Tag Archives: adventure

How COVID-19 Ended My Travels and Had Me Stuck 2 Months in Bangkok

By Dan Forteza

I was on a personal journey to travel to Northern Africa with a long-term travel plan in mind last March 2020. But my supposedly long-term travel plan was unfortunately short-lived.

Out of the growing fear of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, everything has changed quickly and unexpectedly.

Before I go further, let me give you a quick background of my travels last year:

Five months after quitting my job last April 2019, I embarked on a quest to do solo backpacking abroad. I was lucky enough to travel to 9 more countries from September 2019 to December 2019, summing up to 30 countries since 2015.

I went back to the Philippines in December 2019 to spend the Christmas holidays with family and in order to plan ahead my next journey abroad which I scheduled March 2020.

Yep, there is more to it.

I plan to travel for 3 weeks in Egypt (my 31st country.) Then fly to Morocco and stay there for a month or two. I might even go to the US or further south of Africa if my travel budget lets me.

I really tried to plan it out as much as I can. My flight itineraries to both Egypt and Morocco were already booked before February 2020.

But then the pandemic happens…

The global coronavirus pandemic is an obvious crisis. Some news articles even said that this is way worse than the post-world wars! It’s possible and I’m not going to argue about that.

So what I am about to share with you here is my own experience and struggles while traveling abroad, far from home, amidst the coronavirus outbreak.

Sad to say, but the timeline below is how COVID-19 ended my travel plans and left me locked in Bangkok, Thailand for almost two months.

MY TRAVEL TIMELINE:

Allow me to tell my story in a timeline manner so you’ll get a better picture and understanding of each scenario and how they correlate in sequence.

In other words, you may consider this as my COVID-19 travel diary.

  • March 6

From Manila, Philippines, I was able to leave my country for Egypt.

During my first week in Egypt, it still felt normal. I was even able to perform my 4-day budget itinerary for Cairo, Egypt.

Day 4: The Pyramid of Khafre.
The Pyramid of Khafre in Giza, Egypt | Dantravels.org

Back then, there were only 3 reported cases of COVID-19 in Egypt.

But day by day, it was getting worse.

  • March 11

The COVID-19 viral disease had swept into at least 114 countries and killed more than 4,000 people by this time and was now officially a pandemic as announced by the World Health Organization (WHO).

That was not a piece of good news to start off the day. I felt like the time is chasing after me.

My gut was telling me to cancel my flight to Morocco and get back to Southeast Asia or the Philippines where I myself would feel safer. I know it was crucial to make a quick decision before it was too late. But another part of me was telling me to wait…

I know, I know.

This coronavirus pandemic has affected everybody’s way of living.

That’s when I knew I really need to always look after my safety first and not just for the sake of fulfilling travel goals.

From that time on, I kept myself updated with the latest news and became more vigilant.

  • March 12

The Philippines, my home country, will be in community quarantine (or lockdown as they say it) from March 15 until April 14.

Domestic air, land, and sea access to the 17 cities/districts of Metro Manila would be suspended during that period.

International flights in and out of the country would also be limited.

No matter how I condition my mind that this pandemic will just die out in the next few days, it just won’t. This is something out of my control.

  • March 16

The Egyptian authorities have announced the suspension of flights in and out of Egypt effective March 19 until March 31.

Morocco has done the same by canceling flights from/to European countries including Egypt which had almost 100 cases by now, the highest number of cases in all of Africa.

At this point, all I thought about was getting out of Egypt as soon as possible, or at least before my Egyptian visa expires which is due the first week of April.

Luckily, I was able to book a direct flight from Cairo, Egypt to Bangkok, Thailand scheduled March 18, one day before the flight suspension was to take effect.

Phew, I thought I was going to be trapped in Egypt thinking of nowhere else to go!

Thanks to Kayak’s flight search engine that I was able to quickly browse and book the cheapest ticket I can find from Egypt to Southeast Asia!

Later that day, I canceled my flight to Morocco with a heavy heart.

  • March 18

While most of the countries in Europe and other parts of the world were suspending international flights and restricting land-border crossing, I was able to safely arrive in Bangkok, Thailand.

However, because of the lockdown imposed by the Philippine government, I was not able to immediately find a direct flight back to Manila, Philippines. Flights via AirAsia and Cebu Pacific were only available April 15 onwards.

That would mean I had to stay for almost a month in Bangkok, Thailand!

  • March 31

I keep checking flight restriction details from time to time due to this COVID-19 pandemic. And it looks like ALL Southeast Asian countries have imposed flight and border-crossing restrictions. A few of them have exemptions for foreigners, like Cambodia, but only if you can present a medical certificate, medical insurance, etc.

Since my free-visa entry in Thailand only allows me to stay in the country for 30 days, I decided to book a flight going to Manila scheduled on April 16. Just in time before my free visa expires on April 17.

  • April 4

In the hope to spend less, I decided to move to another hostel in Bangkok on this day. The hostel was cheaper compared to my previous hostel and was just a walking distance to Don Mueng International Airport.

It’s my 17th day in Bangkok and the first time from that period I’ve seen the city again as I have been staying most of my day at my hostel.

Social Distancing measures in BTS Bangkok, Thailand
Social distancing measures in BTS metro seats | Dantravels.org
How covid-19 pandemic stopped me from traveling
An empty street near Phaya Thai BTS station | Dantravels.org

From that day onward, I was counting down the days before I head back to the Philippines.

  • April 7

The Philippine government has just announced that they are extending the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) period in Metro Manila and Luzon until April 30.

On the same day, AirAsia, my flight carrier to Manila, canceled my Bangkok-Manila flight (scheduled April 16) due to this directive. The said airline has canceled all domestic and international flights to/from the Philippines until April 30.

Oh well…change of plan, then.

  • April 8

The Prime Minister of Thailand signed the plan to grant automatic visa extensions for foreigners currently in Thailand to April 30.

This means that I don’t need to worry about my visa expiring on April 17.

But still, since the community quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila / Luzon has also been extended to April 30, I have no choice but to extend my visa so I’ll be able to stay in Thailand beyond April 30.

  • April 13

I have rescheduled my flight to May 15. Since it’s the airline that has canceled my flight, it’s free to reschedule the flight on or before October 31 including unlimited flight changes as per airline’s official statement.

Some people I talked to also advised me to reschedule it to May 1 and just pay for a one-day overstay fine costing to 500 THB per day in comparison to a 30-day visa extension costing to 1,900 THB.

Although that is feasible, I don’t think it is safe to assume nothing will change. I fear that the lockdown in Manila might again be extended beyond April. So I’d rather go for a 30-day visa extension!

Wooh! So I initially thought I’d be only stuck in Thailand for a month but it’s going to be two months?

And here another reason I probably should mention: it’s been my tradition to spend my birthday away from home (I just preferred that way haha). My birthday is sometime in May, so I might as well stay a little longer until May and wait until the situation improves.

When exactly is my birthday? Keep reading.

  • April 21

A second automatic visa extension for foreigners in Thailand was approved by the Thai authorities. This is to prevent long queues at immigration centers and stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Foreigners whose visas had expired since March 26 will be permitted to stay until July 31 without having to apply for an extension.

Thus, I don’t have to worry about lining up to the immigration center to have my visa stamped and extended nor spending more money for the visa fee.

What a relief!

  • April 25

Meanwhile in the Philippines, the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) over places considered to be COVID-19 high-risk areas, such as Metro Manila was AGAIN extended until May 15 as per announced by the authorities.

So I would again expect that the flight I rescheduled May 15 will be canceled.

And it did. The next morning I got an email from AirAsia suspending my flight to Manila, Philippines.

  • May 1

F*ck it! You know what, I’ve made my decision to stay here in Thailand (or jump to another country in Indochina) until September for safety purposes.

This is also to round up a gap year of nomadism that I started September 2019!

I don’t think it’s safe to go back home to the Philippines while the COVID-19 cases are getting worse there.

I must also commend Thailand and its authorities for taking the fight to COVID-19 outbreak so seriously that they were able to flatten the curve against the disease.

  • May 10

Up to this day, I’m still in Bangkok and in a new hostel. And surprise…it’s my 30th birthday!

All those ‘I-wanna-travel-to-the-fullest-before-I’m-30’ sentiments I’ve said on this blog: do they end today?

Maybe…But one thing I’ll do for sure is to keep the adventure going!

So let me end this travel diary of mine here and enjoy the rest of the day.

WHERE DID I STAY?

My Room Accommodations:

Lobby of Sleep BKK hostel in Bangkok
The lobby at Sleep BKK hostel in Bangkok.

Just like everyone else, I was also practicing social distancing while staying in the hostel.

There are only 3 or 4 guests in the hostel, so it’s not that hard to self-isolate myself from the rest.

Sleep BKK hostel's lobby.
Sleep BKK hostel’s lobby.

I usually hang out at the hostel’s lobby.

With their free coffee or tea while I do some blogging works on my laptop–that is all need to keep my day productive.

Not to mention, the hostel has a good connection of high-speed internet which is perfect to stream a movie or do video calls when boredom strikes.

The nearby food stall where I get my food.
The nearby food stall where I usually get my food. Only takeout is allowed as per Thai authorities directives due to the pandemic.

I only go out when getting food, withdrawing cash, and doing the laundry.

I know I am stuck but I feel alright and safe.

This is what I have been eating most of my day in Thailand.

On to my second hostel: Diamond and Rust Hostel, here is the video I captured while showing the lobby and my bed in the dormitory room.

I usually book my room accommodations through Agoda or Booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Or you can also try AirBnB. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ME AND MY TRAVELS?

To be honest, I really don’t know.

I don’t know when I’ll be able to travel again. It seems very uncertain at this moment in time.

Even my travel blog that I was hoping to back up my travel savings was also greatly affected by the pandemic itself.

My website traffic started to crash in February 2020 since people became less and less interested in searching for travel-related articles. Thus, my Google AdSense and affiliate earnings have crashed as well.

My Google Adsense earning January vs February 2020
My Google Adsense earnings: January 2020 vs February 2020

I understand things are crazy right now.

But there will come a time in the near future where things get back to a “new normal”. A normal that’s similar to how things were before.

People will search for things that they’ve always searched for.

Restaurants will be full.

Football games will be sold out.

The travel industry will prosper again.

So yeah, things are far from normal now. But we can use this time to get ready for when they are.

2-Day Kathmandu, Nepal Itinerary and Travel Guide with Budget All-in

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

I’m sure you’re super excited to visit the land of Himalayas and just can’t wait to get your Nepal itinerary ready. The country of Nepal might be solely known for its iconic Mount Everest, the tallest in the world, but there are also great places to see in Nepal without traveling far from its beating heart of Kathmandu.

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is the land of friendly and welcoming people where magnificent temples, monasteries and historical monuments can be found at almost every turn.

That’s why in this blog, I’ll be sharing with you my do-it-yourself Kathmandu itinerary including the budget cost breakdown during my 2-day trip in Kathmandu. So get yourself ready!

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR NEPAL?

Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa. Check out my Nepal visa guide in case you’re eligible of their visa-on-arrival.

For Filipinos, we are eligible of Nepal’s visa-on-arrival at any border points of the country including arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)–the country’s sole international airport.

WHERE IS KATHMANDU?

Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal. It is a 2-hour flight away from Delhi, India or 3 ½ hours away from Bangkok, Thailand.

Language: Nepalese
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Airport: KTM (Tribhuvan)
Preferred mode of transportation: by Taxi or by Foot
Time Zone: GMT +5-¾

HOW I GOT THERE:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Kathmandu, Nepal from India or Southeast Asia is relatively easy. Although I entered Nepal by crossing the India-Nepal border at Bhairahawa, I then booked my onward ticket from Kathmandu going to Bangkok, Thailand via Nepal Airlines using Kayak.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW TO GET AROUND KATHMANDU?

Reminder: Kathmandu is incredibly hectic and it’s extremely easy to get lost. If you’re from the west, you need to prepare yourself mentally before traveling to Kathmandu in the same way you prepare yourself for India.

By Foot. Walking around may not be an option to most because of rampant pollution and noise of the streets but getting around by foot is actually how I reach places in Kathmandu (with Google Maps’ help) because I was on a tight budget.

If you also intend to go on an adventure on foot, then make sure to wear a face mask like I did.

By Taxi. Going around by taxi is I believe the best way to get around Kathmandu. Taxis are quite reasonably priced, though few taxi drivers use the meters in these days of rising fuel prices. Shorter rides around town (including to the bus station) cost around 200 NPR. Night-time rates (between 10 PM and 6 AM) cost 50% more.

If you wish to use the local public transport, you’d better have a local to help you with the stops as they are quite arbitrary.

WHERE DID I STAY?

I arrived at Kathmandu at around 7:00 AM from a 10-hour bus ride from Bhairahawa, a town in Nepal bordering India. Using my pre-downloaded Google Maps, I then walked almost 2 km to reach my hostel in the Thamel area.

  • Zen Bed and Breakfast: 3-night stay (click here to book)
  • Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room
Zen Bed and Breakfast
Zen Bed and Breakfast | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

You can book a room at any Kathmandu hotel through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

If Kathmandu hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

MY 2-DAY KATHMANDU, NEPAL ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Swayambhunath (OR Monkey) Temple

I was breathless and sweating as I stumbled up the last steep steps in this temple. On your way, you’ll see lots of monkeys ready to greet you! That’s why they call it the Monkey Temple obviously. Swayambhunath Temple is an ancient religious architecture located on the top of a hill within the Kathmandu Valley. No fees required to get here.

From my hostel in Thamel, I walked more than 2 km west to reach this temple. Then I went back to the Thamel area to get myself some lunch.

Swayambhunath (OR Monkey) Temple
Swayambhunath Temple | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • How I got there: By foot from my hostel in Thamel

2nd Stop: Narayanhiti Palace Museum

This museum is just a 10-minute walk from the Thamel area. There is an entrance fee of 500 NPR (per person) for foreigners. Although I only took a photo from the outside gate, it is advisable to see this place especially if you’re into modern history.

This palace is indeed both beautiful and mysterious, one is reminded of King Bijendra and his wife queen Aishwarya with all their family members who were massacred in 2001.

