The main gate of the southern capital of Kazakhstan -
Architectural and transport attractions of Almaty -
Almaty-2 Railway Station is one of the most recognizable and historically significant buildings in the city. For many, it has become a symbol of the road, travel and meetings. It was from here that thousands of people began their journey across Kazakhstan and beyond, and for visitors this station became the first acquaintance with Almaty, a city where mountains meet the sky.
Located in the very center of the city, Almaty-2 railway station is not just a transport hub, but an architectural monument embodying the spirit of its time. It was built in the middle of the 20th century and has remained one of the main business cards of Almaty ever since. There is a monument to Abylai Khan sitting on a horse on the square in front of the station.
The history of the construction and development of the station
The history of Almaty-2 railway station begins in 1939, when the issue of building a new railway station capable of handling the growing flow of passengers became acute. The city's first railway station, Almaty-1, was located on the outskirts and did not meet the needs of a rapidly growing city. Therefore, it was decided to build a second, central station closer to the center.
Construction began in 1939 and was completed in 1949, after the end of World War II. The project was developed by architects Boris Moshkov and Georgy Gerasimov, inspired by the idea of creating not just a railway station, but an architectural symbol reflecting the city's status as a cultural and economic center of Kazakhstan.
During the Soviet years, Almaty-2 railway station became one of the largest transport hubs in the country. Trains from Moscow, Novosibirsk, Tashkent, Bishkek, Shymkent, Ust-Kamenogorsk and other cities arrived here. The routes connecting Kazakhstan with Russia, Uzbekistan and China passed through it.
Today, the station continues to play a key role in passenger transportation in the country, connecting the southern capital with other regions of Kazakhstan and the CIS countries.
Architecture and appearance
The Almaty-2 railway station building is an outstanding example of Stalinist Empire architecture, combining grandeur and solemnity with elements of national Kazakh ornament. The main facade is decorated with powerful columns and arches, and a clock tower stands above the central entrance, a symbol of time and movement.
The facade is lined with light stone, which beautifully reflects sunlight and gives the building a sense of monumentality. The inscription "ALMATY" at the top is visible from afar, as if welcoming everyone arriving.
The interiors of the station are designed in a classic style: marble floors, stucco, wide staircases, spacious waiting rooms and stained-glass windows with national motifs. Special attention is paid to passenger comfort: the waiting rooms are equipped with modern lighting, air conditioning and navigation systems.
Modernity and significance
Today, Almaty-2 railway Station is one of the main transport centers of the southern capital. Dozens of long–distance and suburban trains pass through it every day, and thousands of passengers during peak seasons.
On the territory of the station there are ticket offices, cafes, pharmacies, recreation areas and tourist information. Nearby there are public transport stops, Rayymbek Batyr metro stations and the end points of many bus routes.
The station also plays an important role in the cultural life of the city. It has repeatedly become a filming location for films and TV shows dedicated to the history of Almaty. And for many citizens, this is a place associated with memories – of the first trips, send-offs, returns and meetings under the noise of departing trains.
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How to get there and visit
Almaty-2 Railway Station is located at 1 Abylai Khan Avenue, Zhetysu district, Republic of Kazakhstan, Almaty.
GPS coordinates: 43°16'25"N 76°56'20"E
The Almaty-2 railway station has good transport accessibility. Bus routes No. 12, 23, 208 and trolleybus routes No. 5, 6 runs to the station building. The nearest metro station is Rayymbek Batyr (about 1 km away). Access by private transport or taxi is also possible.
If you arrive from the airport, the journey will take about 25-35 minutes by car or taxi.
Working hours: 24/7
Contacts: +7 727 296 15 44; +7 727 296 13 44 (information desk)
Official website of Kazakhstan Railways
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Interesting facts and atmosphere
• Almaty-2 railway station became one of the first buildings in the city to use facade lighting at night. Now it looks especially beautiful in the evening, when the soft light highlights the architectural lines and the clock tower.
In Soviet times, humanitarian trains were sent to virgin lands through this station, as well as trains with participants of the World Festivals of Youth and Students.
• The station building is included in the list of architectural and historical monuments of local importance, which guarantees its preservation for future generations.
• Cultural events and celebrations often take place on the square in front of the station, and in the winter months a New Year's tree is installed here, a tradition beloved by many Almaty residents.
Legend and the spirit of the place
There is an old urban legend associated with Almaty-2 railway station: they say that if, when leaving, you look at the mountains and wish to return, the city will definitely call you back. Indeed, many who have visited Almaty at least once return again.
Locals joke that "Almaty-2 does not let go forever" – after all, it is from here that the most important life paths begin and return here.
A touch of history
Almaty-2 Railway Station is not just a transport facility. This is the heart of the city, a place where roads, destinies and stories of people converge. Its architecture, spirit and atmosphere make it an integral part of the cultural image of Almaty.
For tourists, this is not only the beginning of a journey, but also an opportunity to see the living history of the city, to feel the breath of the past and the energy of modern life.
Almaty-2 is more than a train station. It is a place of meetings, emotions and memories. A symbol of the path, movement and eternal return home.
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