Almaty, Kazakhstan

Almaty is one of the largest cities in Kazakhstan and the former capital of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic, which was part of the Soviet Union. In modern, independent Kazakhstan, the city is located in the southeastern part of the country and no longer holds capital status, which was transferred to Astana (formerly known as Nur-Sultan).

Almaty is known for its spectacular setting in a wide valley at the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountain range. The total area of the city is about 260 square miles, and administratively it is divided into eight districts. Geographically, Almaty lies a little over 600 miles south of Astana, about 120 miles east of Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, and roughly 285 miles from the Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in China.

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in the post-Soviet region, Almaty is famous for its numerous fountains, especially in the central parts of the city, as well as mosques, palaces, historic buildings, and modern sports facilities.

As the former capital of Kazakhstan, Almaty is home to many former administrative buildings, the former presidential residence, and major cultural institutions such as the State Opera and Ballet Theatre, along with several historic, scientific, and art museums. The city is also one of the most cosmopolitan in the country and frequently hosts international cultural and sporting events, including the 2011 Asian Winter Games.