Narayanhiti Palace Museum
Narayanhiti Palace Museum | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got there: By foot from Thamel

3rd Stop: Durbar square

I then walked almost 2 km south from the museum to reach Kathmandu’s Durbar Square as my next stop. For tourists, there is an entrance fee of 1,000 NPR per person. But because I look like a Nepalese descent, I was not asked to pay for the entrance. I just went straight in.

This is a UNESCO site damaged by a 7.9 earthquake in 2015. The architecture is like a mixed with Old Chinese and Indian backgrounds. Overall, it was a nice experience walking throughout the whole square even though they are still fixing the damages from the earthquake.

Durbar square
Durbar square | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-4 hours
  • How I got there: By foot from Narayanhiti Palace Museum

4th Stop: Vaskarkirti Mahavihar

Just a short walk from the Durbar square, I found this Buddhist shrine which not many people visit. I just love being away from the crowd for a while!

People park their bikes near this open space. I asked the name of the shrine which people said White Chaitya. Later I found the name to be Vaskarkirti Mahavihar in Google Maps. This White Chaitya is smaller than other chaityas in Kathmandu but still beautiful and worth visiting.

Vaskarkirti Mahavihar
Vaskarkirti Mahavihar | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got there: By foot from Durbar Square

5th Stop: Thamel

Thamel is Kathmandu’s main tourist hub. My hostel is situated at Thamel road, and I basically get and access everything easily here such as food, ATMs, groceries, and even a few temples that could easily be reached by foot. If you’re going on hiking or trekking, there’s a lot of shops here for mountaineering.

But still, don’t forget to enjoy while wandering through Thamel at any pace. Lose yourself peacefully through all of its narrow streets and colorful bazaars.

Thamel
Thamel road at night | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got there: By foot (this is where my hostel is located)

DAY 2:

6th Stop: Garden of Dreams

If a break is needed from the intensity of chaotic Kathmandu, a stop in the Garden of Dreams may help. Behind its big outer walls is a very calm environment.

This garden is just a 5-minute walk from the Thamel area. The entrance fee costs 400 NPR for tourists.

Garden of Dreams
Garden of Dreams | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got there: By foot from Thamel

7th Stop: Pashupatinath Temple

The oldest and holiest Hindu shrine in Nepal is the Pashupatinath Temple located on the bank of Bagmati river is a world heritage site enlisted by UNESCO.

As a foreigner, you have to pay 1,000 NPR to enter but there are portions that you are not allowed to enter. Overall, there is so much to be seen here. There are always cremations occurring here, which did bother some people, both because of the smoke and the visual. I find it fascinating.

Again, since I look like a Nepali descent, I wasn’t asked to pay for the entrance fee and just went straight ahead.

Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 3-4 hours
  • How I got there: By foot from the Garden of Dreams

8th Stop: Banks of the Bagmati River

The Bagmati River is considered holy by both Hindus and Buddhists. A couple of Hindu temples are located on its banks such as the Pashupatinath Temple. The holy river is dirty but that’s just the norm here I think.

The importance of Bagmati also lies in the fact that Hindus are cremated on the banks of this holy river, and Kirants (ethnic Himalayans) are buried in the hills by its side.

Banks of the Bagmati River
Banks of the Bagmati River | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got there: By foot from the Pashupatinath Temple.

9th Stop: Boudhanath Stupa

Bouddhanath stupa is the most liked sightseeing place in Kathmandu. Visitors are required to pay 250 NPR (foreign nationals), 50 NPR (SAARC nationals) as entrance fees to the Bouddhanath. A lot of Tibetan people reside around the Stupa. And it is a very famous and holy place, especially of Buddhists people. It is one of the most popular world heritage sites of Nepal.

Just like in Pashupatinath Temple, I wasn’t asked to pay for the entrance fee and I just went straight ahead.

Boudhanath Stupa
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • How I got there: By foot from the Pashupatinath Temple.

10th Stop: The Crematoria

Later that night, I went back to the Pashupatinath Temple with a local Nepali. We ride on his motorbike and he took me to the Crematoria along the banks of Bagmati.

We’ve both witnessed grief and happiness while in Crematoria. There is a couple of dead bodies we’ve spotted while also witnessing a fun and jolly Aarati performance. Aarati is a Hindu religious ritual of worship in which light (usually from a flame) is offered to one or more Hindu Gods.

  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • How I got there: By motorbike

The local Nepali I was referring to was Prashant whom I met via Couchsurfing. It was indeed one of those Couchsurfing experiences I would never forget. We also had shared some local Nepali food for dinner.

Meet Prashant from Kathmandu, Nepal
Meet Prashant from Kathmandu, Nepal | Dantravels.org

MY 2-DAY EXPENSES IN KATHMANDU

  • Day 0 (Arrival)
    • 30 USD (3,410 NPR) – Visa-on-arrival fee
    • 100 NPR – Fare, Rickshaw bike to the bus terminal
    • 800 NPR – Fare, Bus A/C from Bhairahawa to Kathmandu
    • 50 NPR – Drink (Coke)
    • 80 NPR – Food (Nepali Noodles)
    • Subtotal: 4,440 NPR (39.07 USD)
  • Day 1
    • 1,125 NPR – 3-Night stay in hostel
    • 275 NPR – Food, Stir-Fried Noodles (Chonmien)
    • 50 NPR – Muffins
    • NOTE: Free breakfast is included in the hostel
    • Subtotal: 1,450 NPR (12.76 USD)
  • Day 2
    • 80 NPR – Food, Stir-Fried Noodles (Chonmien)
    • 10 NPR – Water
    • 400 NPR – Ticket fee, Garden of Dreams
    • 130 NPR – Food (Chatamari and Bara)
    • Subtotal: 620 NPR (5.46 USD)
  • Last Day (Departure)

JUST SHARING: I have been entering Durbar Square and temples for free because of my Asian look. If you think you look Nepali enough, just enter and go with the local crowd and act like you belong. Keep your cameras on your bag, too. It should do the trick.

Total Expenses: 218 USD (11,110 PHP)

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

I hope that you find this 3-DAY KATHMANDU, NEPAL ITINERARY useful!

If you have more days to spend in Nepal, you can include these cool tours & activities and travel essentials with discounts on your itinerary:

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well for your Kathmandu or Nepal itinerary. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
  • Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Nepal itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.
  • Nepal Package tours
    • Viator. Viator is the world’s leading resource for researching, finding and booking the best travel experiences worldwide.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Nepal.

The Nepal Visa On Arrival Guide (Crossing from India to Nepal)

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

I recently crossed the India-Nepal border and managed to get my Nepal visa on arrival with no issues at Nepal’s Bhairahawa Immigration office. Although there’s nothing nice to see while crossing the Sunauli-Bhairahawa border, I was more than happy to have Nepal as my 30th country (not that I’m counting.) Nepal was also the newest addition to the countries I have visited before the end of year 2019.

Read also my Kathmandu, Nepal itinerary with guide and budget.

So without further ado, here is my guide on how to get your Nepal visa on arrival specifically when crossing Nepal from India overland.

WHO ARE ELIGIBLE OF NEPAL VISA ON ARRIVAL?

First things first, do you need a visa on arrival to visit Nepal? Well, depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa on arrival. See the detailed information below which category you fall in.

Visa Free

India

NOTE: Only the citizens of  India do not need a visa to enter Nepal, and can reside permanently as Nepali citizens with no restrictions

Visa Required in advance

Citizens of the following states are required to apply for a visa prior to arrival in Nepal:

  • Afghanistan
  • Cameroon
  • Eswatini
  • Ethiopia
  • Ghana
  • Iraq
  • Liberia
  • Nigeria
  • Palestine
  • Somalia
  • Syria
  • Zimbabwe

Visa on arrival

With the exception of nationals of states mentioned above, ANY foreign nationals can obtain a tourist visa on arrival. Multiple entry visas can be issued for a duration of stay of 15, 30 or 90 days.

Visa fee waiver

Nationals of SAARC member countries can receive a tourist visa free of charge for 30 days at no cost. Those countries are:

  • Afghanistan
  • Bangladesh
  • Bhutan
  • Maldives
  • Pakistan
  • Sri Lanka

NOTE: In addition, residents of China, Hong Kong, and Macau can have their visa fees waived if they are traveling as tourists since 1 January 2016.

As a Philippine passport holder, I am eligible of getting a Nepal visa on arrival and that is what I’ll be discussing further down below.

Please note that the Nepal visa on arrival is available at:

  • Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Any other Entry and Exit points established at the border regions also provide ‘On Arrival Visa’ to foreign nationals hoping enter to Nepal via land.
    • The Sunauli border is the most popular entry point from India to Nepal, and vice-versa when traveling overland.

WHAT YOU NEED TO GET A NEPAL VISA ON ARRIVAL

There are three things you need to prepare in order to successfully apply for a visa on arrival at the Bhairahawa Immigration Office in Nepal’s border.

  • Cash.
    • Take note that they DON’T accept payment by debit or credit cards but only by cash in either USD or their local currency (though the US dollar is preferred.)
    • The cost depends on how long you intend to stay in Nepal. I paid 30 USD for a 15-day valid visa.
      • 30 USD – 15 days max.
      • 50 USD – 30 days max.
      • 125 USD – 90 days max.
  • Photo IDs. Two passport-sized photo IDs (2×2 size will do as well.)
  • Confirmed hotel booking. I have only booked my first two-night stay in a cheap hostel I found on Booking.com.
    • You will need this information (such as your hostel’s address and its contact number) to fill up the visa form. So make sure you have it prepared.

You can book a room at any hotel in Nepal through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

TRAVELING FROM GORAKHPUR TO SUNAULI CROSSING

If you’re coming from another city in India to travel to Nepal overland, you’ll most probably be traveling by railway train to Gorakhpur which has the closest train station to the Sunauli border crossing.

Overnight train from Delhi to Gorakhpur
Overnight train from Delhi to Gorakhpur | Dantravels.org

Again, there’s nothing nice about Gorakhpur or even Sunauli. Nothing at all. Someone once told me that Gorakhpur is just a dusty and unappealing town you want to get out of immediately.

It’s kind of true. After exiting the Gorakhpur railway station at around 10:00 AM, I went straight to the bus station going to Sunauli. You can get to the bus station by foot in 15 minutes. On your way to the bus station, you’ll see this statue of a man riding in a horse.

Statue on the way to Gorakhpur bus station

The buses run all day, starting from about 6:00 AM. They leave approximately every hour, or as soon as they’re full. The bus would take 3-4 hours to get you to Sunauli.

NOTE: Bus fare (Gorakhpur to Sunauli) is 117 INR or 1.63 USD.

CROSSING THE BORDER FROM THE INDIAN SIDE

I arrived at the Sunauli border (on the Indian side) at around 2:00 PM by bus from Gorakhpur. The buses drop passengers in a parking lot a few hundred meters from the border. You can walk, but if you don’t want to, negotiate a cycle rickshaw to take you across.

The busy border gate taken from Sunauli (the Indian side)
The busy border gate taken from Sunauli (the Indian side) | Dantravels.org

Just like Gorakhpur, Sunauli is just a dusty town in a poor and inhospitable part of Uttar Pradesh. It’s also recommended that you make the border crossing as quickly as possible.

  1. For foreigners, the first stop is the Indian immigration office to get a departure stamp in your passport. You’ll find it on your right-hand side before the border.

I got my Indian exit stamp at the Indian Immigration and finally crossed the border at 2:45PM.

  1. The second stop is the Nepal Immigration Office at Belahia, Bhairahawa, on the other side of the border. It’s again on your right-hand side, a short distance after crossing. Nepal visa on arrival are issued there.

GET YOUR NEPAL VISA ON ARRIVAL (VOA) IN 4 EASY STEPS

Just like any other visa-on-arrival procedure I’ve been through, getting a Nepal visa on arrival (VOA) is very easy and straightforward:

STEP 1: FIND THE IMMIGRATION OFFICE BUILDING

After officially crossing the border, I went looking for the Immigration office on the Nepal side to process first my Nepal visa on arrival. You’ll find its building on the right side—just a short walk from the border gate.

Ask the officer that you want to process your Nepal visa-on-arrival.

STEP 2: FILL UP THE FORM

The officer will hand you two forms—the visa application form and the arrival form. Fill them up. Make sure you also have a passport-sized photo (in my case I used my extra 2×2 photo IDs) to be glued on the application form.

You need to have an address in Nepal ready as this information is required. I used the address on my hostel in Kathmandu.

Filling up the visa application form

STEP 3: PAY THE VISA FEE

Once you have the form filled up, just give it to the visa officer together with your passport. You will be asked how long do you intend to stay in Nepal as the amount of the visa fee will depend on them.

Then pay your visa fee accordingly. I paid 30 USD for a 15-day max of stay.

Visa fee reminders on the bulletin boards
Some visa fee reminders on the bulletin boards | Dantravels.org

STEP 4: GET YOUR PASSPORT WITH VISA STICKER!

Then you’ll have to wait for about 5-10 minutes. Once your name is called, you’re basically done.

The officer will hand your passport with a visa sticker including the “arrival stamp”!

NOTE: It only took me 15 minutes to finish the whole visa process. But of course it depends on how many people are on queue.

Nepal Visa On Arrival sticker
Nepal Visa On Arrival sticker | Dantravels.org

SUMMARY:

  • Visa Type: Tourist Visa
  • Visa Validity: 15 Days
  • Visa Fee: USD 30.00

SECURE YOUR ONWARD TRAVEL

Now you’re ready to go and explore Nepal. But before that, you would want to organize onward travel. You don’t want to spend your first night in the town of Bhairahawa, right?

Pokhara and Kathmandu are roughly the same distance away from Bhairahawa, about eight hours or more. There are a few options for getting there: shared jeep or minivan, or bus. There’s a bus terminal at Bhairahawa, about two kilometers from the border (take a cycle rickshaw). However, plenty of travel agents will approach you with offers of transport before that.

In my case, I took an overnight bus from Bhairahawa bus terminal to Kathmandu city. The bus normally leaves at 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM at the bus station. It costs me 800 NPR (or 7 USD) for an A/C bus.

