Astana
Capital of Kazakhstan
Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan with a population of about 1.2 million in 2022. Visitors come to explore its prominent modern architecture, official government buildings, and notable religious sites.
What to see
The city features distinct architectural landmarks and institutions. Key sights include the Baiterek tower, the pyramid-shaped Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, the Hazrat Sultan Mosque, and the Parliament of Kazakhstan.
When to go
June, July, and August offer the warmest daily highs ranging from 24 °C to 26 °C, alongside monthly rain totals between 29 mm and 49 mm. January and February are the coldest months, with daily highs around -10 °C to -9 °C and lows of -17 °C.
Getting there
The nearest airport is Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport, located 12 km from Astana.
Top sights in Astana
Weather by month
The warmest month is July, with an average high of 26 °C. Rain is spread fairly evenly through the year.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average high, °C | -10 | -9 | -2 | 11 | 19 | 25 | 26 | 24 | 18 | 9 | -2 | -8 |
| Average low, °C | -17 | -17 | -11 | -1 | 6 | 13 | 15 | 13 | 7 | 0 | -9 | -15 |
| Rainfall, mm | 17 | 16 | 19 | 22 | 36 | 38 | 49 | 29 | 23 | 28 | 28 | 22 |
| Rainy days | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 10 |
Temperatures and rainfall: 1981–2010 averages for Astana (4 km grid), from CHELSA. Rainy days: 2015–2024, NASA POWER.
Also worth a look
- Emerald Towers
- National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Nur-Astana Mosque