Kazakhstan, with its rich cultural heritage, steppe traditions, and handicrafts, is one of the most unique countries in Central Asia. Souvenirs inspired by the country’s historical texture and nomadic lifestyle carry both aesthetic and cultural value. Handmade felt products, traditional musical instruments, textile items adorned with Kazakh patterns, and local delicacies stand out among Kazakhstan’s distinctive gifts. These items are not just keepsakes, but also important symbols reflecting the Kazakh people’s way of life and historical roots.
Souvenirs from Kazakhstan can be easily found in local markets, cultural fairs, museum shops, and tourist stores in major cities. Especially in cities like Almaty and Astana, a wide range of products featuring both modern designs and traditional elements are offered. These gifts not only provide your loved ones with unique and meaningful presents but also offer a chance to get to know Kazakh culture more closely.
1. Felt products (Hat, bag, tablecloth)
Felt products hold an important place among Kazakhstan’s traditional handicrafts. Especially rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of earlier times, felt craftsmanship stands out for both its functionality and aesthetics. This craft, passed down through generations of Kazakh women, is created by processing felt made from natural sheep wool. Felt hats decorated with colorful threads, including examples of traditional headwear called “takiya,” are suitable for both daily use and decorative purposes. Felt bags, with their durable structure and unique patterns, are preferred as both practical and touristic gifts.
Felt products such as tablecloths and wall hangings are usually adorned with traditional Kazakh motifs and reflect the fine details of handcraftsmanship. These motifs often include cultural symbols such as nature, animal figures, and ram’s horn shapes. These felt items are not just ornaments but also cultural artifacts that carry traces of Kazakh life from past to present. As one of the most authentic souvenirs to buy from Kazakhstan, felt products are a beautiful way to give your loved ones a meaningful and handcrafted gift.
2. Yurt miniatures (traditional Kazakh tent)
Yurt miniatures are among the most meaningful and culturally rich gifts one can buy from Kazakhstan. The yurt, a portable tent structure, is one of the core symbols of the nomadic lifestyle and enabled the Kazakh people to live in harmony with nature for centuries. Miniature models of real yurts—constructed with a wooden frame and covered in felt—are elegant objects that reflect traditional Kazakh architecture and lifestyle. These miniatures are usually handmade using natural materials such as wood, felt, and fabric.
Used primarily for decorative purposes, yurt miniatures can serve as aesthetic elements reflecting Kazakh culture in home or office environments. These miniatures often feature detailed craftsmanship, including the internal layout of the yurt, symbolic motifs, and colorful decorations. The round opening at the top of the yurt, known as the “shanyrak,” holds deep meanings in Kazakh culture, symbolizing family, unity, and the continuity of life. For this reason, yurt miniatures are both culturally significant and visually striking gift options.
3. Kazakh chapan (traditional embroidered robe)
The Kazakh chapan is one of the most prominent and elegant examples of Kazakhstan’s traditional clothing culture. Typically worn by men during special occasions, ceremonies, or celebrations, this long robe is both a historical garment and a symbol of prestige. Chapans are made from velvet or woolen fabrics and are adorned with rich patterns embroidered in gold or silver-colored threads. These motifs often feature symbols related to nature, nomadic life, and Turkic mythology. Chapans not only provide warmth but are also considered outerwear that grants the wearer a dignified and majestic appearance.
Today, chapans continue to be produced by artisans who preserve traditional craftsmanship and are also gaining popularity as souvenir items. Shorter versions blended with modern designs have also become popular. Decoratively embroidered chapans sold in tourist markets or handicraft bazaars can be used for ornamental purposes as well. For those seeking an elegant gift alternative, the Kazakh chapan is an aesthetic and meaningful choice that reflects cultural identity.
4. Chapan-patterned magnets
Chapan-patterned magnets are small yet meaningful souvenirs that reflect Kazakhstan’s traditional artistic sensibility. Inspired by the motifs of the traditional Kazakh robe known as the “shapan,” these magnets are typically made from felt, wood, or ceramic. They feature Kazakh patterns embroidered or painted in vibrant colors such as gold, navy blue, and green. These designs are not only decorative but also symbolize concepts like nature, strength, abundance, and protection.
