. Embrace the challenge, and let the festival fuel your adventure!
Want to include Nauryz in your Kazakhstan route?
Create a personalized Kazakhstan itinerary that includes Nauryz and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while celebrating the Nauryz

  • Communal feasts and Nauryz kozhe: The food is the heart of Nauryz — everyone shares bowls of Nauryz kozhe (a seven-ingredient restorative soup) and plates of beshbarmak, baursaks and sweets. Eating together turns strangers into neighbors and gives you a real taste of Kazakh hospitality and seasonal renewal.
  • Live folk music and dombyra performances: You’ll hear haunting kuis on the dombyra, throat-singing and lively folk bands throughout the day. These performances aren’t just entertainment — they’re storytelling, history and regional identity served up in 10-minute bursts that stick with you long after.
  • Horse games and traditional sports: Kokpar (goat-pulling), kures (wrestling) and precision horse-riding displays are central to the spectacle — fast, physical and deeply rooted in nomadic
… read more 👉
  • Communal feasts and Nauryz kozhe: The food is the heart of Nauryz — everyone shares bowls of Nauryz kozhe (a seven-ingredient restorative soup) and plates of beshbarmak, baursaks and sweets. Eating together turns strangers into neighbors and gives you a real taste of Kazakh hospitality and seasonal renewal.
  • Live folk music and dombyra performances: You’ll hear haunting kuis on the dombyra, throat-singing and lively folk bands throughout the day. These performances aren’t just entertainment — they’re storytelling, history and regional identity served up in 10-minute bursts that stick with you long after.
  • Horse games and traditional sports: Kokpar (goat-pulling), kures (wrestling) and precision horse-riding displays are central to the spectacle — fast, physical and deeply rooted in nomadic culture. Even if you don’t understand every rule, the speed, noise and crowd energy make it impossible not to get swept up.
  • Yurt camps, handicrafts and open-air markets: Temporary yurt villages pop up with artisans making felt, embroidery and jewelry, plus hands-on demos of traditional crafts. It’s the best place to pick up a real keepsake and watch old techniques being kept alive; the atmosphere feels like stepping into a living museum that’s also a party.
  • Rituals of renewal: visits, blessings and spring customs: Nauryz is about more than festivals — people visit elders, exchange blessings, perform small rituals for luck and plant trees. That quiet, hopeful side of the holiday (forgiveness, fresh starts, community) is what gives the whole celebration its warm, uplifting vibe.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do near Nauryz

Private Full Day Almaty City Tour

Private Full Day Almaty City Tour

5.0(55)
✓ Free cancellation
From €195
per personViator
1 Day Group Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake and Kaindy Lake

1 Day Group Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay Lake and Kaindy Lake

5.0(25)
✓ Free cancellation
From €88
per personViator
Ancient petroglyphs of Tanbaly - UNESCO World Heritage

Ancient petroglyphs of Tanbaly - UNESCO World Heritage

5.0(24)
✓ Free cancellation
From €131
per personViator
Discovering 6 Stunning Sights on Private Tour of Charyn Canyon

Discovering 6 Stunning Sights on Private Tour of Charyn Canyon

5.0(24) 12h
✓ Free cancellation
From €142
per personViator
1 Day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy

1 Day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaiyndy

5.0(24)
✓ Free cancellation
From €79
per personViator
Almaty city tour. Shymbulak, Koktobe, Green market, Park 28 Panfilov's guardsmen

Almaty city tour. Shymbulak, Koktobe, Green market, Park 28 Panfilov's guardsmen

5.0(22) 6h
✓ Free cancellation
From €78
per personViator
Almaty Jeep Private Full-Day Tour: Kolsay, Kaindy & Charyn Canyon

Almaty Jeep Private Full-Day Tour: Kolsay, Kaindy & Charyn Canyon

5.0(20)
✓ Free cancellation
From €203
per personViator
Charyn Canyon - Private Day Tour

Charyn Canyon - Private Day Tour

5.0(20) 10h
✓ Free cancellation
From €204
per personViator
One day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kaindy and Kolsay Lakes

One day Private Tour to Charyn Canyon, Kaindy and Kolsay Lakes

5.0(17)
✓ Free cancellation
From €231
per personViator
Private tour from Almaty 6 days in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Private tour from Almaty 6 days in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

5.0(15) 144h
From €2,006
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 118 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?When is the celebration of Nauryz?


  • Topic: Weather — Nauryz falls on March 21-23, right as Kazakhstan shakes off winter’s grip. Expect crisp air, usually between -2°C to 10°C (28°F to 50°F). It’s chilly but manageable with layers. Rain is rare but possible, so pack a light waterproof just in case.

