Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, the world's largest landlocked country, has become a favourite short-haul escape from India. Almaty, the leafy former capital, sits at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains — the Shymbulak ski resort and Kok-Tobe hill are a cable-car ride away, and the glacial Big Almaty Lake glows turquoise in an alpine bowl just outside the city. A day trip reaches Charyn Canyon, a miniature Grand Canyon of red rock often called the Valley of Castles. The modern capital Astana (Nur-Sultan) showcases futuristic architecture — the Bayterek Tower, the Khan Shatyr tent and gleaming ministries. With visa-free or easy e-visa access, short flight times and a mix of mountains, lakes and cities, Kazakhstan offers a fresh, uncrowded destination.