OTHER IMPORTANT NOTES

  1. Crossing the Indian-Nepali border at Sunauli is not that hard to do! It is not heavily guarded nor regulated as a normal entry or exit border point should be. And as a foreigner like me, there could be a tendency of missing the immigration exit and entry stamps. So in case you’re crossing an international land border too, please don’t forget these stamps!
  2. Make sure you have dollars with you (before crossing the border) to pay your visa fee. And some extra more just in case! I know I said this already but I really wanted to reiterate this.
  3. In case you intend to change your US dollar banknotes to Nepali Rupees, make sure the banknotes are looking new and don’t have any cut or slit. Even a small cut on the corner could get your banknotes rejected in EVERY money changer in the area.
  4. But don’t you worry, there is also an ATM—just about a 5-minute walk from the border area. Just keep asking where it is!
  5. If you’re crossing from Nepal to India, Indian e-visas aren’t accepted at the border. You’ll need to apply for a visa at the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. Indian e-visas are only accepted if arriving at India’s international airports and seaports.

Read also my blog on how to get Indian e-visa online.

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

I hope that you find this NEPAL VISA ON ARRIVAL (TOURIST VISA GUIDE) blog useful!

In case you’re also looking for package tours to simply jumpstart your actual itinerary, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your Nepal itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
  • Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms in Kathmandu or any city in Nepal! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

  • Nepal Package tours
    • Viator. Viator is the world’s leading resource for researching, finding and booking the best travel experiences worldwide.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Nepal!

  • Travel Insurance
    • World Nomads. If you don’t have travel insurance when times get tough, basically you are screwed. Traveling always comes with inherent risks attached. Whether you are trekking in the Himalayan mountains or wandering the streets of Pokhara, unforeseen events can suddenly upend your world.

Generally speaking, travel insurance covers you for the following: Medical Costs – hospital visits, emergencies, evacuations; Property Loss – luggage and their contents; Travel Issues – accommodation and transportation expenses. Thus, I highly recommend you guys getting a travel insurance. I bought one from the World Nomads (available in 130+ countries) where most travelers get their travel insurances.

Go to this link to get to your World Nomads travel insurance.

2-Day Dushanbe Itinerary And Travel Guide With Budget All-In

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan, might not resonate in every traveler’s mind as much as London, Paris or Tokyo, but there are charming characteristics to this Tajik city. The truth is to be told—its heart and soul is definitely the people and their warm hospitality like no others. Trust me on this! Its uniqueness has definitely lived up to my expectations when I visited this city last November 2019.

I flew in to Dushanbe from Tashkent and stayed there for a week. I roamed around Dushanbe in the first couple of days and then stayed with a local Tajik host via Couchsurfing. If you ask me what are the must-see places in the city, here I’ve put together the perfect 2-day Dushanbe itinerary including the city’s main attractions. I have also included my detailed day-to-day and overall expenses for a budget traveler’s reference. Let’s do this!

Read also my Tashkent budget itinerary and travel guide blog.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

Ismail Somoni Avenue in Dushanbe
The famous Ismail Somoni Avenue | Dantravels.org

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR TAJIKISTAN?

Depending on your nationality, you might or might not need a visa. Check out my Tajikistan visa guide to check if you’re legible for an evisa or no visa at all.

Read also my blog on how I got my Tajikistan e-visa online.

WHERE IS DUSHANBE?

Dushanbe is the capital and largest city of Tajikistan–the fourth and last country in Central Asia I’ve visited in 2019. The city is located in Gisar valley at 2,700 ft above sea level. It is roughly a 4 ½-hour flight away from Dubai, and about 5 ½-hours of flight from Moscow.

Language: Tajik; some Persian & Russian, too
Currency: Tajikistani Somoni (TJS)
Airport: DYU (Dushanbe)
Preferred mode of transportation: Taxi; Marshrutka (Minibus)
Time Zone: GMT +5

FLIGHTS TO DUSHANBE:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Dushanbe, Tajikistan from Central Asia is relatively easy. I booked mine coming from Tashkent, Uzbekistan via Uzbekistan Airways. Please note that since I entered Uzbekistan through a 5-day visa-free transit, I can only exit the Uzbekistan through its flag carrier (Uzbekistan Airways) bound to the next country. It’s one of their transit visa mandatory requirements.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW I GOT TO THE CITY:

I arrived at Dushanbe International Airport (DYU)  at around midnight from a 3-hour flight from Tashkent’s airport (TAS).

Early in the morning, I took a taxi to reach my hostel in downtown Dushanbe. If you’re new in Dushanbe, I recommended to go by taxi but…haggle as much as you can!

  • 40 TJS (4.13 USD) – Taxi from airport to my hostel

NOTE: Street addresses are useless in Dushanbe; drivers go by landmarks. Have your accommodation’s phone number handy. They can guide your driver to the location.

WHERE DID I STAY?

  • Doshan Hostel (click here to book)
    • Hostel room type: Bunk Male in Mixed Dormitory Room
    • How to get there: By Taxi from Dushanbe Airport
    • Is breakfast included: No
Doshan Hostel in Dushanbe
Doshan Hostel in Dushanbe | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

You can book a room at any hotel in Dushanbe through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

If Dushanbe hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

HOW TO GET AROUND DUSHANBE?

Marshrutka (Minivan) in Dushanbe
Marshrutka (Minivan) in Dushanbe | Dantravels.org
  • By Taxi. These are the best options (metered and shared taxis) for foreigners compared to other public means of transportation. Most fares are between 10-20 TJS, 30 TJS for only the longest of trips. Agree on the fare in advance or choose a metered taxi.
  • By Minibus (Marshrutka). Marshrutkas cost 1-2 TJS per trip. However, they can be uncomfortably overfull and with claustrophobically low ceilings.
  • By Foot. Get your feet ready as you will walk to many places in Dushanbe, too. And as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!“
  • By Bus (and Trolleybus). Buses are not really recommended for short-term travelers. Plus, I was told you can only get on the bus with a bus card.

MY 2-DAY DUSHANBE ITINERARY (TAJIKISTAN ITINERARY)

DAY 1

1st Stop: Dushanbe Flagpole Park

At 165 meters (541 feet), it was the tallest free-standing flagpole in the world from its completion in 2011 until the 2014 erection of the (171m) Jeddah Flagpole. I was able to visit this park on a windy day and thus I’ve seen the flag in its full glory. It is impressive and nicely integrated into the surroundings.

It is easily reachable by taking trolleybus 2,10 and 11 or Minibus 8,13 23 and 37 to the Putovskiy Bus stop. After getting off the bus, cross the Ismail Somoni Avenue and the white arched entrance with gold letters will be seen. The entrance is also a great area to take a photo of the tall flag pole.

Dushanbe Flagpole Park
Dushanbe Flagpole Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Minibus from my hostel’s nearest bus stop.

2nd Stop: National Museum of Tajikistan

The museum is also located in the Flagpole park. I visited this site to see the external beautiful sculptures. Most tourists particularly wanted to see the reclining and sleeping Buddha. The entrance fee costs 250 TJS (25 USD) for foreigners.

This museum is strongly recommended to travelers to Tajikistan as it will give you an overview of the nation’s long and complex history.

National Museum of Tajikistan
National Museum of Tajikistan | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot (this is within the Flagpole Park)

3rd Stop: Palace of the Nation

The Palace of the Nation is located next to the Flagpole park. This presidential mansion is very impressive from a distance, as that’s the only way you’ll get to see it. Tourists wandering too close to the perimeter are quickly shooed away. Don’t try taking a photo or at least don’t get caught =)

  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot (this is also within the Flagpole Park)

4th Stop: Rudaki Park

This one is definitely a stunning park, huge and well kept. It was full of people when I visited but has a really nice atmosphere! There is a statue of Rudaki which is the centerpiece of the park. This is a must-see in Dushanbe!

Rudaki Park in Dushanbe
Rudaki Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from the Flagpole Park

5th Stop: Statue of Ismoil Somoni

A great walk through Rudaki Avenue will take you up to the Ismael Somoni monument, national hero for defending the Tajik nation.

The Somoni monument is probably the most popular attraction in Dushanbe. It is located in Dusti (Friendship) Square which has an interesting history. The 13 meter tall monument to Somoni is dwarfed by a 43 meter arch directly behind, which is topped by a golden crown.

Statue of Ismoil Somoni in Dushanbe
Statue of Ismoil Somoni in Dushanbe | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from Rudaki Park

6th Stop: The Independence Monument

The Independence monument is located at the western end of Tehron Street. This area is a short walk west from the Ismoil Somoni monument. Together with the Simoni statue and the Tall Flagpole with Flag, this monument resides in the Rudaki Park complex. All are impressive.

The Independence Monument Dushanbe
The Independence Monument | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from Ismoil Somoni Monument

DAY 2

7th Stop: Komsomol Lake and Park

I started off the second day of my do-it-yourself walking tour here at Komsomol Lake and Park in Dushanbe. It took me 30 minutes to get here from my hostel.

From Komsomol lake, you can have a wonderful view of Dushanbe’s skyline with some of the capitals newest buildings including the Palace of the Nation, the large Tajik flagpole and the Nowruz palace.

Komsomol Lake and Park (Dushanbe)
Komsomol Lake | Dantravels.org
Komsomol Park or sometimes called Youth Park in Dushanbe
Komsomol Park or sometimes called Youth Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from my hostel

8th Stop: Dushanbe Grand Mosque

The Dushanbe Grand Mosque is still under construction when I visited its site. But it is already considered the biggest Mosque ever built in Tajikistan. For me, it’s the most beautiful piece of architecture I’ve seen in Dushanbe!

Dushanbe Grand Mosque
Dushanbe Grand Mosque | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Komsomol Lake

9th Stop: Tajik National University

Before I head to another Mosque (on my 10th stop), I stopped over at Tajik National University which is a 10-15 minute walk from Dushanbe Grand Mosque. This huge Tajik university is the first and largest university in Tajikistan.

Tajik National University
Tajik National University | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from Grand Mosque

10th Stop: Haji Yaqub Mosque

A true landmark in the heart of city named in honor of Mawlana Yaqub-i Charkhi, a 15-century Naqshbandiya Sufi order sheikh. The Haji Yaqub Mosque was the largest mosque in the city before the new mosque (the Grand Mosque) on Karamov Street was constructed. There were also vendors here that sell Tajik souvenirs in case you want to buy something to remember Dushanbe or Tajikistan.

Haji Yaqub Mosque
Haji Yaqub Mosque | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Tajik National University

11th Stop: Victory Square and Monument

The Victory Square is located on Ayni street and is easily reached by Trolleybus 4 or Minibus 2 and 7. The Victory Square has a 2-pillar structure and an IS-2 tank monument crammed between a busy road on each side. Be careful as crossing roads on foot can be a challenge.

Victory Square Dushanbe
Victory Square Dushanbe | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By minibus from Yaqub Mosque’s nearest crossing street.

COUCHSURFING IN DUSHANBE

In the next couple of days in Dushanbe, I have spent it staying with a Couchsurfing host! Thus, I won’t be including my expenses during those days.

But anyway, here is Dilshod (left) from Dushanbe–a very friendly host! Dilshod and his other two brothers have welcomed me in their home like I’m a part of their family.

Dilshod and I having lunch together | Dantravels.org
Dilshod and I having lunch together | Dantravels.org

If you need room to stay (temporarily) in Dushanbe for free, my friend Dilshod would be more than happy to warmly welcome you and provide you food in his home. In return, just be nice to him and be patient to him as he is still learning English. In that way, he’d be able to also practice his spoken English. Contact him on his Facebook Couchsurfing page.

This is Dilshod's older brother--Jamoladin | Dantravels.org
This is Dilshod’s older brother–Jamoladin | Dantravels.org

MY 2-DAY EXPENSES IN DUSHANBE

  • Day 0 (Arrival at Hostel, Rest)
    • 81.6 USD (791.12 TJS) – Flight from Tashkent, Uzbekistan to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. I pre-booked it online at Kayak.
    • 40 TJS – Fare (Taxi from Airport to Hostel)
    • 96 TJS – 3 Night stay in Hostel
    • 65 TJS – Groceries (Coffee, Cookies, Soft drink, Instant Noodles, Lays, Shampoo, Soap)
    • 56 TJS – 2 GB internet data top-up with the help of a new Tajik friend.
    • Subtotal: 1,048.12 TJS (108.11 USD)
  • Day 1
    • 12 TJS – Food (Plov meal)
    • 1.5 TJS – Fare, Minibus to Flagpole Park
    • 2 TJS – Snacks (Samsa)
    • 1.5 TJS – Fare, Minibus back to Hostel
    • Subtotal: 17 TJS (1.75 USD)
  • Day 2
    • 15 TJS – Food (Rice-Chicken-Veggie meal)
    • 1.6 TJS – Fare, Minibus to Victory Monument (0.1 is missing?)
    • 2 TJS – Snack (Hotdog in a bun)
    • 12 TJS – Food (Plov meal)
    • NOTE: I walked some 3 kilometers back to my hostel
    • Subtotal: 30.6 TJS (3.16 USD)
  • Last Day (Departure)
    • 1.5 TJS – Minibus #15 to a bus stop near Airport
    • 18 TJS – Snacks (2x Lays)
    • 6 TJS – Bread
    • 6 TJS – Soft drink (Fanta)
    • 230 USD (2,230 TJS) – Flight from Dushanbe, Tajikistan to Delhi, India. I pre-booked it online at Kayak.
    • Subtotal: 2,261 TJS (233.21 USD)

Total Expenses: 346.23 USD

What do you think of this 2-day Dushanbe itinerary?

I hope that you find this 2-DAY DUSHANBE BUDGET ITINERARY and TRAVEL GUIDE blog useful!

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

In case you’re also looking for package tours to simply jumpstart your actual itinerary, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your Tajikistan itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it for your Dushanbe itinerary. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
  • Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Dushanbe itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

  • Dushanbe (Tajikistan) Package tours
    • Viator. Viator is the world’s leading resource for researching, finding and booking the best travel experiences worldwide.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Dushanbe

  • Travel Insurance
    • World Nomads. If you don’t have travel insurance when times get tough, basically you are screwed. Traveling always comes with inherent risks attached. Whether you are trekking in the Pamir mountains or wandering the streets of Dushanbe, unforeseen events can suddenly upend your world.

