Raj Gire

Almaty

Spotter since 2025

About me

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 neighborhoods, hidden cafés, local traditions, and unique experiences that most tourists overlook. I love sharing these stories—because travel, for me, is as much about feeling a place as it is about seeing it.

I’m the kind of traveler who enjoys last-minute adventures just as much as thoughtfully planned escapes, always open to spontaneity, culture, and connection. Whether I’m traveling solo or with my partner-in-adventure, I believe the best memories are often the ones we don’t plan for.

Why Almaty
Almaty has a quiet charm that slowly wins you over. Nestled at the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, it offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, urban rhythm, and cultural depth. From modern cafés and art spaces to Soviet-era architecture and open-air bazaars, the city carries an authentic, layered vibe.

What makes Almaty special to me is its contrast—you can sip espresso in a trendy café and then be in the mountains within 30 minutes. Winters bring snow-dusted serenity, perfect for skiing and cozy evenings, while summers are vibrant with hikes, picnics, and spontaneous road trips to canyons and lakes.

As someone who moved here from India, I’ve felt warmly embraced by both the Kazakh hospitality and the city’s growing international character. It’s diverse, yet grounded; evolving, yet deeply rooted in tradition. Almaty gives you space to breathe, explore, and truly live—and over the years, I’ve come to see myself not as a visitor, but a local.

Whether it’s the calm of Kok Tobe at sunset, the colors of the Green Bazaar, or the feeling of standing above the clouds at Big Almaty Lake—Almaty continues to surprise and inspire me every day.

“Follow along as I explore Almaty and beyond—one unique story at a time.”

My spots (3)

Make Love Pizza

Blend of Art, Pizza & Coffee

Pizza, art, and soul collide at Make Love Pizza in Almaty. Bold flavors, top coffee, and a vibe that feels like a gallery you can eat in—pet-friendly too!

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

by

Raj

Gire

Aug 1, 2025

Mad Murphy's Irish Pub

Where Curry Meets Ale

Irish vibes meet bold Indian flavors at Mad Murphy’s in Almaty. Butter chicken, beer, and a free pool table—what’s not to love?

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Raj

Gire

Aug 1, 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
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music
017-plant-1
Relaxing
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Raj

Gire

Aug 1, 2025

Where to find me

Raj is not the only one

Meet our other Spotters from Almaty

Join us as a Spotter today!

Be part of a global community of 495 people who love their city!

Write about everything you 🤍 but skip touristic highlights

Show the hearth and soul of the place you call home

Made with the 💚 of 495 Spotters.
Filters
Spotters categories
Price
Price