places to visit in bishkek kyrgyzstan

The 23 Best Things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 6, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan and wondering what things to do in Bishkek then we’ve got you covered!

Any visit to Kyrgyzstan will bring you to Bishkek. Nestled in the north of the country, close to the Kazakh border, Bishkek is the furthest capital city from an ocean.

As you land at Manas Airport you may be lucky enough to spot snow-capped peaks on the outskirts of the nation’s capital. Such views and the epic hiking trails that accompany them are what draw many to this landlocked nation.

Some of these lie just a stone’s throw from the nation’s capital. Meaning that if your time here is short you will still be able to get your hiking boots muddy. 

Bishkek is a great place to plan out your trip. Certain hiking trails may be inaccessible due to weather conditions. Bishkek’s CBT and the Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan will be able to help in this area. 

The heart of Bishkek is not particularly big, therefore you will spend most of your time on foot. Public transport is limited, but picking up a taxi is pretty easy. For longer trips, it may be worth booking through your accommodation or negotiating at the bus station.

READ MORE: Be sure to check out our guide for travelling in Kyrgyzstan to help you plan your entire visit there!

Table of Contents

1) People watch at Ala-Too Square

2) wash the world away at the zhirgal banya, 3) check out the city’s parks, 4) catch a ballet or opera, 5) take a wander around the deserted circus, 6) find lenin’s statue, 7) check out bishkek’s museums , 8) relax in a cafe, 9) spot some soviet architecture in bishkek’s centre , 10) visit a museum dedicated to a famous revolutionary., 11) admire some russian and kyrgyz artwork at the museum of fine arts., 12) take the opportunity to enjoy some culinary variety, 13) test your bargaining skills at osh bazaar , 14) pay your respects at victory square, 15) visit the holy resurrection cathedral, 16) get the lowdown of bishkeks craft beer scene, 17) hike in the ala-archa canyon , 18) take a weekend hike with one of the city’s hiking ccubs, 19) get off the beaten track in the alamedin and sokuluk valleys , 20) take a day trip to the burana tower, 21) hike in the konorchek canyon, 22) visit the issyk ata valley hot springs, 23) go skiing in chunkurchak, the best things to do in bishkek.

For many travellers, Bishkek is not what draws travellers to Kyrgyzstan. That being said there is certainly enough to do in and around Bishkek to keep you occupied for a couple of days at least. 

Let’s check out some of the best things to do in Bishkek.

The main square in the centre of Bishkek. Home to protests in times gone by, this is the nominal centre of Bishkek. A statue of Manas, the hero of the epic 500,000 line poem of the same name , stands triumphantly in the centre. 

This poem holds a special place amongst Kyrgyzstan’s population, and as result you will hear quite a bit amount Manas during your time in Kyrgyzstan. 

Next to the statue of Manas is a gigantic flag pole which is raised on a regular basis throughout the day. Behind both is an excellent piece of brutalist architecture, the State History Museum.

In the evening the square fills with skaters, couples and families enough an evening under the squares lights. 

One of the great bathing traditions alongside Japanese onsen’s and Turkish hammams, the banya is an institution in Russia and most of the former Soviet Union.

Unlike an onsen which is based primarily on the bathing itself, banya’s are based primarily around a sauna followed by cold water in the form of a dip of a dunk.

A great way to warm up in the cold Russian winter, a banya can also provide some welcome relief to your aching muscles.

Of all of the top Bishkek attractions, this is definitely one of the most relaxing.

• Address: Toktogul 53, cnr Sultan Ibraimov (Pravda)
• Price: Includes a locker & towel – Adult/Child – 300/150som

Bishkek has quite a few lovely parks that are perfect places to spend a slow lazy afternoon in the summer sun.

Dubovy Park, just northeast of Ala-Too Square is home to a few interesting statues and is well worth a stroll. 

To the north west of Ala Too Square you will find Panfilov Park, which is s slightly prettier affair. At night this park fills with activities, games and even some fair ground rides. 

Taking a stroll through one of city’s parks is one of the best things to do in Bishkek.

The Soviet Union has left many opulent theatres dotted across Central Asia (the Navoi Theatre in Tashkent springs to mind ).

In Bishkek, this Opera and Ballet Theatre, located a stone’s throw from Ala-Too Square, has all the trappings of Soviet overstatement, both inside and out.

With regular performances, there is a good chance something will be on when you’re in town.

Tickets can be purchased directly from the theatre’s ticket office. Full listings can be found here . If you’re running out of things to do in Bishkek, or just fancy doing something a bit different, this is a great option.

To the city’s north is the deserted old circus building. One of the odder Bishkek attractions, this was a popular haunt during the Soviet Union days. Now it’s a quirky shadow of it’s former glory.

Now it sits as a true testament to the Soviet Union’s architectural desires. 

At sunset, it is possible to get some pretty cool photos. It’s certainly an interesting Bishkek activity.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, many Lenin statues were defaced or torn down. Unlike its European counterparts, Central Asia wasn’t really yearning for independence as they were very reliant on the Soviet Union. 

Therefore when independence came to Kyrgyzstan in 1991 Lenin was relocated and replaced by Manas on Ala Too Square. 

He now faces some government offices with his back to Manas. A symbolic gesture perhaps? 

Incidentally, many towns and cities in Kyrgyzstan have statues of Lenin, in direct contrast to the rest of the Soviet Union. A slightly odd piece of Bishkek sightseeing!

Bishkek does have some pretty cool museums that are worth checking out.

The state history museum is worth visiting, although it has been closed on-and-off in recent years, unfortunately. It can be found just behind Ala Too Square. 

After spending the majority of your time hiking and trekking, by foot or by horse, Bishkek is a great place to relax and do absolutely nothing.

Whiling away an afternoon in a park or cafe is a quintessential Bishkek activity. However, Bishkek’s growing cafe culture means there are plenty of excellent spots for getting your caffeine fix as the world passes by.

We have a guide on chilling out in Bishkek for you to check out, which has some of Jarryd and Alesha’s favourite cafes!

In short, don’t miss out on these at least:

• Chicken Star (our favourite!)
• Sierra Coffee
• Social Coffee
• Prosto Coffee
• Cafe de Paris
• Vanilla Sky

Bishkek’s main street, Chuy Avenue is home to some decent eateries a fair few shops, however, there is also a fair bit of Soviet Architecture on display.

This will make you fawn or weep depending on your persuasion. However, there certainly is a tip of the hat to the former overlords in Moscow. 

Incidentally, the city’s north is home to the rather spectacular Holy Resurrection Cathedral which is well worth a visit. Certainly a bit more pleasing to the eyes than some classic Soviet architecture.

If you’re more interested in Kyrgyzstan’s more recent history then head over to the Mikhail Frunze Museum.

Focusing on the Russian revolution it tells the story of Mikhail Frunze who was born in Bishkek and was one of the leaders of the revolution that toppled the Romanov family that had ruled Russia and its empire for over 300 years.

There are some sources that suggest he may have even been a minor candidate to replace Lenin. 

Although English is limited it provides an interesting insight into one of the defining moments of the 20th century. 

Located in the heart of Bishkek, this museum holds the work of artists from both Kyrgyzstan and Russia.

The museum opened in 1935 with the collection being built up from 1934. Naturally, you can expect to see some evocative works depicting Krygyzstan’s stunning landscape alongside work with a strong Soviet favour.

The most prominent artist is Gapar Aitiev. Revered in his homeland, he is also the first professional artist in Kyrgyzstan according to some sources.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our full guide on the top places to visit in Kyrgyzstan !

Many visitors to Kyrgyzstan visit as part of a longer trip to Central Asia. You will eat a lot of shashlik, manti, lagman and plov during your time in Central Asia.

Whilst the food is good you will want to take advantage of the variety where possible. 

Kyrgyzstan does have a pretty wide variety of culinary options, including a number of western restaurants and a decent Chinese hot pot restaurant out by the circus.

You’ll also find a great Georgian cafe called Pur-Pur, and quite a few nice Indian restaurants.

If you are spending quite a bit of time in Central Asia then you definitely need to take advantage!

To the west of Bishkek’s centre is the Osh Bazaar. This sprawling maze of stalls and storefronts is a great place to hunt down some fresh fruit, souvenirs and anything else in between.

This is a great place to practice your bargaining skills and in some cases in can be a goo dplace to find a driver. 

Do be aware that pickpockets are known to operate out of this bazaar so make sure to keep your wits about you. 

READ MORE: Wondering what else you can do in Kyrgyzstan? Our expert blog post will help with that !

Built in 1985 to commemorate 40 years since the end of World War II (The Great Patriotic War in the Former Soviet Union), it is made up of three red granite pillars built to represent a yurt.

At the centre of the monument stands a woman waiting for her husband to return home. Above her is funeral wreath supported by the granite pillars.

The eternal flame receives a changing of the guard ceremony every hour.

Also known as the Russian Orthodox Church, this is the home of Bishskek’s Russian Orthodox community.

Located north of Panfilov Park, its blue roof and gold domes stand out against much of Bishkek’s Soviet backdrop.

Like coffee and cafes, craft beer is growing in popularity in Bishkek. Brewster in the heart of the city is one of the most popular and well-known, alongside the original Kyrgyz micro-brewery, Save the Ales .

Bishkek Day Trips

One of the best things about Bishkek is the cities close proximity to fantastic hiking.

The stunning mountain vistas and spectacular alpine history is the main draw for visitors and so much is accessible as a day trip from the capital. Of all the things to do in Bishkek, taking on one of the many awesome hiking trails on the cities outskirts is a real highlight.

The main reason people come to Kyrgyzstan is to trek into the wilderness and enjoy the stunning scenery Kyrgyzstan is blessed with.

Bishkek is a short journey to the Ala Archa gorge which we have touched on in a couple of other articles on places to visit and things to do in Kyrgyzstan.

The hiking and scenery here is stunning, especially when you consider it’s close proximity. 

There are numerous day hikes available. However, it is possible to spend the night if you wish.

Make sure you go all the way to the Aplager where the trails start, not the park’s entrance. 

This is one of the best things to do in Bishkek, so grab your boots and head for the mountains.

Bishkek has a number of weekend hiking groups that go out to some of the more off the beaten track hiking destinations that surround Bishkek. The Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan is a solid bet.

Incidentally, they do multi-day hikes elsewhere in the country if you’re interested. The Mount Club based in Bishkek is also a solid bet.

I took a trip with the Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan and we took in a day hike a the rather lovely Shamshi Groge.

Sadly the final section of the trail was considered unsafe by the guide due to heavy rainfall that day. However, we were still able to get into the wilderness 1.5 hours from Bishkek.

Ala-Archa is the most well-known hiking destination around Bishkek. However, there are two other spectacular destinations that are well worth checking out; the Alamedin and Sokuluk Valleys. 

The Alamedin is more about the views than the journey. This is the ideal place to enjoy a picnic with a picture-perfect backdrop. The views start to appear roughly 1 kilometre after the trailhead. 

The Sokuluk Valley is home to some great trekking and rather spectacular waterfalls. The trekking union of Kyrgyzstan runs one day tours here. 

One of Kyrgyzstan’s most important historical sites lies to the east of Bishkek. With a largely nomadic history, Kyrgyzstan does not have the same archaeological sites as it’s neighbours. This is what makes the Burana Tower so significant. 

With spectacular scenery surrounding it, this is a pretty inspiring destination. 

READ MORE: Check out our post on visiting the Burana Tower.

This may be a stretch at 86 miles from Bishkek, but the Konorchek Canyon is another excellent hiking around the capital.

Some use this a stop on the long journey to Issyk Kul. Transport here relies on private hire, and we would recommend booking onward or return travel, as your chances to flag down marshrutka and taxis are slim.

The red rocks of the canyon are reminiscent of the Skazka Canyon, just south of Issyk Kul.

Only 2 hours drive from Bishkek is another excellent hiking destination. The main target for day hikers are the waterfalls an hour beyond the sanatorium at the entrance.

The trail goes will beyond here with places to camp for those with their own equipment.

Back in the Soviet days, this was a popular getaway for those wanting to relax in the hot springs. After hiking to the waterfalls, soaking in the hot springs is the perfect way to end the day.

Kyrgyzstan is not the first name on the lips winter sport enthusiasts, however there are some decent ski resorts in the country .

One of the best being Chunkurchak, located less than 50 kilometres from Bishkek. With 10km of runs and 5 lifts, there’s plenty here for the majority of skiers.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Great read. I just arrived in Bishkek and unfortunately greeted by a taxi scammer…what a day to start. I’ll try to check out all your list above.

Muslim countries are always blessed to visit either it is UAE, Dubai, Pakistan or this one. thanks for this informative writing.

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15 Amazing Things to Do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, in 2024

Bishkek is the bustling capital of Kyrgyzstan, one of the shining jewels of Central Asia and the old Silk Road. There are lots of wonderful things to do in Bishkek from exploring the markets and bazaars to sampling the local cuisine and more.

The city is located at an altitude of around 800m and on the outskirts of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountain range, part of the Tian Shan, and can be seen from around Bishkek. I spent a few wonderful days exploring the Bishkek attractions on my way from China to the UK.

If you’re thinking of planning a trip through Central Asia then Bishkek should be on your list. In this article you’ll learn about the best places to visit in Bishkek and how to get the most out of your trip.

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Check out these excellent Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan tours:

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Bishkek

Below you’ll find a wide selection of the best things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan from exploring the city and its many museums, bazaars and historical landmarks to incredible day trips into the mountain wilderness.

1. Take a Guided Tour of the City

I find the best way to get acquainted with a new city is to take a guided tour so I can learn something of its history. This full-day tour is one of the best things to do in Bishkek as it includes all the top sights such as Osh Bazaar and Ala-Too Square, and also includes a trip to the mountains.

You’ll get to walk around this incredible Silk Road city before being transported to the stunning Ala Archa National Park where you can witness the pristine mountain wilderness that makes Kyrgyzstan so special. The day finishes with a Kyrgyz family dinner.

The tour lasts around 10 to 11 hours and includes pick-up from your hotel, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking guide. This really is a fantastic cultural experience that packs a lot into one day. Click here to find out more .

2. Haggle at Osh Bazaar

Bustling Osh Bazaar is one of the largest bazaars in the city and one of the top Bishkek places to visit. It’s the perfect place to brush up on those haggling skills and breath in the smells, sights and sounds of the old Silk Road.

It’s a large open-air market that sells a variety of goods from herbs and spices to tasty homemade dishes, clothes, and household products among many other things. This was one of the highlights of my time Bishkek sightseeing as it offers a real taste of Central Asia.

The bazaar is also a great place to try some authentic Kyrgyz dishes such as beshbarmak or buying any of the interesting breads, spices and nuts on offer. This excellent Bishkek city tour includes a trip to Osh Bazaar as well as other landmarks. Click here to book .

Address: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Click here for directions . Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Tue-Sun (closed Mondays) Ticket price: Free

3. Visit Ala-Too Square

Impressive Ala-Too is the central square of the city and was built in 1984. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Bishkek and is always filled with people – both tourists and locals alike.

The square was built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic. Due to this a statue of Lenin was placed in the square, and the square was named Lenin Square until Kyrgystan gained its independence in 1991.

Afterwards, the Lenin statue was moved and was replaced by a new statue that represented freedom.

Today visiting the square is one of the most popular things to do in Bishkek. The square itself is covered in beautiful flowers, and there are fountains located here too which are turned on during the summer months.

At night time Ala-Too comes to life with photo booths, hoverboard rentals and even karaoke if you’re feeling brave enough! You can see the square on this excellent city tour. Click here to learn more .

4. The Museum of Fine Arts

If you are a culture buff, then visiting the Museum of Fine Arts is a must! The Museum opened in January 1935 and was named after Gapar Aitiev, who was one of the first professional Kyrgyz artists.

The museum has around 18,000 items in storage ranging from paintings to sculptures, and so has a pretty impressive collection. The main exhibitions of the museum include the Russian hall, an applied art gallery with decorative folk and classical Kyrgyz art.

Address: Opening hours: Ticket price: Website:

5. Zhirgal Banya Bath House

Zhirgal Banya Bathhouse is located in the centre of Bishkek. It is one of the many bathhouses located within the city and is one of the most popular. This is because Zhirgal Banya Bathhouse has two large pools of ice-cold water as well as its sauna. This is to refresh the skin, after sweating in the sauna for so long.

It is a great place to spend an evening with friends if you don’t mind the nudeness that comes with it – although the bathhouse is sex-segregated which makes that easier!

Visiting one of these bathhouses is known to have numerous health benefits, especially for diseases related to the nervous, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and endocrine systems.

If you are feeling like you need more relaxation, you can also book a massage and manicure. Relaxing at Zhirgal Banya Bath House is one of the best things to do in Bishkek and is popular with both tourists and locals.

6. Victory Square

The large, Soviet-style Victory Square is located in the city centre of Bishkek and was built in 1985. The square commemorates the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II and is dedicated to the victory over Nazi Germany.

The design of the monument in the centre of the square is three yurt struts curving above an eternal flame, with a statue of a woman located underneath who is waiting for her husband to return home from the war.

7. The State History Museum

The State History Museum is one of the most important museums across Central Asia as it contains several exhibits about the heritage and culture of the Kyrgyz people.

There are plenty of wonderful exhibits located within the museum where you will get the chance to see household items from the Bronze age, jewellery dating from the 1st Century, ancient coins and numerous samples of rock paintings.

Unfortunately, it seems that the State History Museum is closed due to renovations currently, and has yet to announce a reopening date.

8. The White House

The White House is the presidential office building in Bishkek and is very unique in its architectural design. The building is of a Stalinist design and the exterior of the White House is covered in beautiful white marble.

The construction of this important building took eight years to complete and was completed in 1985. The White House was the headquarters for the communist party, and some people even believe it is connected to Ala-Too Square through a number of underground tunnels.

This building has an interesting history, as it was the site of the 2005 Kyrgyz Tulip revolution where protestors stormed inside the White House to overthrow the president.

It was also the site of the 2010 Kyrgyzstani riots, where a fire broke out damaging official government documents.

9. Oak Park

Oak Park is one of the oldest parks in Bishkek, and although the park was renamed in 2010 in honour of Chingiz Aitmatov, many people still know this area as Oak Park.

The Park is actually home to an open-air sculpture exhibition, and 90 sculptures can now be found within the park.

Some of the sculptures date back to 1984, with the most recent addition being a statue of Kurmajan Dakta in 2004.

If you are looking for relaxing things to do in Bishkek, then taking a wander around Oak Park is a must.

It is the perfect place to take a picnic, and the large oak trees offer plenty of shelter on a sunny day. Some of these oak trees have been here since 1890, which makes them as old as Bishkek itself.

10. Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre

If you are a culture buff, then a visit to the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre is a must.

The shows that are put on at this theatre are usually performed by local students or Russian and Kyrgyz artists, so will give you a good idea of the local art scene. Tickets are also incredibly cheap.

Day Trips from Bishkek

There are plenty of places you can visit that are located outside of the city. Here are just a few of the most popular day trips from Bishkek:

11. Ala-Archa National Park

Ala-Archa National Park is about a 45-minute drive from the city centre of Bishkek. Located within the Tien Shan Mountains, Ala-Archa offers incredible hiking opportunities and plenty of fresh air if you are looking to get out of the city.

The park’s altitude ranges from about 1,500m to 4,895m at the peak of Semenova Tian-Shanski which is the highest peak in the area. The scenery is so beautiful here that it is nicknamed “the Alps of Central Asia”.

With the abundance of space, comes a rich diversity of wildlife with wild goats, roe deers, marmots and if you are really lucky you might even spot a snow leopard although it’s incredibly rare.

You can get to this beautiful national park by using the public bus which you can catch near the Osh Bazaar. However, the bus only tends to drop you off at the first gate and there is a 7km walk to the start of the trails, so a taxi is also a good choice.

12. Konorchek Canyon

Konorcheck Canyon is probably one of the most beautiful places in the country. Also known as the Red Canyon, this landscape is incredible and offers views of unique rock formations, lush greenery and of course the striking red colour of the canyon.

Located about a two-hour drive from Bishkek, the cheapest option you have is to catch a minibus from the city centre and negotiate where you want them to drop you off.

However, if you are choosing to do it this way make sure you have a local sim card in your phone in case you get stuck on the way back. The simplest way to visit is to take a tour like this one, which includes the gorgeous canyon. Click here to book.

Another alternative is hiring a private taxi or joining a day tour of the canyon from Bishkek.

13. Climb the Burana Tower

Burana Tower is located within the Chuy Valley, near the town of Tomok. It is one of the oldest architectural pieces in Central Asia and used to be located at the centre of Balasagun, which was an ancient city that was built towards the end of the 9th century.

Today all that remains of the city are some grave markers, the remnants of a castle and three mausoleums and of course Burana Tower.

Originally the tower stood at an impressive 45m high (148ft) but an earthquake in the 15th century destroyed the top half of the tower. Today the tower stands at a height of 25m because of this, but it is still a pretty impressive sight to witness.

Getting to the Burana Tower from Bishkek is pretty easy. The first step is to get a bus to Tomok which takes about 90 minutes and then grab a taxi to the tower from there.

For more information see my full guide to the Burana Tower .

14. The Issyk-Ata hot springs

The Issyk-Ata hot springs have an incredibly interesting history, as they are one of central Asia’s oldest Soviet Sanatoriums. A sanatorium is a place used to treat people with an illness, and there were many of them located throughout the Soviet Union.

Issyk-Ata was used as a treatment centre for bone and muscle ailments, radiation illnesses after the Chernobyl disaster and during World War II as a treatment centre for soldiers. However, people still come here to be treated due to the peat mud which is full of nutrients and the hydro-sodium thermal water.

Today you can come here to take a walk around the surrounding valley, and then end your day swimming in the hot springs with beautiful views surrounding you.

Although the sanatorium isn’t maintained very well, and many parts look abandoned it’s definitely worth your time to visit. Issyk-Ata is open all year round and if you choose to brave it and visit in the winter, you can relax in the hot springs outside surrounded by snow-covered mountains.

15. Visit Lake Issyk Kul

Stunning Lake Issyk Kul is arguably Kygystan’s most beautiful landmark and the reason many people visit the country. This high-alpine lake is 113 miles long and 37 miles wide with various villages, resorts and beaches dotted around its shores.

This full-day tour from Bishkek includes a visit to the lake where you can swim (from May to September), take a boat trip and explore ancient sites such as the Rukh Ordo Spiritual Centre. The tour also includes a trip to the Burner Tower. Click here for more info .

Getting to Bishkek

The closest international airport to Bishkek is Manas International airport which is located about 27km away from the city centre. This makes the city easily accessible if you are travelling from abroad.

There is also a train from Moscow to Bishkek and vice versa, which runs twice a week if you are choosing to travel from Russia.

If you are travelling to Bishkek from Kazakhstan, there are minibuses from Almaty’s Sayran Bus Station which will take you through the border crossing and to the city centre. The journey time is around four hours.

More: How to get from Almaty to Bishkek .

Getting Around Bishkek

All the popular tourist attractions in Bishkek are located relatively close together, so you will be able to walk around a large part of the city.

If you are wanting to take public transport, the city has an extensive network of minibuses that will take you around.

These minibuses are known as Marshrutkas and there are various routes throughout the city. You can also choose to travel around by bus, but this is generally a lot slower. However, both ways are incredibly cheap.

Getting around by taxi is also a popular option, as fares are cheap. However, it is important to organise a fee in advance or ask the taxi driver to put on their taxi meter before you get in. This way you will avoid being overcharged.

Food in Bishkek

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to tasty dishes in Bishkek, so we’ve made it a bit easier for you. Here are some of the dishes you just have to try!

Oromo is a traditional steamed pie that is popular in Kyrgyzstan. The pie consists of layers of dough which are filled with meat, minced potatoes, animal fat and other vegetables like carrots, onion or pumpkin.

Beshbarmak is a traditional Kyrgyz dish, and translates to “five fingers”. That is because the dish is often eaten with hands only. The dish consists of either lamb or beef that is placed on top of a pile of noodles and onions and then served up with a broth at the side.

Borsok is a dough that is cut into squares and then fried. They are very airy inside and are especially tasty when served with butter, honey, jam or even dipped in fresh cream.

Bishkek Weather

The weather varies dramatically throughout the year in Bishkek. The warmer months between May and September have a high temperature of 36°C, with an average daily temperature of 25°C. Bishkek summers are usually very dry and warm, with the hottest month to visit being July.

However, the winters in Bishkek are freezing and experience lots of snow and rain. The coldest month to visit is January where temperatures can reach a low of -9°C.

Best Time to Visit Bishkek

Bishkek can be visited all year round, but many people choose to visit between the warmer months of August to October. I visited in April and the snow had melted from the low ground and the days weren’t cold.

Although the weather is warm, and the city will be busy, it also means the hiking trails located in the nearby mountain ranges are easily accessible and there will be less rain during this time of year.

Is Beshkik Safe to Visit

Bishkek is safe to visit with low crime rates and a friendly population. However, there are a couple of recordings of muggings taking place after dark on poorly lit streets.

Petty crimes also occur here such as pickpocketing, so it’s best to watch out when using public transport and around Osh Bazaar. A Kyrgyz friend I visited was robbed on a bus in Bishkek while she slept, so best to use a money belt .

Another thing to take note of is that Political tensions do remain in the country, and demonstrations occur throughout the year. Always avoid large political gatherings and protests.

Travel Insurance

Although Bishkek is a very safe city by world standards, you should always have good cover in case the unexpected happens. Our partners at  World Nomads  offer policies for adventurous travellers at great prices. You can get a free, no-obligation quote  here .

Accommodation in Bishkek

If you are looking for accommodation in Bishkek, there are plenty of options. Here are some of the best options for each budget:

Budget accommodation: Apple Hostel (close to Bishkek Bus Station)

Mid-budget accommodation: Bishkek Centrum Hotel (a superior king room)

Luxury accommodation: Navat Hotel (a deluxe king studio with balcony)

FAQs about Bishkek Things to Do

Bishkek is definitely worth visiting. Explore sights such as the famous Osh Bazaar, and use the city as a base for exploring the nearby mountains.

Three days is enough time to explore Bishkek, but if you wish to take day drips such as those to the Burana Tower, Ala-Archa National Park and Lake Issyk Kul, then a week is better.

Bishkek is one of the most interesting world capitals as it is not full of shiny skyscrapers and still retains much of its ancient Silk Road charm.

Kyrgyzstan is a land of mountains and untamed wilderness more beautiful than any city.

The area around the bus station and city centre is convenient for travelers. As Bishkek is not a large city, most places are either reachable on foot or no more than 10-minutes by taxi.

Bishkek is known for its famous Osh Bazaar and its stunning location surrounded by towering, snow-capped peaks.

So is Bishkek worth visiting? The answer is a definite yes! Whether you like to wander around museums, relax in a park with a tasty picnic or treat your tastebuds to some mouth-watering authentic dishes; this city has something for everyone. There are so many incredible things to do in Bishkek, so what are you waiting for?

Photograph credits:

Osh Bazaar © Ph. Valentina Borghi –  www.beborghi.com Victory Square © Claire Robinson – ZigZagReisen Burana Tower © Stephen Rohan – thetripgoeson

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

2 thoughts on “ 15 Amazing Things to Do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, in 2024 ”

I am visiting The Stans , starting from Krygastan / Bishkek as planned. My question is, is Almaty a safe place to visit ?, because we would like to pay a visit to Almaty for a few days but have been told the mugging and looting is very bad in Almaty. What is the latest news on Kazakhstan and is it really as bad as they say ?? Since the riots there….. Need some feed back as we are starting to organize the trip for May / June travel. your valued insight will be greatly appreciated. I have enjoyed reading your blog article so far. Thank you in advance for your response, awaiting fro a favourable feedback. Regards, Ash.

Hi Ash, I’ve sent you an email. But the short answer is, Almaty is very safe to visit. Just avoid any political gatherings (like you should in any country you visit). Cheers, Steve

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• The Best Things To Do...

The 10 Best Things To Do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan’s mountain-ringed capital, Bishkek, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore diverse Islamic and Soviet architecture, sample Central Asian cuisine, and discover local artwork.

Bordering the Tian Shan mountain range, Bishkek is as abundant in things to do as the picturesque surrounding scenery. The best things to do in the Kyrgyz capital include scoping out Soviet-era mosaics, admiring the brutalist Bishkek Central Mosque, and enjoying a night at the ballet.

Seek out Soviet-era mosaics

Bishkek as you see it today is predominantly a Soviet creation, and among the grand public buildings and concrete apartment blocks are some reasonably well-preserved mosaics from this era. They depict figures such as Lenin , cosmonauts, scientists and soldiers of the Red Army.

Compare Bishkek’s central mosques

The practice of religion in public was surpressed during the Soviet era, but since independence in 1991, Islam has experienced a revival in Kyrgyzstan.

Compare and contrast the brutalist concrete design of the old Gogol Street Mosque, built during Perestroika, with the newer Bishkek Central Mosque (also known as the Borborduk Mosque). The new mosque opened in 2017, cost $25 million (£19.3 million), and was a gift from a Turkish Foundation. Its Ottoman-style minarets are striking, and provide a visual counterpoint to the largely modernist Bishkek skyline.

Dress up for a night at the ballet

The most prestigious performance venue in Kyrgyzstan is Bishkek’s Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre. It’s an elegant neo-classical building next to the Hyatt Regency Hotel, and with tickets available from less than $2 (£1.55), it’s one of the cheapest nights out around.

The national opera and ballet are both accompanied by a full-size professional orchestra. They stage international favourites such as Swan Lake and La Traviata , as well as productions by Kyrgyz composers and choreographers.

Picnic among (in)famous faces in Oak Park

Oak Park (Dubovy Park in Russian) is right in the centre of Bishkek, just off the main street, Chuy Prospekt. The long-established trees cast their shade over multiple sculptures of well-known figures. Wander about and you’ll be sure to spot Buddha, but also philosophers Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. In fine weather contemporary artists exhibit their paintings alongside the paths, and in the evenings it’s a popular spot for families and couples to relax.

Discover new works from the Union of Artists

Kyrgyzstan’s Union of Artists has an exhibition hall on the edge of Oak Park. It’s a treasure trove for fans of late- and post-Soviet painting, sculpture and graphics, and a place where you’ll find many artworks by creatives who have never exhibited abroad.

Guidebook writer Max Lovell-Hoare fell in love with an almost life-size oil portrait of buzkashi players. “The artist captured the visceral energy, the aggression of the game,” he observes. “I had to have it!” There’s no obligation to buy from the artists, but if you do, the works are one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Shop for handicrafts at Tumar Art Salon

Kyrgyzstan’s rural artisans produce some stunning handicrafts, particularly feltwork and embroidery. The highest-quality products are on sale at Tumar Art Salon , a stylish and centrally located boutique. The women-run group commissions artisans to produce work to agreed designs, so there’s consistency and an effort to appeal to contemporary tastes. The monochrome felt cushion covers, silk and felt scarves, and beautifully made Christmas tree decorations are particularly popular.

Eat traditional Kyrgyz cuisine

Kyrgyz cuisine draws heavily on the country’s nomadic heritage, with meat and dairy products featuring prominently. Restaurant chain Navat has expanded the cultural experience to incorporate Kyrgyz interior design, music and costumes.

Aijan Lässer, co founder of Kalpak Travel , recommends going to Navat for dinner, “Each restaurant has beautifully decorated halls with national ornaments, and a wide variety of delicious national food. In the evenings they play music on traditional instruments, and if you are lucky you will also see national dances performed by the waiters and waitresses.”

Save the Ales: Kyrgyzstan’s first craft brewery

An all-female microbrewery and LGBTQ safe space, Save the Ales is a truly ground-breaking business in relatively conservative Kyrgyzstan. The brewery was founded in 2016 by Aida Musulmankulova and Arzu Kurbanova, two women who felt inspired when drinking craft beers abroad and decided to try their hand at brewing. “[Save the Ales] could be a bar in Brooklyn or Shoreditch before they became uber-trendy,” explains local resident Alan Laing. “It is simple, unfussy and all about the beer.”

Beers at Save the Ales cost around $3 (£2.33) for a pint. The high-strength IPA, stout, and fruit beers are brewed in kegs with imported ingredients, and are rightly the toast of the town.

Treat yourself to couture from DILBAR

DILBAR is Kyrgyzstan’s only couture house, and the designer is the lynchpin of Bishkek Fashion Week. In addition to producing prêt-à-porter collections each season, designer Dilbar Ashimbaeva also makes extraordinary costumes for films and for the Kyrgyz Olympic team.

DILBAR’s boutique is at 114/2 Kievskaya. If you’re interested in seeing the craftsmanship which goes on behind the scenes however, you can also request a studio tour.

Dance until dawn at Promzona

Bishkek is quite the party town, but the nightclubs and bars don’t get lively until late. Promzona Club has been the go-to venue for more than a decade, and it hosts a young and glamorous crowd.

Prepare to dress up if you’re going out in Bishkek; face control is strictly enforced, and shorts and worn-out jeans are a no. Promzona has an extensive drink menu of local and imported alcohol (the latter is substantially more expensive), plus pizzas and other snacks to fuel your dancing.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Walking around the city of Bishkek, you’ll see an interesting blend of old Soviet-era apartment buildings and monuments, modern shopping malls, and lush green parks with wide prospects. Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan, and is a vibrant, yet not so well-known city in Central Asia. It’s a great destination for those interested in Soviet history, budget travelers, and home base for trekkers. This guide will highlight the 10 best things to do in Bishkek so you can make the most of this hidden Central Asian gem.

Thinking of heading to Central Asia? Be sure to check out my Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide to help you plan your trip!

Last updated: 11/15/22

10 Best Things to do in Bishkek

1. Walk Around Victory Park

Victory Park in Bishkek is a large, public square dedicated to the victory over Nazi Germany in WWII. The centerpiece of the park is a monument of a Kyrgyz woman waiting for her husband to return home from the war and an eternal flame in front of her. Around her are three stretches of red granite that unite above the woman in a “tunduk” with the Soviet hammer and sickle carved into the star into the center. These pieces together represent a traditional Kyrgyz yurt, or the type of homes used traditionally by the nomadic Kyrgyz people along the steppes of Central Asia.

2. See a Show at the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theater

Experience the local arts in Bishkek by visiting the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theater! After his death in 1978, the theater was named Abdylas Maldybaev, a famous Kyrgyz composer, opera signer, and actor of the USSR. The theater stages various local and international opera and ballet performances, concerts, and other musical performances.

3. Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts

Built in 1935, the National Museum of Fine Arts was funded by the Communist Party in order to promote traditional Kyrgyz art. Since then, the museum has expanded to include various applied art, paintings and sculptures from three eras: Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic history, Kyrgyzstan during the Soviet Union, and post-Soviet Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic history presents much of its art through the instruments they used in and around the home such as carpets, embroideries, tools, jewelry and more. Because the Kyrgyz are traditionally nomadic, however, it was less common to lug around bigger art such as paintings or sculptures. With the Industrial Revolution and the incorporation of Kyrgyzstan into the Soviet Union, however, came a large interruption to the peoples’ nomadic way of life. Thus, Kyrgyz people began moving en mass to more permanent residences like to the cities to work in factories or onto collectivized farms. It’s during this time period you start to see less applied art and more pieces of artwork like paintings and sculptures. Moreover, the artwork of the Soviet era had to adhere to the artistic principles of Socialist Realism, which you can see in this section of the museum. The artwork and sculptures included in the section for post-Soviet Kyrgyz art very interesting combines the reflection of its nomadic roots and the response of the nation to its Soviet occupation.

4. Shop for local goods and souvenirs at Osh Bazaar

Osh Bazaar is one of the largest bazaars in Bishkek brimming with local vendors selling nearly everything under the sun – produce, bread, spices, herbs, plants, instruments, kitchenware, clothes, souvenirs – you name it. If you’re looking for a bustling bazaar where you can get the full Central Asian bazaar experience, look no further. It is known, however, to be chalk-full of pickpockets with their eyes set on tourists. I don’t know anyone who has personally gotten pickpocketed here, but the locals themselves warn of this so be sure to use best practices here. I like to flip my backpack onto my chest so that I can see it, and I always wear a money belt with my valuables inside just in case my backpack is stolen.

If you’re looking for a less hectic bazaar, I recommend Dardoi. You can find most things you need here + my friend, Lindsay, claims it has the best ashlyam-fu in Bishkek (hey, Lindsay!).

5. Walk Around Oak Park

One of my favorite aspects of Bishkek is its park culture. There are tons of parks throughout the city which provide plenty of shade in the blazing summer heat and spots for the locals to enjoy some down time. At any given time of the day, you’ll always encounter people taking in the day on one of the many benches or strolling down the sidewalk hand in hand.

Oak Park is the oldest park in Bishkek, and is noteworthy for its collection of monuments and statues placed throughout the park highlighting various historical figures and local traditions. Be sure to find the Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels Statue , Kurmanjan-Datka Monument (a 19th century Kyrgyz heroine), and the Red Guards Memorial .

6. Check out the Vladimir Lenin Statue

Although the USSR fell over thirty years ago, remnants of Kyrgyzstan’s former colonizers remain in several spots around its capital city. The most prominent of these remnants is a Vladimir Lenin statue which stands over 10 feet tall behind the city’s historical museum in the city center. The statue was erected in 1984 to commemorate sixty years under Soviet rule. Although most Lenin statues were taken down in former Soviet capitals after the fall of the Soviet Union, Bishkek’s Lenin stayed in its original place until 2003 when it was moved to its current location.

Choosing to keep Lenin’s statue up even after 1991 is likely a result of much of the public crediting Lenin with bringing about Kyrgyzstan’s statehood. And although Lenin and the Soviet Union became the cause of much suffering and oppression to come, its colonization also ended a bloody era in Kyrgyz history known as the Great Urkun. As in most post-Soviet countries, Lenin and the Soviet Union’s legacy is complicated. However, whether or not Soviet statues and other remnants of the past remain standing does give you interesting insight into how that country is grappling with that complicated past.

7. Visit the National Historical Museum of the Kyrgyz Republic on Ala-Too Square

The Historical Museum in Bishkek finally reopened in 2022 after seven years of rennovation! There is a bit of a juicy story behind this rennovation period and corruption, but the contents inside are far more interesting. The museum explores Kyrgyzstan from its earliest history to modern-day as you move from the bottom floor up. Featuring nearly 90,000 artifacts and historical items on display, the museum does a great job of guiding you through Kyrgyzstan’s ancient history, its importance along the Silk Road, becoming a part of the Russian Empire, then the Soviet Union, and, finally, its journey through statehood since independence in 1991.

My favorite part of the museum is on the third floor where they chart out the 40 tribes from which the people of Kyrgyzstan can trace back their lineage. It was fascinating that our tour guide and our teachers could point to the tribes they came from – especially being American and not knowing much about my own personal family background.

8. Walk Around the City Center

Bishkek is a great city for travelers who love to walk around when they visit a new city. The majority of tourist spots and attractions are located in the city center, and when strolling from place to place, you’re greeted with tons of fountains, wide prospects with brightly-colored flower beds, and tasty cafes and coffee shops.

Here are some of my favorite coffee shops and restaurants in the city center: Bellagio , Social Coffee , Traveler’s Coffee , Chicken Star , Ants .

9. See Bishkek’s White House

Yes, indeed, there is a government building in Bishkek called the White House! Covered in marble, the building was constructed in the Stalinist modern architectural style and was built in 1976 to be the headquarters of the Communist Party’s Central Committee. Today, the White House is the presidential office building.

Additionally, the White House bares particular historical significance as it relates to post-Soviet politics. The White House became the target of protests for the 2005 Tulip Revolution and the Kyrgyz Revolution of 2010 – both of which resulted in the ousting of the Presidents at the time.

10. Ride the Ferris Wheel at Panfilov Park

Panfilov Park is a great spot if you’re traveling with children or you yourself are still a child at heart 😉 Filled with games, mini-rides, and carnival food, Panfilov Park is a memorial park that now serves as a mini-amusement park in the city center. The best attraction here, in my opinion, is the ferris wheel that overlooks Bishkek’s city center and gives a spectacular view of its mountaneous backdrop. Oh, and yes – they have cotton candy!

How to Get Around Bishkek

Walk Along the City Center’s Many Wide Prospects

One thing about Bishkek that makes it unique is its wide sidewalks and many parks that make the city center a treat to walk around. Its thick green canopy provides some much-needed shade in the summer time.

Just a heads up for the walkers – Pedestrians don’t necessarily have the right of way in Central Asia. Always make eye contact with any approaching vehicles and don’t assume the drivers are looking for you as they turn the corners.

Take a Bus or a Trolleybus

Next up are buses and trolleybuses. Although only slightly more expensive, buses and trolleybuses do provide you with a bit more breathing space and elbow room. There are less bus and trolleybus routes in Bishkek than marshrutka routes, but they still offer transport to the majority of places around the city you’ll find yourself frequenting as a tourist. As of July 2022, bus fare is 15 som per ride . Credit cards are not accepted – cash/change only !

For bus and trolleybus routes, I recommend downloading the app 2GIS . Note* – Buses typically have three digits and trolleybuses are usually only 2 digits.

Take a Taxi

With the cost of taxi fare as low as it is, it is hard to justify taking any other mode of transport in the city. On average, the cost of a taxi from the very north of the city to the very south is about 200 som, which in 2022 is just over $2.

Although they are cheap, just note that you will rarely come across a taxi with seatbelts. Your driver might put one on as they drive past police officers, but I’d estimate that only 1/5 taxis have working seatbelts in their backseats.

While you can flag down a taxi, or any car for that matter, the most secure way to take a taxi around the city is through Yandex Taxi . You can pay by cash or, if you put in your card details before you order a cab, you can pay with foreign cards.

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10 Things to do in Bishkek

Updated April 2024,  10 Things to do in Bishkek was originally written in November 2019

I quite like Bishkek. Along with  Dushanbe  and  Khorog , it feels like a home away from home after all the time I’ve spent in  Central Asia  on my numerous trips here. But I often hear travelers complain that it’s boring and there’s not much to do— which is a big part of why I love it. There’s no pressure to see an endless list of sites, it’s a place where I feel I can really relax (as you can see by my extremely limited collections of photographs in Bishkek based on this post).

So if you find yourself headed to Bishkek here are things to do in Bishkek and additionally day trips to take from the city. If you’re starting to plan your adventure in Kyrgyzstan, I recommend the Bradt Kyrgyzstan guidebook to help you sort out your own trip.

Start here:  The Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Kyrgyzstan?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

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Where To Stay In Bishkek

I’ve been to Bishkek several times over the last few years. Here are my personal favorite hostels and hotels from my many stays:

Budget Apple Hostel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Midrange Viva Hotel |  Hotels.com  |

Splurge Hotel Asia Mountains 1 |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Splurge Salut Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

One of the largest bazaars in Central Asia, Osh Bazaar is massive and sprawling. I easily get lost each time I visit. If you’re looking to pick up souvenirs, supplies for literally anything, clothing, inexpensive produce and meat, or even quick and cheap Central Asian dishes and snacks this is your place. Or if you just wanna experience the chaos and fast-paced bustle (great for photography).

Local friends have always warned me of police (fake and real) extorting money from tourists here demanding to see passports and permits for photography, though I’ve never had an issue with this- it’s something to be aware of.

Ala-Too Square

With extensive fountains and beautiful flower displays, a big statue of Manas and flanked by brutalist architecture, this is the center of Bishkek. Ala-Too Square was built in 1984 to celebrate 60 years of the Kyrgyz SSR. There aren’t heaps to do here per se, but it’s a good place to sit down for a minute and relax. Many of the big sites in Bishkek are close by to Ala-Too Square.

State Museum of Fine Arts

This museum houses collections of Kyrgyz fine arts and traditional crafts, including felt works, carpets, and more. There are also touring local and international rotating exhibits brought into the museum as well.

Admission : 100 KGS.

Frunze House Museum

From 1926-1992 Bishkek was renamed Frunze, after Mikhail Vasilievich Frunze- the Bolshevik leader that was born in Bishkek. The museum is built around the house he was born in and displays many photos of the city of Bishkek and images from the Bolshevik Revolution. Note that there are no English language information labels on the photos or artifacts.

State Historical Museum (if it ever re-opens)

Just across Chuy Avenue from Ala-Too Square is the State Historical Museum that holds artifacts from Kyrgyzstan’s Soviet-era times all the way up to the 2010 revolution. The State Historical Museum has been closed for construction for many years now and it doesn’t seem known when it’ll ever re-open.

Planning to visit Kyrgyzstan’s second city? Check out my  Osh Travel Guide

Erkindik Park

Between the lanes of Erkindik Boulevard is this green, leafy oasis. There’s plenty of benches to take a rest on in the shade and a plethora of statues to wander between too.

Catch A Show At The State Opera & Ballet Theatre

Wanna catch a ballet or play on the cheap? This is your place to go. This is a great activity for those headed to Bishkek in the winter months and are looking for indoor activities.

Victory Square

A yurt-like structure with an eternal flame burning beneath dominates Victory Square. It’s a WWII monument commemorating the 40th anniversary of the end of the war.

Lenin Statue

If you haven’t spent much time in any post-Soviet republics these statues of Lenin are probably still a novelty. Either way their usually worth a quick photo op, though many throughout Central Asia have been toppled over, or in this Lenin’s case— moved to a less prominent location. This Lenin statue can be found behind the State Historical Museum that I’m beginning to doubt will ever reopen—but I’m will to take bets… 2030 anyone?

Craft Beer & Brewery Scene

The Bishkek beer scene is growing quickly. I feel like gotten to watch Bishkek grow up over the last few years with the new types of businesses that have been popping up. Make sure to try out the all-female ran Save the Ales and Brewster.

Gorge On Local & International Cuisine

If you’ve been in Central Asia for a while now you’re probably DYING to grab something not fried in mutton fat and you just can’t fathom getting through another plate of steaming plov. I understand the plight.

There are a wide variety of international restaurants to get a fix of something… anything else in. Some favorites include Chicken Star (Korean), Pur Pur (Georgian), Vinoteka (European), and Dolce Vita (pizza).

Oh, so you’re new here? You’re starting your Central Asia endeavors from Bishkek. You’re likely not ploved out just yet. Good local haunts offering up traditional Central Asian and Kyrgyz dishes to try are Navat, Taxim Cafe, and Frunze Restaurant.

Dordoi Bazaar

Sitting in the northeast of Bishkek, Dordoi Bazaar is a massive market that is actually comprised of nine different markets— but you’d never pick up on that. One of the highlights? The ashlan fu stalls selling Dungan spicy cold noodle soup that the eastern city of Karakol is famed for.

Bishkek Day Trips

Burana tower.

Burana Tower is all that remains from the city of Balasagan, the capital of the Karkhanid Khanate the ruled the area from the 9th-11th centuries.

Burana Tower is the main attraction, but there is also a nearby museum. Visiting on a Sunday is a great option for those that want to combine Burana Tower on a day trip with the Tokmok Sunday Animal Market. Admission is 150 KGS per person.

Read more about this day trip in my post How to get to  Burana Tower & Tokmok Animal Market .

Tokmok Animal Market

As mentioned in the previous section, the Tokmok Animal Market that only happens on Sundays makes a great day trip from Bishkek with Burana Tower. Traders from all over Chuy Valley and beyond to buy, sell and trade sheep, goats, camels, horses, and more. Read up more in How to get to  Burana Tower & Tokmok Animal Market .

Alamedin Valley

Alamedin Valley is a great place to head to get out of the city and spend a day walking in nature or set up for a nice picnic. To get to Alamedin Valley, grab a marshrutka from Alamedin Bazaar in Bishkek to Koi Tash or grab a taxi from the city. There’s also a fancy spa you can opt to spend an hour or two at in the valley at  Jannat Resort , and have a nice lunch at Twelve Chimneys if you’re not feeling outdoorsy.

Ata Beyit Memorial

Ata Beyit means ‘the grave of our fathers’ in Kyrgyz. Ata Beyit is a monument dedicated to the 137 people who were murdered and bodies buried here in a mass grave during the Stalinist Purge of 1938. One man saw the mass burial as it happened but kept the secret for years, only telling his daughter. She eventually shared her father’s story in 1991 after the independence of Kyrgyzstan when she knew it would be safe to share her father’s first-hand witness of the atrocity. Ata Beyit is located 25 kilometers south of Bishkek.

Konorchek Canyon

At 140 kilometers east of the big city, Konorcheck Canyon can make a nice day trip from Bishkek, or a nice stop to break up the journey between the capital and Issykul Lake.

Want to take a two-stan trip? Check out my two week Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan itinerary

Issyk Ata Valley Hot Spring

An easy visit from Bishkek that will take you to a waterfall and an old Soviet sanatorium where you can enjoy a dip in a hot spring.

Ala Archa Canyon offers anything from day walks to overnight treks to waterfalls, glaciers and mountain peaks. Hop on marshrutka #265 from Osh Bazaar or arrange a taxi to take you.

Park entrance : 100 KGS.

Hike In The Summer Or Ski In The Winter At Chunkurchak

For beginner skiers, Chunkurchak is a good place to head to get in some turns not far from Bishkek. In summer it provides a nice base for exploring.

Sokuluk Waterfall

Sokuluk Waterfall is a short trek 70 or so kilometers from Bishkek. I haven’t been here personally, but friends have recommended it in the past. It’s easiest to reach by hiring a taxi from Bishkek or if you have your own car.

Kol Tor Lake (Kegeti)

Hop on marshrutka 303 from the eastern bus station in Bishkek to the village of Kegeti to access the trail from Kol Tor Lake (there are several other Kol Tor Lakes in Kyrgyzstan, FYI). Start early because this is a long 5-8 hour day of trekking for most people. It’s possible to spend the night in Kegeti at Kegeti Tour Guesthouse.

More Posts from Kyrgyzstan:

7 Tips For Solo Female Travel In Central Asia

Why Foodies Should Flock To Karakol, Best Karakol Restaurants & Food

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

A 10 Day Pamir Highway Itinerary including the Wakhan Valley

The Karkara Border Crossing Between Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan

10 Things To Do In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

A Beginner’s Guide To Central Asia Travel: Discover The Silk Road

A Two Week Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Itinerary

Crossing Kyzyl Art Pass Between Tajikistan & Kyrgyzstan

5 Things To Do In Osh, Kyrgyzstan + Travel Guide

How To Get To Burana Tower & The Tokmok Animal Market

A Quick Guide To Jeti Oguz, Kyrgyzstan

How To Visit Sary Chelek, Kyrgyzstan

34 Photos That Will Make You Book A Ticket To Kyrgyzstan

Karakol Travel Guide + 13 Things To Do In Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

The Best Road Trips In The World

A Simple Guide To Central Asia Visas

Marco Poloing Around: The Long Way to Italy, Via Afghanistan

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The Best Things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

This post is about the best things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Bustling bazaars, green parks and Soviet architecture is what characterizes the capital of Kyrgyzstan . They are among the top things to do in Bishkek. A city that is quickly changing from a Russian outpost to a dynamic capital city with a Kyrgyz identity.

Kyrgyzstan has a nomadic past and therefore its urban areas aren’t necessarily the best the country has to offer. Yet, Bishkek is a pleasant city to explore for a couple of days and culturally speaking there are a lot of things to do in Bishkek.

Bishkek is a city that evolves and as it leaves its Soviet past behind is becoming more Kyrgyz in recent years. Nevertheless, Bishkek remains a very multicultural city with large Uzbek and Russian minorities.

For tourists there are a number of cultural activities from cooking classes to felt making workshops. The restaurant scene is excellent with some of the best Kyrgyz cuisine in the country and Bishkek’s bazaars offer ample opportunities to meet the friendly locals

Like Almaty in Kazakhstan , Bishkek also serves as the gateway to a range of outdoor activities. The mountains are just around the corner. Hiking in Ala archa National park, visiting the soviet Sanatoria in Issyk Ata and walking in the Alamedin Gorge are easy day trips from the capital.

There are enough things to do in Bishkek that you won’t be bored if you find yourself in Kyrgyzstan’s capital. Furthermore it is a good introduction to the country and a great place to start your Kyrgyzstan itinerary.

Things to do in Bishkek

Ala too square.

The Ala too square is among the top things to do in Bishkek. The central square was built in 1984 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Kyrgyz Soviet republic. The square has kept its unmistaken Soviet design, but Lenin has been replaced by the Kyrgyz hero Manas.

On a clear day you can see the snow capped peaks of the mountains in the backdrop and in summer families come here with their children to seek refreshment at the fountains.

State history museum

The state history museum on the Ala too square is one of the largest museums in Central Asia with interesting exhibitions about Kyrgyz nomadic culture. Unfortunately it has been closed for a long time due to restorations.

Victory monument

Like any proper Soviet city, Bishkek also has its own victory monument to remember the Kyrgyz soldiers that fought in the Great Patriotic War. The monument represents a yurt where the statue of a woman is watching over the eternal flame. She represents all the mothers and wives that were waiting for their sons and husbands that never came back home from the war.

One of the things that makes Bishkek such a pleasant city is the abundance of greenery. One of the oldest and most beautiful parks is Oak park. It is located just behind the fine arts museum and the park is almost a museum in itself with more than 90 sculptures. Most of the sculptures were made in 1984 at the 60th anniversary of Soviet Kyrgyzstan, but over the years new works of art have been added as well.

Fine arts museum

Bishkel’s small fine arts museum has a nice collection of applied arts such as Kyrgyz embroideries and shuurdaks as well as Russian and Soviet arts. With the state history museum closed this is now one of the most interesting museums in Bishkek.

Lenin statue

In most central asian cities, Lenin was quickly removed after independence. Not so in Bishkek, where he kept its prominent position in Ala Too square till 2003. And even then, Lenin was not completely removed to a remote suburb, like in Khujand, Tajikistan . Lenin, still has a central location behind the State history museum and in between Panfilov and Oak park.

Panfilov park

Panfilov park is the typical Soviet amusement park that is still immensely popular with families in the weekends and on holidays. It’s a fun park if you have children, but not the place where you will go for a quiet and peaceful walk.

One of my favourite things to do in Bishkek was exploring the bazaars. The biggest and most colourful market in Bishkek is Osh bazaar. Here you can find anything. From cheap chinese imports to traditional clothes, Kyrgyz Shuurdak, souvenirs and food items.

It might be noisy, smelly and chaotic, but no other market is so rich in local colour. It’s where the Kyrgyz, Uzbek, Russian, Dungan and Korean communities come together in the interest of commerce. Despite the cultural differences there is a friendly and collegial atmosphere in the market and it is a joy to see the vendors laughing together and helping each other out.

With its focus on food there are many things to try. Dried apricots, walnuts, dried yoghurt balls (kurut), fermented horse milk (kymyz), korean salads, horse sausages, sweets and other local delicacies.

Insider tips : Osh bazaar is notorious for pickpocketing, so keep your valuables at home and only bring what you really need.

Dordoi bazaar

Dordoi bazaar is the other most important market in Bishkek. While Osh bazaar is mostly about food, Dordoi is more about wholesale and retail products. Together with Tehran Grand bazaar , it is one of the largest markets in Asia.

Dordoi is a densaely packed maze of double stacked shipping containers functioning as store and storage at the same time. There are over 30,000 containers divided in different sections. There is the chinese section, the european section, the Kyrgyz section and a fur and leather section.

It’s easy to get lost in Dordoi. Apparently maps do exist, but I doubt they will be very useful as the container alleys all look very much alike. I found Dordoi to be less colourful as Osh bazaar. Things are definetly more about business here and the atmosphere is less friendly. Regardless, Dordoi is an experience that is not to be missed.

Zhirgal banya

One of the top cultural things to do in Bishkek is visiting one of the local bathhouses. The most popular one is the two domed zhirgal banya.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with a Russian banya, it is in fact more than just a bathhouse. The Russian banya ritual is all about sweating it out in a hot and humid sauna while you are being slappped by a bundle of leafy branches.

The sauna can be anything from a small wooden hut in a garden to a more spa like complex like the zhirgal banya in Bishkek that has several sauna’s, pools to cool down and possibilities to book massages and beauty treatments.

It’s sex segregated and entrance is less than 5 us dollars for which you get some plastic slippers and a bed sheet like material to cover yourself. Inside the sauna it is all nudity though, with the exception of the felt hats that the local woman wear to protect their heads from the heat.

Don’t expect too much privacy either. Once people find out you are not from there, you will get some stares, but also smiles and people trying to start a conversation, because they are curious where you are from. I thought it was a bit awkward in the beginning, but soon really enjoyed the experience.

Russian orthodox church

Christianity has a long history in Kyrgyzstan and has a large presence in Bishkek. The Russian orthodox church at Jibek Joli is the center for the Russian orthodox minority in the city.

White house

The presidential office building in Bishkek is interesting for its Stalinist design. It was built in 1985 as the headquarters for the communist party and some say it is connected with the Ala too square through a network of underground tunnels.

With independence it became the presidential office building and was the site of the 2005 Kyrgyz Tulip revolution when protesters stormed inside to overthrow president Askar Akayev.

Soviet architecture

If you love Soviet architecture, Bishkek is a great city for you. Besides the white house and the Ala too square there are plenty of other Soviet style buildings in Bishkek.

Hidden away in corners you will find beautiful mosaics and murals. This article on Soviet era art in Bishkek from Going the whole hogg will help you find some of these gems. This great Soviet architecture walking tour from Time travel turtle will guide you along the most impressive Soviet buildings.

Soviet circus

A special mention among the Soviet buildings is for Bishkeks circus. The Russians loved their circus and during the Soviet Union this tradition developed into a high form of art. While in many former Soviet cities the iconic circus buildings were left abandoned like in Chisinau, Moldova , Bishkek is still up and running.

Things to do near Bishkek

Being in Bishkek means you are very close to Kyrgyzstan’s spectacular nature. The mountains are just a stone’s throw away and there are several opportunities for day trips. Most are easy to reach with a combination of public transport and private taxi’s, but if you prefer not to hike alone you can always join one of the cheap tours of the Kyrgyzstan Trekking Union .

Ala archa national park

Ala Archa National Park is the most popular day trip destination to escape the city. Only 40 kilometers south of Bishkek and you are surrounded by juniper forests and breathtaking mountain sceneries. There are two hikes. One easy trail runs along the river and another more difficult trail goes up to the Ak sai waterfall. Multiple day hikes to the Adygene glacier and Ak Sai glacier are also possible.

How to get there : the best way to get there and back is by arranging a taxi to bring you there and pick you up again at a certain time. Otherwise catch marshrutka 265 to Kaska Suu and ask the driver to drop you off at the park entrance. Then walk or hitchhike the last 12 kilometers to the Alplager base that is also the start of the trails.

Read more information in my Ala Archa travel guide .

Burana tower

A lone 25 meter high minaret is all that is left of the medieval city of Balasagun in the Chuy valley. It stands tall in one of the few flat places in Kyrgyzstan. However, as you look over the fields, the snow capped peaks of the Tien Shan mountains loom in the distance. It’s an incredibly picturesque sight.

Balasagun was once a thriving city under the Khakanids in the 9th century, but it was destroyed by the Mongols. Earthquakes also took its tolls and the minaret is now only half of its original length. For 2 us dollars you can climb it for some beautiful views. Also don’t miss the balbal grave stones from nomadic Turkic tribes and the petroglyphs.

How to get there : take a minibus to Tokmok and arrange a taxi from there. With a one hour waiting time it should cost not more than 300 som.

The hot springs and old Soviet Sanatoria in the Issyk Ata gorge make for a great day trip from Bishkek. The hot springs in Issyk Ata’s mountains have a long history of attracting people that believe in the healing properties of the mineral rich waters.

The Soviet concept of a sanatorium was both to prevent and treat disease among the working people. When ill or for simple rest and recuperation people were sent to the sanatoriums in for example Georgia, Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan.

Issyk Ata is one of the oldest and is still in use as a treatment center for several illnesses, although its glory days are clearly over. Not much has changed since Soviet days and the buildings are in serious disrepair. The heated sulfur pools are believed to be good for all kind of things be it your skin, bones or muscles.

Besides the sanatorium, Issyk Ata’s pristine nature is another reason to come here. Issyk Ata is in the Chuy valley and a great place for hiking.

How to get there : take marshrutka 316 from the eastern bus station that leaves 6 times per day on fixed times (08:30, 10:00, 11:30, 13:30, 17:00, 18:00). It takes about two hours to get there. The last bus back to Bishkek is at 16:00.

Alamedin valley

Alamedin valley is south of Bishkek and is another hikers paradise with alpine mountain sceneries. You will also find hot springs here and the famous sanatorium tople kluchie where you can take radon baths believed to heal a number of diseases. From the Sanatorium there is a scenic 2 hour walk to a waterfall

How to get there : the best way is to take a private taxi and arrange a pick up to bring you back as well. Otherwise take a marshrutka from the Alamedin bazaar in Bishkek to Koi Tash village. It should take about an hour to get there. From there you can hitchhike or take a taxi to the sanatorium.

Bishkek Travel Tips

What to eat in bishkek.

Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, offers a diverse and delicious array of dishes that reflect the country’s Central Asian and nomadic culinary heritage.

You will find all the Central Asian classics like Plov (rice with carrots and meat), Laghman (noodle soup with vegetables and meat), manti (dumplings) or Shashlyck.

Kyrgyz specialities that you can try at the bazaars in Bishkek are kymyz (fermented horse milk) and kurut (hard cheesy balls).

Where to eat in Bishkek

Cafe faiza : Cafe Faiza is one of my favourite places to eat on a budget. They have a nice menu with both Russian and Kyrgyz food like plov, beef stroganov, borsht and laghman.

Chaikhana Navat : Chaikhana Navat has a beautiful decor and an extensive menu with delicious central asian food. If you want to have the best version of plov, laghman and beshbarmak out there head to Navat.

I can recommend one of their soups as a starter. I really loved the Uzbek soup Mastava. Their beshbarmak is very good too otherwise the pictures in the menu will help you choose what to eat.

Chebak pub : Go to Chebak pub if you want a good beer and some nice sizzling meat steak. The menu is more international and includes all kind of dishes that all go very well with your beer.

Adriano coffee : Adriano Coffee was one of my favourite places in Bishkek for breakfast. They also have excellent salads, pizza’s and spaghetti.

Stolovoya Lozhka : Stolovaya Lozhka doesn’t have the best food, but is a good option if you want to have a cheap and quick lunch or dinner. It’s like a Russian canteen where you can choose your food from a buffet for real bargain prices.

Where to sleep in Bishkek

Apple hostel : The Apple hostel is a social hostel that is very helpful in arranging day tours to nearby destinations like Ala Archa and Issyk Ata. Sometimes they organize cultural nights as well. A great start of any journey in Kyrgyzstan. It is conveniently located near the western bus station

Sakura guesthouse : Sakura guesthouse is a good option for those on a budget. It’s also a great place to meet other travellers. the dorms and rooms are very clean. It’s in a nice and quiet suburban area and there is a nice garden area to sit outside.

How to get around in Bishkek

Public transport : Bishkek has an excellent public transport network that can bring you anywhere in the city for less than 10 som whether it is by bus, marshrutka or trolley. Download 2Gis for offline navigation that includes how to get from A to B. Another useful site and app is bus.kg .

Taxi’s : If figuring out the public transport network seems too daunting a task or you find it too overcrowded, don’t worry. Taxi’s are cheap in Bishkek. I can really recommend to use the taxi hailing app yandex , especially if you don’t speak Russian or Kyrgyz.

How to get to Bishkek

Bishkek has several bus terminals each serving different destinations in the country and even abroad.

Western bus station : The western bus station at the intersection of Jibek Joli and Kuliyeva street is the largest station in Bishkek and also seen as the main bus station. From here buses and shared taxi’s leave to almost every destination in the country as well as Almaty , Tashkent and Russia.

Read more in my post on how to travel from Bishkek to Karakol and lake Issyk kul .

Eastern bus station : The eastern bus station at the intersection of Jibek Joli and Osmonkula serves nearby destinations east of Bishkek such as the Chuy valley, Tokmok and Issyk Ata

Osh bazaar : South of Osh bazaar is where shared taxi’s to Osh gather. Try to come early morning when there are more passengers and taxi’s fill up more quickly. Check out my post on how to get from Bishkek to Osh for more information and alternative ways to travel.

International : Kyrgyzstan shares borders with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China, allowing for overland travel options. However, be prepared for longer travel times and possible visa requirements for crossing borders. Flying to Bishkek is the most convenient and time-efficient option for international travelers. Manas International Airport (FRU) serves Bishkek and various international destinations.

When to visit Bishkek

The best time to visit Bishkek is during the late spring to early autumn months, which generally fall between April and October. During this period, the weather is more favorable, and you can enjoy various outdoor activities and explore the city comfortably.

Summer in Bishkek can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) during the day. However, this is the best time to go trekking in the mountains. In contrast, winters are very cold.

Sustainable Travel in Bishkek

Bishkek is seeing more tourists every year. It is better to try Kyrgyz cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Traveling sustainably in Bishkek, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community.

Support the community : You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, and restaurants. It is better to try Kyrgyz cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Kyrgyz food is not very vegetarian friendly, but there are a few vegetarian restaurants in Bishkek.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels. Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Bishkek has a well-developed public transportation system with buses and marshrutkas. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of taxis or private cars to reduce carbon emissions. Even better is exploring the city by foot.

Leave no trace principle : Bishkek is not far from the Tien Shan mountains. When exploring the area, stick to designated trails when they are there, avoid disturbing wildlife or picking plants, and leave no trace of your presence. Ensure you take all your trash back with you and dispose of it responsibly. To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter that you can refill at your accomodation.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. Kyrgyzstan is an Islamic country that is just opening up to tourism. Therefore, learn about the local customs and traditions beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Kyrgyz or Russian, can go a long way in building meaningful connections.

Disclaimer : This post with a travel guide about the top things to do in Bishkek Kyrgyzstan contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

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The best places to visit in bishkek when you arrive.

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is the perfect place to begin your trip around Central Asia. Central Asia is a relatively untouched corner of the Earth that sees little tourism. It can be difficult to plan your trip around Central Asia with few resources online. So, here, we have decided to give you information on the places to visit in Bishkek and why it’s the perfect starting point for a Central Asia trip.

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Places to visit in Bishkek

Bishkek osh bazaar & second-hand street.

The weather in Central Asia can change dramatically on a day-to-day basis. One day you could be in 25-degree heat in Bishkek, and the next day you could be freezing by the lake in Cholpon-Ata. As if the weather changes in different regions aren’t enough, the weather can also change throughout the day. Temperatures can drop to below freezing during the night but can reach 20+ degrees in the daytime.

Osh Bazaar and second-hand street are perfect places to pick up some cheap clothes to suit the weather, whether that be for trekking adventures in Kyrgyzstan, or adventuring along the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan. Trust us, you don’t want to be up in the mountains when it is freezing with only a thin jacket. Clothes shopping for your trip should be the first thing on your list of things to do in Bishkek!

Osh Bazaar is massive and you can find anything from clothes to cosmetics here. There is also a second-hand street located just by Osh Bazaar where you can find some decent jackets and coats. Jake bought a big warm jacket for just $10, and Katie bought some nice new trainers for just $8. They certainly came in handy, once we reached Cholpon-Ata.

Ala-Too Square

A visit to Ala-Too Square, the central square, is one of the number one places to visit in Bishkek. Aside from it being the central hub of some of the main attractions, such as the Historical Museum and Oak Park, the square is a nice place to roam around. In the centre of the square, the 45-meter Kyrgyz flag waves proudly, not too far from the 10-meter high equestrian statue of Manas, a famous Kyrgyz Batyr.

Historical Museum

If you’re a history buff, head over to Bishkek’s historical museum, which displays over a whopping 90,000 exhibits. You will find collections of objects, such as jewellery from nomads that date way back to the 1st century. You can also view samples of rock paintings and other household items from the Bronze Age period.

Neighbouring countries’ embassies for visas

Bishkek is the perfect place to pick up visas for neighbouring countries, such as Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Bishkek is one of the easiest places to apply for and pick up your visas. You can apply for the Uzbekistan visa and travel around Lake Issy-Kul before picking up the visa on your way back.

If you’re planning a trip to Uzbekistan, make sure to check out our Backpacking Uzbekistan itinerary.

Coffee shops & cafes

There are many coffee shops and cafes dotted along the streets of Bishkek. They make for great places to sit, relax and plan out your trip through Central Asia. The wifi in the city is excellent, so here is your chance to do some research in a relaxing environment. Once you leave Bishkek, wifi is limited.

Apple Hostel for a social vibe

Bishkek is a great place to meet fellow travellers and socialize. You will find many travellers in Bishkek are either starting their journey through Central Asia or finishing. Apple Hostel is a popular hostel for all kinds of tourists and is a good place to pick the brains of travellers that have been there and done that, as well as find other people to travel with and split the cost of any tours or taxis.

How to get to Bishkek

Cheap flights to bishkek.

Bishkek is one of the cheapest areas in the region to fly into. It’s particularly cheap to fly from Delhi, India . Pegasus Airlines offer direct flights that take just under 4 hours. We paid around $100 each for a direct flight. We recommend checking Skyscanner for the best deals and prices for this route.

Kyrgyzstan is visa-free

Citizens of 45 countries are now eligible to enter Kyrgyzstan visa FREE, and a further 20 countries can easily obtain a visa upon arrival. The visa-free scheme and the easiness to get a visa, make Kyrgyzstan a great place to start your trip. It’s also a great starting point for those who are undecided on which “stan” country to visit first. Plus, if you only visit one, why not visit the one where you don’t need to get a visa?

Where to stay in Bishkek

Apple hostel.

Apple Hostel is a great base for ticking off these places to visit in Bishkek. It is conveniently located right next to the West Bus Station, which has plenty of transport links to Osh , places around Issy-Kul Lake, and the airport.

The rooms at Apple Hostel are super comfy and are all equipped with good-quality bedding. But what makes this hostel one of a kind is the owner, Aigul. Aigul and her staff are the perfect hosts and are very knowledgeable about Kyrgyzstan and the different types of tours. We fully recommend this hostel for solo travellers or people who want a social environment.

Solutel Hotel

Solutel Hotel is a shining example of a hotel that knows what it’s doing! The hotel is well equipped with amenities such as; a fridge and mini-bar, restaurant, breakfast bar, sauna, and gym. The rooms are modernly decorated, and the beds are HUGE. Don’t believe me? Just take a look at the picture! The staff at the hotel are professional and very welcoming. We recommend this hotel for travellers who need a little bit of luxury before heading out into the wilderness to camp. After all, we all need a little luxury now and then!

Essential resources for travelling in Kyrgyzstan

Travel Insurance – No matter where you’re travelling to, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any accidents or losses. We spent days and weeks searching for insurance, but most insurers would not allow us to take out a policy as we were already abroad. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. More importantly, it is available in 180 countries and can be purchased whilst already travelling. There is no cap on the duration of travel.

Visa – Before you travel to any country, make sure to check if you need a visa. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. Just type in where you are from. and where you are going. to check if you need a visa. If you do, you can quickly make an application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend to almost always have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

Travel tips ebook -Before you head off on your adventure, make sure to download our free ebook. It has a whopping 109 budget travel tips to help you make your hard-earned cash go further. Click here to download your FREE ebook.

Looking to travel around Kyrgyzstan? Check out our Kyrgyzstan backpacking route.

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*We were hosted complimentary by Apple Hostel and Solutel Hotel. All opinions are our own, based on our experience.*

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Home » Asia » Kyrgyzstan » Places to Visit

22 of the Most Stunning Places to Visit in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is an extremely diverse country geographically. Here, you will find almost every type of landscape imaginable: towering peaks, vast plains, colorful deserts, huge swathes of woods, all of these and more. There’s even an enormous lake that could be mistaken for an ocean (if oceans had mountains behind them).

There are so many things to see in Kyrgyzstan; more than one could hope to see in a lifetime. Sorting through the many places to visit in Kyrgyzstan could be overwhelming, especially for those with limited time in the country.

To help get everyone amped about visiting this awesome country, I’ve assembled a list of some of my favorite destinations in Kyrgyzstan. In writing it, I’ve made sure to cover as many bases as possible without bombarding you. Included are outdoor adventures, cultural oddities, and cities where travelers can plan their next move.

Kyrgyzstan is an amazing place, there is no doubt in my mind. Consider these suggestions and find out which are perfect for your next trip!

The Most Magical Places to Visit in Kyrgyzstan 

Faq on the best places to visit in kyrgyzstan, a final note on traveling safely in kyrgyzstan.

Let’s not mince words and get right to it: these are the definitive Kyrgyzstan locations that you need to visit next time you go!

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1. Issyk Kul

One of the prettiest lakes you’ll ever see with lots to do.

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Issyk Kul is probably the first place in Kyrgyzstan that everyone hears about. Immensely large, unfathomably deep, and totally out-of-this-world, Issyk Kul is one of the most unique locations on earth. Where else can you see red-sand beaches, crystal clear water, and snowy-mountains all in one place? 

The south shore is the best part of Issyk Kul to visit. Unlike the north shore, which is mostly inhabited by lake resorts and vacationing Russians, the south is much wilder. Some of Kyrgyzstan’s top attractions, like Jeti Oguz, Barskoon Gorge, and Fairytale Canyon, are also located on this side of the lake. 

When visiting the southern part of Issyk Kul, you must stay in one of the many yurt camps that dot the shore. Aside from offering a more authentic lodging experience, they also benefit from spectacular locations. Most are built right on the shores of the lake, which means you’ll get those views, that water, and that cool red sand when stay at one.

The north shore is definitely more resorty. If you’re not into that kind of vacation, you can skip most of this part of the lake BUT be sure to drop by Chopon Alata. There are some cool petroglyphs here that are worth seeing if you’re passing through. 

How to Get to Issyk Kul

Issyk Kul is one of the most popular places to visit in Kyrgyzstan and is easily reached from Bishkek. 

• By car: Leave Bishkek, get on the A-365, and just drive east – you’ll make it to Issyk Kul in a couple of hours. 
• By public transport: Minibuses leave from Bishkek’s Western bus station regularly. Prices are around $5 one way. Most drive along the northern edge of the lake.
• By private taxi: Expect to pay at least $15-20 per seat for a private taxi. Will most likely be shared with other tourists.

Where to Stay Around Issyk Kul

There is a TON of accommodation around Issyk Kul. We’re talking everything from hotels to hostels to guesthouses to yurt camps. Any way you look at it, there something for everyone around Issyk Kul.

• Recommended yurt camp: Bel-tam Yurt Camp
• Recommended guesthouse: Tashtanbay Ata Guest House

2. Fairytale Canyon or Skazka Canyon

Psychedelic rocks and fantastical shapes in the desert.

Kyrgyzstan is most well-known for its mountain scenery and lush, rolling pasture-lands. But did you know that it also has amazing desert landscapes as well? Any Kyrgyzstan backpacking adventure needs a bit of both.

Yes, the southern areas around Issyk Kul are rife with canyonlands and petrified oddities that you would normally find in the American Southwest. Red is a common color in these parts although shades of yellow, orange, and even purple sometimes pop up. 

The most colorful spot in the region is without a doubt Fairytale Canyon . Here, the geology is vivid and nearly every color imaginable is present. Everything merges and molds together into new and fantastical forms.  In my opinion, the whole area kind of looks like a surrealist painting. I like to imagine that whilst Gaugin admired French Polynesia, Dali would be totally inspired by the liquid landscapes at Fairytale Canyon.

How to Get to Fairytale Canyon

If you’re on an organized tour in Kyrgyzstan, your operators will be able to arrange all the necessary transport. For those that have their own car: just drive along the A-363 on the southern shore until you see the turnoff for Fairytale Canyon on the right.

If you’ve taken public transport to Bokonbaevo, you can arrange a private taxi for around $20-$25 that will take you to the canyon. The taxi will wait whilst you explore and then take you back to town when you’re ready.

Where to Stay Around Fairytale Canyon 

Most people visit Fairytale Canyon as a day trip from Bishkek or somewhere else on Issyk Kul. For suggestions on where to stay in either, check out the above section for Issyk Kul or stay at our favorite hostel in Bishkek (and Kyrgyzstan for that matter) Tunduk Hostel .

3. Altyn Arashan

Hot springs, wooden cabins, and mountain views – the Kyrgyz idea of paradise

This really is one of the most perfect places to visit in Kyrgyzstan. Altyn Arashan is a semi-wild resort area that provides guests with comfortable lodging, splendid mountain views, and the chance to soak in hot springs. I shit you not, the water from these springs is the perfect temperature and spending an afternoon bathing in them is probably the best post-hike treatment that I’ve ever received. 

Before I get lost in the memory of those heavenly hot springs, let me say that there is still plenty more to do around Altyn Arashan. Lots of people venture here to explore the greater valley, either on foot or by horseback. Some choose to go all the way up the valley to get a better view of the peculiarly tent-shaped Palatka Peak. Either way, any manner of exploring Altyn Arashan is like walking in paradise.

Insider tip: Be on the lookout for the special bonsai tree next to the river.

How to Get to Altyn Arashan

The road (if you can call it that) to Altyn Arashan is very, very rough. Normal cars cannot drive on it, which leaves backpackers with two options:

• Have someone drop you off at the unofficial Altyn Arashan parking area and then walk for about 3-4 hours to reach the heart of the valley.
• Organize a ride with a special 4×4 transport that is able to handle the road. Note that this option entails a very bumpy ride and a premium price of about $30 per seat.

Where to Stay Around Altyn Arashan

When visiting Altyn Arashan, you absolutely have to stay in a wooden cabin. They are warm, comfy, cozy, and a highlight of the trip. The local Kyrgyz who manage the individual cabins usually have a private sauna facility on the premises as well. Be sure to double-check as not every cabin has access to spring water.

I highly recommend booking a cabin ahead of time as they fill up quick. The best way to book ahead is to call the cabin reception to reserve a room. Local people from Karakol can help you do this.

An epic mountain lake that changes colors with the weather

Those who have already done some research on hiking in Kyrgyzstan have probably already heard about Ala-Kul . For those who haven’t heard of Ala-Kul, it is a stunning alpine lake set high in the mountains above Karakol. Just take a look at the photos – although they pale in comparison to the real thing, they should make you chomping at the bit to visit Kyrgyzstan.

Ala-Kul is a painfully beautiful lake and it can even be said that it has a “personality.” It’s a well-known fact that the waters of Ala-Kul change color on a regular basis depending on the weather. When it’s bright out, the water is an energetic azure; when it’s stormy they change to a deep and melancholy cobalt. This poly-chromatic phenomenon most likely inspired the name Ala-Kul as well – it means “Lake of Many Colors” in Kyrgyz.

Because it is 3500 meters high, Ala-Kul is not lacking for jaw-dropping views as well. Whilst hiking to the lake, you’ll see soaring peaks in almost every direction. The lake itself is also enclosed by its own set of rugged mountains, which only adds more grandeur to the scene.

Insider tip: If you have time, make the short 2-hour hike from Karakol Valley to see Karakol Peak – the highest mountain in the Ala-Too.

How to Get to Ala-Kul 

The only way to get to Ala-Kul is by walking. Most do so over the course of 2-3 days trekking. 

The trail to Ala-Kul starts in the Karakol Valley, ascends 1,300 meters to the lake, gains another 300 meters to Ala-Kul Pass, and finishes with another 1,300 meter descent to Altyn Arashan. This is a fairly broad overview of the walk though. For more information, be sure to check out our Kyrgyzstan hiking guide .

Where to Stay Around Ala-Kul

If you’re planning on spending the night at Ala-Kul (which you should be) then camping will be your only option. This means you will either have to pack a tent up with you (hire a porter if this seems arduous) or book a spot at Ak-Sai Travel’s established campground. The latter costs about $50 per tent and includes breakfast and dinner. 

Be sure to pack the right outdoor gear if you plan on staying overnight. Have a nice warm sleeping bag as well as a good sturdy backpacking tent to keep safe and comfortable.

5. Sary Jaz

An untouched jailoo in Kyrgyzstan that sees few visitors

Sary Jaz is a yet-to-be-discovered location in Kyrgyzstan that we think deserves more attention. Set on the Chinese-Kazak border to the southeast of Karakol, Sary Jaz offers more than just the usual Kyrgz adventures.

For one, the area located immediately on the Kazak border is full of interesting caves that are rarely known to outsiders. From the jailoo, one can also see one of Kyrgyzstan’s highest mountains, the mighty Khan Tengri, on a clear day.

But the trip doesn’t end there. South of Sary Jaz is Enylchek . Whilst primarily known as the beginning of the Khan Tengri expedition, Enylchek itself is also fascinating. As a former mining region, Enylchek is full of old abandoned Soviet buildings and facilities. You can visit the ruins of the Soviet town and then afterward take a dip in some local hot springs!

Because of the close proximity of Sary Jaz to the Chinese border, permits are needed to visit the region, which you can get from a local tour operator of your choosing.

How to Get to Sary Jaz

Sary Jaz and Enylchek require a 4×4 vehicle to visit. Sections of the journey will require off-roading so make sure you’re comfortable with rough roads or hire a driver/guide.

Sary Jaz and Enylchek are located relatively close to one another but are separated at a crossroads. The crossroad in question is at the military checkpoint where you will need to present your permits. Driving south from the checkpoint, the turnoff for Sary Jaz will be on the left whilst Enylcheck will be straight ahead.

Where to Stay Around Sary Jaz

There are a couple of host families in Enylchek (yes, people still live in the abandoned town) that sometimes take in travelers. If you want to stay with one, it would be a good idea to have a local guide to translate for you.

Camping is way more likely in Sary Jaz and Enylchek. There is a lot of open land in these parts so finding a site shouldn’t be a problem.

6. Song Kul

An alpine wonderland that hosts wandering nomads in the summer

Song Kul is a bit of a marvel for two very particular reasons: 1) it looks like something straight out of Alaska or Iceland and 2) it’s only a couple of hours from the capital. It sounds crazy to me, the fact that you can literally be in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by nothing but horses and mountains, and only in the course of a few hours drive; it’s unheard of! But such are the wonders of Kyrgyzstan.

The name Song Kul belongs mostly to the large lake in the center of a jailoo though there is a lot more going on around this area. Sprawling meadows and the numerous 4,000-meter peaks looming above are all a part of Song Kul. Their presence makes Song Kul seem more Arctic than Central Asian at times. 

But the part that really makes Song Kul worth visiting are the people. Song Kul is a very popular place during the summer for Kyrgyz families and many come here either to let their horses graze or to host travelers. Most have small yurt camps to accommodate people. If you stay at one of these, you will be showered with good food and maybe not so good kumis (fermented mare’s milk). 

How to Get to Song Kul

Song Kul is accessed normally in one of two ways:

• By SUV either rented or owned by a driver. Drive time from Bishkek is usually around 3-4 hours drive. Make sure you got some clearance on your car and a pair of chains – the roads are rough and snow is possible all year.
• By 2-3 days horse trekking. If you’re interested, then be sure to read our guide horse trekking in Kyrgyzstan to learn more.

Where to Stay Around Song Kul

It’d be foolish NOT to stay in a local yurt camp when visiting Song Kul. In fact, this is probably one of the best places in Kyrgyzstan to sleep in a traditional yurt – the views are hard to beat and the hospitality of the people is unrivaled. 

Most yurts cost about $15 per night and include dinner and breakfast.

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The hiking capital of Kyrgyzstan and Chinese Dungan enclave

For those who want to go hiking in the Ala-Too Mountains – which hosts superlative locations like Ala-Kul and Altyn Arashan – Karakol will be their primary base of operations. If you need a break from hiking, the town has a number of cultural sites, which should keep people busy for a few days in-between their adventures. 

Karakol is a great place to start trekking due to its prime location at the foot of the mountains and a decent array of services. There are several local outfitters in Karakol that can help equip you for an epic trek, whether you’re in need of a new tent or a full-on guide. Visit Karakol is a fantastic tour operator that comes recommended by us.

Karakol is also a bit of cultural curiosity. It was the landing place for many displaced Dungan Muslims when they have driven away from China in the late 19th-century. The local Dungan Mosque is one of the stranger religious buildings I’ve seen and actually has some East Asian features. The local delicacy in Karakol is also lagman – a type of fried-noodle that originated in Kashgar, China.

Insider tip: My favorite shashlik (Russian kebabs) in all Kyrgyzstan can be found at Kafe Aychurok.

How to Get to Karakol

There are lots of buses that travel between Karakol and Bishkek. Buses leave from Bishkek at the Western Station and arrive at the Avtovokzal stop in Karakol. Vice versa is the same.

Those driving can head to Karakol along the southern or northern shore of Issyk Kul (both are the A-363 road). Note that the northern shore is a better-paved road but the southern shore is more scenic. 

Where to Stay Around Karakol

Karakol doesn’t really have a central business area and, consequently, lodging is kind of spread throughout the entire town. There are still plenty of hotels and guesthouses, but it just doesn’t seem like it at first. These are some of our preferred places to stay in Karakol:

• Recommended hostel: KbH-Karakol
• Recommended hotel: Riverside Karakol
• Recommended guesthouse: Evergreen Guesthouse

8. Jeti Oguz

The Seven Bulls – seven red-rock towers at the base of the Ala-Too Range

Jeti Oguz is yet another example of how Kyrgyzstan looks so much like the Western American landscape. Meaning “seven bulls” in Kyrgyz, Jeti Oguz is a collection of blood-red rocks at the base of the Ala-Too Mountains. Their prominent shape, height, and absolutely brilliant color, which is wonderfully juxtaposed against the green hills, make them unforgettable. 

To get the best view of Jeti Oguz, simply climb up the eastern slopes next to the road . The viewpoint at the top of the hill offers the best panoramas. 

Don’t forget to drop by the Broken Heart on your way to Jeti Oguz either. Its name comes from both the distinctive crack running down the rock and from the tragic love stories that surround it.

How to Get to Jeti Oguz

Jeti Oguz is located very close to Karakol and the drive there is only about 30-minutes long. You will either need your own car or hire a private driver or tour. There are plenty of taxi drivers in Karakol so finding one shouldn’t be a problem. Expect to pay $7-$8 one way with a taxi.

Where to Stay Around Jeti Oguz

Jeti Oguz is already one of the most popular places to visit in Kyrgyzstan. Unfortunately, this means that there is quite a bit of infrastructure built up around the monoliths. A dozen guesthouses surround the rocks and there is almost always a decent-sized crowd in the area.

9. Tulpar Kul and Peak Lenin BC

One of the easiest ways to see a 7000+ meter peak up-close

Normally, you’d expect a full-on expedition would be required to see 7000+ meter peak. After all, it sometimes takes days for a trekker to see one in Nepal or India sometimes.

What if I told you that you could see an ultra-peak in only a matter of hours , would that interest you?

Peak Lenin is well-known for being one of the most accessible ultras in the world. Its base is a mere 5-hour drive from Osh and, even then, its summit can already be seen hours before from the highway.

When driving to Peak Lenin, the first notable place you’ll see is Tulpar Kul. This area is essentially a collection of small alpine lakes and this is where the majority of yurt camps are. You’ll have to stop the car here but you can further up the valley of Peak Lenin to reach its first base camp.

Peak Lenin Base Camp is within a few hours walk from Tulpar Kul. That means that, if you left Osh early, you can arrive at the base camp of an ultra in less than a day . What a crazy world we live in these days. Oh, and the name is a hangover from the days of the Soviet Union – we have written a whole post setting out more tips and fact about Kyrgyzstan .

How to Get to Peak Lenin BC

Hire a car or a driver in Osh to take you to Sary Mogul first. If you go with a driver, make sure that you don’t get ripped-off. Ask a friendly local to help negotiate prices with the driver and try to pay less than $50 for the entire car, one-way. 

Once you arrive in Sary Mogul, head to the local CBT office and book a jeep transport up to Tulpar Kul. You’ll have to pay another $40 but it’s round-trip. The CBT driver will drop you off at their private yurt camp at Tulpar Kul.

Where to Stay Around Tulpar Kul

Stay at the CBT yurt camp or whichever one the driver leaves you at. They’re all nice and cozy. All of them will cost $15/night and include dinner and breakfast.

Eager adventurers can also spend a night at the Peak Lenin Base Camp. There’s one established campground there that also costs $15/night.

10. Arslanbob

A charming mountain village that hosts waterfalls and the largest walnut forest in the world

Arslanbob is somewhere that manages to fly under the bulk of tourists’ radars. A lot of travelers just pass through here on their way to Osh or when heading back to Bishkek. Whilst a day in Arslanbob is still enjoyable, spending more than one is totally worthwhile.

Arslanbob is most well-known for hosting the largest walnut forest in the world . This forest is a great source of pride for the natives and it is a pretty big part of their life. In the autumn, almost everyone runs away into the forest to pick walnuts and during this time there are lots of harvest celebrations. If you want to experience a real festival in Kyrgyzstan, this is one of the best places to do it. 

Aside from the massive woods, there are also lots more things to do in Arslanbob. Close to town are a couple of very pretty waterfalls that make for great day hikes. If you wanted to go on a multi-day backpacking trip, walking to the nearby Holy Lakes is a great way to spend 3 or 4 days in the mountains.

How to Get to Arslanbob

Arslanbob is about 3.5 hours drive north from Osh. If you’re self-driving, be mindful that the main road crosses into Uzbekistan and that you may need border permits. To avoid crossing the border, drive via Uzgen and J alal-Abad .

If you take public transport, you will transit through Jalal-Abad and Bazar Korgon . 

Where to Stay Around Arslanbob

There are plenty of cute lodges in Arslanbob! Some of our favorites are the simply-named Friendship and Halal Muslim Guesthouse . Grab a bowl of walnuts and just relax in the gardens of one of these.

11. Barskoon Gorge

Former center of the world and holiday home for Yuri Garigan, now gold-mining town.

Barskoon is full of little fun oddities. From the moment you arrive, you are greeted by a very out-of-place statue of Yuri Garigan aka the most famous Cosmonaut ever. Shortly after, you see a tree covered with knitted wear, as if it were prone to catching a cold during chilly evenings. (These bundled-up trees are called “wishing trees” and they’re actually a common sight in Kyrgyzstan.) 

Barskoon has a certain magnetism to it and lots of people are attracted to this place for one reason or another. Some come to see the many waterfalls while others simply enjoy having a picnic here. If you ask any Canadians nearby, they’ll probably say they enjoy the mountains of gold being excavated in Barskoon .

Regardless of intentions, Barskoon is a very lovely place to visit in Kyrgyzstan. It’s verdant, scenic, and very relaxing. It may not be the center of the world, as local Karakhanid philosopher Mahmud al-Kashgari once believed, but it’s close enough.

How to Get to Barskoon Gorge

Travel east along the south shore of Issyk Kul and take a right onto the A-364. Drive another 30 minutes or so until you reach a relatively developed area with yurt stays and camps. If you see the Yuri Garigan statue, you’ve arrived. 

Where to Stay Around Barskoon Gorge 

There is a local yurt camp that you can stay at in Barskoon if you like. Most people visit Barskoon Gorge as a daytrip from there lodge in Karakol or Issyk Kul.

12. Bishkek

Kyrgyzstan’s surprisingly cosmopolitan capital

Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek , is like the Denver of Central Asia: flat, close to the mountains, and a little underrated. Also in common between the two cities is that both have an unquenchable thirst for the outdoors and, believe it or not, an amazing beer scene as well! Kudos Bishkek, kudos. 

My random comparisons being finished, Bishkek really is a misunderstood city. Most imagine it to be a typical, post- Soviet wasteland with nothing but brutalist architecture and melancholic citizens. These couldn’t be farther from the truth.

There are lots of reasons Bishkek is worth visiting. For one, the people are actually extremely modern and, for that matter, very good looking. The aforementioned beer scene is a great surprise and dropping by the likes of Save the Ales or Blonder Pub makes for a great afternoon. Also, there is plenty of green-space to walk around in the city, particularly around the center and Ala-Too Square . 

In the end, Bishkek is a great example that not everything is grey beyond the Iron Curtain.

Insider tip: My favorite speakeasy is hidden near Giraffe Coffee and doubles as a beauty parlor during the day.

How to Get to Bishkek 

All roads in Kyrgyzstan eventually lead back to Bishkek since it is the capital and most populous place in the country. If you need any help finding Bishkek, just follow the signs or ask some friendly locals. 

Bishkek is also only a 3-hour drive from Almaty, Kazakhstan . Like Bishkek, Almaty is also very international but, that being said, is much bigger and busier than Bishkek. Thanks to recent economic booms, Almaty is actually quite hedonistic these days and is sometimes referred to as the “New York City of Central Asia.” No Borats here.

If you make it to Almaty, be sure to explore the areas outside the city as well. Charyn Canyon is an epic destination and is only 3 hours away from the city.

Where to Stay Around Bishkek

Bishkek is one of the easiest places to find accommodation in Kyrgyzstan. Hotels and guesthouses make up the grand majority of lodging in Bishkek though there are plenty of private apartments and hostels in the city as well. Avoid staying in yurt camps in the city – it’s not really the same as being in the mountains. 

Here are some places to stay in Bishkek:

• Best Hostel in Bishkek: Capsule Hostel
• Best Hotel in Bishkek: Futuro Hotel

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13. Burana Tower

One of the few archaeological sites in Kyrgyzstan

There aren’t a lot of historical sites in Kyrgyzstan. Those that do exist are usually of the decrepit Soviet-variety or are simply a scattering of markers from wandering nomads e.g. Chopon Alta and Saimaluu-tash. Remember: most of Kyrgyzstan’s history is defined by migrating horsemen and migrating horsemen don’t really have a lot of time to build big things.

The Burana Tower is one of the few notable historical buildings in Kyrgyzstan. Built by the Karakhanids, it and the surrounding ruins are all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun . The tower used to be higher (45 meters) but at some point partially collapsed (it has since been partially restored). The rest of the city is practically buried. 

Though humble compared to other Central Asian architectural marvels, like Registan and Khiva, the Burana Tower is still interesting to visit. With the Ala-Archa Mountains in the background, the setting couldn’t be more perfect. Plus, the old bal-bals (warrior totems) are pretty cool to see as well.

How to Get to the Burana Tower

The easiest way to see the Burana Tower is to book a tour with a local company. We recommend going with Show Me Bishkek .

If you want to go independently, you’ll either need your own car or take a combination of buses and taxis to reach the tower. If you’re going with the latter option, you’ll first need to take a matrushka from the Western Station in Bishkek to Tokmok and then grab a taxi to Burana. Altogether, the trip should cost around $15 in total. 

Where to Stay Around Burana Tower

The nearest town is Tokmok although most people will probably stay in Bishkek since it’s only 90 minutes away. Check the previous sections for suggestions on where to stay in Bishkek.

Kyrgyzstan’s second-largest and most authentic city

Kyrgyzstan’s southern capital exists in stark contrast to the northern one. Where Bishkek feels international, modern, and bustling (relative terms), Osh is far more traditional and culturally rich. Gone are the khaki shorts and the designer label fashion; in are covered shoulders and Islamic dress codes. 

Please don’t let that intimidate you – these are what make Osh so interesting. Osh is an ancient city that dates back thousands of years and has a much more fascinating history (for good and bad). The locals take great pride in this and enjoy talking about how culturally rich their home is.

Osh is where you go to get proper Kyrgyz food as well. Street food is very popular around the city and you can find vendors selling freshly-fried treats on almost every corner. Be sure to drop by Kurmanzhan Datka Cafe for authentic Kyrgyz dishes and Cafe Brio for the best coffee in Kyrgyzstan

Insider tip: Osh is also semi-well-known for it’s street murals.

How to Get to Osh

Whilst it is possible to drive to Osh, it is not the best way to arrive. The road from Bishkek to the city is long, hard, and only fit for those who don’t mind a bumpy ride. The drive is scenic and road trippers will probably find the journey pretty fun. Just be sure to allocate 2-3 days for the journey.

Flying to Osh is WAY more convenient than driving. Tickets with Air Manas are dirt cheap at the moment – costing less than $40 for one way – and the flight is only 45 minutes long. That’s a 3-day-long land expedition that you just saved yourself, people.

Where to Stay Around Osh 

There are a couple of decent hostels and guesthouses in Osh, Biy Ordo being our top suggestion. The Osh CBT , whose primary role is a tour agency, also doubles as a guesthouse.

All that being said, Osh can seem pretty bereft of lodging at times. Airbnbs are in fairly short supply and hotels don’t seem to be a thing here. Both feel a little expensive given their (lack of) amenities.

15. The Pamir-Alai Mountains

Kyrgyzstan’s remote mountain range – hosts some of the best hikes in the country 

There are over 158 mountain ranges in Kyrgyzstan. Of those 158, most are a part of the Tian Shan; only 4 are outside of it. It goes without saying that Tian Shan receive the overwhelming majority of visitors. 

Yet the Pamir-Alai Range in Southwestern Kyrgyzstan offer some of the best scenery in the country. Far removed from mass tourism, these mountains are pristine and spectacular to behold. For trekkers who are willing to go the extra mile and travel a bit further, the Pamir-Alai could be a wonderland for them.

The 4-day Height of the Alay trek over Jiptick Pass is a highly-regarded hike in the Pamir-Alai. But personally, I cannot rave more about the Turkestan Mountains , which is often referred to as the “ Patagonia of Central Asia .” Here you will find towering granite spires, perilous mountain passes, and not a soul in sight. It is one of the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan and also one of the most peaceful.

How to Get to the Pamir-Alai

Osh will be your primary gateway into the Pamir-Alay Range. Get there, via land or air, and the mountains will be yours for the taking. Refer to the Osh section (#5) for more details on traveling there.

Where to Stay Around the Pamir-Alai

Outside of Osh, there isn’t a whole lot of tourist infrastructure. There might be an occasional guest house or two in larger towns, like Batken , but planning on staying in one of these is going to be a dice-roll.

If you want to do the Kyrgz Patagonia trek, then you’ll most likely spend a night in or near the tiny town of Ozgorush . There is a KCBTA guesthouse in Ozgorush that is run by a super nice family and I wholeheartedly recommend staying there. Contact the CBT Osh office to get you in contact with the family.

If you book a trekking tour of Kyrgyz Patagonia with KCBTA, be sure to use the discount code TheBrokeBackpackerKGZ312 to get 10% off ! This code works on all KCBTA tours.

16. Ala Archa

Playground for Bishkek’s weekend warriors

One of the best things about Kyrgyzstan is that nature – I mean really amazing nature – is never too far away. Case and point: Ala Archa National Park . 

Ala Archa National Park is literally in Bishkek’s backyard. The park, which hosts several 4500+ meter peaks, can be seen from just about anywhere in the city. Getting to the park isn’t difficult at all either: the entry gate is only an hour away from the city! How many cities can offer that kind of alpine accessibility?!

Just because Ala Archa is close to the city doesn’t mean it’s a slouch of a national park either. As mentioned before, there are multiple 4500+ meter peaks in addition to several glaciers that you can visit. One of the most popular hikes in the area is the walk up to the Ak-Sai Glacier – it’s strenuous but can be done in a long day. 

Many people that grew up in Bishkek believe that they grew up in Ala Archa as well. Why not join some locals and get a taste for what it’s truly like to live and grow up in this amazing country? Go for a walk in the mountains and don’t forget the post-hike beer back in Bishkek either!

How to Get to Ala Archa

There is a regular marshrutka (265) that leaves from the Osh Bazar in Bishkek and ends at Kashka-Suu near the beginning of Ala Archa. From there, you will have to hitchhike to get the main entrance of the park.

The easiest way to get to Ala Archa is by having a private form of transport, either in the form of a rental, a tour guide, or a private taxi. A round trip with a taxi driver will cost around $30-$35.

Where to Stay Around Ala Archa

There are a couple of mountain hotels located at the entrance to Ala Archa. If you need some more rugged digs, stay at a campground instead or go backpacking into the wilderness. 

For those who are just on a day trip, find somewhere cozy to sleep back in Bishkek.

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17. Chong-Kemin

A pastoral national park that is great for white-water rafting, cultural festivals, and horse riding

If Kyrgyzstan is the Colorado of Central Asia – Coloradostan, if you will – then Chong-Kemin would be Crested Butte. Peaceful, slow and with lots of outdoor activities, Chong-Kemin is one of the best places in Kyrgyzstan to just relax. This place has everything that a mountain retreat ought to: wood cabins, white-water rafting, meadows, and, of course, lots of great views. 

Chong-Kemin is most well-known for its diverse flora and fauna. Whilst you can find the usual Kyrgyz suspects here, like horses and huge swathes of fir trees, there are a number of endangered species also found in Chong-Kemin. Snow leopard, golden eagles, and bear have all been spotted in the valley. To protect these fragile ecosystems, Chong-Kemin was made a national park in 1997.

You don’t have to be an animal lover to admire the Chong-Kemin valley. Spending a night or two watching the stars, sitting by the fire, going for a hike or two, will be more than enough to appreciate this place. Time moves more slowly than usual in Chong-Kemin and for those who need a real break, this is a great spot to unwind. 

How to Get to Chong-Kemin

Chong-Kemin is located quite close to Bishkek and is only about 2 hours drive from the city. Having a car or going with a tour operator will be the easiest way to get to the valley.

Luckily, there are also regular buses to and from Chong-Kemin via Kaindy . From the Eastern Bus Station in Bishkek, there are two buses leaving per day to Kaindy that take around 2.5 hours each.

Where to Stay Around Chong-Kemin

When visiting Chong-Kemin, you absolutely have to stay at Chong-Kemin Guesthouse. The guesthouse is a gorgeous facility – everything is made from local timber and is decorated with handcrafted felt. It honestly looks like a Rocky Mountain lodge set in the middle of Central Asia. The owners are extremely hospitable as well and they serve some mean food to go along with it. 

18. Sary Chelek

An off-the-beaten-path lake that most locals will say is the best place to visit in Kyrgyzstan  

I talked to a lot of native people about their favorite place to visit in Kyrgyzstan and got lots of responses: Arslanbob, Enylchek, Altyn Arashan, being a few examples. The one place that seemed to be a unanimous answer though was Sary Chelek.

Seriously, almost every single person that I have spoken to in Kyrgyzstan gushes about this place, almost more so than Altyn Arashan. They described it as perfect, wonderful, and without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan. 

Sary Chelek is a lake located in a very remote part of northwestern Kyrgyzstan. Getting to Sary Chelek is a bit of journey – 10 hours from Bishkek by car – though no one really complains about the ride. The trip is pretty scenic, as you cross the western extremity of the Tian Shan, and the final destination is, of course, worth every minute.

Sary Chelek is a gorgeous azure color. The lake is itself is framed by the rugged Chatkal Mountains in addition to large swathes of fruit-bearing trees. If you happen to be at the lake by yourself (chances are high) it will certainly feel like you’ve died and gone to Kyrgyz heaven. 

How to Get to Sary Chelek

It will take about 10 hours driving from Bishkek to arrive at Sary Chelek. About half the road is unpaved so you will need to be a confident driver.

Supposedly, you can make it Sary Chelek by bus, but I’ve never entertained this thought because it would be a very, very long ride. Contact the local Kara-Suu KCBTA for information on using the bus.

Where to Stay Around Sary Chelek

There are a couple of hotels and guesthouses at Sary Chelek and a couple more further back on the road. Most don’t have an online booking portal, so you’ll need to call ahead to make reservations.

If you don’t get a room, camping will be your only means of staying the night near the lake.

19. Naryn Province

A frontier region that offers old ruins, a mysterious lake, and arctic-like conditions

Naryn is located in the far south of Kyrgyzstan on the border of China. It’s a fairly large province that offers quite a bit. Here is a brief overview of some things to do:

• Tash Rabat: An old ruined outpost set deep in the mountains. Out of the way but still one of the most impressive archeological sites in Kyrgyzstan.
• Ak-Sai Valley: The “South Pole of Central Asia.” The reason for this title is that the area a) looks very similar to Arctic regions like Iceland and b) get’s really fucking cold. The coldest temperature ever recorded in Kyrgyzstan was recorded here and it was a crazy -56 degrees Celsius. That’s almost as low as the average surface temperature of Mars.
• Kakshaal-Too: One of the most unexplored mountain ranges of Kyrgyzstan. Rugged, sheer, and very wild.
• Kel-Suu : An alpine lake that disappears during times of drought. Easily accessed via a moderate hike from the Ak-Sai Valley.

How to Get to the Naryn Region

The town of Naryn is easily reached from Bishkek after about 3 hours of driving. Local marshrutkas leave for Naryn from the Western Bus Station in Bishkek though not many are available. Most fill up early in the morning, after which only private taxis are available.

Once you get to Naryn, get out. Take your jeep or meet your driver and explore the surrounding area. Naryn itself is pretty uninspiring and doesn’t offer a lot of activities.

Where to Stay Around Naryn

Despite it’s shabby reputation, there are actually quite a few places to stay in Naryn. There’s a hotel ( Khan Tengri Hotel ) , a good guesthouse ( Guest House Jamal ) , even a hostel ( Kubat-tour Hostel ) if you wanted to meet some fellow backpackers!

Still, camping out in the Ak-Sai Valley is far preferable to staying in Naryn. Get your supplies and get out into the jailoos.  

20. Konorcheck Canyons

A Utah-esque landscape in the middle of Central Asia

Fairytale Canyon gets a lot of attention from travelers – most visit here after hearing about Kyrgyzstan’s rainbow-like desert landscapes. Whilst the Fairytale Canyon is pretty damn cool, it’s not the most epic place in Kyrgyzstan to see this kind of scenery. This is another great reason to visit Kyrgyzstan .

The Konorcheck Canyons are a whole different level. Larger, wilder, and more intense in every way, these canyons are for the real desert raiders. Of course, those vivid colors that Kyrgyzstan is so well known for are still present.

To really appreciate Konorcheck, you will need to go on a moderate hike. The standard trail is about 6 miles long and offers plenty of scenery. Bold backpackers can choose to extend their trip via a number of side trails and can even camp out around the canyons. With the stars above and the red rock below, it can be a very trippy feeling camping out in these deserts. 

How to Get to Konorcheck Canyons

Konorcheck Canyons is located right off the side of the main A-635 highway, which makes it quite accessible. From Bishkek, it’s a 2-hour drive. From western shores of Issyk Kul, it’s between 60-90 minutes.

Where to Stay Around Konorcheck Canyons

Unless you’re camping, you’ll have to stay in a guesthouse nearby. Chong-Kemin is very close and makes for a great base for day-trippers. Otherwise, Bishkek and Issyk Kul are also within an hour or two’s drive.

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21. Jyrgalan

The new “hot” place to visit in Kyrgyzstan at the moment

Jyrgalan is becoming the next popular place to visit in Kyrgyzstan. Chalk it up to recent exposure from travel bloggers or new government initiatives but Jyrgalan’s face is plastered all over the internet at the moment. 

Jyrgalan’s newfound attention is not unwarranted. Set in the foothills of the Ala-too mountains to the southeast of Karakol, Jyrgylan is surrounded by pastoral beauty and evokes images of a Swiss town in the Alps. The mountains, the fir trees, the nomadic culture; everything that you’d expect from Kyrgyzstan is here.

But what sets Jyrgalan apart? Well, for one Jyrgylan is appropriate for all types of travelers, whether they’re looking for an epic hike (see Boz-Uchuk Lakes ) or just a couple of peaceful days in nature. Secondly, Jyrgalan is still relatively underdeveloped. But given all of the recent exposure it’s been getting, this could change very soon.

How to Get to Jyrgalan

Jyrgalan is about 90 minutes away from Karakol by car. If you plan on driving yourself, be aware that Jyrgalan’s current location on Google Maps is wrong – the real location is roughly 42.607749,79.010816.

There are regular marshrutkas traveling to Jyrgalan from A k-Tilek Market in Karakol. The ride costs 80 soms and and takes less than 2 hours.

For more information on how to get to Jyrgalan, refer to their official webpage.

Where to Stay Around Jyrgalan

Here are a couple of places to stay in Jyrgylan:

• Recommended hostel: Hostel Ulan
• Recommended guesthouse: Alakol-Jyrgalan Guest House
• Recommended yurt camp: Jyrgalan Yurt Lodge

22. Khan Tengri and Enylchek Glacier

One of the most beautiful mountains in the world that requires an expedition to see

This is the hike to end all hikes in Kyrgyzstan: the mountain monarch, the celestial king, the god himself, Khan Tengri . Khan Tengri, which means “Lord of the Heavens” in Kazahk, is arguably the most beautiful mountain in all of Central Asia. It’s shape – a near-perfect pyramid – gives it an air of regality, grace, and power. Few other peaks can compete with Tengri and it is, without a doubt, the absolute ruler of the Tian Shan.

As befitting a grandiose mountain such as itself, visiting Khan Tengri isn’t necessarily an easy task. To do so, one must either undertake a multi-week expedition on the Enylchek Glacier or charter a very expensive helicopter ride to base camp. Whilst the latter is probably the most convenient way to see the peak, the former is more rewarding. 

If you really want to have an adventure and see one of the most stunning places in Kyrgyzstan, then Khan Tengri is your ticket. Seeing the crown of the mountain light up like fire at sunset is an otherworldly sight and certainly a once in a lifetime opportunity. 

How to Get to Khan Tengri 

You have two options of visit Khan Tengri: by helicopter or by trekking. Here is an overview of both:

• By helicopter : this is the easiest and most expensive way to see Khan Tengri. Ak-Sai Travel – the current owner of the only helicopter going to Tengri – currently charges $750 for a simple day trip to the base camp of the mountain.  
• By trekking: Most people arrive at Khan Tengri via a multi-week expedition and you will absolutely need to use a local adventure company to organize one. Food and shelter will be in short supply along the glacier, but with the right team you should be able to visit Tengri in relative comfort. Prices usually vary between $2250 and $2500 for a 15 to 16-day itinerary.

Where to Stay Around Khan Tengri

Camping – that’s about the only way to sleep near Khan Tengri. That’s unless you enjoy sleeping under a nice warm rock, of course.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

Where should you go in Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyzstan is all about nature and Ala Archa offers a really accessible way to get into the mountains as it’s just outside the capital.

What are the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan?

The Khan Tengri and Enylchek Glacier offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, let alone Kyrgyzstan. It’s well worth the effort to visit!

What is the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan?

Kyrgyzstan can get super cold in the winter and the mountains and passes can be hard to visit. Come in summer and take in the busy bazaars and lush green countryside.

What are the famous landmarks in Kyrgyzstan?

There’s not much in the way of world famous sites, but that’s what makes the country amazing to visit. The most well known is probably the fascinating capital of Bishkek.

In general, Kyrgyzstan is a very safe place to visit. In the mountainous areas there is hardly any sort of crime, and since travelers will be spending 99% of their time in places like this, they will hardly notice anything. 

That being said, Kyrgyzstan is not totally safe. There are still instances of violent crime and police corruption can be horrible, especially during times of government strife. Since the political situation in Kyrgyzstan can change on the drop of a dime as well, you can never really know when shit is going to hit the fan.

Remember though, these kind of things only happen in the cities or, in the case of the police, on some major highways. Like any other city in the world, the key to staying safe is keeping your wits about you and being street smart. Be cautious at night and don’t be overly trusting of strangers. Exhibit all of the usual precautions you would when traveling and you should be fine.

In regards to the crooked cops, they’re more of an annoyance than an actual threat. If one starts to harass you and really wants a bribe, just insist that you’ve done nothing wrong and stand your ground. To be safe, carry a copy of your passport on you and don’t give in to any strange demands. A lot of the times, it comes down to a battle of attrition between you and the officer – whoever walks away first loses.

Nature is the real killer in Kyrgyzstan. Flooded rivers, avalanches, rock fall, ill-tempered horses; all of these things can really ruin your trip. You’re much more likely in Kyrgyzstan to get swept away in a river crossing then a stabbing. Brush up on the usual smart hiking habits and be respectful of the elements.

Grab Some Travel Insurance Before Heading Out

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Even if you are only going on a short trip to Kyrgyzstan, you should always travel with insurance. Have fun on your backpacking adventure, but please do get insurance – take it from someone who has racked up tens of thousands of bucks on an insurance claim before, you need it.

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Did you to these places on your own or on a sponsored government tour for influencers?

I ask because having just finished a month long trip to Kyrgzstan, I found nearly nothing written in a travel blog to be honest and accurate. Fluff from govovernment paid tours.

Yes, we visited these places on our own and of our own volition. The government wasn’t involved in any way shape or form outside of granting us permits. We hired some local tour guides as well for some the off-the-beaten-path destinations, like the Batken, but that’s about all the assistance we got.

Unfortuante that you think was a sponsored post; I meant every word I wrote. Can you share some of your own experiences in Kyrgyzstan? I return whenever I can and like to discover new perspectives on the country.

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The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Where to go in Kyrgyzstan? Here’s an overview of the most interesting, beautiful, and exciting places to visit in Kyrgyzstan, including famous landmarks in Kyrgyzstan and highlights, detailed info on how to get to all these places independently, and where to stay in each location.

My first visit to Kyrgyzstan in 2017 was a spontaneous trip while I was hitchhiking through Central Asia . I didn’t really know much about this destination as I hadn’t done any research. I was in for a big surprise!

I immediately fell in love with Kyrgyzstan. So much that I decided not to continue my overland journey and live here for nearly 11 months…

Is Kyrgyzstan beautiful and worth visiting? Absolutely!!

The country is defined by the beautiful Tien Shan mountain range which occupies 90% of the country, lush valleys and about 2000 crystal-clear alpine lakes. 

What is also special about Kyrgyzstan is that it still preserves and values centuries-old nomadic traditions .

If you love mountains and the outdoors and you’re interested in learning more about the nomadic lifestyle of Central Asia, then you’ll love traveling to Kyrgyzstan! It’s one of the few off-the-beaten-path countries where you can still get a taste of the authentic nomadic culture.

I return yearly to guide my Kyrgyzstan Tours and to visit new destinations in the country.

Would you love to go on an epic adventure on foot, on horseback or by 4×4 to the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan with a small group of adventurous travelers?

Check out my 6 Fantastic Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours!

This post currently lists 25 places but it’s a work in progress. I’ll be adding more as I continue to explore Kyrgyzstan over the coming years. You’ll find links to my comprehensive destination guides for most of the locations mentioned in this article.

The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan and explore the places I’ve mentioned would be in late spring and summer, between the end of May and the end of September. Most of the destinations are located in the mountains, which are only accessible when the snow has cleared.

Here’s my (current) list with an overview of the most beautiful and best places in Kyrgyzstan to visit. I hope this guide will inspire you to travel to one of my favorite destinations in the world!

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Kyrgyzstan Travel Essentials

• 20 things you need to know before traveling to Kyrgyzstan
• The 25 best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan
• The top 28 things to do in Kyrgyzstan
• The 14 best hikes & treks in Kyrgyzstan
• The 9 best horse riding destinations in Kyrgyzstan
• Kyrgyzstan Budget Guide
• Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours & Kyrgyzstan Tour Planning
• Visa: Required Kyrgyzstan travel documents
• Getting there: Search for flights to Bishkek or Osh
• Where to stay : Find a yurt camp,homestay, hotel, hostel or guesthouses
• Travel Insurance: Choose the best travel insurance for Kyrgyzstan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Places to visit in Bishkek (Chuy Region)

Bishkek is the largest city in Kyrgyzstan and the country’s capital. It’ll very likely be the first place you visit in Kyrgyzstan as nearly all flights arrive at the international airport of Manas, only a 30-minute drive from Bishkek’s city center.

Bishkek is located at an altitude of 800 meters and borders the Central Asian Tian Shan Mountains. On a clear day, you can the spectacular peaks of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Mountains in the city’s background.

What is special about Bishkek? Bishkek doesn’t feel like a capital city to me. It’s a busy and bustling place but whenever I walk through its streets and parks, I have the impression I’m in a big provincial town rather than a capital city.

It’s Central Asia’s greenest city, with rich biodiversity in its tree-lined streets and many parks. You also won’t see any skyscrapers here.

While Bishkek is a modern and continuously evolving cosmopolitan, it still preserves the essence of the Kyrgyz culture and Soviet architecture. There are a ton of cool brutalist architecture that offer you a glimpse of the Soviet influence during its occupation in the 20th century.

I wouldn’t say that Bishkek is one of Kyrgyzstan’s highlights but it’s worth visiting the city for at least one full day to experience the mixture of modern and national culture.

You could go shopping at the colorful Osh Bazaar , Kyrgyzstan’s most famous market, in the morning and pop in a hipster cafe for a good cappuccino afterward. You could go on a self-made Soviet architecture tour in the afternoon and every now and then take a break and have ice cream in one of the many parks.

You can explore Bishkek’s nightlife scene in the evening in one of the many pubs, bars, and nightclubs. Or you can just relax with a cocktail and a nice meal on the outdoor terrace of one of the many restaurants in the city.

I highly recommend reading my Bishkek City Guide where you’ll find all the information from where to go and the top things to do, to where to eat and stay in Bishkek.

13 Top Things to do in Bishkek – Bishkek Travel Guide

How to get to Bishkek

• Getting to Bishkek from other countries:

Manas International Airport is the main international airport in Kyrgyzstan, located 25 kilometers northwest of the capital Bishkek. This is where currently all international flights (with a connection in Istanbul, Dubai, or Moskow) arrive.

There will be plenty of taxi drivers greeting you upon arrival at the airport. The cost of a taxi from the airport to the city center in Bishkek is between 600 to 800 som (around €8 / $10).

You can also reach Bishkek by land if you’re coming from Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan . Read the following posts for more information:

• How to get from Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Bishkek
• How to get from Tashkent (Uzbekistan) to Bishkek
• Getting to Bishkek from other cities in Kyrgyzstan:

As Bishkek is Kyrgyzstan’s capital city, you’ll find nearly in every big town or city a marshrutka (minibus) or a shared taxi going directly to Bishkek. They’ll overly likely drop you off at the Western Bus Station in Bishkek .

This bus station is a bit outside of the city center so I recommend installing the Yandex app to get a taxi to the city. This app works like Uber and has fixed rates so no need to waste time and energy on negotiating prices.

Where to stay in Bishkek:

• Koisha Hostel : dorm or private room, great location, garden, budget friendly. Check the price availability here
• Plaza Hotel : private room, great location, swimming pool: Check the price and availability here
• Orion Hotel Bishkek : deluxe rooms, great location, fitness and wellness center: Check the price and availability here.

2. Ala Archa National Park

Ala Archa National Park, located 40km south of Bishkek, is one of the few national parks in Kyrgyzstan that is easily accessible and fun to visit no matter what time of the year it is.