Generally speaking, travel insurance covers you for the following: Medical Costs – hospital visits, emergencies, evacuations; Property Loss – luggage and their contents; Travel Issues – accommodation and transportation expenses. Thus, I highly recommend you guys getting a travel insurance for your Dushanbe itinerary. I bought one from the World Nomads (available in 130+ countries) where most travelers get their travel insurances.

Go to this link to get to your World Nomads travel insurance.

1-Day Tashkent Itinerary And Travel Guide With Budget All-In

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

Despite stories that there is nothing to see in Tashkent, I still wanted to give it a chance. And I’m glad I did. By utilizing Uzbekistan’s 5-day visa-free transit, I managed to enter Uzbekistan last November 2019 through Tashkent airport. With only one day to spend in Tashkent before I head south of the country, I was able to see what Tashkent is made of. The city has a mixture of modern new office buildings, hotels, parks, and crumbling Soviet-style apartment blocks. Moreover, it is a very Soviet city that has little remaining from its ancient Central Asian past.

But there is more to these! If you’re curious enough to know what main attractions this city has to offer, here I’ve compiled the perfect 1-day Tashkent tour itinerary with travel guide and budget included.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

Amir Timur Square
Amir Timur Square | Dantravels.org

Tashkent might be the capital of Uzbekistan, but it receives little attention from travelers. It’s a city that tourists come through, and often skip all the places to visit in Tashkent for the Great Silk Road attractions in Samarkand or Bukhara. I actually did the same thing (haha!) but at least I spent one whole day in Tashkent.

Read also my Samarkand budget itinerary with travel guide.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR UZBEKISTAN?

First things first–do you need a visa to enter Uzbekistan? Well, depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa. See the information below which category you fall in. Other countries not listed below require an Uzbek visa in advance.

Free-Visa Entry

Citizens of the following 65 countries can visit Uzbekistan without a visa:

I. 90 days: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine

II. 60 days: Kyrgyzstan

III. 30 days: All European Union citizens, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, New Zealand, Norway, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Vatican

EVisa

Uzbekistan introduced the system of electronic visas for a period of up to 30 days from 15 July 2018. A single or multiple entry visa is valid for 30 days. The cost of obtaining an electronic visa is 20 USD. Travelers have to apply for the e-Visa for Uzbekistan at least three days in advance before their trip.

As of 21 March 2019, eVisa is available to the citizens of 77 jurisdictions, including the Philippines, Thailand, India, USA, and Vietnam.

Visa-free transit

IMPORTANT NOTE: Citizens of many countries (including Philippines and Thailand) do not require a visa for a 5-day stay if they are transiting through the international airports of Uzbekistan. According to the IATA Timatic, the outbound flight from Uzbekistan must be on Uzbekistan Airways.

As a Philippine passport holder, I am both eligible for eVisa and Transit visa. And you might wonder why I chose to go with the 5-day visa-free transit. To be honest, I was actually fed up with processing too much visa lately. You see I’ve been traveling into different Asian countries in the past 3 months with my 3rd-world-country passport and it sucks to have one. Besides, I actually don’t mind staying for a short period of time. The important thing is–I got my Uzbekistan passport stamp! Woo hoo…

Uzbekistan passport stamp transit visa
Uzbekistan passport stamp transit visa | Dantravels.org

WHERE IS TASHKENT?

Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan–the third country in Central Asia I have visited. It is located in the north-east of the country close to the Kazakhstan border. In fact, it is just 13 km away from the nearest Kazakh border crossing. By plane, it is a little more than 3 hours of flight from Dubai or almost 4 hours from Moscow.

Language: Uzbek (and some Russian)
Currency: Uzbekistani Soʻm (UZS)
Airport: TAS (Tashkent)
Preferred mode of transportation: Metro train
Time Zone: GMT +5

FLIGHTS TO TASHKENT:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Tashkent from Europe and Central Asia is relatively easy. I booked mine coming from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan via Uzbekistan Airways. It is advisable to fly in and out of Uzbekistan with Uzbekistan Airways if you’re entering via transit visa like myself.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW I GOT TO THE CITY:

I arrived at Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS) at around 7:30 PM from an hour flight from Bishkek-Manas Airport (FRU).

My Couchsurfer host, Noor, was actually waiting for me right outside the arrival gate. It was so nice of him in making an effort to pick me up at the airport and accompanied me to his home. We even shared some Kebab meal on our way. It was all his treat!

A couchsurfer from Tashkent
Noor and I having Kebab | Dantravels.org

I was glad to connect with him through Couchsurfing just in the nick of time. Otherwise, I could have spent more money staying in hostels.

NOTE: There are several public marshrutkas (minibusses) at the airport. Just ask which one is going to your hotel. If you have the budget, feel free to ride a taxi. Taxis in Tashkent are cheaper in terms of European standards (but still I try to avoid taxis as much as I can.)

WHERE DID I STAY?

  • A Couchsurfer host and it’s FREE!
Tashkent stay 1
Tashkent stay 2

Book AGODA hereBook BOOKING.com hereGet AIRBNB $43 free credit

But in case you intend to stay in a hotel, you can book a room through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

If Tashkent hotel isn’t to your liking, try Airbnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to Airbnb, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

HOW TO GET AROUND TASHKENT?

Tashkent transport 1
Tashkent transport 2
Tashkent transport 3
Tashkent transport 4
  • By Metro. Tashkent’s metro is the easiest way to get around, running between 5:00 AM and midnight. There are 3 color-coded metro lines. You’ll need to buy a zheton (token) for each trip which costs 1,400 UZS (0.15 USD).
  • By Bus and Marshrutka (Minibus). Numbered buses and minibuses run a fair network of routes in Tashkent. The fare costs 1,400 UZS (0.15 USD).
  • By Foot. Get your feet ready as you will walk to many places in Tashkent, too. And as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!“
  • By Taxi. Taxis are excellent but as always–a bit expensive. Totally not recommended for short-term and budget travelers.

TASHKENT 1 DAY TOUR (MY TASHKENT ITINERARY)

1st Stop: Memorial Park And Museum of Victims of Repressions.

First off on my Tashkent itinerary is visiting this memorial park in Tashkent. It’s clean, beautiful, totally serene and peaceful. It’s a place one can just go and sit alone for hours onwards. It is unbelievable that such a serene & peaceful place can have such a gory history behind it. The Tashkent TV tower (my 2nd stop) is in full view from the park. I would highly recommend to take some time out to sit beside the flowing water of the canal to seep in the serenity of the place.

Memorial Park And Museum of Victims of Repressions.
Memorial Park And Museum of Victims of Repressions | Dantravels.org

The locals also seemed to be enjoying the place and were so friendly. I met this group of young Uzbek students with their teacher while having an excursion within the area. When I told them I was a tourist and do not speak Uzbek nor Russian, they tried their best to talk to me in English and they were also so excited to have a photo with me.

  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Marshrutka from hostel (don’t be afraid to ask a local for directions!)

2nd Stop: Tashkent TV Tower

The Tashkent TV tower was the first thing I’ve noticed in the city while we were on our way to my host’s place (after arriving from the airport). The lights are spectacularly pretty and bring the city to life during the night. And the next morning I was able to see it up close. So happy to see this iconic landmark of Tashkent!

Tashkent TV Tower
Tashkent TV Tower | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from the Memorial Park

3rd Stop: Amir Timur Square

Amir Timur Square is located in the city center where you can see the statue of Amir Timur himself riding a horse with the view of Hotel Uzbekistan in the background. It’s impossible to be in Tashkent and not come across the central square of Amir Timur. It is a place with a lot of locals and tourists pouring in and taking a lot of photos. It also surrounded by a big forested park.

Amir Timur Square
Amir Timur Square | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Metro (Bodomzor station to Amir Temur Hiyoboni station)

4th Stop: Amir Timur Museum

I didn’t go inside the museum–but, purely from the outside, it’s worth a look. Right next to Amir Timur square, it takes no time at all just to pop by and it’s certainly worth taking a look. The building itself is unlike those that you would find in the western countries and is a great introduction to being in Uzbekistan. A local told me that there are paintings and exhibits inside which explain why Timur is seen as a national hero.

You can book tickets HERE online in advance.

Amir Timur Museum
Amir Timur Museum | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-3 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Amir Timur Square

5th Stop: Broadway Alley

This pedestrian street is close to Amir Timur Square. You can relax and enjoy some good music or take a bicycle and just roam around the area. There also amusement activities and artists selling painting with smiling locals make it a must-visit!

Broadway Alley Tashkent
Broadway Alley | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from Amir Timur Museum

6th Stop: State Museum of History of Uzbekistan

This museum was worth visiting to get an overview of the history of Uzbekistan. The first floor exhibits are from prehistory–lots of stone tools and pottery from thousands of years ago. There are also exhibits that cover the history of the Persian period, the Greek Macedonian period, the Arab invasions, followed by much glorifying of the Amir Temur (Tamerlane) empire, and followed by the Russian period. The entrance fee costs 16,000 UZS and is good for 2 hours but you can also book your ticket online HERE.

State Museum of History of Uzbekistan
State Museum of History of Uzbekistan | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Broadway Alley

7th Stop: Navoi Opera Theater

Commonly known as the “Opera”, the Alisher Navoi Theater is a beautiful building in the city center. The theater recognizes Alisher Navoi, who lived 600 years earlier and recognized as the founder of Turkik literature. Worth a view of this interesting architecture if not a show.

Navoi Opera Theater Tashkent
Navoi Opera Theater | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): hour
  • How I got here: By foot the State History Museum.

8th Stop: Chorsu Bazaar

Chorsu Bazaar feels incredibly authentic and is much bigger than just a central dome. Truthfully, I didn’t find any of the things on offer particularly appealing for tourist, but the whole draw of Chorsu Bazaar for me are the parts that aren’t geared up for tourism–the food market, the inside of the dome where all of the butchers and fruit sellers are located, the ability to simply walk around and feel that you’re part of a bustling and busy Uzbek bazaar. It is definitely worth a visit and is next door to the Kukeldash Madrasah, which can be accessed from the market.

  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Metro (Kosmonavtlar station to Chorsu station)

9th Stop: Kukeldash Madrasah

Kukeldash Madrasah is situated just walking distance from Chorsu bazaar and was built in 1570 by the Shaybanid Dynasty of rulers. This Madrasah has a serene aura about it, but if you are planning on visiting Bukhara, Khiva or Samarkand then it is not that interesting as you will see more grand and original madrasahs.

PS: I just got a view of the Madrasah from its exterior as being a Non- Muslim entry would be refused. Thus, entrance fee is required.

Kukeldash Madrasah
Kukeldash Madrasah | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from Chorsu Bazaar

10th Stop: Minor Mosque

Also known as the white mosque, The Minor mosque is an interesting and striking white building with its impressive white marble and large manicured gardens and fountain. The great architecture blew me away. Simply a must-see in Tashkent.

Minor Mosque Tashkent
Minor Mosque | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Metro (Chorsu station to Bodomzor station)

MY 1-DAY EXPENSES IN TASHKENT

Day 0 (Arrival)

  • 114.85 USD (1,092,970.25 UZS) – Flight from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. I pre-booked it online at Kayak.
  • 0 UZS – My CS host paid for my minibus transport from the airport to his home.
  • NOTE: My host also treats me for dinner (that Kebab meal photo above).
  • Subtotal: 1,092,970.25 UZS (114.85 USD)

Day 1

  • 1,400 UZS – Fare, Minibus from host’s place to somewhere near Memorial Park
  • 1,400 UZS – Fare, Metro from Bodomzor to Amir Temur Hiyoboni
  • 1,000 UZS – Toilet fee
  • 16,000 UZS – State Museum of History ticket.
  • 1,400 UZS – Fare, metro from Kosmonavtlar station to Chorsu station
  • 4,000 UZS – Food (bread with meat)
  • 1,400 UZS – Fare, Metro from Chorsu to Bodomzor
  • 7,000 UZS – Food (some cake bread)
  • 1,400 UZS – Fare, bus from Bodomzor to CS host’s place
  • NOTE: My host also prepared an Uzbek dinner meal for me!
  • Subtotal: 35,000 UZS (3.68 USD)

Day 2 (Departure)

  • 1,400 UZS – Fare, bus from CS host to somewhere near Hyatt Hotel (to withdraw at ATM)
  • 1,400 UZS – Fare, metro from Mustaqillik Maydoni to Olmazor
  • 35, 000 UZS – Intercity bus from Tashkent bus terminal (near Olmazor) to Samarkand
  • NOTE: My host also prepared an Uzbek breakfast meal for me (as a farewell)
  • Subtotal: 37,800 UZS (3.97 USD)

Total Expenses: 122.5 USD (6,228.57 PHP)

What do you think of this 1-day TASHKENT itinerary?

I hope that you find this 1-DAY TOUR TASHKENT BUDGET ITINERARY and TRAVEL GUIDE blog useful!

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

In case you’re also looking for package tours to simply jumpstart your actual itinerary, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your Tashkent itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it for your Tashkent itinerary. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
  • Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Tashkent itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Tashkent!

5-Day Almaty Itinerary And Travel Guide With Budget All-In

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

Almaty was the capital of Kazakhstan until 1997 when it was moved to Astana (now Nursultan). One of the reasons given for the move was because of Almaty’s geographical location–it is in a southeast corner of the country which is too close to Kyrgyzstan and China’s border. I, on the other hand, moved and traveled down south from Astana to Almaty due to the extreme cold of Astana.

And I made a good choice–not only Almaty has a much warmer climate, but it also has all the attractions of a major city with none of the claustrophobia or stress. If you’re curious enough to know what top attractions this city has to offer, here is my 5-day Almaty itinerary and travel guide which includes the detailed cost breakdown of my day-to-day expenses!

Read also my Astana (Nursultan) itinerary with budget and travel guide.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

Me with a backdrop of the snowcapped Zailiysky Alatau
Me with a backdrop of the snowcapped Zailiysky Alatau | Dantravels.org

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR KAZAKHSTAN?

First things first–do you need a visa to enter Kazakhstan? Well, depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa. See the information below which category you fall in. Other countries not listed below require a Kazakh visa.

