• Shalkyma Concert Hall - The journey begins at the renowned Shalkyma Theater. Nearby, visitors can admire the famous monument to Yuri Gagarin and a tribute to the esteemed Kazakh poet, Abay Kunanbayev, situated on an alley directly across from the theater.

This marks the start of an enthralling journey through time, where numerous Soviet-era monuments reveal the region’s rich cultural legacy. Among these is the Shalkyma Theater, which played a crucial role in supporting troops during World War II.

• K. Stanislavskiy Drama Theatre - The Stanislavsky Theater is a historical landmark, being one of the first Russian drama theaters in Kazakhstan, having opened in 1930. This splendid building continues to fulfill its original purpose, preserving the legacy of its founding. Beyond its theatrical significance, Karaganda, once a coal mining hub of Soviet Kazakhstan, was equally important as a major cultural center in the predominantly Russian Kazakhstan of that time.
• Monument Mining Glory - During the exploration, visitors will encounter the iconic “Glory to the Miners” monument, a symbol deeply embedded in the city’s identity. Located opposite another significant landmark, the Miners’ Palace of Culture, this monument honors the relentless efforts of the miners who were the backbone of Karaganda throughout its history. As a city that once flourished as a coal mining center of Kazakhstan and the USSR, this tribute stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of its people.
• Monument to Expression Gde-Gde? V Karagande! - Every Russian speaker knows the phrase “Gde-gde? V Karagande!” (“Where-where? In Karaganda!”). Although its origin is linked to the notorious KarLag labor camp, its widespread use is more humorous. A monument dedicated to this enduring phrase is located in the inner courtyard of a restaurant, where visitors can see it while enjoying a delightful lunch.
• KarLag / Museum of Political Repression Victims’ Memory of the Dolinka Settlement - The most poignant part of the journey unfolds at the KarLag museum, situated just a 30-minute drive from the city of Karaganda in the village of Dolinka. It serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst the hardships endured in Stalin’s labor camps. A visit to the museum promises to be an emotional and enlightening experience, offering profound insight into a dark past. Guides will lead visitors through lifelike exhibits, where they will hear the heart-wrenching stories and witness the anguish of countless lives torn apart, providing a vivid glimpse into this dark era of Soviet history.

• Private transportation
• On-board WiFi
• Bottled water
• Snacks
• Lunch
• In-vehicle air conditioning

Get ready to journey back in time on this enthralling tour, where the historic city of Karaganda and the nearby KarLag Museum await exploration. This is a must-visit for history enthusiasts intrigued by the Soviet era. Situated two and a half hours from Astana, Karaganda was once a coal-mining industrial hub and offers a captivating look into its past with landmarks like the renowned Gagarin’s Monument and remarkable Soviet-era theaters.

The highlight of the tour will be a visit to the KarLag Museum, located 35 km outside Karaganda. This extensive museum offers a profoundly moving and detailed insight into the history of Stalin’s labor camps, providing invaluable perspectives on a somber chapter of Soviet history.

Participants will also enjoy a delightful lunch, ensuring they have the energy to continue exploring this city rich in history and resilience.

• Travel time is included in the total duration.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.