Discover Karaganda’s Soviet history: explore theaters, monuments, and the KarLag museum. A journey through time just two hours from Astana.
- Shalkyma Concert Hall - Our expedition begins at the iconic Shalkyma Theater. Alongside stands the famous monument to Yuri Gagarin, and a monument to the most prominent Kazakh poet, Abay Kunanbayev, located on an alley right across from the theater.
Here, we embark on a captivating journey through time, encountering numerous Soviet-era monuments that bear witness to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Among these stands this Shalkyma theater, which played a vital role in supplying troops during World War II.
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K. Stanislavskiy Drama Theatre - The Stanislavsky Theater stands as a testament to history, being one of the first Russian drama theaters in Kazakhstan, having opened its doors in 1930. This magnificent building continues to serve its purpose today, preserving the legacy of its inception. In addition to its significance in the realm of theater, Karaganda, as a former coal mining heartland of Soviet Kazakhstan, held equal importance as one of the most prominent cultural centers in the predominantly Russian Kazakhstan of that era.
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Monument Mining Glory - During your exploration, you’ll encounter the iconic “Glory to the Miners” monument, a symbol deeply ingrained in the city’s identity. Positioned opposite another notable landmark, the Miners’ Palace of Culture, this monument pays homage to the tireless efforts of the miners who formed the backbone of Karaganda throughout its history. As a city that once thrived as a coal mining heartland of Kazakhstan and the USSR, this tribute stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of its people.
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Monument to Expression Gde-Gde? V Karagande! - Every Russian speaker is familiar with the phrase “Gde-gde? V Karagande!” (“Where-where? In Karaganda!”). While its origin is linked to the infamous KarLag labor camp, its widespread use is more humorous. A monument dedicated to this enduring phrase can be found in the inner courtyard of a restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to see it while indulging in a delicious lunch.
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KarLag / Museum of Political Repression Victims’ Memory of the Dolinka Settlement - The most poignant part of our journey unfolds at the KarLag museum, located just a 30-minute drive outside of the city of Karaganda in the so-called village of Dolinka. Here, it serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst the hardships endured in Stalin’s labor camps. A visit to the museum promises to be an emotional and eye-opening experience, offering profound insight into a dark past. Our guides will walk you through lifelike exhibits, where you’ll hear the heart-wrenching stories and witness the anguish of countless lives torn apart, offering a vivid glimpse into this dark era of Soviet history.
- Private transportation
- On-board WiFi
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
On this enthralling tour, just a two-hour drive from Astana, participants will discover Karaganda, a former coal mining industrial hub and a must-visit for history enthusiasts intrigued by the Soviet era. The city presents a captivating look into its past, featuring landmarks such as the renowned Gagarin’s Monument and remarkable Soviet-era theaters.
The highlight of the journey will be a visit to the KarLag Museum, situated 35 km outside Karaganda. This extensive museum offers a profoundly moving and detailed exploration of the history of Stalin’s labor camps, providing invaluable insights into a somber chapter of Soviet history.
Participants will also have the opportunity to savor a delicious lunch, ensuring they have the energy to continue their exploration of this historically rich and resilient city.
- Travel time is included in the total duration.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