Free-Visa Entry

Citizens of the following countries and territories can visit Kazakhstan without a visa:

*90 days: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Mongolia, Russia, Ukraine

**30 days: Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Serbia, South Korea, Tajikistan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan

***14 days: Hong Kong

Visa-Free Program

Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa for stays of fewer than 30 days as part of a visa-free policy for countries with the large foreign direct investment in Kazakhstan’s economy:

All European Union citizens, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, United States, Vatican City, Vietnam

With my Philippine passport, I fell under the visa-free program and was able to enter Kazakhstan through Astana TSE airport with no issues last October 2019!

Well wait, not really… The visa-free program of Kazakhstan for Filipinos was just recently announced and took effect on September 30, 2019. I was backpacking in Tehran, Iran that time when it was announced. So I actually entered Kazakhstan through TSE airport a few days after it took effect. And upon checking in to my airline carrier (SCAT airlines), I waited for almost AN HOUR because the airline crews are verifying if Filipinos can really enter Kazakhstan visa-free. But anyway, the important thing is GOT IN and got my boarding pass!

Read also my Tehran itinerary and travel guide blog.

WHERE IS ALMATY?

Almaty is located in the mountainous area of southern Kazakhstan near the border of Kyrgyzstan in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. In fact, it is only a 5-hour minibus ride from Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. By plane, it is a little more than 4 hours of flight from Moscow or Dubai.

Language: Kazakh and Russian
Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Airport: ALA
Preferred mode of transportation: Bus / Metro
Time Zone: GMT +6

FLIGHTS TO ALMATY:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Almaty from Europe and the Middle East is relatively easy. In my case, however, I took a train coming from Astana (Nursultan) to Almaty since I’m already in Kazakhstan.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW I GOT TO THE CITY:

I arrived at Almaty (Alma-Ata 2 station) at around 7:00 AM from a 15-hour train ride from Astana (Astana-Nurly-Zhol station.) I booked its train ticket online with the help of my friend Akniyet.

Inside the train bound to Alma-Ata 2 station
Inside the train bound to Alma-Ata 2 station | Dantravels.org

I then walked towards the Raiymbek Batyr metro station using my 2GIS offline Maps (Note: offline Google Maps will do as well.) I got off at Baikonur metro station where my hostel (Hostel Eleon) is only 5 to 10 minutes on foot.

  • 80 KZT (0.21 USD) – Metro from Raiymbek Batyr station to Baikonur station

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Bus #34 in Almaty
Getting around Almaty via Bus and Metro | Dantravels.org
  • By Bus (and Trolleybus). Just like Astana, Almaty has an excellent city bus network, with bus route maps shown at many bus stops. The bus is how you get around best in Almaty!

Buses start between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM until 10:00 PM. Single-trip tickets cost 150 KZT (0.40 USD) if you pay by cash. The very useful 2GIS offline map app helps you plot your route and shows you in real-time which numbered buses are due to arrive at which bus stop. The 2GIS app also works even without internet data.

NOTE: It is cheaper if you pay by transport card (called Onay) costing to only 80 KZT (0.21 USD) but I don’t really recommend it for short-term travelers.

  • By Metro / Subway. Almaty’s metro runs from Raiymbek Batyr station, near Alma-Ata 2 railway train station, down south to Moscow station. There are future plans to expand Almaty’s metro train network but as of this writing, the city only has one line of metro.

NOTE: You can also use a refillable Almaty card (sold at all metro stations) or swipe in with the multi-transport Onay card.

  • By Foot. Get your feet ready as you will walk to many places in Almaty, too. And as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!“
  • By Taxi. Taxis are excellent but rather expensive.

WHERE DID I STAY?

  • Hostel Eleon
    • Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Male Dormitory Room
    • Hostel rate: 1,400 KZT (3.65 USD) per night
    • How to get there: 5 to 10 minutes walk from Baikonur station (nearest metro station.)
Hostel Eleon front door
Hostel Eleon facilities | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

You can book a room at any hotel in Almaty through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

If Almaty hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

MY 5-DAY ALMATY ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Republic Square of Almaty

Starting off my Almaty itinerary is this impressive monument situated uphill in Almaty, but a rewarding visit. The monument is surrounded by historical monuments in Kazakhstan’s past and notable figures. To get a good picture of the whole site you need to cross a busy road.

Almaty Republic Square | Dantravels.org
Almaty Republic Square | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By Bus from hostel (using my 2GIS Maps app)

2nd Stop: Medeu

This is in Medeu! Because I’m on a tight budget, I went up hiking on foot than going by cable car. Yeah, tiring but it was fun. Especially meeting and getting to know the locals along the way. And when the locals found out I’m from the Philippines, they would say “Oh Manny Pacquiao!” I didn’t know Manny (the Filipino boxer) is very well-known in Kazakhstan.

The never-ending stairs at Medeu | Dantravels.org
The never-ending stairs at Medeu | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 3-4 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus #12 (using my 2GIS Maps app)

3rd Stop: Shymbulak Ski Resort

If you’re already in Medeu, do not also miss Shymbulak ski resort which is located in the picturesque gorge of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. You can take a trip up to the top of the ski resort (Talgar pass), which involved three gondolas from Medeu. Although I did not go, I still advise you to go since the views were spectacular. It will be 4,000 KZT (10.38 USD) for the entire trip.

The view of Trans-Ili Alatau mountains from Medeu | Dantravels.org
The view of Trans-Ili Alatau mountains from Medeu | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
  • How to get here: By Gondola / Cable Car

4th Stop: Almaty Central park

This place was an absolute must-visit especially if you have children. The park is absolutely huge and there are activities everywhere you look. There are plenty of places to sit down and eat or have a drink. It’s also friendly for the budget-minded as there is plenty to walk around and see.

Somewhere at Almaty Central park | Dantravels.org
Somewhere at Almaty Central park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus #12 (Medeu-Abay) then another bus (all using my 2GIS Maps app)

DAY 2:

5th Stop: First President’s Park

First President’s Park is a huge park in south Almaty, and you could spend all day here! It’s the perfect getaway located right in the middle of a busy street, thanks to plenty of space to walk around and enjoy nature. The park was opened in November 2011 in respect to the first President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. You might also catch a graduation or a wedding photoshoot here if you’re lucky!

First President's Park
First President’s Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 3-4 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus (using my 2GIS Maps app)

6th Stop: St. Nicholas Cathedral

This Russian Orthodox cathedral is located in a really attractive grounds. Beautiful colors make it really attractive and photogenic from all angles. The elaborately painted interior walls and ceilings and the icons made it an interesting visit.

St. Nicholas Cathedral
St. Nicholas Cathedral | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from my hostel

DAY 3:

7th Stop: Park of Panfilov’s 28 Guard

The park is named after the heroes of the Great Patriotic War. The Panfilov heroes were 28 soldiers of an Almaty Infantry who died fighting the Germans outside of Moscow during the war. There is one huge monument that stands out (in the photo below) with a burning eternal flame in front of it and a few other smaller monuments around this area. This park is the crown jewel of Almaty’s history.

Park of Panfilov's 28 Guard
Park of Panfilov’s 28 Guard | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Metro (Zhibek Zholy station)

8th Stop: Ascension Cathedral

Located also within the Panfilov’s park is the lovely Ascension Cathedral. Probably the most renowned Orthodox cathedral in Kazakhstan and understandably so. The interiors and exteriors are very impressive and the cathedral looks wonderful from all sides. The interior takes the form of most Christian orthodox churches and the murals are fantastic.

Ascension Cathedral
Ascension Cathedral | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • How I got here: By foot from Panfilov’s 28 Guard monument

9th Stop: Zelenyy Bazar

Zelenyy Bazar is known to be the oldest market in Almaty. There are lots of vegetables and fruit and a lot of meat (especially horsemeat!). It was interesting to walk around and check the goods as well as clothing and some souvenirs outside the market.

Zelenyy Bazar
Zelenyy Bazar | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Ascension Cathedral

10th Stop: The Central Mosque of Almaty

This is the main mosque in Almaty and is in a good position for visiting since it’s close to the bazaar and metro (Raiymbek Batyr station). The mosque was an excellent example of local architecture. The interior is well worth visiting, too. You need to wear long pants and a scarf (for women) if you intend to enter the mosque.

The Central Mosque of Almaty
The Central Mosque of Almaty | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Zelenyy Bazar

DAY 4:

11th Stop: One-day hike to Mt. Boukreev

With my new-found friend Nurseit, he invited me to join a day tour hike to Mt. Boukreev–it is one of the peaks in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains surrounding Almaty. He knows a group of hikers that organizes a FREE hiking tour every Sunday.

NOTE: I met Nurseit in a language exchange site, I believe it was ConnectPals. Go check out ConnectPals!

Hiking Mt. Boukreev

At around 8:00 AM, we left the jump-off point at Medeu and all of us headed to Mt. Boukreev (3,010 masl). I think we’re around 50+ who joined the climb.

My friend Nurseit even brought food and snacks for the two of us so I wouldn’t worry about spending too much on food.

NOTE: This climb was organized by Taurest.kz. Go check out their Instagram here!

Hiking group
Mt. Boukreev Scenery
On the way to the summit

At around 2:00 PM, I’ve finally reached the summit! It’s beautiful up there! You have no idea!

Below is a photo of my friend Nurseit and myself. He is a local Kazakh and most of the time we use Google Translate to be able to understand each other.

But anyway, the local people I’ve met at the climb love to practice their English!

Nurseit and I at the summit of Mt. Boukreev | Dantravels.org
Nurseit and I at the summit of Mt. Boukreev | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): the whole freakin’ day!
  • How I got here: By Bus to Medeu (using my 2GIS Maps app), then CLIMB up!!!

Later that night, Nurseit and his friends treat me for dinner with one of their national dishes called Beshbarmak (a horse meat dish)! And I also tried the horse milk!

Eating Beshbarmak
I’m trying horsemeat for the first time with Nurseit and his friends | Dantravels.org

DAY 5:

12th Stop: Kok Tobe Hill

Kok Tobe Hill is where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Almaty city and it can be reached by cable car or by road and then hike. In my case, I went by cable car with the remaining cash I have before I head to Almaty airport. It costs 2,000 KZT (5.16 USD) per round trip.

If you are visiting Almaty, it is a must-visit place. It is a kind of little amusement park for kids on top of hills.

  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus (using my 2GIS Maps app), then cable car to the top of the hill!!!

EXTRA DAY:

13th Stop: Big Almaty Lake

I wasn’t able to visit the Big Almaty lake when I was in Almaty due to time constraints. But if I have one more day to spend, I’d definitely come here. Note that visiting here would require at least half of your day as this place is not reachable by public buses nor metro. But I’m telling you this place is a must-see site in Almaty. It is a very beautiful and scenic lake where the city gets its water supply.

There are several tour organizers from Viator that offers a day tour to Big Almaty Lake for a cheap price. Check out my “Recommended Package Tours” section below.

Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): Half-day

What do you think of this 5-day Almaty itinerary?

I hope that you find this 5-DAY ALMATY BUDGET ITINERARY and TRAVEL GUIDE blog useful!

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

MY 5-DAY EXPENSES IN ALMATY

  • Day 0 (Arrival)
    • 6811 KZT – Train ticket from Nursultan to Almaty. I booked it online with the help of my friend Akniyet.
    • 230 KZT – Food (Pie cake)
    • 80 KZT – Metro from Raiymbek Batyr station to Baikonur station
    • 8,400 – 6 Night stay in Hostel
    • 700 KZT – Food (Chicken-rice meal with tea)
    • 450 KZT – Food (Chicken-rice meal)
    • Subtotal: 16,671 KZT (43.28 USD)
  • Day 1
    • 180 KZT – Drink (Bottled of water)
    • 150 KZT – Bus fare from Hostel to a bus stop near the Republic Square
    • 150 KZT – Bus #12 fare from Abay avenue to Medeu
    • 150 KZT – Bus fare from Medeu to Abay avenue.
    • 140 KZT – Food (2x Bread with beef)
    • 240 KZT – Drink (3x Coffee packs)
    • 150 KZT – Bus fare from a bus stop near Abay avenue to Central Park
    • 150 KZT – Bus fare from Central Park to a bus stop near Hostel.
    • 0 KZT – Food (Sultanali, my hostel roommate, treats me for dinner!)
    • Subtotal: 1,310 KZT (3.40 USD)
  • Day 2
    • 650 KZT – Food (Hotdog-rice meal)
    • 150 KZT – Bus fare from Hostel to first President’s Park
    • 200 KZT – Food (Corn)
    • 150 KZT – Bus fare from first President’s Park to Hostel
    • 380 KZT – Food (Bread)
    • Subtotal: 1,530 KZT (3.97 USD)
  • Day 3
    • 700 KZT – Food (Laghman, Kazakh noddles)
    • 80 KZT – Metro from Baikonur station to Zhibek Zholy station
    • 80 KZT – Metro from Raiymbek Batyr station to Baikonur station
    • 650 KZT – Food (Chicken-rice meal)
    • 100 KZT – Drink (Coffee)
    • Subtotal: 1,610 KZT (4.18 USD)
  • Day 4
    • 0 KZT – Nurseit paid my bus fare from my hostel to Abay avenue, should be 150 KZT.
    • 0 KZT – Nurseit again paid for my bus fare from Abay to Medeo, should be 150 KZT
    • 800 KZT – fare for the rented bus from hiking endpoint to city crossing (Gorganaya st.)
    • 150 KZT – bus fare back to Medeu (I met Aynur and her sister from the climb whose car are parked at Medeo and she drove me home to my hostel)
    • 0 KZT – Food (Dinner treat from Nurseit and his friends)
    • Subtotal: 950 KZT (2.47 USD)
  • Day 5 (Departure)
    • 150 KZT – Bus fare from my hostel to KokTobe Gondola / Cable Car
    • 2,000 KZT – Cable Car fee (back & forth)
    • 560 KZT – Food (2x Cup Noodles)
    • 150 KZT – Bus #79 fare from somewhere near Koktobe to Almaty Airport
    • 200 KZT – Hot water at the Airport (for my noodles!)
    • 63.78 USD (24,568 KZT) – Flight from Almaty, Kazakhstan to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. I pre-booked it online at Kayak.
    • Subtotal: 27,628 KZT (71.73 USD)

Total Expenses: 129.03 USD (6,536.72 PHP)

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

In case you’re also looking for package tours to simply jumpstart your actual itinerary, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your Almaty itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it for your Almaty itinerary. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
    • Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Almaty itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

  • Kazakhstan Package tours
    • Viator. Viator is the world’s leading resource for researching, finding and booking the best travel experiences worldwide.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Almaty

3-Day NurSultan Itinerary And Travel Guide w/ Budget All-in

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

The city of Astana, now called NurSultan, was my first stop on an extended Central Asian adventure last October 2019. Known today as Kazakhstan’s futuristic capital city, NurSultan certainly is a tough place to live because of its harsh cold climate but still, it is well worth a short visit. You can see NurSultan’s main sights and its fascinating buildings in a couple of days. That’s why to help you jumpstart your next holiday here, I’ve put together the perfect 3-day Nursultan budget itinerary and travel guide which includes my overall travel expenses! Are you ready?

