3 Months in Central Asia: Wild tulips, a wrestler and Kazakh Unity
We take you on our first day trip outside of the city to show you the Ordabassy Monument, the famous Kazakh wrestler and the beautiful wild tulips of Kazakhstan.
In the last years we were focused to discover the city Shymkent and we were dependent on local guides to explore the nature and culture heritage around Kazakhstan’s third largest city. But this time we decided to rent a car from the local company RENTACARS in Shymkent to get more freedom to truly embrace the essence of the region. This decision was opening up a world of exploration, allowing us to meander through the hidden treasures of Turkestan region by our own and to decide where and how long we want to stop.
Our first destination was the historical Ordabasy district, home to the monument Birlik which means in Kazakh The Union. This site holds profound historical significance for Kazakhs. It was here that the revered Kazakh wisemen Tole Bi, Kazybek Bi, and Aiteke Bi, alongside Kazakh warriors and Khan, convened to strategize against the Dzungar-Kalmak army. This meeting was pivotal in protecting Kazakh people and their territories. In 1994, the area was designated a National-Cultural Reserve, and in 1997, the monument Birlik was erected. Today, it stands as a testament to unity and resilience, located around 45 km from Shymkent.
During our trip to Ordabassy, we made a detour to the nearby town of Temirlan in the Ordabasy district. Our main reason for visiting Temirlan was to see the museum dedicated to Kazhymukan Munaitpasov, a renowned Kazakh wrestler who became a World Champion in Greco-Roman wrestling in the 1910s. Kazhymukan was known by several pseudonyms, including ‘Yamagata Muhunura / Muhinura’ and ‘Kara Mustafa.’
Kazhymukan’s life was marked by the hardships faced by Kazakhs under the control of the Russian Empire, which restricted their ability to express their national identity. Despite these challenges, Kazhymukan used his fame and athletic prowess for charitable purposes. He sold his hard-earned medals and organized circus performances to raise money during World War II. The money he collected through his performances was used to purchase a U-2 flight plane, which he generously donated to the army.
Our visit to the Kazhymukan Munaitpasov Museum in Temirlan was a fortunate one, as the museum was open, allowing us to explore his legacy in depth. The museum provided a comprehensive look into his life, showcasing his personal belongings, and detailed accounts of his achievements and contributions. We had the unique opportunity to learn more about his remarkable journey, his struggles, and his unwavering dedication to his nation. This visit enriched our understanding of Kazhymukan’s enduring impact and the significant role he played in Kazakh history.
After visiting the museum, our stomachs were rumbling. That was a sign to take a first look at the local Central Asian cuisine. Our first choice was Tandoor Samsa. After our stomachs was filled with warm delicious meal, we continued our trip to the monument Birlik.
On our way to the monument Birlik, we were enchanted by the sight of vibrant flowers along the road. Unable to resist, we stopped to have a look at the flowers, surprisingly they were the red-listed tulips Tulipa Turkestanica and Tulipa Greigii! The tulips Tulipa Turkestanica were fully blossomed, their delicate petals swaying gently in the breeze, while the tulips Tulipa Greigii were just beginning to bloom. It was a delightful and unexpected gift from nature, adding the beauty to our journey.
Continuing our trip, we arrived at the Ordabasy National-Cultural Reserve just before the gates closed at 6 p.m. We paid the entrance fee, parked our car, and set off on a short hike to the monument. Along the path, we encountered more stunning, albeit smaller-than-usual, Tulipa Greigii. The late spring and cold weather had stunted their growth, but their beauty remained undiminished. The hike was serene, accompanied by the melodious songs of birds and the gentle blow of the soft wind. The golden hour cast a warm glow over the endless green steppe, creating a breathtaking panorama.
As we reveled in the natural beauty, a disheartening sight caught our attention. One visitor had driven off-road, instead of parking his car at the officially marked parking place, by crushing the red-listed flowers beneath its tires. This careless act underscored the need for stricter protection and enforcement at such precious sites. It reminded us of the importance of respecting nature and ensuring these wonders are preserved for future generations.
Our first road trip in Central Asia was a tapestry of history, natural beauty, and profound experiences. We soaked in the tranquility of the Turkestan region, listened to the symphony of nature, and felt rejuvenated by the serene of the environment. As we returned to Shymkent with heart full of inspiration and excitement for the days ahead, we knew this was just the beginning of our grand adventure.
Stay tuned for more stories from our three month journey through Central Asia. If you want to support us, follow us on social networks! The story will be continued.