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Khan Shatyr
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Landmark
The Khan Shatyr in Nur-Sultan (Astana) is an architectural marvel and a unique entertainment center. Designed by the famous architect Norman Foster, it takes the form of a giant, translucent tent that maintains a pleasant climate year-round, even during the harsh Kazakh winters. At 150 meters high, it is the largest tent in the world. Inside, visitors will find an urban oasis with shops, restaurants, a cinema, and even a water park with an artificial beach, its sand imported from the Maldives. The transparent ETFE envelope allows daylight to enter while protecting against extreme temperatures, which can range from -35°C in winter to +35°C in summer. Khan Shatyr is not just a shopping mall, but a symbol of innovation and a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
- Location: Kazakhstan
- Top sights: Sky Beach Club · Khram vo imia prepodobnogo Sergiia Radonezhskogo
- Nearby: Stepnogorsk (68 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -17 | -14 | -6 | 6 | 14 | 19 | 21 | 19 | 12 | 4 | -6 | -14 |
| Rain mm | 21 | 20 | 27 | 29 | 35 | 41 | 55 | 28 | 21 | 33 | 34 | 27 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The complex is fully accessible to the public, offering both diverse indoor shopping experiences and wide-ranging entertainment under the massive, uniquely transparent tent structure.
Typical hours
It is typically open from mid-morning until late evening every single day, though specific attractions or dining venues inside the center may operate according to their own schedules.
Photography
Photography is freely allowed throughout the public areas of the mall, with the spectacular architectural roof design and the indoor beach resort being particular highlights to capture.
Time needed
Visitors generally spend between two and four hours thoroughly exploring the various retail stores, dining options, and the extensive indoor amusement facilities located on the upper levels.
Combine with
Pair your visit with a leisurely walk down the impressive Nurzhol Boulevard towards the iconic Bayterek Tower to fully appreciate the striking modern architecture of the Kazakh capital.
Getting there
The landmark is easily reachable by taxi, popular ride-hailing applications, or local buses from anywhere in the city center, with ample parking available for those arriving by private car.
Insider tip
Consider visiting during the late afternoon to experience the spacious interior in natural daylight, and then stay to watch the entire tent structure illuminate spectacularly after dark.
Geography
Facts
- Architect: Norman Foster (Foster + Partners)
- Height: 150 meters
- Opened in 2010
- Covers an area of 140,000 square meters.
- The structure's name means 'Tent of the Khan'.
- The artificial beach has a wave pool and tropical plants.
- It features a monorail that runs through the complex.
- The ETFE material is strong enough to withstand heavy snowfall.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Khan Shatyr (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Khan Shatyr?
A giant transparent tent structure housing a shopping and entertainment center.
Is there a beach inside?
Yes, the top floor features an indoor beach club with real sand.
What are the opening hours?
Open daily from 10:00 to 22:00.
Is entry to the building free?
Entry to the shopping area is free; specific attractions require tickets.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, there are many play areas, cinemas, and dining options for families.
Khan Shatyr: where is it located?
Khan Shatyr is located in Kazakhstan.
Khan Shatyr: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sky Beach Club, Khram vo imia prepodobnogo Sergiia Radonezhskogo.
Khan Shatyr: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Khan Shatyr: why is it worth visiting?
The Khan Shatyr in Nur-Sultan (Astana) is an architectural marvel and a unique entertainment center.
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History & landmarks
Astana Opera
A magnificent theater building that combines classical European architecture with national Kazakh motifs and offers outstanding acoustics.
Bayterek Tower
A futuristic observation tower in Astana that represents the mythical tree of life and the magic bird Samruk.
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
A spectacular glass pyramid in Astana designed to host global religious congresses and cultural exchange.
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National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
A vast and modern museum complex showcasing the rich history, culture, and art of the Kazakh nation from ancient times to the present.
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