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

A dinner treat from a Kazakh friend Akniyet on my first night in NurSultan | Dantravels.org
A dinner treat from a Kazakh friend Akniyet on my first night in NurSultan | Dantravels.org

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR KAZAKHSTAN?

First things first–do you need a visa to enter Kazakhstan? Well, depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa. See the information below which category you fall in. Other countries not listed below require a Kazakh visa.

Free-Visa Entry

Citizens of the following countries and territories can visit Kazakhstan without a visa:

*90 days: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Mongolia, Russia, Ukraine

**30 days: Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Serbia, South Korea, Tajikistan, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan

***14 days: Hong Kong

Visa-Free Program

Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa for stays of fewer than 30 days as part of a visa-free policy for countries with the large foreign direct investment in Kazakhstan’s economy:

All European Union citizens, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, United States, Vatican City, Vietnam

With my Philippine passport, I fell under the visa-free program and was able to enter Kazakhstan through NurSultan airport with no issues last October 2019!

Well wait, not really… The visa-free program of Kazakhstan for Filipinos was just recently announced and took effect on September 30, 2019. I was backpacking in Tehran, Iran that time when it was announced. So I actually entered Kazakhstan through NurSultan airport a few days after it took effect. And upon checking in to my airline carrier, I waited for almost AN HOUR because the airline crews are verifying if Filipinos can really enter Kazakhstan visa-free. But anyway, the important thing is GOT IN and got my boarding pass!

Read also my Tehran itinerary and travel guide blog.

WHERE IS NURSULTAN (ASTANA)?

Nursultan, formerly named Astana, is located in central Kazakhstan on the Ishim River in a very flat, semi-arid steppe region which covers most of the country’s territory. It is a little more than 3-hour flight away from Moscow and roughly a 4 ½-hour flight from Dubai.

NOTE: In March 2019, the city was renamed NurSultan after the departing Kazakh president, Nursultan Nazarbayev.

Language: Kazakh and Russian
Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Airport: TSE
Preferred mode of transportation: Bus
Time Zone: GMT +6

FLIGHTS TO NURSULTAN (ASTANA):

Finding a cheap flight ticket to NurSultan from Europe and the Middle East is relatively easy. In my case, I got a direct flight coming from Yerevan, Armenia to NurSultan, Kazakhstan. My flight carrier was SCAT Airlines.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

Read also my Yerevan itinerary and travel guide blog.

HOW TO GET AROUND NURSULTAN?

Bus number 32 in NurSultan
Bus number 32 in NurSultan | Dantravels.org
  • By Bus. NurSultan has an excellent city bus network, with bus route maps shown at many bus stops. Buses start between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM and finish between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Single-trip tickets cost 180 KZT (0.52 USD) if you pay by cash. The very useful 2GIS offline map app helps you plot your route and shows you in real-time which numbered buses are due to arrive at which bus stop. The 2GIS app also works even without internet data.

NOTE: It is cheaper if you pay by card costing to only 90 KZT (0.26 USD) but I don’t really recommend it for short-term travelers.

  • By Foot. Get your feet ready as you will walk to many places in Astana, too. Just make sure you are dressed appropriately depending on how cold the outside temperature is. And as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!“
  • By Taxi. Taxis are excellent but rather expensive. Also, Uber works in NurSultan.

HOW I GOT TO THE CITY:

I arrived at Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (TSE) at around 5:00 AM from a 3-hour flight from Yerevan, Armenia.

To get from NurSultan airport to the city center, you need to take either bus or taxi. I took the bus since I’m on a budget. I don’t really remember which bus number it was but I was told by a local that it goes to the city center.

Using my pre-downloaded Google Maps (I wasn’t aware of the 2GIS app yet), I got off near the Infiniti Apartment Building along Qabanbay Batyr Avenue where my hostel (Hostel Infiniti) is 3 to 5 minutes walk.

Later that day, I searched on 2GIS app which buses run from/to the airport and those are buses 10, 12 and 100. It should cost you 180 KZT (0.52 USD).

OMG NOTE: I actually did not pay for the bus fare on my way to downtown NurSultan from the airport. Because I only have 10,000 KZT (highest banknote denomination in Kazakhstan) with me which was freshly withdrawn from the ATM, the bus driver refused to accept my payment as he has no change to give. He also does not speak English at all so communicating is such a challenge. So I just sat down in silence. When the bus stops at my preferred location, I just simply exited the bus door alongside with others as if I have no payment issue. OMG!

WHERE DID I STAY?

  • Hostel Infiniti
    • Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Male Dormitory Room
    • Hostel rate: 1,700 KZT (4.4 USD) per night
    • How to get there: 3 to 5 minutes walk from the nearest bus stop

NOTE: This hostel is in a big apartment building. That’s why it was a challenge and a bit confusing for me to find this hostel as there so many entrance /exit doors in the building. Good thing there was a local Kazakh who helped me find my hostel. I gave him the phone number of the hostel and he called the owner. Phewww, I was about to die from the outside cold!

Hostel Infiniti
Hostel Infiniti | Dantravels.org

Book AGODA here

Book BOOKING.com here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

Anyway, you can book a room at any hotel in Astana through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

If Astana hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

MY 3-DAY NURSULTAN ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Bayterek Tower

This tower is meant to embody a folktale about a mythical tree of life and a magic bird of happiness: the bird, named Samruk, had laid its egg in the crevice between two branches of a popular tree.

Bayterek Tower from my Nursultan Itinerary (Astana)
The iconic Bayterek Tower | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus (using my 2GIS Maps app)

2nd Stop: City Park

The City Park in Astana is huge. Lots of things to see and do with the sculptures, the Presidential Palace at one end and past that is the Presidential gardens which are magnificent and lovely green space.

Nursultan City Park
City Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Bayterek Tower

3rd Stop: NurAstana Mosque

As a non-Muslim, I have not visited many mosques but found this one welcoming, bright, and peaceful. The external architecture attracts and internally the big open space and carpets created a sense of calm. It’s free and worth a visit regardless of your religious affiliation.

NurAstana Mosque
NurAstana Mosque | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from the City Park

4th Stop: Lover’s Park

Don’t worry–it’s not really a park only for lovers! Haha. It is a lovely walk, a vast open space with lots of activities for children and for anyone really!

Lover's Park in Nursultan
Lover’s Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus (using my 2GIS Maps app)

5th Stop: The National Opera Building

The national opera building in Astana is beautiful. From an exterior perspective, the modern building was designed as a classical temple, complete with columns and tympanum.

The National Opera Building
The National Opera Building | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from the Lover’s Park

6th Stop: Khan Shatyr

Khan Shatyr which literally means ‘Royal Marquee’ is said to be NurSultan’s most extraordinary building (so far). It may resemble a leaning circus tent from the outside, but it is actually a big shopping mall with various attractions (e.g. food court, swimming pool, sandy beach, water slide, etc.)

Khan Shatyr in Astana
Khan Shatyr | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Opera Building

DAY 2:

7th Stop: Palace of Peace and Reconciliation

A monumental pyramid-shaped building built and completed in 2006 to commemorate the Meeting of Congress of Leaders worldwide and traditional religions.

Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
Palace of Peace and Reconciliation | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus (using my 2GIS Maps app)

8th Stop: Independence Square and Kazak Eli Monument

It was great to see this monument and photograph it. It looks majestic and is right across the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. This was one monument in Astana that I wanted to see most of all, and it looks stately.

Independence Square and Kazak Eli Monument
Independence Square and Kazak Eli Monument | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.

9th Stop: Hazret Sultan Mosque

The Hazret Sultan Mosque is the second largest mosque in Central Asia after Turkmenbasy Ruhy Mosque. It is mostly visible from many places in Astana, the mosque stands out whichever aspect it is viewed from.

Hazret Sultan Mosque
Hazret Sultan Mosque | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from the Kazak Eli Monument.

10th Stop: Kazakhstan Military History Museum

I was very impressed by the exhibits and thought that it was the best in Astana. The Museum is designed as a yurt (Kazakh nomad’s home). The museum had external exhibits of WW2 equipment in a small display area to the left of the museum, and many sculptures of ancient warriors around the museum. The chariot sculpture at the main entrance was the most impressive.

Kazakhstan Military History Museum
Kazakhstan Military History Museum | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus (using my 2GIS Maps app)

11th Stop: Quay Astana Bridge

This is an amazing place to visit in Astana. You can walk on the bridge on the river–it’s a very nicely built architectural structure.

Quay Astana
Quay Astana | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from the Military History Museum

DAY 3:

12th Stop: Triumphal Arch Mangilik El

Another of Astana’s monuments and it is in the center of a roundabout in the city. There are underground passes to get to the monument, and this is your best chance to take a pic with an ‘I love Astana’ sign in it.

Triumphal Arch Mangilik El
Triumphal Arch Mangilik El | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By Bus (using my 2GIS Maps app)

13th Stop: Expo 2017 Complex

The design of the building in itself is amazing, a true engineering marvel. Each floor houses a unique exhibition to educate the public about, wind, solar, hydroelectric energy sources, etc. to help mankind sustain life on planet earth and the future it holds for our survival.

Expo 2017 Complex
Expo 2017 Complex | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from the Triumphal Arch.

14th Stop: MEGA Silk Way

Just across the expo site sits this brand new shopping center. There are many restaurants available for all budgets. It’s also a good option for spending a long layover from the airport as it is fairly close to it.

MEGA Silk Way
MEGA Silk Way | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • How I got here: By foot from Expo 2017 Building

On my last day in NurSultan, I stayed with a Kazakh host from Couchsurfing. His name is Darkhan and he calls me Teddy Bear because he said I look like one. Haha!

Darkhan a couchsurfer from Nursultan Kazakhstan
Darkhan and I with the meal he prepared | Dantravels.org

MY 3-DAY EXPENSES IN NURSULTAN

  • Day 0 (Arrival, Rest)
    • 206 USD (79,135 KZT) – Yerevan to NurSultan flight
    • 0 KZT – Airport to the Hostel (See my note above on “how I got to the city”)
    • 5,100 KZT – 3 Night stay at Hostel Infiniti
    • 1,717 KZT – Groceries (Rice, Canned Tuna, Noodles, Coffee)
    • 300 KZT – Laundry at Hostel
    • NOTE: It’s OK to cook at the hostel I stayed in.
    • Subtotal: 86,252 KZT (224.5 USD)
  • Day 1
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from Hostel to a bus stop near Bayterek Tower
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from Bayterek Tower to a bus stop near Lover’s Park
    • 90 KZT – Food (bread)
    • 250 KZT – Drink (Orange Juice)
    • 90 KZT – Food (bread)
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from a bus stop near Khan Shatyr to Hostel
    • Subtotal: 970 KZT (2.53 USD)
  • Day 2
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from Hostel to a bus stop near the Palace of Peace
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from a bus stop near Hazret Mosque to Kazakh Military Museum
    • 240 KZT – Food (2 x hotdog with bread)
    • 300 KZT – Drink (Orange Juice)
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from a bus stop near Quay Astana to Hostel
    • Subtotal: 2,050 KZT (5.34 USD)
  • Day 3
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from Hostel to the Triumphal Arch
    • 1,200 KZT – Combo Meal at Burger King (MEGA Silkway Mall)
    • 312 KZT – Food (Raisin Bread)
    • 130 KZT – Drink (Bottled Water)
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from a bus stop near MEGA silk way to my Couchsurfing host’s apartment
    • Subtotal: 2,002 KZT (5.21 USD)
  • Day 4 (Departure)
    • 6811 KZT – Train ticket from Nursultan to Almaty. I booked it online with the help of my friend Akniyet.
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from Hostel to Airport Bus #50 transfer
    • 180 KZT – Bus fare from bus transfer to train station
    • 230 KZT – Food (Pie cake)
    • Subtotal: 7,401 KZT (19.27 USD)

Read also my Almaty budget itinerary and travel guide blog.

Total Expenses: 256.8 USD (13,024 PHP)

What do you think of this 3-day Nursultan itinerary?

I hope that you find this 3-DAY NURSULTAN BUDGET ITINERARY and TRAVEL GUIDE blog useful!

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

In case you’re also looking for package tours to simply jumpstart your actual itinerary, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your NurSultan (Astana) itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

More Tours Here

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it for your Astana itinerary. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
  • Airbnb
    • Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms for your Astana itinerary! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

  • Train ticket
    • Tickets KZ. Click HERE to book train ticket from NurSultan to Almaty.
  • Kazakhstan Package tours
    • Viator. Viator is the world’s leading resource for researching, finding and booking the best travel experiences worldwide.

Click HERE to find the best Viator deals in Astana

How To Apply Online For A Tajikistan eVisa (Updated)

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

With Tajikistan’s untouched and unspoiled nature alongside its people’s warm hospitality, I truly made a good decision to see this little known corner of the world last November 2019. So if you’re planning to visit Tajikistan and looking for a guide on how to apply for your Tajikistan eVisa (tourist visa) online, then you’re in the right place. So let’s wait no further and get that Tajikistan eVisa right away!

My friend Dilshod at his home in Dushanbe Couchsurfing
My Tajik friend Dilshod at his home in Dushanbe | Dantravels.org

Tajikistan launched an e-Visa system on June 1, 2016. The eVisa can be used at any border crossing (including international airports) and is granted for tourism and business. Along with an eVisa, visitors may obtain a permit to visit the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region for an additional cost of 20 USD.

