Difficulty in Reaching Alakol via Train Explained
Lake Alakol, a renowned summer vacation destination in Kazakhstan, is attracting a significant number of visitors each year. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes, the lake offers an unforgettable experience for travellers.
Several routes operate from major cities to Lake Alakol, including Astana, Almaty, Kyzylorda, Pavlodar, and Semey. The trains that service these routes, such as No 253/254 from Astana to Dostyk, No 207/208 from Almaty to Jalanaashkol, and No 457/458 and No 459/460 from Semey and Oskemen to Dostyk, run regularly. Notably, the Talgo train from Almaty to Lake Alakol takes approximately 15 hours.
Attached carriages run every other day from Almaty, Kyzylorda, Pavlodar, and Dostyk, providing additional travel options for those heading to the lake. In recent years, over 32,500 passengers have been transported to Lake Alakol since the beginning of summer, with the company stating that the carriages are fully occupied.
However, a slight shortage of railway tickets to Lake Alakol due to the peak season has led some individuals to consider travelling abroad instead. This is due to a combination of factors, including subpar service, high costs, and a lack of available tickets.
Starting from 1 June 2025, SCAT airline will perform subsidized flights to Urjar city, located near Lake Alakol, with six flights a week between the capital and Urjar, as well as between Almaty and Urjar. The one-way fare from Astana to Urjar is 16,000 tenge, and from Almaty to Urjar is 14,000 tenge.
For a smoother booking process during peak summer, it is advisable to check official Kazakhstan railway websites or authorized ticketing platforms for up-to-date schedules and advance booking options. Given the popularity of Alakol in summer and increased flights, advanced booking for transportation (train or flights) is recommended, especially if a train route exists.
Contacting local travel agencies or tourism offices in Kazakhstan could provide specific guidance on railway services and advance ticket availability to Lake Alakol. While direct railway ticket availability checks for Alakol are not documented, using official Kazakhstan Railways sources or trusted travel agencies will be the best approach to secure tickets in advance during the peak season.
Flights by SCAT Airlines currently offer a regular alternative for travel to Alakol Lake, providing another option for those seeking to explore this beautiful destination.
- The Lake Alakol's transportation industry sees a growing number of passengers each peak season, with over 32,500 passengers transported via carriages and trains since the start of summer.
- The finance sector in Kazakhstan plays a significant role in making Lake Alakol accessible for travelers, as the one-way fare for a domestic flight to Urjar city, near the lake, is around 14,000 to 16,000 tenge.
- As tourists seek alternatives during times of ticket shortage, the transportation lifestyle incorporates the options of flights by SCAT Airlines to Urjar city, providing a regular and affordable way to visit Lake Alakol.
