Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen
A vibrant 44-acre park in Almaty, featuring the stunning wooden Ascension Cathedral, a WWII memorial, and a museum of folk instruments.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery and pleasant weather
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen
Best Time
Lush greenery and pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant 44-acre park in Almaty, featuring the stunning wooden Ascension Cathedral, a WWII memorial, and a museum of folk instruments.
"A beautiful park, great for kids and a surreal experience visiting the Ascension Cathedral."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. Prioritize comfort for your exploration!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Bring bubble guns and enjoy pigeon feeding – kids absolutely love it here!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ascension Cathedral
Central Almaty
A stunning, brightly colored wooden cathedral, a true architectural gem and spiritual heart of the park.
WWII Memorial
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen
A poignant monument honoring the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, a powerful reminder of wartime sacrifice.
Museum of Folk Musical Instruments
Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen
Discover a fascinating collection of traditional Kazakh instruments housed in a charming wooden building.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Family Fun & Pigeon Feeding
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. Prioritize comfort for your exploration!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Bring bubble guns and enjoy pigeon feeding – kids absolutely love it here!
🍦 Skip the Ice Cream
Reviews suggest the ice cream sold here isn't the best. Maybe grab a snack elsewhere.
📸 Capture the Cathedral
The Ascension Cathedral is a vibrant, photogenic spot. Don't miss it!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. Prioritize comfort for your exploration!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Bring bubble guns and enjoy pigeon feeding – kids absolutely love it here!
🍦 Skip the Ice Cream
Reviews suggest the ice cream sold here isn't the best. Maybe grab a snack elsewhere.
📸 Capture the Cathedral
The Ascension Cathedral is a vibrant, photogenic spot. Don't miss it!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen as a beautiful and well-maintained green space in Almaty, perfect for families and history buffs. Highlights include the stunning Ascension Cathedral and the poignant WWII memorial. While the park offers a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation and recreation, some find the quality of on-site food vendors to be disappointing.
"For beginners, this park house the Ascension Cathedral, museum of instruments, war memorial. One walk around the park and you will cover most of the attractions. Pleasant walking track, small shops, kid friendly stroll and further walk leads to the central park. Put your best walking shoes."
Rajesh Haridoss
"The park is buzzing with people and I visited this place with my family. My four-year-old had a blast with her bubble gun, fishing activity and visiting the ascension church. The experience was surreal. Also, it is good to meet local children trying to converse in English. Plenty of pigeon-feeding activities and kids keep your little ones engaged.
I highly recommend this place for the kids."
Varun Chopra
"Nice park. Better maintained than the First President Park. The monuments were classic. Reminds one of the two world wars.
The ice creams sold are very bad. The cotton candy was okay."
Arun Narayanan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is centrally located in Almaty, making it easily accessible by public transport or taxi. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other city attractions.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark in the city center, often mentioned as a key destination.
While driving is possible, parking can be challenging in the city center. Public transport or ride-sharing services are often recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free. However, individual attractions within the park, like museums, may have separate admission fees.
The park is typically open from early morning until late evening, allowing for leisurely strolls. Specific building hours may vary.
While the cathedral is a place of worship, donations are often appreciated. Entry is usually free for visitors.
Yes, there is usually a small admission fee for the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments. Check current pricing upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Ascension Cathedral, visit the WWII memorial, discover the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments, enjoy the green spaces, and let children play. +1
Absolutely! It's very kid-friendly with areas for play, pigeon feeding, and a generally safe environment for families. +1
The park features the central monument to the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, as well as other classic monuments reminding visitors of historical events.
Yes, pigeon feeding is a popular activity, especially for children. You might want to bring some birdseed.
Visitors generally find the park to be well-maintained, with pleasant walking tracks and lush greenery, especially in spring and summer. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are some vendors selling ice cream and cotton candy, but reviews suggest the ice cream quality is poor. It's better to dine outside the park.
Being in the city center, numerous cafes and restaurants are within walking distance of the park, offering a variety of cuisines.
Yes, the park's green spaces are ideal for picnics. You can bring your own food and enjoy a meal amidst nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The Ascension Cathedral is a standout for photography. The war memorial and the general park scenery also offer great photo opportunities.
Photography rules can vary inside museums. It's best to check signage or ask staff before taking pictures.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the cathedral and park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as while there are vendors, the quality of some items like ice cream has been noted as subpar.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While the museums have small entrance fees, they offer significant cultural value for a low cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Park: Ascension Cathedral
Constructed between 1904 and 1907, the cathedral stands as a testament to early 20th-century Russian architecture. Its unique construction without nails is a marvel in itself. The interior is adorned with religious icons and ornate decorations, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Many visitors describe the experience of visiting the cathedral as surreal and deeply moving.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the surrounding park grounds, which are often filled with locals and tourists alike. The contrast between the spiritual calm of the cathedral and the lively park atmosphere is part of its charm. Remember to be mindful of ongoing services if you visit during prayer times.
Remembering the Past: WWII Memorial
Adjacent to the main monument, you'll find an eternal flame, symbolizing remembrance and respect for all those who fought and fell. The area around the memorial is often quiet, allowing visitors to reflect on the historical significance of the site. It's a place that evokes a sense of national pride and historical awareness.
Many visitors find the memorial to be a moving experience, offering a deeper understanding of Kazakhstan's role in World War II. It's a significant historical landmark that complements the cultural and recreational aspects of the park.
A Glimpse into Culture: Museum of Folk Musical Instruments
Visitors can admire a diverse array of instruments, from stringed and wind instruments to percussion. Each exhibit provides information about the instrument's history, construction, and its role in Kazakh music and folklore. It's a wonderful opportunity to learn about the unique sounds and melodies that have shaped the region's cultural identity.
While the park itself is a major draw, dedicating time to explore this museum adds a valuable cultural dimension to your visit. It's a peaceful retreat that offers a different perspective on Kazakh traditions beyond the visual splendor of the cathedral and monuments.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit