Dheeraj from Almaty
Sairan Almaty
Perfect for a calm evening
Sairan Reservoir sits in heart of Almaty and has recently emerged as a shining example of urban renewal — a redeveloped gem and the new favourite spot for locals. With its sparkling blue waters and lush, landscaped embankments, this former overlooked reservoir now radiates serenity and energy alike.
Since February 2024, the city has embarked on an ambitious 47.6 hectare redevelopment project. Led by Mayor Yerbolat Dosayev, the works include a modern embankment with a beach, pedestrian routes and green zones. About 2.5 km of continuous promenade has been paved on both shores, connecting with Abay Avenue and Tole Bi Street to offer scenic looped routes of up to 4.5 km
Active recreation is front and centre: there’s a skate park, bike park, parkour zone, football field, outdoor gym equipment, children’s playgrounds, and even designated dog‐walking areas. Support amenities include food courts, public toilets, two rescue posts, two police stations, and 24‑hour surveillance for safety. Landscaping includes planting over 200 mature lime trees, flower beds and lotus ponds, with automatic irrigation, lighting, and reinforced shores.
This revitalized lakeside now welcomes early‑morning joggers weaving along smooth paved paths, and evening strollers enjoying the calm waters under soft lighting. The blue lake, framed by new greenery and modern infrastructure, offers a perfect backdrop for family outings, fitness routines, bird watching or a peaceful pause in the day.
Sairan is a vibrant public space — anchoring Almaty’s polycentric development and offering a fresh urban oasis for residents and visitors alike.
Our Almaty City Guide
Find your way with 79 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Join as a Spotter?
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Almaty
Masala
Where Tea Meets Creativity
Masala is a truly special place. A cozy tea haven in Almaty where creativity, warmth and community come together over a perfect cup in a relaxing atmosphere.
by
Zhazira
Karabalayeva
Dandy Pastry Studio
Elegant spot for sweets
Dandy Pastry Studio is a charming and cozy spot with quick service and beautifully served breakfasts and pastries perfect for a sweet escape in the city center!
by
Muslim
Sattarov
Graffiti wall
Local art along the river
If you believe art belongs beyond galleries, walk along Almaty’s Big Almatinka River — street art, nature, and local life blend into something unforgettable.
by
Fariza
Khozhamkul
Almaty Zoo
Amateur naturalist's paradise
Find the oldest tree in the old Almaty Zoo! Besides operating as a successful research center, the Zoo holds a nostalgic place in the hearts of locals.
by
Fariza
Khozhamkul
Jameson Camp
Hidden BBQ camp
Jameson Camp is a cozy BBQ spot in the city center with great food, weekend events, live music, and a terrace. Join their lively events in Almaty!
by
Fariza
Khozhamkul
Taj India
All you can eat & drink @20k KZT
Ready for some authentic all you can eat Indian food with live music? Taj India in Almaty as it all, including a kids' area, and reservable VIP rooms.
by
Dheeraj
Pandey
Cafe Apa Katya
A Cozy Mountain Escape
Need a warm-up in the Almaty mountains? Apa Katya blends peaceful alpine views, fresh coffee, and Plov by the fire. A soulful start to your next mountain hike.
by
Raj
Gire
Steam Fountain
Light, mist, music & smiles
Almaty’s Steam Fountain, near Hotel Kazakhstan, enchants with mist, lights, and a playful atmosphere. A magical spot where locals and visitors gather alike.
by
Raj
Gire
Kooperativ love
Secret hub for creators
In Kooperativ love, the world opens up completely. It is a brilliant, bustling hive of activity, a true cooperative of ideas. Join this creative community!
by
Fariza
Khozhamkul
Café Vostochka
Worth the trip
Tucked inside Rahat Mall, Vostochka serves hearty lagman in a buzy yet calm setting — proof that great food can hide in the hum of a buzzing bazaar.
by
Zhantore
Bashembayev
South Park
Quiet paths and squirrel sightings
South Park in Almaty is quiet and calming. With its soft lights, benches, gazebos, and squirrels, it's a very relaxing place to spend some time outside.
by
Zhantore
Bashembayev
Art & fact shop
Nostalgia curated with love
Visit a hidden vintage store in central Almaty. Art & Fact Shop is homey, nostalgic, and full of charm. You don’t plan to go, you just end up here and return.
by
Zhantore
Bashembayev
Heading to Almaty?
79 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 79 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Almaty
Our team loves Almaty
Get to know our other Spotters from Almaty
As featured on:
