For a more authentically Kazakh spa experience, try the Arasan public baths. There are dry Russian and Finnish saunas where banya purists (and masochists) can flagellate themselves with birch twigs and follow with a dip in the large round pool for a nicely Russian-style experience. There’s also a ‘wet’ Turkish steam room with heated platforms for reclining, and massages are available in both sections. Private banyas for four and six are available to hire (reserve the day before you want to visit) for 7,000 KZT and 9,000 KZT per hour respectively, both with saunas and private plunge pools. Two-hour slots for the main banya are available all day beginning at 8am and cost 1,500 KZT on weekdays and 2,000 KZT on weekends. Towels and slippers are available to hire for 100 KZT but we recommend bringing your own, plus soap.