  • Topic: Temperature — Days hover around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), but nights dip below freezing, often near -5°C (23°F). Don’t underestimate the cold mornings and evenings; they’ll test your gear and patience.

  • Topic: Daylight Hours — Daylight stretches to about 12 hours, giving you a solid window to explore festivities and city life without rushing. The sun rises around 7:30 AM and sets near 7:30 PM, perfect for pacing your adventures.

  • Topic: Crowds — Nauryz is a national celebration, so expect a surge of locals and tourists
… read more 👉

  • Topic: Weather — Nauryz falls on March 21-23, right as Kazakhstan shakes off winter’s grip. Expect crisp air, usually between -2°C to 10°C (28°F to 50°F). It’s chilly but manageable with layers. Rain is rare but possible, so pack a light waterproof just in case.

  • Topic: Temperature — Days hover around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), but nights dip below freezing, often near -5°C (23°F). Don’t underestimate the cold mornings and evenings; they’ll test your gear and patience.

  • Topic: Daylight Hours — Daylight stretches to about 12 hours, giving you a solid window to explore festivities and city life without rushing. The sun rises around 7:30 AM and sets near 7:30 PM, perfect for pacing your adventures.

  • Topic: Crowds — Nauryz is a national celebration, so expect a surge of locals and tourists alike. Crowds peak on the main days, especially in Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Arrive early or late in the day to dodge the thickest throngs.

  • Topic: Seasonal Activities — Spring’s arrival means outdoor concerts, horse games, and street feasts. The festival’s energy is raw and vibrant, but some activities depend on weather holding steady above freezing.

  • Topic: Price Fluctuations — Accommodation and transport costs spike during Nauryz. Book weeks ahead to lock in reasonable rates. Last-minute travelers face inflated prices and limited availability.


Pro-tip: Time your visit for early March if you want to catch pre-festival buzz with fewer crowds and better prices, then dive into the full Nauryz experience right on the 21st for maximum cultural immersion.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: not recommended for travelingFEBFebruary: not recommended for travelingMARMarch: excellent for travelingAPRApril: not recommended for travelingMAYMay: not recommended for travelingJUNJune: not recommended for travelingJULJuly: not recommended for travelingAUGAugust: not recommended for travelingSEPSeptember: not recommended for travelingOCTOctober: not recommended for travelingNOVNovember: not recommended for travelingDECDecember: not recommended for traveling

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutKazakhstan Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Kazakhstan
The digital guide (445 pages) contains:
✅ 118 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 7, 14 & 21-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

When you’re gearing up for Nauryz in Kazakhstan, the right base can make all the difference. Head to Almaty, the vibrant heart of the country. This city buzzes with energy, especially during the festival. Look for accommodations near the central area, like the Zhibek Zholy street. It’s a hub for backpackers, where you can mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike.

The area around Panfilov Park is another solid choice. It’s not just picturesque; it’s alive with cultural events during Nauryz. You’ll find plenty of budget-friendly spots that foster a social vibe. Plus, you’re close to the action—parades, … read more 👉
When you’re gearing up for Nauryz in Kazakhstan, the right base can make all the difference. Head to Almaty, the vibrant heart of the country. This city buzzes with energy, especially during the festival. Look for accommodations near the central area, like the Zhibek Zholy street. It’s a hub for backpackers, where you can mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike.

The area around Panfilov Park is another solid choice. It’s not just picturesque; it’s alive with cultural events during Nauryz. You’ll find plenty of budget-friendly spots that foster a social vibe. Plus, you’re close to the action—parades, traditional music, and food stalls are just a stroll away.

Don’t overlook the neighborhoods near the Green Bazaar. This bustling market is a feast for the senses and a great place to grab a bite or stock up on supplies. Staying here means you’re in the thick of local life, with easy access to public transport for day trips.

Avoid the tourist traps by steering clear of overly commercialized areas. Stick to these neighborhoods, and you’ll save your energy and budget for the real experiences that make Nauryz unforgettable. Embrace the challenge, and let the festival unfold around you!
Best hostels in Kazakhstan


