At a glance
- Best for
- Silk Road history, pilgrimage sites and architecture
- Airport
- Turkistan International (HSA), or Shymkent (CIT)
- Time needed
- One to two days
- Best season
- April to May and September to October
- Language
- Kazakh, with Russian and some Uzbek
- Getting around
- On foot in the old city, taxis to outlying sites
Why visit Turkistan
Khoja Ahmed Yasawi was a twelfth century Sufi poet and teacher whose work shaped Islam among the Turkic peoples. Two centuries later the conqueror Timur ordered a huge mausoleum built over his tomb. Timur died before it was finished, and the unfinished front, with its raw brick and wooden scaffolding beams, is part of its beauty. Locals say three pilgrimages to Turkistan equal one to Mecca, and you will see families from villages and cities arriving to pray and picnic.
The Yasawi complex
The mausoleum sits inside the restored walls of the Hazret Sultan reserve. Inside, look for the huge bronze cauldron used for holy water, the tomb chamber and the carved wooden doors. Around it are the smaller Rabiga Sultan Begim mausoleum, an old bathhouse, the small underground Hilvet mosque where Yasawi is said to have spent his last years, and a museum. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light on the tiles is warm and the heat is lower.
Karavan Saray and the new city
In recent years Turkistan has been rebuilt as a regional capital and tourism centre. Karavan Saray, a large complex designed like a Silk Road caravan stop, has canals with boat rides, hotels, restaurants and an evening light and water show. It is a fun place for families after a day of history.
Otrar and Arystan Bab
About an hour south, the ruins of Otrar mark one of the great Silk Road cities, destroyed by the armies of Genghis Khan in 1219 and later the place where Timur died. Tradition says pilgrims should first visit the nearby Arystan Bab mausoleum, honouring Yasawi's teacher, before going to Turkistan. The setting on the open plain is quiet and atmospheric.
Sauran
North west of Turkistan, the mud brick walls of Sauran rise from the steppe. Once a busy caravan city, it is now a peaceful ruin you can walk around in an hour or so, often with no one else there.
Dress and etiquette
This is a holy site. Dress modestly: long trousers or skirts and covered shoulders for everyone, and a headscarf for women inside the mausoleum. Be quiet and respectful around people praying, and ask before photographing pilgrims.
Getting there
Turkistan has its own airport with flights from Almaty and Astana, and it sits on the main railway between Almaty and the west. Many people also travel via Shymkent, about two to three hours away by road. Taxis or a hired driver are the easiest way to reach Otrar and Sauran.
Shape your route with the free trip planner and see places to visit for stays and food.
Questions about Turkistan
How long do I need in Turkistan?
A full day covers the Yasawi complex and Karavan Saray. Two days lets you add Otrar, Arystan Bab and Sauran without rushing.
What should I wear to the Yasawi mausoleum?
Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf to wear inside, and everyone should be ready to remove shoes where asked.
Is Turkistan very hot in summer?
Yes. July and August are often very hot, so visit early or late in the day, carry water and consider spring or autumn instead.
Is it appropriate for non-Muslims to visit the mausoleum?
Yes. Visitors of every faith are welcome at the Yasawi complex. Dress modestly, keep your voice low, avoid walking in front of people who are praying and follow any instructions from staff. Many local visitors are happy to explain the traditions of the site if you ask politely, and a licensed local guide can add a lot of depth to the history and the stories behind the building.
Can I combine Turkistan with Shymkent?
Yes. Shymkent is a lively southern city a few hours away by road with good markets and parks, and many travellers base themselves there for a day or two.
Facts checked . Fees, schedules and entry rules change, so always confirm the latest with the official source.
