Pavlodar

Pavlodar is a large city in northeastern Kazakhstan on the right bank of the Irtysh River, which flows quietly through the flat steppe landscape. The cityscape shows wide streets with Soviet-era buildings alongside modern residential districts, and the riverfront serves many residents as a recreational zone.

In 1720 a Russian fort was built here to serve Cossack troops as a base for controlling the salt deposits in the area. By the mid-19th century the location grew into a small trading post and later expanded through Soviet-era industrial facilities into the large city it is today.

The name comes from the Russian word for merchant and recalls the early trading days of the settlement. Today you hear a mix of Kazakh and Russian spoken in the streets, reflecting the bilingual character of daily life.

In the center you can reach most points on foot while the streetcar connects older districts with the outer areas. The continental climate brings very cold winters and warm summers, so visitors should plan their clothing according to the season.

Since the 1960s streetcars have been running here, a rare form of public transport in this part of Central Asia. The network covers several lines and shows how industrial growth also shaped the infrastructure of the city.

Location: Pavlodar Region

Location: Pavlodar City Administration

Inception: 1720

Elevation above the sea: 123 m

Website: http://pavlodar-city.kz/page/about_city1.php?langru

GPS coordinates: 52.28576,76.94550

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00