population: 0.2 million

extension: 118.6 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Taldykorgan and interested in museums, you might want to visit the Regional Local Lore Museum. It features exhibits on the history and culture of the region, including artifacts and documents related to the Kazakh nomadic way of life, as well as traditional clothing, musical instruments, and handicrafts.

If you're looking for other museums in the area, you might consider checking out the Almaty Regional Museum or the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan in Almaty, which are both within driving distance from Taldykorgan. These museums also have exhibits on local history and culture, as well as art collections and archaeological finds.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Taldykorgan and throughout Kazakhstan include:

1. Beshbarmak - a traditional Kazakh dish consisting of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over flat noodles (known as "kaymak") and topped with onion and broth.

2. Plov - a rice-based dish made with meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and sometimes raisins or other dried fruits.

3. Lagman - a noodle soup with vegetables and meat (usually beef or lamb) that is popular throughout Central Asia.

4. Manty - steamed dumplings filled with seasoned meat (usually lamb or beef) and onions.

5. Shashlik - marinated and grilled skewers of meat (usually lamb or beef) that are a popular street food in Kazakhstan.

6. Kazy - a type of sausage made from horsemeat and usually served cold as an appetizer or snack.

7. Baursaki - small fried dough balls that are often served with tea or as a snack.

These dishes are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike and offer a delicious taste of Kazakhstan's rich culinary heritage.

Activities

Sure, there are several fun activities that local people enjoy in Taldykorgan. Here are a few options:

1. Hiking: Taldykorgan is surrounded by beautiful mountains and nature, so hiking is a popular activity among locals. Some popular trails include the Koksu River Gorge and the Kaindy Lake.

2. Horseback riding: Kazakhstan has a strong equestrian tradition, and horseback riding is a favorite pastime of many locals. You can arrange a horseback riding tour through one of the local tour companies.

3. Banya (sauna): Visiting a banya is a traditional social activity in Kazakhstan. There are several public bathhouses in Taldykorgan where you can experience this cultural tradition.

4. Shopping at the bazaar: The local bazaar is a bustling hub of activity where you can find a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs. It's a great place to get a taste of everyday life in Taldykorgan and interact with locals.

5. Attending a cultural event: Taldykorgan hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, dance performances, and art exhibitions. Check local listings to see what's happening during your visit.