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29 March 2024

Take a flight to… Tatarstan – A tourist's delight

Published
By Jumana Ghuloom

Planning my holiday, I wanted to explore a place that I have never been to before. Five-and-a-half hours by flight from Dubai, the Republic of Tatarstan was just the ideal choice.

No sooner than I stepped out than the refreshing weather welcomed me. Located in the centre of Russia, Tatarstan is about 800 kilometers east of Moscow on the bank of the Great Russian River Volga.

The nation boasts an inter-ethnic and inter-faith accord, with the influence of Eastern and Western, Asian and European religious and cultural traditions. While traditional religions are Islam and Orthodox Christianity, one can see other faiths represented well, too.  Beautiful mosques and churches are a common sight.

Kazan is the capital and the largest city of Tatarstan, and one of the top three tourist destinations in Russia after Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

This multi-ethnic city celebrated its 1000th anniversary in 2005. And ranks third in Europe and eighth in the world in developing tourist destinations.

Tatarstan is a tourist-friendly nation. With more than 100 hotels of reputed international hotels chains, entertainment hangouts, including high-quality restaurants and cafes, the country also has a bustling nightlife, not to mention ultra-trendy shopping centres.

Being home to people with various historical past and cultural background, the country is a tourist’s delight. Some of the must-see places are:

Kazan Kremlin

With its unique architecture, Kazan Kremlin reflects the cultural diversity and was inscribed into the list of the ‘world cultural and natural heritage’ in 2000. The Qol Sharif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral stands testimony to the country’s rich heritage.

Old Tatar Settlement

Old Tatar Settlement is one of the historical parts and attractions in Kazan and offers a beautiful panoramic view.

Baumana Street



The two ends of Baumana Street are connected with the underground stations Tukay Square and Kremlevskaya. Known as the pedestrian street, one can enjoy delicious local cuisine and pick your heart’s fill in the plethora of souvenir shops that line the streets.

Kazan family center


The Kazan family Centre is a popular destination among tourists. It is a wedding palace built in the shape of a huge cauldron and can house a 100 wedding simultaneously.

Ekiyat puppet theatre



Ekiyat puppet theatre is one of the largest puppet theaters in Russia. The architecture is decorated with magical sculptures fairytale characters.

The Temple of All Religions

 



This colourful Temple of All religions or Universal Temple boasts a unique architecture. It is an amalgamation of Orthodox and Catholic churches, Muslim mosque, Buddhist temple, Chinese Pagoda and other iconic elements of the various world religions. Several lost civilizations are also represented in its architecture.

lsland town of Sviyazhak


The historic and scenic Sviyazhsk was launched as an island fortress and an outpost for seizure of Kazan in XVI by the troops of Ivan the Terrible. It is strategically located on the road from Moscow to Kazan and is easily accessible.

Before you head to enjoy Tartastan, ensure you apply for a visa by contacting the Consulate of Tartastan.

Fly Dubai operates direct flights two times a week.