This National Park in the Tian Shan Mountains is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Kyrgyz Mountains. It’s also a great place to acclimatize to hiking in high altitudes if you just arrived in the country.

There are some beautiful day hikes and multiple-day treks at Ala Archa starting at 1500 meters altitude and leading up to 2500 meters and higher.

Ala Archa is a popular destination and one of the more touristic places in Kyrgyzstan, not only for travelers but also for locals.

I visited this park on more than one occasion and I was surprised to see so many locals having a picnic and spending time with their family and friends cozily nested under the trees of the park.

The accessibility of this park (it’s located only an hour drive away from the city center of Bishkek ) and the fact that it’s at the base of the beautiful Tian Shan mountains makes it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital city.

If you’re planning on visiting Ala Archa, remember that this National Park is located in the mountains.

The weather will be a lot cooler than in Bishkek, especially if you’re going to hike to the waterfall (2500m) or to the Ratsek Hut (3300m) so always bring a warm sweater and foresee rain gear. The weather in the mountains is very unpredictable!

You should also wear hiking boots, even when going on the short hike to the waterfall. I’ve seen people hurting themselves on the trail to the waterfall on more than one occasion as they weren’t wearing proper footwear.

There aren’t any shops so pack some snacks and a reusable water bottle with filter, like a Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle , so you can refill your bottle with the water from the many streams and rivers.

When visiting Ala Archa in winter, you won’t be able to go on any hikes as the trails are covered in snow but it’s still beautiful to go there!!

The 8 Best Hikes and Day Trips from Bishkek

How to get from Bishkek to Ala Archa by public transport

To reach the Ala Archa National Park, you will have two options.

You can either take a taxi directly to the Alpager base (where the hiking trails start) or you can take a mashrutka (shared minibus) to the entrance of the national park and then hitchhike or take a taxi to cover the remaining 12 km of asphalt road to the Alpager base.

• How to reach Ala Archa by mashrutka

In Bishkek, you’ll have to hop on mashrutka 265 . This shared minibus can be found at the bus stop at Moscow Street 229 ( near the entrance of Osh Bazaar ).

Keep in mind that this minibus will only leave once it’s completely full so this option won’t be the best one if you’re in a hurry to get to the park.

-> If you have an android phone, install the app  Maps.me , type in ‘ mashrutka 265 ’ and the app will show you exactly on the map where to find the bus stop.-

The marshrutka will bring you for 25 som all the way to Kash- Kasuu, the nearest village to Ala Archa. You can also ask the driver if he can drop you off at the entrance gate of the National Park for an additional 50 som. 

Once you’re at the entrance of the park you’ll have to pay 80 som to get in. At the entrance, you can catch a taxi that will bring you to the Alpager base for 500 som.

You could also hitchhike the remaining 12 km. If you’re there in summer, there will be a lot of cars with tourists and locals passing by and they’re likely to give you a lift for free.

• How to reach Ala Archa by taxi

If you want to get to Ala Archa early, you could get a taxi from Bishkek all the way to the entrance gate of the park for 500 som.

If you want the taxi to drop you off at the Alpager base (At the beginning of the hiking trails), you’ll have to pay the entrance fee for the car (400 som) + an additional 500 som for the taxi to drive you that extra 12 km.

If you’re planning on returning the same day, you can negotiate a price with your driver so he waits for you at the parking lot.

Otherwise, you’ll have to search for available taxis or try to hitchhike back.

If you’re just planning to spend the day at the park, I recommend requesting a private taxi for the day at your hostel/ hotel. This will be around €50 and covers all the costs, including the waiting time for the driver at the park.

WHERE TO STAY IN BISHKEK WHEN VISITING ALA ARCHA

It’s very convenient to do a quick day trip to Ala Archa and come back to the capital city in the evening if you don’t plan to  camp in the park or go on a multi-day hike there .

In Bishkek, I recommend staying at  Koisha Hostel or Bugu Hotel  because it’s located very close to the bus stop at Osh Bazaar from where the marshrutkas to Ala Archa National Park leave.

3. Burana Tower

The Burana Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Kyrgyzstan. This 25m high tower is all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun , a once flourishing city that welcomed thousands of Silk Road caravans.

Although the tower itself might not seem very exciting to many people, if you’re interested in history, this will be a fascinating and one of the mysterious places to visit in Kyrgyzstan.

It’s crazy to imagine that this archaeological site used to be such a big city and was once considered the center of the world!

The book The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan explains it all and is a must-read if you’re a history lover!

Another remarkable sight is the collection of ancient bal-bals in the field near the Burana Tower.

The bal-bals are gravestones, carved by the nomadic Turkic tribes who used to roam around Central Asia in the 6th century.

These gravestones were initially erected as a representation of slain enemies and later became memorials for the ancestors of the people who sculpted them. They are oddly proportioned, with strange heads and short torsos. 

The Burana Tower and the Lost City of Balasagun

How to get from Bishkek to the Burana Tower by public transportation

You can easily visit the Burana Tower as a day trip from Bishkek or on your way towards Lake Issy-Kul . The Burana Tower is about 8 km from the town of Tokmok.

There is no direct marshrutka (minibus) going from Bishkek to the Burana Tower but if you follow my instructions, you should be able to get there in two hours.

First, you’ll have to take a city marshrutka or a taxi to the E a stern Bus Station .

In the bus station, look for marshrutka #353 that goes to Tokmok. A ticket will cost about 50 som. The marshrutka stops a couple of kilometers outside the center of Tokmok. You can see a huge monument with the town’s name on it as you arrive in this village.

Once you’re there, you got 3 options:

The first option is to take a taxi. Burana Tower is a popular destination, so there will be a lot of taxis heading in that direction.

If you can, find a taxi driver who is willing to take you there and back for a maximum of 300 som (wait for the next one if they ask for more money).

I would suggest asking the driver to stay and wait there while you visit the tower. One hour is more than enough to visit the whole site.

You can always try and hitchhike. Hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan is very easy and you won’t have to wait for very long, the only problem might be getting a free ride (I give great tips on hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan here ).

It’s very common to pay for a ride in Kyrgyzstan however don’t pay more than you would for a one-way ride to the Tower with a taxi (around 150 som)

There are also a few mini-buses that run between Tokmok and Burana. You can ask a few locals about where you can take this marshrutka if you speak some Russian. 

You could also combine a visit to Burana Tower with a trip to another site near Bishkek.

4. Kol-Tor Lake

Kyrgyzstan has some of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the whole world and Kol-Tor lake is pretty high on that list. It shines in a bright turquoise shade and adopts different tones of blue throughout the day.

This lake is located at an altitude of 2700m above the village of  Kegeti , around 92 km outside of Bishkek.

The two-hour moderate hike to the lake will take you across some gorgeous alpine meadows and coniferous forests. Although the trail to the lake is relatively short, I would suggest wearing  good hiking boots  to get there.

This lake is very popular and easily accessible from  Bishkek  so it can get a bit crowded during summer. It’s still possible to access the lake throughout the rest of the year and it’s lovely in winter.

My friend Stephen Lioy has a great  photo report  of his hike there in November when the mountains surrounding the lake were already covered in snow.

Depending on whether or not you start hiking early, you could reach the lake in one day and be back in Bishkek in the evening.

If you want to stay longer near the lake, you can also sleep in a mountain hut owned by the Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan. You can reserve this cabin by  contacting TUK  ahead of time and sleeping there will cost 600 som.

HOW TO get to KOL-TOR LAKE FROM BISHKEK BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The hiking trail to Kol Tor lake starts in Kegeti gorge so you’ll have to reach this village first. You can hop on the minibus 303 from the Eastern Bus Station in Bishkek to get there. The bus leaves at 9:30 Am and takes about two hours to reach the small village.

What could be a bit harder is returning to Bishkek by public transport since the last mashrutka from Kegeti Gorge leaves at 3:30 pm. You could either stay in Kegeti if it’s getting late or try to hitchhike back.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR KOL-TOR LAKE

Apart from the cabin owned by the Trekkers Union of Kyrgyzstan near the lake, there are a few homestays where you could stay in Kegeti.

None of these homestays can be booked online in advance but you can find their location on the maps.me app or ask around in the village.

5. Chon Kemin National Park

The Chon Kemin National Park, located 150km east of Bishkek, covers an area of 500 hectares and is home to many species of plants and animals, including the snow leopard.

This National Park in the heart of the Chuy Valley is surrounded by three mountain ranges and has a wide variety of landscapes, from semi-deserts to lush forests, alpine lakes and stunning glaciers.

The Chon Kemin Valley offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and rafting on the Chu River. There are several trekking possibilities, from easy short walks along the Chong Kemin River to adventurous hikes over 3 000m passes.

You can visit the park all year through and you can choose to relax, go on an easy day hike or spend a few days horse riding, trekking, and rafting. You definitely won’t get bored here!

Chon Kemin Valley is part of my 9-day Overland Expedition . Click here for more information about my Kyrgyzstan Tours!

How to get to Chon Kemin from Bishkek by public transport

There are daily minibusses going between Chon Kemin and Bishkek. Take mashrutka #309 at the Eastern Bus Station in Bishkek. A ticket costs 120 som and the journey takes around 2 hours.

Where to stay in Chon Kemin National Park

There are a few guesthouses run by local families by the forest in Chon Kemin. Most of them can’t be booked online in advance (yet), with the exception of Kemin Guesthouse .

It’s also possible to wild camp in Chon Kemin Valley.

Are you looking for a  customized guided tour  in Kyrgyzstan and/or other countries  in Central Asia ? Do you need help  planning your itinerary ?

Have a look at my   C e n t r a l   A s i a  tour and itinerary planning services !

Best Places to visit in Issyk Kul Region

6. issyk kul lake.

Lake Issyk-Kul is the world’s second-largest mountain lake in the world. It’s located at an elevation of 1609 meters in northeastern Kyrgyzstan. It’s 182km long, 60km wide, and covers an area of 6236 km²!

The name Issyk-Kul means “warm lake”. It gets a lot of scientific interest as the lake never freezes because it’s so deep – its deepest point is at 668 meters – and fed by thermal springs. Don’t get fooled by the name tho, it’d still be very cold to go for a swim in winter…

The lake is bordered by two mountain ranges of the Central Tien Shan mountains. You can see the Kungei-Alatau range (meaning “facing the sun” in Turkic) in the north and the Terskei-Alatau (meaning “turned away from the sun”) in the south, and they make the scenery around the lake magnificent.

There are a lot of resorts on its northern shore as it’s a popular holiday destination for local, Kazakh and Russian tourists.

The southern shore of Issyk Kul lake is, in my opinion, more interesting and beautiful to visit. It’s wilder than the northern side and has some very unique sights (which I mention below).

It’s also one of the places in Kyrgyzstan where you can do some interesting ethnocultural activities.

You can visit the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, the center of the yurt craftsmanship in Kyrgyzstan, where about 50 traditional yurt makers live and learn how to build a yurt there .

You can participate in a culinary or felt-making workshop in Bokonbaevo, one of the biggest towns on Issyk Kul’s Southern Shore.

It’s also the place where you can visit the last remaining Eagle Hunters in Bakanbaevo, see a demonstration and learn all about this ancient Central Asian tradition.

Some of my Kyrgyzstan Adventures Tours also include a demonstration by the eagle hunters.

How to get from Bishkek to Issyk Kul Lake by public transport

The easiest way to get to Issyk Kul Lake from Bishkek is by marshrutka (minibus). They leave from the Western Bus Station in Bishkek.

If you want to go to the north shore of Issyk Kul, you have to take the marshrutka to Cholpon Ata. It costs 300 som per person and the journey takes about 4 hours.

If you want to travel to the southern shore of Issyk Kul, take the mashrutka heading for Karakol and get off at Bokonbaevo or any other place you’d like to visit on the southern shore, see below for more inspiration. The journey from Bishkek to Bakanbaevo takes around 5 hours and costs 400 som.

You can also take a shared taxi. A shared taxi picks up other people and baggage, meaning you may have to be stuffed in with several other people and their bags. Shared taxis are faster and usually cost slightly more than marshrutkas but they also pick up other people along the way.

A shared taxi from Bishkek to Cholpon Ata costs 500 som and you’ll pay around the same price for a shared taxi from Bishkek to Bokonbaevo.

Where to stay at Issyk Kul Lake

Here are some suggestions where to say on the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake.

Bel Tam Yurt Camp is a fantastic yurt camp on the shores of the lake in Tong, not too far from Bokonbaevo (take a (shared) taxi to get there).

It’s one of my favorite tourist yurt camps in Kyrgyzstan and I also stay there with my groups during my adventure tours .

Check the prices and availability of Bel Tam Yurt Camp.

If you want to stay in Bakanbaevo, I recommend:

• Guesthouse Gulmira: check prices and availbility for Guesthouse Gulmira here
• Meerim Guesthouse: check prices and availbility for Meerim Guesthouse here

Reading Tip: Top Things to do at Issyk Kul lake – a one-week itinerary

7. Skazka Canyon

The Skazka Canyon, located between the villages of Tosor and Kaji-Say on the south shore of Issyk Kul, is one of the most spectacular canyons in Kyrgyzstan.

It’s small compared to the Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan but equally beautiful and impressive.

The Skazka Canyon is nicknamed “ Fairytale Canyon ” because of its irregular rock formations that resemble animals, fantastical characters and castles. Not only the shapes in this canyon are remarkable, but also the colors of the rocks are very unique.

You’ll find yourself in a world of red, pink, orange and yellow and it almost feels like you’re walking in a very colorful painting!

The panoramic views in the canyon are spectacular, especially when you get to the higher rock formations and see lake Issyk Kul in the background.

Skazka is a small canyon and 1 to 2 hours is enough to enjoy the views.

How to get to the Skazka Canyon

The Skazka Canyon is located on the road from Bishkek to Karakol along the southern shore of Issyk Kul and is easy to reach by public transport.

You can stop there on your way from Bishkek to Karakol (see How to get to Issyk Kul Lake in the section above).

If you’re coming from Bokonbaevo, take mashrutka #315 at the bus stop near the bazaar.

It’s a 30-minute ride. Ask the driver to let you out at the Skazka Canyon. He’ll drop you off 2km from the entrance of the canyon. If you’re coming from Karakol, ask the driver to do the same.

The entrance fee to visit the canyon is 50 som. After spending some time there, catch a marshrutka to Karakol, Bokonbaevo or Bishkek from the main road before 4 pm.

Where to stay at the Skazka Canyon

There are no accommodation options at the canyon itself but you can stay either in Bokonbaevo (30 minutes), Kaji-Say (10 minutes) or Karakol (1,5 hours).

• If you want to stay in Kaji-Say, I recommend Eco Summer House Garden
• For Bokonbaevo, I recommend Guesthouse Gulmira and Meerim Guesthouse .
• Hostels: Kurjun and Snow Leopard Hostel
• Guesthouses: Guesthouse Nice and Guesthouse Altay
• Hotel: Karagat Hotel

8. Barskoon Waterfall

The Barskoon Waterfalls are one of the most famous waterfalls in Kyrgyzstan.

They’re located in the equally stunning Barskoon Valley near Issyk Kul’s South Shore. The high mountains and thick spruce forests give you the impression that you’ve suddenly arrived in Switzerland.

The Barskoon Falls, which means “snow leopard tears”, is a chain of 3 waterfalls. The first small waterfall can easily be reached by following the uphill path behind a small yurt camp. It’s a 20-minute walk and not too steep.

The second waterfall, with an impressive height of 24 meters, is another 30-minute hike and is a bit harder to reach. The steep path leading to the waterfall takes you through a spruce forest and small meadows along the edge of the gorge. Be careful walking on slippery rocks!

The third waterfall is another 45 minutes of climbing but I don’t recommend going there by yourself as you’ll have to hike through wild and rough terrain. When you reach the top, you’ll also get a spectacular view of the Barskoon Valley and Issyk Kul lake in the distance.

How to get to the Barskoon Waterfalls

When you’re coming from Bishkek, Bokonbaevo or Karakol by mashrutka or shared taxi, you’ll have to ask the driver to drop you off at Barskoon Village. From there it’s a 15km walk to the waterfalls.

You can also try to hitchhike from the village to the trailhead.

If you’re staying in Bokonbaevo or Karakol, you could also ask your guesthouse or hotel to arrange a private taxi for you and combine it with a visit to the Skazka Canyon (see above) and Jeti Oguz (see below).

Where to stay in Barskoon

I recommend visiting the Barskoon Waterfalls as part of your trip to or from Karakol.

There aren’t any guesthouses nearby but as of 2021, there’s a glamping site called Molvilla not far from the path to the waterfalls. It’s a site with bright yellow 2 person tents. Staying there costs 1500 som per person, including breakfast.

9. Jeti Oguz

Jeti Oguz is the name of a valley but also of a stunning sandstone rock formation about 25 km southwest of Karakol.

This sandstone crag used to resemble 7 bulls and that’s where its name comes from. It was a sacred place for the original inhabitants of the area and once you see it, you’ll totally understand why.

The original formation was eroded with time and there are now 9 or 10 different reddish bluffs that overlook the valley below.

Jeti-Oguz is a very popular day trip from Karakol. People go there to see a few other rock formations apart from the seven bulls such as one called the Broken Heart which is the source of many tragic love stories.

In summer, you’ll also come across plenty of beekeepers in the area who bring their beehives to the valley filled with flowers around the protruding rocks.

1 0 – d a y I t i n e r a r y t o v i s i t K y r g y z s t a n i n w i n t e r

HOW TO GET TO JETI-OGUZ FROM KARAKOL BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

If you are going to  Jeti-Oguz  with public transport, you’ll have to make sure you reach  Jeti-Oguz Kurort , a small village beside the seven bulls and not  the town of Jeti-Oguz , which is located 12km away from the stone formation.

To get to Jeti-Oguz Kurort from Karakol, first go to the Ak-Tilek Market in Karakol. From there, you’ll need to catch mashrutka 355 to Jeti-Oguz Korort.

The mashrutka doesn’t have a fixed schedule and departs only a few times a week from Karakol, typically late morning and possibly mid-afternoon. It costs 100 som and takes about 45 minutes to reach Jeti-Oguz Korort from Karakol.

A much better option to reach the seven bulls rock formation would be to take a shared taxi from Karakol to Jeti-Oguz Korort.

A taxi going there should cost, at most, around 150 som per person. You’ll have to make it clear with the driver that you are going all the way to Jeti-Oguz Kurort and not Jeti-Oguz town.

WHERE TO STAY IN JETI OGUZ

There aren’t many guest houses or hotels in Jeti-Oguz Kurort. If you want to stay in a place that offers a fantastic view of the seven bulls, I recommend staying in  Guesthouse Emir . It’s located literally just below the Seven Bulls, with a view of it out of almost every bedroom window.

The view of the rock formation is quite spectacular in the morning from this guest house.

They have an amazing breakfast served every morning on location and the guest house is also located very close to shops and restaurants. If you would like to cook your own meal, the kitchen is available. 

Click to check out rates and availability for “Guesthouse Emir”

10. Altyn Arashan Valley & Hot Springs

Altyn Arashan, which means ”Golden Spa” in Kyrgyz, is a lush green valley near Karakol and Lake Ala Kul.

The place is famous for its pristine untouched landscapes and natural hot springs.

It’s also a very popular trekking destination and attracts hikers and mountain enthusiasts from all over the world. It’s a valley in which I have hiked many times while in Kyrgyzstan.

Walking there always feels very soothing and it seems to recharge my soul and spirit with so much energy. The valley is breathtaking and could easily be used as a picture for a postcard.

This environment is ideal for camping, horseback riding, and hiking in nature. The area is a pristine nature reserve but the main attraction of the place are its natural hot springs.

The hot springs of Altyn Arashan are probably the most famous hot springs in Kyrgyzstan. The water is generally around 45 ºC and is known to help with diseases related to the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.