These magnets can be displayed on refrigerators or metal surfaces as decorative items and serve as cultural mementos of a trip to Kazakhstan. Despite their small size, they carry high craftsmanship and aesthetic value, making them quite popular among tourists due to their affordable prices. Their lightweight and portable nature also make them easy to pack in luggage, offering a charming and thoughtful gift option for loved ones.
5. Handmade jewelry (silver, turquoise-stone)
Handmade jewelry is one of the most unique souvenirs reflecting Kazakhstan’s rich artisan tradition and the aesthetic sensibilities of nomadic culture. Especially bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings made of silver showcase the fine craftsmanship of Kazakh jewelry art. These pieces often incorporate semi-precious stones such as turquoise, agate, and amber. These stones are believed to have healing properties and symbolic meanings; for example, turquoise is considered to provide protection from the evil eye and bring peace.
Adorned with traditional Kazakh motifs in terms of design, these pieces of jewelry carry not only aesthetic value but also cultural identity. Patterns such as spirals, ram’s horns, and sun symbols—traces of nomadic life—are frequently seen in these designs. Handmade jewelry is typically sold in local markets, handicraft fairs, and specialized workshops, offering both elegance and significance. If you’re looking for a graceful and culturally meaningful gift for your loved ones, handmade jewelry from Kazakhstan is a wonderful choice.
6. Necklaces and bracelets made from natural stones
Necklaces and bracelets made from natural stones are among the unique jewelry items inspired by both the nature and traditions of Kazakhstan. Commonly found stones in the country such as agate, obsidian, amber, quartz, and turquoise are transformed into elegant necklaces and bracelets through craftsmanship. Each of these stones carries different meanings and healing properties, making the jewelry not only aesthetically appealing but also symbolically and spiritually valuable. Especially popular among women, these pieces are unique in their patterns and colors due to the natural characteristics of the stones.
Kazakh artisans give these pieces a distinct identity by combining the stones with metal frames decorated with traditional motifs. Some jewelry also features bracelet designs made from felt or leather, giving them both an ethnic and modern look. Frequently found in local markets and handicraft festivals, these natural stone jewelry items are popular for both everyday wear and as gifts. Reflecting Kazakhstan’s natural wealth and artistic sensibility, these pieces serve as elegant and meaningful keepsakes.
7. Gold or silver Kazakh jewelry (with unique motifs)
Gold or silver Kazakh jewelry consists of special designs that carry both elegance and cultural meaning. These pieces are adorned with traditional motifs that reflect the depth and richness of Kazakh folk art. Symbols such as the “ram’s horn,” “sun,” and “tree of life” are commonly used patterns in this jewelry. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings crafted from gold or silver serve as accessories that are both aesthetically beautiful and symbolically powerful. When worn with traditional clothing, this jewelry creates visual harmony and adds a sense of nobility to the wearer.
These handcrafted jewels are often worn on special occasions but are also preferred as collectible items or meaningful gifts. In Kazakhstan’s jewelry shops and ethnic jewelry workshops, it is possible to find examples in both modern and traditional styles. Each piece is not merely an ornament but also an artistic creation that embodies Kazakh identity. If you are looking to present your loved ones with a graceful gift that carries cultural significance, Kazakh gold or silver jewelry with unique motifs is a perfect choice.
8. Kazakh carpets and rugs
Kazakh carpets and rugs are among the important cultural heritages that preserve Central Asia’s deep-rooted weaving tradition. These carpets and rugs are typically woven by hand on looms using wool yarn and are decorated with traditional motifs symbolizing steppe life. The color palette often includes dark red, navy blue, cream, and brown tones derived from natural dyes. Common patterns found in Kazakh carpets include the ram’s horn, the tree of life, and geometric shapes, all of which symbolize protection, abundance, and the cycle of life.
These carpets are used not only as floor coverings but also as wall hangings, table covers, or decorative elements. Each piece is handmade with great care and patience, adding a unique character and warmth to any home. As one of the most meaningful gifts to purchase during a trip to Kazakhstan, these carpets and rugs are special items that hold both aesthetic and cultural value and can be cherished for many years. Reflecting a traditional lifestyle and artistic richness, these textiles stand out as elegant and original examples of Kazakh handicrafts.
9. Tumar (traditional protective amulet)
The Tumar is a traditional amulet in Kazakh culture, carried to protect against evil and bring good luck. Usually crafted in triangular or cylindrical shapes, tumars are made from natural materials such as leather, silver, or felt, and contain prayers, verses, or special inscriptions inside. These amulets are considered powerful symbols believed to provide both physical and spiritual protection. In Kazakh nomadic life, they were often hung on children or horses to guard them against the evil eye and negative energies.
Tumars are also aesthetically designed and decorated with traditional motifs, used as pendants, bracelets, or belt ornaments. Some are simple, while others are enriched with precious stones and metal embellishments. Today, they are popular souvenirs due to both their spiritual significance and ethnic appearance. This type of amulet from Kazakhstan is not just a decorative item but also a bearer of cultural heritage and belief.
10. Dombra (traditional Kazakh musical instrument)
The dombra is one of the most well-known and culturally significant traditional instruments of Kazakhstan. This long-necked, two-stringed instrument is typically handcrafted from spruce, pine, or poplar wood. The sound of the dombra carries the melodic memory of the Kazakh steppes and has been used for centuries in folk songs, epic storytelling, and ceremonies. Played with the fingers, the dombra accompanies both solo performances and oral traditions. It is not only a musical instrument but also a symbol of Kazakh identity and oral literature.
The surface of the dombra is often decorated with traditional Kazakh motifs, making it an aesthetically valuable object as well. Miniature dombra models, also handcrafted, are popular as both musical and decorative souvenirs. As one of the foremost cultural symbols one can bring from Kazakhstan, the dombra offers a meaningful gift that reflects the spirit and musical heritage of the Kazakh people. Especially for those interested in music and ethnic arts, the dombra is an unforgettable and authentic present.
11. Kobyz (traditional bowed string instrument)
The kobyz is one of the oldest and most mystical traditional instruments of Kazakhstan. This two-stringed bowed instrument, typically made with horsehair strings, is known as a sacred instrument used by ancient Turkic shamans during religious ceremonies. Its body is carved from wood and covered with leather, giving the instrument both resonance and a natural tone. The deep and echoing sound of the kobyz is ideal for creating spiritual atmospheres. Throughout history, it has been used not only musically but also as a tool for spiritual healing.
Today, the kobyz holds an important place in Kazakh classical music, folk concerts, and cultural ceremonies. Handcrafted miniature kobyz models are among the most artistically valuable souvenirs. Decorated with traditional patterns, these instruments reflect the roots and historical depth of Kazakh music. For both music enthusiasts and collectors, the kobyz is an authentic gift and a meaningful symbol that keeps Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage alive.
12. Steppe motif paintings
Steppe motif paintings are artistic works that reflect the vast plains of Central Asia, the nomadic lifestyle, and cultural symbols shaped in harmony with nature. The main themes of these paintings often include mounted nomads, wool tents (yurts), herds, and endless steppe landscapes. Artists use these motifs to present visual stories that connect the past and present, creating a simple yet profound atmosphere with shades of red, brown, and earth tones. The harsh yet free nature of the steppe can be felt in the brushstrokes, evoking a sense of melancholy and strength.
These paintings serve not only as aesthetic pieces but also as a medium of cultural expression. The nomadic peoples’ way of life, their harmony with nature, and ancient traditions are symbolically represented in these motifs. Steppe themes, especially portrayed by Turkish, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, and Mongolian artists, convey concepts such as horse culture, warrior spirit, love of nature, and spirituality. In modern interior decoration, these paintings are preferred by those who seek to evoke a nostalgic feeling and create an authentic atmosphere.
13. Mugs and ceramic products with Kazakh motifs
Mugs and ceramic products with Kazakh motifs are special designs that combine Central Asia’s rich cultural heritage with modern utility. These items often feature traditional Kazakh motifs such as “koshkar-muiz” (ram’s horn), sun, tree of life, and geometric patterns. Typically rendered in vibrant red, blue, and gold tones, these designs offer both aesthetic appeal and a reflection of deep-rooted history. The elegant details of Kazakh handicrafts are present even on everyday objects like mugs and plates, offering users both functional and cultural experiences.
These ceramic products are generally handmade and produced using traditional techniques. Kazakh decorations applied to mugs, teapots, plates, and bowls are used not only in kitchens but also for decorative purposes. Frequently found in traditional Kazakh yurt settings or souvenir markets, these items help preserve local traditions for the native population and serve as meaningful mementos for visitors. As a beautiful reflection of cultural identity in daily life, these ceramics bring the artistic spirit of Kazakhstan into homes.
14. Hand-embroidered pillow covers and throws
Hand-embroidered pillow covers and throws are home décor items that reflect the elegance of traditional handicrafts. These products are typically adorned with floral designs, geometric shapes, animal figures, or cultural motifs embroidered on natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, or silk. Each piece of embroidery reflects the artisan’s effort, patience, and artistic vision. Depending on the region, the patterns and colors may vary; symbols from Anatolia, cosmic motifs from Central Asia, or Balkan designs are commonly found in these items.
Throws and pillow covers are used not only for decorative purposes but also as meaningful gifts. Especially in weddings, dowries, or special occasions, they are presented as valuable offerings that help preserve cultural memory. For those who wish to bring traditional touches into modern homes, these pieces offer both a nostalgic and aesthetic option. The warmth of handcraftsmanship and the meaning behind each motif are the most distinguishing features that set these products apart from mass-produced textiles.
15. T-shirts and caps with Kazakh motifs
T-shirts and caps with Kazakh motifs are eye-catching items that blend traditional patterns with modern fashion. These designs often highlight ram’s horn motifs, sun symbols, figures representing nomadic life, and geometric patterns. On t-shirts, these motifs are typically stylized and placed on the chest, back, or sleeves, while on caps, they are applied to the front panel through embroidery or printing. Enriched with vibrant colors and contrasting elements, these clothing items bring traditional Kazakh identity into everyday life.
These t-shirts and caps are popular among both locals and tourists, serving not only as stylish apparel but also as a form of cultural expression. Frequently worn during festivals and national holidays, they are especially favored by younger generations. Made from cotton, linen, and high-quality printing materials, the t-shirts offer durability and comfort, while the caps combine traditional aesthetics with practical use. Clothing items featuring Kazakh motifs are a unique and meaningful choice for those who wish to reflect cultural identity.
16. Souvenirs with the Kazakh flag theme
Souvenirs with the Kazakh flag theme are aesthetic and meaningful items that carry the national symbols of the country. The sky-blue background of the flag symbolizes peace and freedom, while the golden sun and eagle figures reflect the prosperity, strength, and historical heritage of the Kazakh people. Souvenir items such as keychains, magnets, pens, bags, and mugs adorned with these symbols are especially favored by those who wish to emphasize their cultural connection to Kazakhstan. They attract tourist interest and play a role in strengthening the sense of belonging among diaspora communities.
These products are also used as diplomatic gifts during official visits, and they are popular among young people as everyday accessories. The symbolic elements of the flag are incorporated into modern designs on various items, from t-shirts and bags to passport holders and desk decorations. The simplicity of the colors and symbols, combined with their deep meaning, makes these souvenirs valuable both aesthetically and symbolically. Kazakh flag-themed souvenirs stand out as expressions of national pride and as unique keepsakes.
17. Kumis (fermented mare’s milk) – packaged
Kumis is one of the oldest and most distinctive beverages of Central Asia, made from fermented mare’s milk. This drink has been a staple of nomadic diets for centuries, valued both for its nutritional content and cultural significance. Kumis stands out with its mildly sour taste, low alcohol content, and refreshing nature, resulting from a natural fermentation process. While traditionally stored in wooden barrels or leather containers, it is now also produced in bottled form, meeting modern hygiene standards.
Packaged kumis is available in local markets and is also included among export products. Offered in glass bottles, metal cans, or plastic containers, it is preserved in cold storage to maintain its natural properties. The packaging often features Kazakh motifs and cultural elements such as mountain and steppe landscapes, providing both aesthetic appeal and cultural identity. With its practicality, kumis is increasingly consumed in urban life and remains a healthy and traditional beverage favored by both locals and tourists.
18. Shubat (camel milk drink) – packaged
Shubat is a traditional camel milk drink that holds an important place in Kazakh culture. This lightly fermented beverage is known for its high nutritional value and digestive benefits. Shubat is especially rich in protein, calcium, and B vitamins, and is recognized for its immune-boosting properties. It has a mildly sour and distinct taste, resembling other fermented dairy products such as kumis or kefir. Traditionally a part of daily nutrition in nomadic societies, shubat is now reaching a wider audience in its packaged form.
Packaged shubat is bottled under hygienic conditions and sold in local markets and health food stores. It typically comes in glass or plastic bottles, with labels featuring camel figures and steppe patterns that draw attention. Its shelf life is extended through cold-chain storage, making it a traditional and healthy alternative enjoyed by both locals and foreign visitors. Shubat is a nostalgic and healthful product that represents the rich beverage culture of Kazakh cuisine and serves as a meaningful gift or tasting experience.
19. Kurut (dried yogurt balls)
Kurut is one of the most traditional and nutritious snacks in Central Asian cuisine. Made by salting, straining, and sun-drying yogurt, these small balls have served as a staple food for nomadic peoples for centuries due to their long shelf life and ease of transport. With a hard texture, strong salty flavor, and tangy aroma, kurut can be eaten on its own or used in soups or dissolved in hot water. Rich in protein and calcium, it is also known for its energy-boosting qualities.
Today, kurut continues to be produced using traditional methods and is also available in packaged and modern forms in local markets and souvenir shops. Sold in cloth bags, zip-locked pouches, or small boxes, kurut balls are often presented in packaging decorated with Kazakh motifs, offering a visually appealing and culturally unique gift option. These rock-hard but long-lasting yogurt balls are an ideal product for those who prioritize healthy eating and for those who wish to experience the traditional flavors of Kazakhstan.
20. Kazakhstan chocolates (Rahat, Bayan Sulu brands)
Kazakhstan chocolates offer unique flavors that blend local tastes with post-Soviet nostalgia. Two of the country’s most well-known chocolate brands, Rahat and Bayan Sulu, have been producing sweets that appeal to the Kazakh palate for decades. Rahat is typically recognized for its milk chocolates, filled pralines, and nut bars, while Bayan Sulu stands out with fruit-flavored candies, caramel chocolates, and a variety of products enriched with traditional flavors. Both brands prioritize local production and use natural ingredients sourced from different regions of Kazakhstan.
The packaging design further enhances the cultural value of these chocolates; colorful wrappers featuring traditional Kazakh patterns, steppe landscapes, or nostalgic graphics make the products attractive as gifts. Especially Rahat’s classic red-and-yellow wrapped chocolates and Bayan Sulu’s golden wrappers are among the most unique and sweet souvenirs one can bring from Kazakhstan. Easily found in supermarkets, airports, and souvenir shops, these chocolates are popular both for everyday enjoyment and as a tasty, culturally rich gift option.
21. Local honey varieties
Local honey varieties produced in Kazakhstan are of high quality thanks to the country’s vast geography, rich flora, and clean natural conditions. Local beekeepers working in mountainous regions, steppes, and forested areas produce different types of honey, including acacia, linden, floral, wild hive, and mountain honey. The Altai Mountains and Southern Kazakhstan regions are especially notable for their rare flower diversity, and the honey produced there is known for its rich aroma and high nutritional value. These honeys, made using pure, additive-free, and natural methods, are recognized for their benefits such as strengthening the immune system, aiding digestion, and providing energy.
Local honey varieties are typically sold in glass jars or ceramic containers decorated with traditional patterns. Available in marketplaces, organic product stores, and souvenir shops, they serve both for everyday consumption and as unique gifts. Packaging often features Kazakh motifs, bee figures, or natural landscapes, creating both a cultural and visual connection. These honeys are among the natural and healthy gift options one can bring from Kazakhstan and offer a unique alternative for those interested in traditional flavors.