Best quality hotels in Kazakhstan

👛 Costs (as of 27 December 2024)Travel costs and budget guide for Nauryz

Nauryz in Kazakhstan is a vibrant celebration of spring, but navigating the costs can feel like a maze. Here’s how to keep your budget in check while soaking in the festivities.
  • Festival Tickets: Entry to Nauryz events is often free, but some special performances or activities may charge a fee. Expect to pay around €5 to €20 ($5 to $25) for premium experiences. Keep an eye out for local announcements to catch any ticketed events.
  • Accommodation: Prices vary widely depending on your comfort level. Hostels can start at €10 to €15 ($10 to $16) per night, while mid-range hotels might range from €30 to €70 ($32 to $75). Book early to secure a spot, as places fill up fast during the festival.
  • Local Transport: Public transport is budget-friendly. Buses and trams cost about €0.30 to €0.50 ($0.30 to $0.
… read more 👉
Nauryz in Kazakhstan is a vibrant celebration of spring, but navigating the costs can feel like a maze. Here’s how to keep your budget in check while soaking in the festivities.
  • Festival Tickets: Entry to Nauryz events is often free, but some special performances or activities may charge a fee. Expect to pay around €5 to €20 ($5 to $25) for premium experiences. Keep an eye out for local announcements to catch any ticketed events.
  • Accommodation: Prices vary widely depending on your comfort level. Hostels can start at €10 to €15 ($10 to $16) per night, while mid-range hotels might range from €30 to €70 ($32 to $75). Book early to secure a spot, as places fill up fast during the festival.
  • Local Transport: Public transport is budget-friendly. Buses and trams cost about €0.30 to €0.50 ($0.30 to $0.55) per ride. If you prefer taxis, expect to pay around €1 to €2 ($1 to $2.20) for short trips. Ridesharing apps are also available, but check local rates.
  • Food & Drinks: Street food is your best friend here. Meals can range from €2 to €5 ($2 to $5.50) for local dishes. Restaurants will set you back about €10 to €20 ($11 to $22) for a full meal. Don’t skip the traditional Nauryz dishes; they’re part of the experience!
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: Budget for souvenirs, snacks, or unexpected activities. Set aside around €10 to €30 ($11 to $33) for these extras. It’s wise to have a little cushion for spontaneous adventures.

Keep these costs in mind, and you’ll navigate Nauryz like a pro. Prioritize what matters to you, and let the energy of the festival fuel your journey.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🍲 FoodEating & Drinking in Nauryz

At the Nauryz festival in Kazakhstan, food and drinks are not just sustenance; they’re a vibrant part of the celebration. You’ll find **plov**, a hearty rice dish often cooked with lamb and carrots, steaming away in massive pots. Don’t miss **beshbarmak**, the national dish, featuring tender boiled meat served over pasta. It’s a must-try for authenticity and a taste of local culture.

Festival stalls buzz with energy, offering **kurt**, those tangy, dried cheese balls that are perfect for snacking as you wander. Wash it down with **kompot**, a sweet, fruity drink that’s refreshing and a staple at gatherings. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a cup of **kymyz**, fermented mare’s milk. It’s an acquired taste, but it’s steeped in tradition.

Etiquette is key here. Sharing is common, so don’t … read more 👉
At the Nauryz festival in Kazakhstan, food and drinks are not just sustenance; they’re a vibrant part of the celebration. You’ll find **plov**, a hearty rice dish often cooked with lamb and carrots, steaming away in massive pots. Don’t miss **beshbarmak**, the national dish, featuring tender boiled meat served over pasta. It’s a must-try for authenticity and a taste of local culture.

Festival stalls buzz with energy, offering **kurt**, those tangy, dried cheese balls that are perfect for snacking as you wander. Wash it down with **kompot**, a sweet, fruity drink that’s refreshing and a staple at gatherings. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a cup of **kymyz**, fermented mare’s milk. It’s an acquired taste, but it’s steeped in tradition.

Etiquette is key here. Sharing is common, so don’t hesitate to offer a taste of your dish to a new friend. Lines can get long, especially for the popular stalls, so be patient and enjoy the atmosphere. Cash is king, so keep some tenge handy; not all vendors accept cards. Serving sizes can vary, so if you’re unsure, ask for a “small” portion to start. This way, you can sample more without overloading your pack. Embrace the flavors, and let the festival fuel your adventure!

Other Kazakhstani festivals near Nauryz

Explore more nearby:


💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Kazakhstan including Nauryz and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all festivals

Or checkout all Kazakhstan has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Kazakhstan
Country photo of Kazakhstan
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackFinal thoughts on celebrating the Nauryz

Nauryz in Kazakhstan is a whirlwind of energy and tradition. You’ll feel the pulse of the celebrations as locals gather for feasts and games. The best surprise? The warmth of the people; they’ll invite you into their homes for a taste of traditional dishes. Just a heads-up: don’t underestimate the weather. It can swing from sunny to chilly in a heartbeat, so layer up. Embrace the chaos, savor the moments, and let the spirit of renewal sweep you off your feet.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on in-depth research, insights shared by experienced travelers, and feedback from the local travel community in Kazakhstan. While every effort is made to keep the information accurate and current, conditions can change — so if you spot anything incorrect or outdated, please get in touch.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full Kazakhstan guide •
Instant download • 118 highlights • Full Offline guide