Raj from Almaty

About Me Hi, I’m Raj — originally from Pune, India, and now happily settled in the stunning city of Almaty, Kazakhstan, where I’ve been living for the past 3 years. What started as a work move has turned into something much deeper — I’ve found a sense of home here that I never expected. Travel has always been my escape and my inspiration. I thrive on discovering new neigh...
Sep 16, 2025

Steam Fountain Almaty

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."

Almaty is a city best explored on foot. Its charm truly unfolds when you stroll through its tree-lined streets, catching surprises at every corner. One summer afternoon, while wandering from Dostyk Avenue towards Zenkov Cathedral, I discovered a hidden gem that instantly became one of my favorite stops — the Steam Fountain, right across from the iconic Hotel Kazakhstan near Caspian University.

Set against the backdrop of modern architecture, the fountain transforms into a magical spectacle in the evening. Artificial mist rises gracefully into the air, illuminated by hundreds of tiny lights, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. Children run through the mist in excitement, while couples and friends pause to soak in the playful yet calming vibe. The wide staircases around the square act as a natural amphitheater, where locals gather, sometimes entertained by spontaneous performances from street musicians and artists.

What makes this fountain special is not just the lights or the water, but the sense of togetherness it creates. Strangers become neighbors for a while, laughing, playing, and enjoying the moment under the night sky. For me, it has become a little ritual — taking a short break on those steps, watching the mist dance in colors, and feeling the pulse of Almaty’s evenings.

If you plan a city walk, remember this tip: Almaty’s south sits higher than its north, so choose a downward stroll for an easier walk. And when you do, don’t miss this delightful spot — it’s a refreshing pause that captures the city’s modern yet soulful character.

002-building
Art & culture
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music

This week 25% off

with the code fall25

*on our yearly membership

About this spot

6XV4+VCP

KZT

free

Our Almaty City Guide

Find your way with 77 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Almaty guide.

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

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.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Fariza

Khozhamkul

Oct 2, 2025

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!

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Fariza

Khozhamkul

Oct 2, 2025

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.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Dheeraj

Pandey

Sep 16, 2025

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.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
017-plant-1
Relaxing
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Raj

Gire

Sep 16, 2025

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!

002-building
Art & culture
028-beach-bar-1
Bars
008-ticket
Cinema
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Fariza

Khozhamkul

Sep 15, 2025

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.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zhantore

Bashembayev

Sep 9, 2025

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.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Zhantore

Bashembayev

Sep 9, 2025

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.

002-building
Art & culture
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Zhantore

Bashembayev

Sep 9, 2025

Sairan Reservoir

Turquoise waters, golden sunsets

Sairan Reservoir in Almaty is a hidden gem where turquoise waters meet snow-capped mountains. Perfect for walks, sunsets — discover a new side of the city!

002-building
Art & culture
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music
017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Raj

Gire

Aug 25, 2025

CeCe

Almaty’s Hidden Asian Fusion Gem

Tucked near Almaty’s Green Bazaar, CeCe Café serves standout ramen, katsu curry, and karaage in a cozy, buzzing basement with eclectic décor.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Raj

Gire

Aug 25, 2025

Six Coffee+Wine

Hot chocolate by the stream

Six Coffee + Wine in Almaty is more than a café, it has a streamside terrace, cozy modern interior, quality pastries, coffee, rich hot chocolate and wine!

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Raj

Gire

Aug 25, 2025

ProCoffee

Where Aesthetics Brew with Flavor

Tucked on Dostyk Ave, Pro Coffee has bold design, smooth brews, and chill vibes — grab a coffee, find your corner, and let the city slow down.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Raj

Gire

Aug 4, 2025

Heading to Almaty?

77 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

Almaty app Home
Almaty app Home
Almaty app Map
Almaty app Home

Heading to Almaty?

0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

77 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:

New-York-Times
the-guardian
mashable
the-sunday-times
[paywall_activator]
false
0
false
60529
Made with the 💚 of 499 Spotters.
Filters