A NEW DIRECTION IN CROSS-BORDER TOURISM – THE EXCURSION TOUR “IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE GREAT COMMANDER: THE HERITAGE OF AMIR TEMUR”

Abstract

The article explores the development of cross-border tourism in the Republic of Kazakhstan using the city of Turkistan as a case study. The authors analyze the city’s tourism potential and key tourist-excursion sites of interest to both domestic and international visitors. The current state of the city's tourism infrastructure is examined, and promising directions for the development of cross-border tourism are identified. The article highlights the main challenges facing the cross-border tourism sector and proposes solutions through the optimization of the city’s existing tourism potential. Based on international experience, a strategic plan is proposed for transforming Turkistan into a cross-border tourism hub. The study also considers the historical and cultural features of Turkistan, particularly the significance of Amir Timur’s heritage for both Kazakhstan and neighboring countries. The research findings have practical value for the development and enhancement of regional tourism programs and for shaping the tourism brand of Turkistan.