Hot Springs Near Almaty 2026 – Mountain Thermal Baths & Day Trips

After a long hike or a cold winter day, there's nothing better than soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by mountains. Almaty has several thermal and mineral spring options, from quick half-day gorge hikes to weekend getaways at thermal resorts. Both hot springs on this page are available as private guided day trips with transport from Almaty.

2 springs Best in winter From $60

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Compare at a glance

Spring	Type	From Almaty	Duration	From
Alma-Arasan Hot Springs	Radon springs	30-min drive	Half day	$60
Chundzha Hot Springs	Thermal resort	4–5 h drive	Day or weekend	$82

2 hot springs near Almaty

Alma-Arasan Hot Springs

Radon springs

30-min drive · Half day · from $60

The closest hot springs to Almaty, hidden in a mountain gorge just 30 minutes from the city centre. Natural radon mineral water flows from underground at a constant temperature year-round and is believed to help with joint pain, skin conditions and respiratory issues. Getting there is a scenic 30 to 45 minute hike through Prohodnoe Gorge, gentle terrain through forest with river crossings, and you can extend deeper into the gorge for an extra 2 to 4 hours of mountain scenery.

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Chundzha Hot Springs

Thermal resort

4–5 h drive · Day or weekend · from $82

Chundzha is a small town near the Chinese border famous for its thermal springs and Uyghur cuisine. Unlike Alma-Arasan, these are developed bath facilities with pools of varying temperatures, from warm soaking pools to hot therapeutic baths. The drive passes through the Charyn River valley with dramatic steppe scenery, and most visitors make it a weekend trip, often combined with a Charyn Canyon visit on the way.

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Where they are

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to bring a swimsuit?

Yes, bring a swimsuit and a towel. At Chundzha the facilities provide basic amenities, but bringing your own is more comfortable. At Alma-Arasan the springs are outdoors in a natural setting.

Can I visit hot springs in winter?

Absolutely, winter is the best time. The contrast between cold mountain air and warm mineral water is incredible, and the Alma-Arasan gorge hike in snow is especially beautiful.

Are the hot springs suitable for children?

Chundzha yes, the resort pools have shallow areas for kids. Alma-Arasan depends on the child's ability to hike 30 to 45 minutes through the gorge, and age 6+ is usually fine.

Can I combine hot springs with other tours?

Yes. Alma-Arasan pairs well with Kok-Zhailau or Butakovka in the same mountain area. Chundzha is on the road to Charyn Canyon, so you can do both in a weekend trip.