If you intend to visit the famous Pamir Highway or the M41 in Tajikistan, you need to include the additional 20 USD fee–you’ll see it when you process your visa application online. More details from my step-by-step guide below.

WHO’S ELIGIBLE OF TAJIKISTAN EVISA?

Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need an eVisa. See information below which category you fall in.

eVisa Eligible Countries

All European Union citizens, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belize, Benin, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Cabo Verde, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Fiji, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Liechtenstein, Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, United States, Uruguay, Vatican City, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen

Free-Visa Countries

Armenia **, Azerbaijan **, Belarus *, Georgia *, Kazakhstan *, Kyrgyzstan *, Moldova *, Russia *, Ukraine **, Uzbekistan ***

Notes:
* Unlimited stay
** 90 days
*** 30 days

Visa policy Map of Tajikistan
Visa Policy Map | Wikipedia.org

As a Philippine passport holder, I am eligible to apply for an eVisa (yay!) including citizens from 120 other countries. That’s why in this blog, I’ll share with you my experience on my Tajikistan eVisa application.

GET YOUR TAJIKISTAN EVISA IN 4 EASY STEPS

STEP 1: GET YOUR ROOM ACCOMMODATION READY

When filling up the application form online, you need to indicate your Address in Tajikistan. if you’re staying in a hotel/hostel (which you probably should), fill it in with its address.

You can book a room at any Tajikistan hotel through Agoda or Booking.com. I usually book my room accommodations through booking.com. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

If hotel isn’t to your liking, try AirBnb. Airbnbs are immersed in neighborhoods, condos, and townhomes. There is a feeling you get when you stay in an Airbnb that makes you feel like you belong in that city or town. Since it is someone’s home, there is a certain amount of pride you feel while staying there. I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

If you’re new to AirBnB, then you can get up to 42 USD free travel credit by signing up via this link.

STEP 2: APPLY AT TAJIKISTAN’S e-VISA WEBSITE

For you to be able to facilitate your application ONLINE, just follow the through the below steps:

1. Go to www.evisa.tj and click the “Start” button.

Takikistan eVisa website
Tajikistan eVisa website | Dantravels.org

2. Then it will lead you to the Application form page where you’re required to complete your personal details, passport data, and your address in Tajikistan (in Step 1).

  • eVisa fee with GBAO permit – 70 USD
  • eVisa fee without GBAO permit – 50 USD

Again, if you intend to visit the famous Pamir Highway or the M41, you need to tick ‘Yes’ to GBAO permit (see snapshot below.)

Tajikistan eVisa application step

3. Next page, you need to upload files for both mandatory and optional documents:

  • Mandatory – Scanned copy of Passport

TIP: I know most of us do not own a scanner, so I recommended you to use a mobile app called “CAMSCANNER”. It is available in both Android and iPhone. Just take a picture of the file and it can be saved as pdf. I used it myself and it appears just like a normal scanned document!

  • Optional – Any files that would support your tourism activity such as flight and hotel bookings. In this regard, I only uploaded my hostel booking from Step 1 as well as snapshot of my payslips.
Upload your files at Tajikistan eVisa website | Dantravels.org
Upload your files at Tajikistan eVisa website | Dantravels.org

4. Proceed to the next page and review your information. Make sure your email is correct since your eVisa will be sent to you via email. Then confirm to proceed with your payment.

Review Tajikistan eVisa information

REMEMBER: Once you proceed, you can NO longer change any of the information, so make sure you’ve got everything right.

STEP 3. PAY THE VISA FEE

You will then be directed to the next page to provide your payment.

Pay the relevant evisa processing fee using your electronic payment cards (credit card/e-commerce enabled debit cards) and submit the application.

Tajikistan eVisa Payment Page

After payment, you will then be prompted by an email notification – “..we have received your 50.0 USD payment for your Visa application with ID XXXXXX.The application is in under study. You’ll receive automatic updates via email whenever the status of your application changes.“

STEP 4. WAIT FOR THE RESULTS

After you completed the whole online application process, you just have to wait for the result of your e-Visa application.

According to some forums, applicants normally receive their visa results within one day or two which is sent to them via email. And in case on the third day you haven’t received it yet, go ahead and make a follow up (see additional Step 5).

Once you got APPROVED, print out your e-visa approval confirmation. Upon arrival, it is advisable for you to bring a copy of the eVisa notice along with you.

My Tajikistan eVisa | Dantravels.org
My Tajikistan eVisa | Dantravels.org

STEP 5 (EXTRA STEP). FOLLOW UP THE RESULTS

As per my experience, applying for a Tajikistan e-Visa is not that complicated. However, it took 4 days for me to receive the results of my eVisa. Thus, I was one of those whose visas got stuck or delayed!

In the case of getting your visas stuck or delayed, you can follow up with this guy via email: Kmuhamadulloev@consular.tj (based on the forums I’ve read, this guy works at Tajik consular office). You can also send an email to info@visa.mfa.tj and evisa@visa.mfa.tj. It is the same thing I did and luckily I got a quick reply from Mr. Kmuhamadulloev who helped me speed up my visa results. I received my evisa on the same day I made a follow up.

SUMMARY:

Visa Type: e-Visa
Visa Validity: 45 Days from your first arrival
Entry type: Single Entry
Visa Fee: 50 USD / 70 USD (with GBAO permit)

So there you have it! I hope this blog helps you in any way. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a reply in the comment section below. I’ll reply as soon as I can.

With all that said, I wish you all the best on your Tajikistan eVisa application!

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

In case you’re also looking for package tours to simply jumpstart your actual itinerary, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your Tajikistan itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it as well. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Use my link to book your hostel and you’ll get 10% of your booking back after your stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Airbnb
    • Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Have you tried Airbnb? Sign up with my link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay. Click this link to get that discount.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

  • Dushanbe (Tajikistan) Package tours
    • Viator. Viator is the world’s leading resource for researching, finding and booking the best travel experiences worldwide.

Click here to find the best Viator deals in Dushanbe!

  • Travel Insurance
    • World Nomads. If you don’t have travel insurance when times get tough, basically you are screwed. Traveling always comes with inherent risks attached. Whether you are trekking in the Pamir mountains or wandering the streets of Dushanbe, unforeseen events can suddenly upend your world. Generally speaking, travel insurance covers you for the following: Medical Costs – hospital visits, emergencies, evacuations; Property Loss – luggage and their contents; Travel Issues – accommodation and transportation expenses. Thus, I highly recommend you guys getting a travel insurance. I bought one from the World Nomads (available in 130+ countries) where most travelers get their travel insurances.

Go to this link to get to your World Nomads travel insurance.

The Armenia Visa On Arrival Guide (Crossing From Georgia to Armenia)

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

Crossing the border from Georgia to Armenia was one of the best road trips of my life. Traveling between these two countries is bursting with untouched nature and offers breathtaking views. Since these countries lie next to each other with a distance of only 290 km (180 mi.) between their respective capital cities (Tbilisi, Georgia to Yerevan, Armenia), it was reasonable why a lot of travelers and backpackers usually prefer to do land trips including myself.

So in this blog, I’ll share with you my experience when I recently crossed the Georgia-Armenia border in October 2019 as well as the visa-on-arrival guide to Armenia.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel–a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR ARMENIA?

Depending on your nationality, you may or may not need a visa. See information below which category you fall in.

Free-Visa Countries

Holders of all types of passports from the following countries are not required to obtain a visa for entry to Armenia for a 180-day period within any year period (unless otherwise noted):

All European Union citizens, Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Brazil, Georgia, Hong Kong, Iceland, Iran (up to 90 days), Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Liechtenstein, Macau, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Norway, Qatar, Russia, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Tajikistan (up to 90 days), Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vatican City

eVisa / Visa on arrival

Visitors traveling as tourists (except the countries listed below***) can obtain a visa on arrival (either 21 days at a cost of 3,000 AMD or 120 days at a cost of 15,000 AMD. They may also apply for an e-visa in advance (at least 3 business days before the trip.)

*** Restricted: All African countries (including St. Helena) except South Africa, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iraq, Kosovo, Nepal, Pakistan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Vietnam, Yemen ***

Visa on arrival can be granted at following immigration checkpoints:

I. International airports and railway station: 1. Zvartnots International Airport (Yerevan), 2. Shirak Airport (Gyumri), 3. Ayrum railway station.

II. Land checkpoints: 1. Bagratashen (border with Georgia), 2. Bavra (border with Georgia), 3. Gogavan (border with Georgia), 4. Meghri (border with Iran).

WHICH IS BETTER: eVISA OR VISA ON ARRIVAL?

In my experience, it would be better if you go by visa-on-arrival. Getting a visa on arrival was quick and straightforward compared to an evisa wherein you need to fill up forms online.

I actually applied for an Armenian evisa two weeks before I cross the Georgia-Armenia border and unfortunately my visa application got DECLINED. They don’t disclose the reason why I got rejected. For me, it was just time-consuming and I only wasted my 6-dollar evisa fee (it’s nonrefundable.)

HOW TO TRAVEL FROM TBILISI TO YEREVAN?

There are different modes of transportation available to cross these two countries. You can either take a marshrutka (the term for minibus), ride on shared taxi, rent a private vehicle, or go for an overnight train. During my trip, I decided to go with the first two since these are more convenient and would result in lesser travel time.

To get from Tbilisi to Yerevan, you first have to find the Ortachala central bus station in Tbilisi. This station serves Southern Georgia, Kakheti region, as well as Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, and Greece.

  • Marshrutka for Tbilisi-Yerevan costs 30 GEL (Georgian Lari), at 08:20, 09:10, 10:00, 12:00, 15:00, 17:00.
  • Travel time: 6-7 hours (including stopovers and immigration checks)

NOTE: The staff speaks very limited English, and there are no English signs.

Location of Ortachala central bus station in Tbilisi
Location of Ortachala central bus station in Tbilisi | Dantravels.org

MY TRAVEL EXPERIENCE FROM GEORGIA TO ARMENIA

I arrived at Ortachala bus station at around 7:45 AM by bus #71. As I get off the bus, there are already men on the street offering me a ride to Yerevan. And my first question was ‘how much?’ They say marshrutka is priced 40 lari which is actually the same as the shared taxi. However, I wasn’t satisfied since I wanted to find the regular marshrutka which is only 30 lari per websites I’ve browsed through. Well, the men are quite pushy and there’s no one really I can formally ask where the regular marshrutka is. So I ended up going for the 40-lari shared taxi.

TAXI ROUTE: Tbilisi-Sadakhlo-Bagratashen-Ijevan-Dilijan-Sevan-Yerevan

If you’re going with marshrutka, make sure to ride on a vehicle with the sign “Epebah”, it is the Russian term for Yerevan.

Shared Taxi to Yerevan
My ride (shared taxi) | Dantravels.org

I was the first passenger so we’ve waited for three more people to get full. With two Belarussians (husband and wife) and one Iraqi-Canadian, we finally left at 8:20 AM.

REMINDER: Bring some food in case you got hungry on the way.

After an hour (9:25 AM to be exact), we’ve arrived at the border gate of Sadakhlo, the exit point for Georgia. We then headed to the passport control gate with our passports, have it stamped and went back to the vehicle. Our bags weren’t checked and were only kept on the vehicle. The whole process was quick and only took about 10 minutes.

Sadakhlo border gate
Sadakhlo border gate, the exit point for Georgia | Dantravels.org

Next, we drove for about 5 minutes to reach Bagratashen, the entry point for Armenia. This time, we went down together with all of our backpacks and luggage. We went inside the room and was immediately guided by a lady in uniform. Since I am a Philippine passport holder, I was asked to get in line for the visa-on-arrival before proceeding to the passport control entry gate. There was a window with the sign “visa” in it.

HOW WAS PROCEDURE FOR THE ARMENIA VISA-ON-ARRIVAL?

It was quick and easy. There were only three people lining up on the visa counter. Once it was my turn, it took me only about 5 minutes to get my visa.

  • Withdraw cash. Before I lined up for the visa, I first withdrew some Armenian dram (AMD) as any other currencies are NOT accepted. Just beside the visa office, there was a small room with ATM as well as a money changer machine accepting dollar, euro and ruble only.
  • Get in line on the visa counter.
  • Hand over the passport and pay. As compared to applying for an eVisa, I didn’t fill up any form. I just handed the passport to the visa officer, answered his basic questions like ‘how many days will you stay in Armenia’, paid 3,000 AMD (6.29 USD), and signed a receipt.

NOTE: If you’re staying in Armenia for more than 21 days, you’ll have to pay 15,000 AMD which lets you stay a maximum of 120 days.

I actually paid the officer a 20,000 AMD banknote and provided me the exact amount of change. So don’t worry if you don’t have the exact amount of 3,000 AMD with you.

  • Get my passport with a visa sticker. After paying, he printed and stamped the visa on my passport. Then I was ready to line up at the passport check point gate.

VISA SUMMARY:

  • Visa Type: Tourist Visa
  • Entry type: Single Entry only
  • Visa Validity: 21 Days
  • Visa Fee: AMD 3,000 (USD 6.29)
Armenia visa sticker
Got my Armenia visa-on-arrival | Dantravels.org

ROADTRIP TO YEREVAN, ARMENIA:

I was officially in Armenia at exactly 9:50 AM. We then start driving towards Yerevan at around 10:00 AM.

While my road-trip Spotify playlist is on, I’ve seen the best part of land travels—passing by to some of the scenic views along the way. But I have to admit, the Armenian side has a lot of breathtaking views to offer. The greenery decorating the streets of Armenia (including its forest and hillsides) transitions in color to red, yellow and orange. Slowly the surrounding changes into a colorful paradise.

Read also my itinerary and travel guide in Yerevan, Armenia.

We also had two or three stopovers for gas and air refills.

At 1:30 PM, we made a stopover for lunch at Semo-i Mot (a restaurant complex on the coast of Lake Sevan–biggest lake in Armenia).

Lunch at Lake Sevan
Our lunch at Semo-i Mot in Sevan, Armenia | Dantravels.org
Beautiful Lake Sevan
Beautiful Lake Sevan | Dantravels.org

At around 2:00 PM, we continued driving from Sevan to Yerevan.

Finally, we’ve Arrived in downtown Yerevan at around 3:00 PM.

