Balkhash

Balkhash is a small city located on a lake of the same name and in the Central Highlands of Kazakhstan.

Palace of Culture of Metalworkers from the Soviet Era - found in the town center.

Understand

The city of Balkash is small by most standards with a population of just under 70,000. The city principally exists to support the activity of local copper mines and a large copper smelting plant just outside of town. Other industries in the town include fishing and a modest tourism industry that is primarily focused on the lake. This makes Balkhash a pleasant enough city with many cafes and some minor attractions for both residents and travelers.

Get in

Get around

• City Bus : The bus service in town costs 30 tenge per ride regardless of distance but only really takes you up and down Lenin St. When riding the bus you pay an attendant who will come around to collect your fare.
• Taxi : Taxis in Balkhash are generally marked and charge a fare of 200 tenge if flagged on the road or 150 tenge if called. Drivers are unlikely to speak English so be prepared to practice your Russian.

Do

Picture of the Balkhash town beach. The picture is a bit flattering as there is a large factory in the other direction.

• Go to the beach : The beach isn't impeccably clean but is a pleasant enough place to sit and read a book, join the locals for a swim, or sit in a beachside cafe. The best beaches are found outside of town though.