Nurly Zhol Railway Station
A modern, airport-like railway station in Astana, praised for its efficiency, cleanliness, and exceptionally helpful staff.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness stunning sunrises.
Nurly Zhol Railway Station
Best Time
Witness stunning sunrises.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern, airport-like railway station in Astana, praised for its efficiency, cleanliness, and exceptionally helpful staff.
"On my lifetime, I have never seen such a modern railway station — it feels just like an airport."
Arrive Early for Boarding
Allow ample time for check-in and finding your boarding gate, similar to airport procedures. :clock1:
Staff are Super Helpful
Don't hesitate to ask for assistance; staff are known for their kindness and dedication. :bravo:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Modern Architecture
Experience a state-of-the-art railway hub, often praised for its airport-like design and cleanliness.
Helpful Staff
Travelers rave about the dedicated and kind staff who go the extra mile to assist passengers.
Comfortable Train Experience
Enjoy spotless and comfortable trains, making long journeys a pleasure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Nurly Zhol
Getting to the Station
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Boarding
Allow ample time for check-in and finding your boarding gate, similar to airport procedures. :clock1:
Staff are Super Helpful
Don't hesitate to ask for assistance; staff are known for their kindness and dedication. :bravo:
Station is Outside Center
Plan your transport to and from the station in advance, as it's not centrally located. :bus:
Clean and Modern Facilities
Enjoy the airport-like amenities and cleanliness of this contemporary station. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Boarding
Allow ample time for check-in and finding your boarding gate, similar to airport procedures. :clock1:
Staff are Super Helpful
Don't hesitate to ask for assistance; staff are known for their kindness and dedication. :bravo:
Station is Outside Center
Plan your transport to and from the station in advance, as it's not centrally located. :bus:
Clean and Modern Facilities
Enjoy the airport-like amenities and cleanliness of this contemporary station. :sparkles:
Sunrise Views
The eastern side offers amazing views during sunrise, a photographer's delight. :sunrise:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nurly Zhol Railway Station is widely praised for its modern, clean, and efficient design, often likened to an airport. Travelers highlight the exceptional helpfulness and kindness of the staff, making for a world-class travel experience. The main drawback mentioned is its distance from the city center, with transportation being a key consideration.
"Modern, clean and efficient train station. I've taken the train from Astana to Shymkent from here. The boarding procedure was smooth!"
Ced Aquino
"On my lifetime, I have never seen such a modern railway station — it feels just like an airport, with boarding gates and excellent facilities. The trains are spotless and very comfortable. As a tourist who does not speak Kazakh, I was truly impressed by the helpful staff who guided me to my Almaty train with great care. Their hospitality and kindness left a lasting impression on me. A world-class travel experience!"
RENJITH KUMAR
"It's a well built station but so far away from the center!
... Which is absolutely normal for a train station. However transportation to the station should be a priority (as of July 2025 the LRT looks far from being completed)"
Timothé Paris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nurly Zhol Railway Station is located a bit outside the city center. Taxis and buses are the primary modes of transport. The LRT is under construction, so it's not yet a viable option.
It's advisable to book a taxi or check bus routes in advance to ensure a smooth journey.While specific details on parking availability and cost are not widely publicized, it's common for large transport hubs like Nurly Zhol to offer parking facilities. It's best to check with local transport authorities or ride-sharing apps for the most current information.
You can easily find taxis through ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go or local taxi services. Ensure you have the station's full name and address ready for the driver.
Yes, several bus routes serve Nurly Zhol Railway Station. It's recommended to use a local transit app or website to find the most convenient route from your location in Astana.
Nurly Zhol Railway Station is located a significant distance from Astana's main airport (Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport). You'll likely need to take a taxi or arrange for separate transportation between the two.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Train tickets can be purchased online through the official Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) website or app, or at the ticket counters within the station. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular routes.
Nurly Zhol Railway Station operates 24/7, as it is a major transportation hub. However, specific ticket office hours or waiting room access might vary.
There is no fee to enter Nurly Zhol Railway Station. Access to the station concourse and waiting areas is free. You only need a valid ticket to board a train.
While a dedicated online train tracking service is suggested by travelers,
official real-time information is usually available on the KTZ website/app and at the station's departure boards. It's always good to double-check.The boarding procedure is similar to an airport, with designated boarding gates. Arrive with sufficient time to locate your gate and board your train smoothly.
🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience
Nurly Zhol offers excellent facilities, including clean waiting areas, restrooms, cafes, and shops, often compared to airport amenities.
Information on free public Wi-Fi is not consistently available. It's advisable to have a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device for reliable internet access.
Yes, the station has various food and beverage options, from quick snacks to more substantial meals, catering to travelers.
Modern stations like Nurly Zhol are generally designed with accessibility in mind. However, it's always best to contact the station management in advance for specific needs or assistance.
Luggage storage facilities are typically available at major railway stations. Inquire at the information desk upon arrival for details on availability and pricing.
📸 📸 Photography
The station's modern architecture itself is a great subject. The eastern side offers beautiful sunrise views,
and the interior concourse provides dramatic perspectives.Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, professional photography or filming may require special permits. It's wise to be discreet and respectful of other travelers.
Architectural photography, travel vlogs, and capturing the bustling atmosphere are popular. Some users also create edits and creative content inspired by the station.
Yes, you can photograph the trains from the platforms. Ensure you do not obstruct any operational areas or personnel.
An installation called 'The Untold' addressing violence against women was opened at the station,
which could be a significant point of interest for photography with a purpose.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your trip, consider booking family compartments if available for added comfort. The helpful staff are also a great resource for any family needing assistance with luggage or directions. Remember to factor in extra time for getting to the station, as it's located outside the city center.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Transit Passengers
Utilize the station's amenities like cafes and waiting areas to relax between connections. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, as with any busy transport hub. The helpful staff can assist with any immediate travel queries you might have.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and grandeur of the station. The interplay of natural light and the station's design elements creates dramatic shots. Remember to be respectful of other travelers and avoid obstructing pathways while you capture your perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
Travelers frequently highlight the station's modernity and cleanliness, noting it as a significant upgrade from older facilities. The expansive concourse and well-organized boarding areas contribute to a seamless travel experience. This architectural approach aims to set a new standard for railway travel in Kazakhstan.
For photography enthusiasts, the station offers numerous angles and perspectives. The interplay of light and shadow within the vast interior, combined with the sleek exterior, provides ample opportunities for capturing stunning images.
The Human Touch: Staff and Service
Whether it's guiding passengers to their correct platforms, assisting with travel issues, or simply offering a friendly demeanor, the staff at Nurly Zhol seem committed to providing a world-class travel experience. This human element significantly enhances the overall impression of the station, leaving a lasting positive impact on visitors.
This focus on customer service is particularly noted by international tourists who may not speak the local language, as the staff go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels welcomed and supported.
Connectivity and Transportation
Currently, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system is still under construction, meaning that taxis and public buses are the primary means of reaching or departing from the station. Travelers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly, factoring in potential travel times and ensuring they have reliable transport options booked or readily available.
While the station itself is a marvel of modern design, the connectivity to and from it is an area where further development, like the completion of the LRT, will undoubtedly enhance its accessibility and convenience for all travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit