Plizio Visual Lab

Khan Shatyr

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Aug 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Khan Shatyr in Nur-Sultan (Astana) is an architectural marvel and a unique entertainment center. Designed by the famous architect Norman Foster, it takes the form of a giant, translucent tent that maintains a pleasant climate year-round, even during the harsh Kazakh winters. At 150 meters high, it is the largest tent in the world. Inside, visitors will find an urban oasis with shops, restaurants, a cinema, and even a water park with an artificial beach, its sand imported from the Maldives. The transparent ETFE envelope allows daylight to enter while protecting against extreme temperatures, which can range from -35°C in winter to +35°C in summer. Khan Shatyr is not just a shopping mall, but a symbol of innovation and a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.

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Location: Kazakhstan
Highlights: Sky Beach Club · Khram vo imia prepodobnogo Sergiia Radonezhskogo

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-17	-14	-6	6	14	19	21	19	12	4	-6	-14
Rain mm	21	20	27	29	35	41	55	28	21	33	34	27

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The complex is fully accessible to the public, offering both diverse indoor shopping experiences and wide-ranging entertainment under the massive, uniquely transparent tent structure.

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Typical hours

It is typically open from mid-morning until late evening every single day, though specific attractions or dining venues inside the center may operate according to their own schedules.

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Photography

Photography is freely allowed throughout the public areas of the mall, with the spectacular architectural roof design and the indoor beach resort being particular highlights to capture.

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Time needed

Visitors generally spend between two and four hours thoroughly exploring the various retail stores, dining options, and the extensive indoor amusement facilities located on the upper levels.

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Combine with

Pair your visit with a leisurely walk down the impressive Nurzhol Boulevard towards the iconic Bayterek Tower to fully appreciate the striking modern architecture of the Kazakh capital.

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Getting there

The landmark is easily reachable by taxi, popular ride-hailing applications, or local buses from anywhere in the city center, with ample parking available for those arriving by private car.

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Insider tip

Consider visiting during the late afternoon to experience the spacious interior in natural daylight, and then stay to watch the entire tent structure illuminate spectacularly after dark.