22. Dried fruits and nuts
Kazakhstan’s natural climate conditions and fertile soil offer a wide variety of dried fruits and nuts. Sun-dried fruits such as apricots, raisins (dried grapes), plums, apples, and figs are enjoyed both as sweet snacks and for their energy-boosting properties. These fruits are dried naturally without additives, making them ideal for those who prefer organic products. Additionally, locally sourced nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds are offered in various mixed assortments.
These products are typically sold in vacuum-sealed packages or traditional fabric pouches decorated with local patterns. Found in local markets, natural product stores, and souvenir shops, dried fruit and nut mixes are valued both as nutritious snacks and as unique gift options. Their packaging often features steppe landscapes, Kazakh motifs, or fruit illustrations, adding a cultural touch. Among the healthy and tasty gifts to bring from Kazakhstan, dried fruits and nuts remain a consistently popular choice.
23. Kazakh coffee or tea blends
Kazakh coffee and tea blends feature unique aromas that reflect the country’s traditional beverage culture. While coffee is not very common in Kazakh cuisine, it is often prepared Central Asian-style, blended with milk and spices to create a smooth flavor. Tea, on the other hand, holds a significant place in daily life; black tea mixed with herbs such as mint, cardamom, thyme, and clove is widely consumed. In traditional Kazakh hospitality, tea is an essential offering to guests and is typically served in wide bowls called “piala.”
Kazakh tea and coffee blends offered in modern packaging are popular souvenir choices for both locals and tourists. These products come in colorful boxes, packages decorated with Kazakh motifs, or handcrafted tea containers, combining traditional flavors with aesthetic appeal. Herbal tea blends are also favored among consumers interested in a healthy lifestyle. These beverages from Kazakhstan are a meaningful and enjoyable option for those looking to connect with the culture or explore new flavors.
24. Spice blends (for meat dishes)
Meat dishes hold an important place in Kazakh cuisine, and one of the key elements that define their flavor is the use of special spice blends. Typically used in dishes made from lamb, beef, or horse meat, these blends consist of aromatic and intense ingredients such as black pepper, cumin, coriander, red pepper, garlic powder, and dried onion. Some regional blends also include unique herbs like dried fennel, sumac, and mustard seeds. These spices not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat and aid digestion.
Traditional Kazakh spice blends are packaged in small pouches, glass jars, or colorful tin containers and are sold in markets and souvenir shops. These packages, often adorned with Kazakh patterns, horse figures, or steppe landscapes, allow the spices to be displayed aesthetically in kitchens and kept as cultural keepsakes. Especially used in meat stews with turnips, fried meat dishes, and shish kebabs, these spices serve as a gateway to the rich flavor world of Kazakh cuisine. They are an ideal and practical gift option for those who want to bring local tastes into their own homes.
25. Postcards themed around Astana or Almaty
Postcards themed around Astana (Nur-Sultan) and Almaty are among the meaningful souvenirs that reflect Kazakhstan’s cultural and architectural richness. Astana postcards typically feature iconic landmarks such as the Bayterek Tower, Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Center, the Nur Alem Sphere, and modern glass architecture. These postcards highlight the capital’s contemporary face and planned development, standing out with their elegant designs. Photographs taken at night with illuminated buildings offer striking visuals that emphasize Astana’s futuristic atmosphere.
Almaty postcards, on the other hand, portray city life intertwined with nature. In the background, the majestic Tian Shan Mountains can be seen, while landmarks such as Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, Kok Tobe Hill, and the Medeu Ice Rink appear in the foreground. Landscapes captured with blooming trees and snow-capped peaks in spring transform into postcards that reflect Almaty’s year-round beauty. Usually presented in matte or glossy prints, these cards are valuable for collectors and serve as elegant and cultural mementos to send to loved ones.
