Editor’s Note: The Astana Times continues its series of articles, Exploring Kazakhstan, City by City, in the beautiful town of Kostanai. We are setting out to unveil the rich diversity of cities to bring you closer to the heart and soul of Kazakhstan. ASTANA—Kostanai is a small, green city in northern Kazakhstan.
Its rich history is evident at every turn, perfectly matching with its modern aspirations. Nestled on the Tobol River, Kostanai is a must-visit on one’s Kazakhstan itinerary to embrace the full diversity of the country. Kostanai is a hidden gem in the Kazakh steppes.
Photo credit: kstnews.kz Click to see the map in full size. The map is designed by The Astana Times.
Founded in 1879 as Nikolaevsk, Kostanai has grown from a small agricultural settlement to an emerging urban center spanning 242 square kilometers. It is almost three times smaller than the Kazakh capital, Astana. The city’s population exceeds 269,000.
Economy and investments The Kostanai region’s economy is the lifeblood of the region. Having rich, fertile lands, the region is a major player in Kazakhstan’s agricultural sector, producing vast quantities of wheat and other grains. As of May 2024, the area of agrarian lands reached 11,892 hectares.
The region boasts vast agricultural lands. Photo credit: primeminister.kz This agricultural capacity is complemented by a thriving industrial scene, with factories rolling out machinery and automobiles that drive the local economy forward.
The region .
