Standing tall on Nurjol Boulevard in Astana, Kazakhstan, Bayterek (or Baiterek) is an iconic monument and observation tower emblematic of post-independence Kazakhstan. Launched on the initiative of first President Nursultan Nazarbayev and designed by Kazakh architect Akmurza Rustembekov, this 105-meter-tall structure marks the historic 1997 transfer of the capital city. Its unique design embodies a Kazakh folktale about a mythical tree of life and the magic bird of happiness, Samruk, who laid her egg in its branches.
Visiting Bayterek offers you a compelling dive into national symbolism and striking modern architecture. As you approach the monument, you will see white branch-like girders flaring outward to support a massive, gold-mirrored sphere that is 22 meters in diameter. Entering through stairs sunk below the plaza, you will find a ticket booth and exhibition space at the base.
From there, two lifts carry you up through a narrow shaft to a two-level observation deck located 97 meters high within the gold 'egg'. Up top, you can take in sweeping 360-degree views of the capital, inspect a special wooden globe sculpture commemorating the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, and view a gilded handprint pedestal.
What to see at Bayterek
- Distinctive architecture featuring white branch-like girders and a 22-meter gold-mirrored sphere
- Two-level observation deck 97 meters above ground offering 360-degree views of Astana
- The "Ayaly alakan" composition featuring a gilded imprint of President Nazarbayev's right hand
- Wooden globe sculpture with 16 radiating segments oriented toward the presidential palace
- Exhibition space and ticket booth housed within the monument's wide flat base
Visiting tips
When visiting the top observation level, place your hand in the gilded imprint of the first president's right hand to make a wish as part of the monument's symbolic traditions.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Bayterek is easy to reach on Astana’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Nur-Astana Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Astana travel guide.
See the full Astana travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.