26. Handmade notebooks and notepads
Handmade notebooks and notepads are among the special gift items that combine aesthetics and functionality. Typically crafted from natural materials, these products feature unique designs with covers made of leather, recycled paper, fabric, or wood. The pages may consist of brown kraft paper or traditionally handmade paper. Prepared using traditional bookbinding techniques, these notebooks offer a special writing experience for art lovers and those who enjoy writing.
Handmade notepads also serve as elegant elements of desk decor. Their covers, often decorated with various motifs, can be enriched with personalized designs. Whether used for travel notes, journaling, sketching, or as gifts, these items carry a nostalgic touch and reflect the value of craftsmanship. Commonly found in artisan markets and boutique shops, these notebooks are unique and meaningful keepsakes.
27. Ornaments with local motifs similar to the evil eye charm
Ornaments with local motifs similar to the evil eye charm are traditional objects believed to provide protection against negative energy. Typically made from blue-colored glass, evil eye charms feature a distinctive eye-shaped design. Used as cultural symbols in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries—especially Turkey—these charms are hung on doorways, walls, jewelry, or keychains. According to folk beliefs, such ornaments ward off evil looks and bring positive energy to their surroundings.
In various regions, motifs similar to the evil eye charm are crafted using different materials, gaining a more artistic form. Designs on ceramic, fabric, wood, or metal are enriched with floral patterns, bird figures, geometric shapes, and details inspired by traditional folk art. Commonly found in souvenir shops or artisan markets, these ornaments are favored both as protective items with traditional meaning and as aesthetic decorative elements. Handmade versions, in particular, reflect the cultural heritage of their regions, making them unique and meaningful keepsakes.
28. Traditional Kazakh toys
Traditional Kazakh toys are unique items that reflect the country’s steppe culture, nomadic lifestyle, and handicraft traditions. These toys are usually handmade from natural materials such as goat hair, leather, fabric, wool, and wood. Figures of animals significant in the traditional Kazakh way of life—such as horses, camels, and sheep—are commonly featured. Themes like yurts (traditional tents), warrior figures, and folkloric characters are also represented in these toys.
Often intended to be educational, these toys provide entertainment while also serving to transmit cultural heritage to children. Felt dolls, in particular, are decorated with traditional clothing and include distinctive elements such as the headgear worn by Kazakh women and intricate embroidery details. Wooden toys are typically crafted using carving techniques, making them durable and visually valuable. These types of toys are meaningful and nostalgic options for those looking for culturally specific gifts from Kazakhstan.
29. Keychains with Kazakh figures
Keychains with Kazakh figures are small yet meaningful souvenirs that carry the cultural symbols of the country. These keychains often feature miniature designs of Kazakh men and women in traditional clothing made from felt, as well as steppe animals like horses and camels, or traditional Kazakh instruments. Adorned with vibrant colors, hand-stitched patterns, and unique details, these figures are like miniature reflections of traditional Kazakh life.
Both decorative and functional, these keychains are especially popular in tourist markets and handicraft shops. Their lightweight and easy-to-carry nature make them an ideal souvenir to bring back from a trip. Additionally, the use of natural materials and authentic crafting techniques makes each keychain unique. Valued for preserving and promoting Kazakh culture, these keychains offer a cultural gift for loved ones and add a traditional touch to daily use.
30. Small figurines made by local artists
Small figurines made by local artists are unique and meaningful pieces that reflect the cultural richness of Kazakhstan. These figurines are typically handcrafted using natural materials such as bronze, wood, ceramic, or stone. Themes often include scenes from nomadic life, figures in traditional clothing, mounted warriors, folk dances, or mythological characters. Adorned with detailed craftsmanship and regional motifs, these pieces go beyond being mere decorative objects—they serve as miniature representations of the past and folk culture.
These figurines are popular souvenirs among tourists and collectors and also contribute to the preservation of local art. Although they may appear similar, each figure has its own unique character, as they are individually shaped by hand. Due to their small size, they are ideal as desk ornaments, shelf decorations, or gifts. For those who wish to bring Kazakh culture into their homes, these figurines offer an elegant and meaningful option. Sold especially in art markets or local galleries, these pieces present original examples that blend traditional aesthetic sensibilities with modern forms.