If you intend to NOT pay other than the 40-lari taxi basefare, please ensure you made it clear with the driver to NOT drop you off at your hotel/hostels, otherwise he’ll ask for your hotel address and drop you off there with an additional fee–I paid 2,000 AMD (4.20 USD) in this regard. Please also note that the driver doesn’t speak English much.

RECOMMENDED PACKAGE TOURS

I hope that you find this CROSSING THE BORDER FROM GEORGIA TO ARMENIA blog useful!

In case you’re also looking for package tours simply jumpstart your actual itinerary, I highly recommend booking tours through Viator which is perfect for your Armenian itinerary. See tours and packages I personally handpicked for you:

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • Booking.com. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com. Thus, I recommend you guys trying it. Room accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Book hostels through booking.com as they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
    • Airbnb. Try Airbnb in finding comfy and cozy rooms in either Tbilisi or Yerevan! I have used Airbnb on some of my other trips and I loved it!

Sign up with my Airbnb link and you will get up to 42 USD (2,200 Php) off your first stay.

  • Flights
    • KAYAK. One of the world’s leading travel search engines. I suggest you check Kayak as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other sites.
  • Travel Insurance
    • World Nomads. If you don’t have travel insurance when times get tough, basically you are screwed. Traveling always comes with inherent risks. I highly recommend World Nomads for medical costs, property loss, and travel issues.

4-Day Tehran Itinerary And Travel Guide: Best Places To See On A Budget

By Dan Forteza

This post may contain affiliate links which means if you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Think of it as buying a cup of coffee for me on someone else. Thanks & enjoy!

Iran’s exceptional artistic heritage and the incredibly hospitable and friendly people make visiting the land of Ancient Persia a fascinating experience. I visited Iran for the first time last September 2019 and my visit in Tehran was truly unforgettable. So without further ado, let me share with you my 4-day Tehran itinerary with travel guides which include Tehran’s top attractions specifically for budget travelers.

Hi there! First of all, I am Daniel – a solo backpacker from the Philippines. If you don’t know my story yet, feel free to read this article where I talked about how I quit my job in order to travel. This article was also featured on TripZilla Philippines.

At the Negarestan Museum | Dantravels.org
At the Negarestan Museum | Dantravels.org

Aside from Tehran, I also went to Damavand City (east of Tehran) wherein a Couchsurfer hosted me for a night. I will be creating a separate blog about my memorable experience in Damavand for sure!

DO YOU NEED A VISA?

Depending on your nationality, you might or might not need a visa. Check out my Iran visa guide to check if you’re legible for an e-visa or visa on arrival or no visa at all.

OTHER REMINDERS:

  • Bring CASH!

IMPORTANT: Bring CASH in either USD or Euro. Take note that Mastercard or Visa and the likes are not accepted in any of Iran’s ATM. Before you go to Iran, make sure you have some cash with you in either USD or Euro. While I was in Bangkok, I immediately bought some dollar cash. Then you can easily exchange you cash to rial in Tehran specifically in Ferdowsi avenue.

  • COVER yourself!

IMPORTANT: If you’re a woman, a headscarf is required in Iran. So make sure you put your scarf on once you get off the plane. Regardless of gender, wearing long pants are preferred. It is not illegal to wear shorts but it is not usual (people might stare at you.)

WHERE IS TEHRAN?

Tehran is the capital and most populous city in Iran. It is located to the north of the central plateau of Iran. It is a 3-hour flight away from Istanbul, roughly a 3 ½-hour flight away from either Dubai or Moscow, and about 5 hours from Frankfurt.

Language: Farsi (Persian)
Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR)*
Airport: IKA, THR
Preferred mode of transportation: Metro Train / Subway
Time Zone: GMT +3 ½

*Although the “toman” is no longer an official unit of the Iranian currency, Iranians commonly express amounts of money and prices of goods in tomans. (1 toman = 10 rial.)

NOTE: The exchange rate you see on Google.com for Iranian Rial is not very accurate. When I was in Iran, the exchange rate on the street of Tehran is in the range of 110,000-114,000 rials for every US dollar vs 42,102 rials for every US dollar per Google rate. Again, Ferdowsi is the famous avenue where you can find several shops to exchange your dollars.

FLIGHTS TO TEHRAN:

Finding a cheap flight ticket to Tehran, Iran from the Middle East is relatively easy. I booked mine coming from Colombo, Sri Lanka with a layover at Muscat’s airport in Oman. My flight carrier was Oman Air.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Tehran Metro
  • Subways are the best way to get around Tehran. But as I mentioned in my budget travel tips blog – “walk as much as you can!“

One-way subway ticket normally just costs 15,000 rial (0.12 USD). Very cheap!

  • Go with Taxis if not accessible by subways. In general, you can get 3 kinds of taxis in Iran or better say, Tehran: Getting a Darbast (private taxi) in the street, getting a normal shuttle or shared taxi in the street, calling a taxi using Snapp (Iranian Uber).

HOW I GOT TO THE CITY:

I arrived at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) at around 3:40 AM from a 3 ½-hour flight from Muscat, Oman. I then headed to the visa section hall to process my Iran visa-on-arrival. The whole visa process took about 40 minutes to complete.

After passing through the border check gate, I met a friend of mine (Mohsen) who was waiting for me at the exit of the arrival area. He drove me to my hostel in downtown Tehran. It was around 6:00 in the morning when we arrived there.

Mohsen and I | Dantravels.org
Mohsen and I | Dantravels.org

In case you don’t have a ride like mine (haha!), you can take either a taxi or subway (airport to downtown) which I personally prefer. Subways normally start to operate at 7:00 AM. One-way subway ticket normally just costs 15,000 rial (0.12 USD). Very cheap, right?

WHERE DID I STAY?

  • Tehran Heritage Hostel (click here to book)
    • Hostel room type: Bunk Bed in Mixed Dormitory Room
    • Hostel rate: 7 – 8 USD per night
    • Hostel also offers FREE breakfast!!!
    • Nearest subway tation: Baharestan station
Tehran Heritage Hostel
Tehran Heritage Hostel | Dantravels.org
Tehran Heritage Hostel
Tehran Heritage Hostel | Dantravels.org
Tehran Heritage Hostel
Tehran Heritage Hostel | Dantravels.org
Tehran Heritage Hostel
Tehran Heritage Hostel | Dantravels.org
FREE breakfast
FREE breakfast at Tehran Heritage Hostel | Dantravels.org
FREE breakfast
FREE breakfast at Tehran Heritage Hostel | Dantravels.org

NOTE: I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com but it looks like Tehran’s hostels/hotels are not available in Booking.com neither in Agoda, so I used HostelWorld. Just like Booking.com, they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.

Book HOSTELWORLD here

Get AIRBNB $43 free credit

MY 4-DAY TEHRAN ITINERARY

DAY 1:

1st Stop: Azadi Tower

Starting off the day with one of the most iconic landmarks of Iran is this tower in Tehran. This is the Azadi Tower and is easily accessible by the subway at Azadi Square station.

Azadi Tower from my Tehran itinerary
Azadi Tower | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • Nearest train station: Azadi Square station.

2nd Stop: Tabiat Bridge

Tabiat Bridge is the largest pedestrian overpass in Tehran. The 270-meter (890 ft) bridge connects two public parks — Taleghani Park and Abo-Atash Park — by spanning Modarres Expressway. From Shahid Haqqani station, I took a 10-minute hike along the Taleghani Park to reach the bridge.

Tabiat Bridge
Tabiat Bridge | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Shahid Haqqani station

3rd Stop: Milad Tower

Standing at 435 meters, Milad Tower is the tallest man-made structure in Iran. I took this photo while crossing the footbridge near Medan-e Sana’t station.

Milad Tower
Milad Tower | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Medan-e Sana’t station

DAY 2:

4th Stop: Theater Building

After the heavy breakfast c/o Tehran Heritage Hostel (my hostel), I headed to the City Theater subway station to see this famous Theater Buiding in Tehran.

Tehran's Theater Buiding
Tehran’s Theater Buiding | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1 hour
  • Nearest train station: City Theater station

5th Stop: Laleh Park

Did you know that I walked 2 km to get here? Though the weather was hot, that long-distance doesn’t seem noticeable when you’re having fun walking and wandering the city of Tehran. With the help of my pre-downloaded Google Maps, I’ve reached this beautiful green area (from the City Theatre Building) which is, by the way, one of the biggest parks in Tehran.

Laleh Park | Dantravels.org
Laleh Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • Nearest train station: Meydan-e Enghelab-e Islami station

6th Stop: Saint Sarkis Cathedral

Iran is obviously an Islamic country, but believe it or not, there are few Christian Churches here as well. I went to the Saint Sarkis Catherdral to see it for myself. As soon as I enter the gate of the church, an old man called me while signaling his hand for me to come inside the church. It was beautiful inside. Calm and serene. I sit there for a while and prayed. (I was born Catholic by the way in case you’re wondering.)

To get there: I again took the subway and get off at Meydan-e Vale Asr. Then I just walked 10-15 minutes to reach this church.

Saint Sarkis Cathedral | Dantravels.org
Saint Sarkis Cathedral | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Meydan-e Vale Asr station

7th Stop: Honarmandan Park or Artists Park

Another recreational area with lushed green trees is the Honarmandan Park or Artists Park in Tehran. It is considered as a very important cultural and artistic location in Tehran. It is about 11-15 min by foot from Saint Sarkis Cathedral.

Honarmandan Park or Artists Park | Dantravels.org
Honarmandan Park or Artists Park | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Meydan-e Vale Asr station

8th Stop: Negarestan Museum and Garden

Negarestan Art Gallery Museum and its garden! My newfound friend Mojtaba (from my Instagram post) took me here. He even paid for my museum ticket which cost 200,000 rials (1.8 USD). This museum is close to my hostel in Baharestan.

At the Negarestan Museum | Dantravels.org
At the Negarestan Museum | Dantravels.org
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Baharestan station

DAY 3:

9th Stop: TAJRISH BAZAAR

I started the morning going up north of Tehran at Tajrish and its Bazaar. Tajrish Bazaar is a great place to see how traditional markets look like in Tehran, from fresh fruits and vegetables to piles of Safran, traditional sweets, all kinds of herbs, olives, home-made sauces, and bizarre stuff.

Tajrish Bazaar
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Tajrish station

10th Stop: Jamshidiyeh Park

From Tarjish, I went further up north to Jamshidiyeh Park. Also known as Stone Garden, Jamshidiyeh Park climbs steeply up the lower reaches of the Alborz Mountains. What a beautiful park!

How to get up there: I went by taxi from Tarjish. Taxi is the only transportation option to get you there. COST of taxi (one way): 200,000 rials (1.8 USD). How to get down: I was in the mode of walking so I went for a stroll down the street of Omidvar till I reach the bigger street of Bahonar. From Bahonar, I took the bus going to Tajrish which saved me some cash instead of going by taxi. COST of bus (w/ hike; one way): 15,000 rials (0.13 USD).

Jamshidiyeh Park
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • Nearest train station: Tajrish station (need a taxi to get there)

11th Stop: Darband

Another great place to see near Tarjish is Darband. Aside from its cooler weather, Darband offers expensive-looking restaurants and a nice trekking route complete with rivers and waterfalls. For me, this place feels too touristy and the food is pricey, too. So I’d rather eat my “chicken with rice” again down the avenue near Laleh Park haha! How to get there: I took a taxi from Tarjish. If you have strong legs for a 3-km hike, go for it and hike up! COST of taxi: 150,000 rials (1.4 USD).

Darband Tehran
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • Nearest train station: Tajrish station

DAY 4:

12th Stop: Tehran’s National Garden (Bagh Melli)

The National Garden is a historical and governmental compound in Tehran, Iran. Formerly referred to as the Parade Square, it used to be a military shooting range during the Qajar period. It was then turned into a public park for a short period, and eventually important governmental offices and museums were built around it.

National Garden Tehran
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Emam Khomeini station

13th Stop: Golestan Palace

Visiting Tehran will not be complete without seeing the Golestan Palace as it is one of the oldest historic monuments in the city of Tehran. The complex of Golestan Palace consists of 17 structures, including palaces, museums, and halls. The palace is just a short walk from the National Garden.

The admission ticket costs 150,000 rials and there are several add-ons to see as well such as Main Palace (310,000 rials), Howz Khaneh (80,000 rials), Edifice of the Sun (80,000 rials), Wind Tower (80,000 rials), Ethnology Museum (80,000 rials), Halls of Diamonds (80,000 rials), Marble Throne (80,000 rials). As for me, I only purchased the admission ticket just for the sake of telling myself I’ve seen it before leaving Tehran.

Golestan Palace
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 3-4 hours
  • Nearest train station: Emam Khomeini or Kayyam station

14th Stop: Tehran Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar is considered the heart of the business of Tehran. So many shops here at Tehran Grand Bazaar! This is something not to be missed in Tehran.

Tehran Grand Bazaar
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 1-2 hours
  • Nearest train station: Kayyam station

15th Stop: BAM-E, TEHRAN

Bam-e Tehran (also known as The Roof of Tehran) is a place located in the north of Tehran where you can go to have a fair view of the city. You can walk through the walking path – it has a mild slope or gets on the available inexpensive bus to get there. There are kiosks and food stalls along the way and at the end of the path.

My friend Mohsen and his wife took me here by car before I leave Iran the next day for Georgia.

Roof of Tehran
  • Duration (getting there + visiting): 2-3 hours
  • Nearest train station: Tajrish station (need a taxi to get there)

What do you think of this 4-day TEHRAN itinerary?

I hope that you find this 4-DAY TEHRAN ITINERARY useful!

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment section below.

BOOKING ESSENTIALS

  • Hotel / Hostel
    • HostelWorld. I usually book my hostel accommodation at booking.com but looks like Tehran’s hostels/hotels are not available in Booking.com neither in Agoda, so I used HostelWorld. Just like Booking.com, they have free cancellation or pay-at-the-hotel option.
  • Flights
    • KAYAK. All of my flight bookings are all from KAYAK. Kayak is one of the world’s leading travel search engines and searches hundreds of travel sites.

I suggest you check Kayak (click HERE) as they usually offer cheap fare rates compared to other booking sites.