T h e 2 8 Top Things to do in Kyrgyzstan

HOW TO HIKE AND TREK IN THE ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY FROM AK-SUU

If you want to start the trek from Ak-Suu, you’ll have to reach this small village first by public transport or with your own car from Karakol.

The starting point of the trek to the hot springs is located south of Ak-Suu. The first part of the trek will take you along the beautiful Arashan river. You’ll be walking along pastures filled with flowers and grazing horses.

A few kilometers later you’ll start seeing the beautiful snow-capped mountain peaks that dominate the valley. At this point, the trail becomes steeper and steeper and goes through patches of pine forest before finally reaching an open area where the hot springs are located.

Along the way to the hot springs, you might come across mountain goats, horses and groundhogs.

HOW TO REACH THE ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY FROM ALA KUL LAKE

It’s also possible to reach the valley coming north from Ala Kul lake as part of a 4-day trek . You can read how to reach this valley from the alpine lake  here .

Visit Altyn Arashan by joining one of my Adventure Tours in Kyrgyzstan !

WHERE TO STAY IN THE ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY

If you have your tent, you can camp almost anywhere in the valley during summer as the weather is really ideal and there are tons of gorgeous flat areas where you can pitch camp.

There are a few yurts where you can stay in the valley and a few lodges and guest houses next to the hot springs. You can’t book them online as there’s no wi-fi reception in the valley.

I recommend staying at the  Guesthouse Elza . It’s a guest house where it’s possible to stay in a room or in a yurt and it its own private hot spring.

11. Ala Kul Lake

I’m at a lack of words when it comes to describing the beauty of lake Ala Kul, located at an altitude of 3500m in the Terskey Alatau mountains.

It’s so beautiful that the locals often refer to it as the ‘ pristine diamond of the Karakol Canyon ’ and it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan!

The water of this glacier lake changes hourly from azure to violet, depending on the weather conditions and the time of the year.

This lake is only accessible by going on a long strenuous multiple-day hike .

I yearly make the  trek to Lake Ala Kul   during my adventure tours and I would absolutely recommend anyone visiting the country to try hiking providing they are in shape.

How to hike to lake Ala Kul: a day-by-day trekking itinerary

HOW TO GET TO ALA KUL

It’s impossible to reach this lake by car or by public transport.  The only way to get there is by hiking. Reaching Ala Kul can be done independently or with a guide.

To get there, you will need to reach the Ala Kul Nature Reserve first and hike from there.

From the center of Karakol, you can take  marshrutka 101  to the entrance of the park. You can also take a taxi for 400 KGS that will stop between the entrance and a broken bridge farther along the trail saving at least 1 hour of walk.

Once you have reached the park, you can follow the  day-by-day instructions on how to hike to the lake here .

Tip → Download the  Maps.me  app and get a map of the region. The app has the whole trail mapped and is really useful. People occasionally get lost along this trail so check the app to stay on the right track.

If you don’t want to hike there by yourself and you’d rather go with a mountain guide and a fun group of international travelers, you could  join one of my Adventure Tours!

WHERE TO STAY IN ALA KUL

There are no yurt camps or guesthouses near the lake (only in the Karakol Valley or Altyn Arashan Valley on the first and third day of the hike).

If you have your tent, it’s possible to camp around the lake in various areas where the terrain is flat. Be aware that it’s very cold and windy up there so prepare well!

12. Jyrgalan Valley

The Jyrgalan Valley is nestled between the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains east of lake Issyk Kul and it’s probably one of Kyrgyzstan’s most picturesque regions. Right in the center of this valley, there is a small village with the same name.

Jyrgalan used to be a small coal-mining town. It was thriving at first under the Soviet regime but things changed after the fall of the empire. Many families abandoned the town in search of work elsewhere. What was once a booming center quickly became a ghost town.

Luckily things have been changing a lot for this region in the last few years.

There are now a few guest houses in town and new hiking trails, some horse treks, and even mountain biking routes are being developed. Jyrgalan Valley is slowly becoming the next best hiking destination in Kyrgyzstan .

When it comes to Jyrgalan valley, the question isn’t whether or not you should trek there but rather which day-hike or multi-day trek will inspire you the most. There are plenty of awesome treks to choose from and they cover a wide range of difficulty levels.

Whether you have been hiking for years or you are an absolute beginner, you’ll find something that will be appropriate for your level in this untouched environment.

They go from short half-day hikes to multiple days treks that climb almost up to 4000 meters. I cover a few of them in  the best hikes in Kyrgyzstan .

The Complete Trekking Guide to Kyrgyzstan with the best day hikes and treks

HOW TO GET TO JYRGALAN VALLEY FROM KARAKOL BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There are daily marshrutkas going from Karakol to Jyrgalan. They leave from the Ak-Tilek Market three times a day. The cost of a ticket from Karakol to Jyrgalan is about 80 som per person.

Another way to get there is to take a shared taxi to Jyrgalan. This can be done by visiting   Destination Karakol offices . They can help with arranging a taxi to the small idyllic town and provide information on all the various treks you can do in the valley.

WHERE TO STAY IN JYRGALAN VALLEY

There are now many guest houses in Jyrgalan. The one I absolutely recommend is  Alakol-Jyrgalan Guest House .  The owners are very knowledgeable about all the hiking trails in the region and I really felt at home there.

The owners made everyone feel welcome and after long days of hiking in the mountains, we would return to the guest house to be treated to the most sumptuous meals.

It was the perfect place to relax and discover the region at our own pace. The location is also ideal as the guest house is located where many of the best hiking trails in the region begin.

This guesthouse also features a traditional Kyrgyz Banya (Russian sauna) where I relaxed my legs after intense hiking around the valley.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Alakol-Jyrgalan Guest House”

13. Sary Jaz Valley

The Sary Jaz Valley, located 150km from Karakol, is a hidden beauty I’ve only discovered during my 4 th visit to Kyrgyzstan.

The valley is part of the Khan-Tengri National Park, the largest national park of Kyrgyzstan. It’s a stunning and wild place with vast landscapes as far as the eye can see.

It’s so remote that you won’t see people here, with the exception of a few sheep and yak shepherds and the guards at the checkpoints (you need a border permit to get here, more about that in How to get to Sary Jaz).

Sary Jaz means yellow spring and you’ll understand how it’s gotten its name when you see the rolling yellow hills with breathtaking views of the snowcapped Celestial Mountains in the background. Only in the months of April and May are the hills green.

Several powerful rivers cut the valley and bring water from the mountain glaciers, the main source of freshwater in Kyrgyzstan. You’ll also see some of Kyrgyzstan’s highest mountain peaks, including the Khan Tengri Peak at 7010m and Victory Peak at 7439m.

Sary Jaz offers some great hiking possibilities but it’s also nice to just drive there along the stunning scenery and imagine you’re all alone in the world.

How to get to the Sary Jaz Valley from Karakol

The Sary Jaz Valley is a restricted area and border zone so you need to have a border permit. You have to apply for this permit at least 14 days in advance and include a copy of your passport with your application. The costs of a border permit are between $20 and $30 per person.

I made the trip to the Sary Jaz Valley with Aydarbek from Hiking in Kyrgyzstan and he helped me with the application process.

You can only get to the Sary Jaz valley by 4×4 car. It’s a real off-road trip along windy gravel roads and steep mountain passes. If you want to drive yourself, you need to be a confident driver and know how to handle a 4×4 vehicle well.

You can also arrange a tour with a private driver and a 4×4 SUV vehicle.

The Sary Jaz Valley is a 6-hour drive from Karakol. You’ll be driving next to the border of Kazakhstan, close to Jyrgalan. There you’ll have the first military checkpoint where you need to show your passport and border permit.

The road then continues through the lush Turuk Gorge across the Turuk Pass (3481m) into the Sary Jaz Valley.

It’s also possible to take a different road through the Turgen Valley and across the beautiful Chong Ashu Pass (3800m). While you skip the bordering road with Kazakhstan, there is another military checkpoint on this road.

You can do this road trip as a day trip from Karakol. However, it’s a very long road and a lot of effort to just go there for one day.

My recommendation would be to combine it with a visit to the old USSR mine town Engilchek (see below) and make it into a 2- or 3-day trip.

Where to stay at the Sary Jaz Valley

Aside from some nomadic settlements, there’s absolutely nothing in the Sary Jaz Valley. Your only option is to camp here.

I loved the camping experience, the feeling of being completely alone in this wonderful part of the world and, the silence and the closeness to nature.

14. Engilchek Ghost Town and Hot Springs

I wouldn’t call Engilchek beautiful but it’s definitely one of the most fascinating places to visit in Kyrgyzstan!

The town of Engilchek (Inylchek) was once a prosperous mining town during the Soviet Union. It’s located in the isolated Engilchek Valley near the border with China.

Many young people came to work here in the early 1980s when the mining industry in the region was developing. A whole town including a school and a hospital got built to house the employees of the mine and entire families moved to Engilchek in the hope of building a good life and future here.

There were around 5000 people living here when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. The mining was stopped, people lost their jobs and were forced to move to search for work elsewhere. Engilchek became a ghost town.

There are nowadays about 100 people living in Engilchek, many of them working with livestock in the mountains. I’ve been told that a Chinese company reopened the mines and is slowly providing new working opportunities.

I’ll be honest, I really wouldn’t want to live between these deteriorated buildings. It was very interesting to spend a day and an evening there, to experience how it must be to live in such a remote and abandoned place and to witness the daily life of the few people living there.

If you decide to visit Engilchek, don’t skip the Kara Tash hot springs. They’re wedged between the Sary Jaz River and a cliff, about 15 minutes driving from Engilchek town towards At Jailoo.

These hot springs consist of two open-air pools. One is so hot that you could boil an egg in there, but you can bathe in the other one and enjoy the surrounding views.

Remember that the Kara Tash hot springs aren’t always accessible – usually halfway spring – when the river level becomes so high that it covers the springs.

This region is also home to the Engilchek Glacier, one of the longest and largest glaciers of the Tian Shan Mountains. The Engilchek glacier is only accessible on foot. The trek starts at the At Jailoo base camp and it takes 2 to 3 days and 8 hours walking a day before reaching the glacier.

Don’t undertake this trek by yourself as the terrain is rough and dangerous! If you have $750 per person to spare, you can also go on a helicopter excursion to the glacier.

How to get to Engilchek Ghost Town

The Engilchek Valley lies right next to the Sary Jaz Valley and borders China so you’ll need a border permit to get there.

Apply for this permit at least 14 days in advance and include a copy of your passport with your application. The costs of a border permit are between $20 and $30 per person.

I combined my visit to Engilchek with the trip to Sary Jaz, organized by Hiking in Kyrgyzstan , who also took care of arranging my permit.

Engilchek can’t be reached by public transport. You can only get there with your own vehicle or by renting a 4×4 car (with an optional driver).

You’ll be driving on one of the highest roads in the country surrounded by spectacular sceneries and via the Chong Ashu Pass (3800m).

The accessibility to the village is limited during the winter due to large amounts of snow blocking the road and mountain passes.

Where to stay in Engilchek

I’d highly recommend spending one night in the only homestay in Engilchek as it will give you an insight into the daily life of the few families living there.

Nellie, who’s an English teacher at the school in Engilchek, is always happy to host visitors at her home. She’ll treat you to delicious homemade meals and will very likely invite you to visit the school with her and show you around.

You can’t book your stay in advance as there’s no cellphone or wi-fi reception. Just ask for Nellie when you arrive in Engilchek and people will show you the way.

Top Places to visit in Naryn Region

15. song kol lake.

Song Kol lake is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan! I was charmed from the first moment I set foot on its shores!

It’s not an easy place to access but any traveler worth his salt knows that the more challenging it is to reach a destination, the more rewarding it will be. This is exactly the case with Song Kol Lake.

I visited it for the first time  while marking hiking trails with Discover Kyrgyzstan .  I was left breathless by the vastness of the mountains surrounding it and by how pristine and untouched the area around the lake was!

Song Kol is the second largest lake of Kyrgyzstan and lies at an altitude of 3000m (9895 feet). The lake is surrounded by mountains and lush meadows.

Nomads have used these meadows as pastureland for their flocks for hundreds of years and today there are still a lot of semi-nomadic shepherds who settle here for the summer and live in their yurts while tending to their herds.

It’s possible to  reach Song Kol by horse  almost throughout the whole year.

Kyrgyzstan is a country known for its horse culture and going on a horseback trek to this pristine lake almost feels like the epitome of everything Kyrgyzstan has to offer.

The complete guide to horse riding in Kyrgyzstan with the best horse riding destinations

HOW TO GET TO SONG KOL LAKE BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

A great option is to take a marshrutka from  Bishkek  to Kochkor and then hitchhike or take a taxi from there to Kyzart. You can easily get to Kyzart by shared local taxi for less than 2 USD. If you want to go by private taxi, you will pay at least 10 USD.

Kochkor is one of the biggest towns near Song Kol and it’s easily reached from Bishkek. You can get a shared taxi or a marshrutka to this town from the  western bus station in Bishkek .

A marshrutka ticket from Bishkek to Kochkor should cost around 350 som and the journey to get there from the capital should take less than 3 hours.

Once in Kyzart, you can hike to the lake of Song-Kol over the course of two days.

Hiking to Song Kul Lake – 2 Trekking Itineraries

HOW TO REACH SONG KuL LAKE WITH A LOCAL GUIDE

Song Kul is quite a remote lake and definitely not the easiest one to access. There are many tour companies offering a multi-day trip to Song Kul lake

If you’d like to do this trek by horse and with a small group of like-minded travelers, check out my  Adventure Tours in Kyrgyzstan !

WHERE TO STAY AROUND SONG KOL LAKE

There are many yurt camps spread around the lake, operated by different travel organizers and families. You can arrange your stay in these yurt camps ahead of time or directly with the yurt owners upon arriving there.

Remember that these yurt camps are only there from the end of May/ beginning of June until mid-September!

16. Kel Suu Lake

Although this fantastic canyon lake is hard to get to, it’s one of Kyrgyzstan’s beautiful points of interest!

It was formed in the 1980s when part of the mountains around it collapsed and created a massive natural reservoir. Kel Suu is surrounded by cliffs so tall that it defies the imagination.

There are numerous caves and alcoves in the rocky crags around Kel Suu that you can explore on foot and there’s a small island in the center of the lake that you can reach by boat.

There are plenty of fun activities to do in the vicinity of the lake. The whole area can be explored on foot, on horseback, or by boat.

If you want to explore the farthest parts of the lake, you can rent a boat from the locals. If you like horseback riding, you can always rent a horse from the local shepherds. You could also go for a swim, however, the water is freezing (around 6ºC)!

This natural gem is considered to be one of the most beautiful and spectacular mountain lakes in the Kyrgyz Republic and it’s also one of the highest lakes in the world.

It’s located in a valley called Kok-Kiya at an elevation of about 3,520 meters altitude and not too far from the Chinese border. You’ll need a border permit to get here.

You can occasionally see wild eagles flying over the mountains and herds of wild yaks grazing in the distance. This is a place that would fit very well the description of untouched nature.

Since this lake is not completely closed off, its water level tends to vary considerably throughout the year.

When I went there with a group of travelers during one of my  Overland Expedition Tours  in 2018, Kel-Suu was empty but it was still beautiful and special to walk in the dry lake bed.

Reaching this lake requires a border permit that you can get by contacting the local CBT office in Naryn. The lake is also so remote that you will need a 4×4 vehicle to get there. 

A Handy Travel Guide to Kel Suu Lake and the Kok Kiya Valley

HOW TO GET TO KEL-SUU LAKE

This lake is very remote. The only road to get there is very rough and bumpy and there are many river crossings where there is no bridge. Even with a 4×4 car, the water level in these rivers might be higher than the floorboards.

There are no local marshrutkas that go there either so I would advise contacting a  local tour company  to arrange transportation to this lake.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR KEL-SUU LAKE

There is plenty of space for wild camping in the valley near Kel-Suu lake.

There are also a few yurt camps around Kel-Suu. You can arrange your stay there upon your arrival at the Kok Kiya Valley.

Visit Kel Suu Lake on my Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours !

17. Tash Rabat

Tash Rabat was a very important place during the period when the Silk Road was used actively by Asian traders and merchants. It’s a place known as a Caravanserai, a roadside inn where the merchants could stop and rest for a few days.

On top of being the perfect place to rest for travelers, it was also a place where the various animals transporting the wagons along the silk road could be well fed and taken care of.

Caravanserais were scattered all along the silk road and were providing shelter in isolated regions from the hostile environment and from bandits.

What is so interesting about Tash Rabat is the unusual architecture of the place which leads many researchers to believe it was originally a Buddhist monastery before being used as a caravanserai.

This unusual building really stands out against the green mountains that surround it. It gives the place very peaceful and calm energy.

The whole area is very quiet and the silence is only occasionally broken by herds of horses running down from the hills.

Travelers coming here can spend a few days relaxing in the yurt camps nearby and go for a few hikes in the quiet mountains around the caravanserai.

If you are more adventurous, I would recommend renting a horse from one of the camps to go explore the valley more in-depth and spend some time on the trails that used to be part of the silk road.

You can rent a horse for about 3 USD an hour at the yurt camps and go ride by yourself or you can go on a longer guided tour to some of the more remote peaks of the region.

How to visit mysterious Tash Rabat Caravanserai – The Complete Travel Guide

HOW TO GET TO TASH RABAT BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There are marshrutkas and shared taxis going directly from the bus station in Naryn city to Tash Rabat.

The distance between Naryn and Tash Rabat is 117 km and getting there by shared taxi should cost around 3000som.

You could also visit Tash Rabat by joining one of my   Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours !

WHERE TO STAY NEAR TASH RABAT

Tash Rabat is the ideal place to pitch your tent if you enjoy camping. There are a lot of flat areas in the valley near this archaeological site and you should be able to camp there without being bothered.

If you would prefer to have a typical Kyrgyz experience, you can sleep in a yurt in one of the various yurt camps that you will encounter near the caravanserai.

They charge around 1500 som per person and dinner and breakfast are included in this price. You can arrange your stay in the yurts by walking directly to the camps and talking with the owners.

Beautiful Places to visit in the Jalal-Abad Region

18. too ashuu mountain pass.

The Too Ashuu mountain pass (3594 m) is on the mountainous road connecting  Bishkek  to Osh. It’s one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Kyrgyzstan and it’s easily accessed by car.

What is great about Too Ashuu is that it is located above two gorgeous valleys and the whole panorama there is truly a feast for the eyes.

From one side of the pass, you can admire Chichkan Valley and from the other side, you can see the Susamir Valley.

This place also looks incredibly in winter. The whole area becomes buried under big layers of snow and looks like a vast white desert. The road can be a bit dangerous if you drive there when there is a lot of snow so drive with caution.

In spring, the alpine meadows that are visible from the pass are blooming with more flowers than the mind can imagine and it’s likely you’ll see shepherds moving their animals across the pass in fall.

HOW TO REACH THE Too Ashuu MOUNTAIN PASS FROM BISHKEK BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

You can get to the Too Ashuu pass by public transport from Bishkek by (shared) taxi and marshrutka. You can take a shared taxi or hop on a marshrutka in Bishkek at the Western bus station or at the bus stand south of the Osh Bazaar.

You will need to take a shared taxi or a marshrutka going in the direction of Osh or Jalal-Abad to reach the Too Ashuu pass.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE Too Ashuu PASS

Since Too Ashuu is a very high mountain pass, staying there is practically impossible. There aren’t any hotels or hostels and camping there could be hard because there isn’t much flat ground in the surroundings.

What I would recommend is to continue your journey from the Too Ashuu pass towards the south until you reach  Toktogul (see the next place to visit in Kyrgyzstan below).

19. Toktogul Reservoir

Toktogul is the largest water reservoir in Kyrgyzstan and in the whole of Central Asia. It covers 284 km² and has an average depth of about 215 m. 

Toktogul is also home to Kyrgyzstan’s biggest hydro-electric station. The reservoir is sourced from the Naryn River, whose waters flow from the northern part of the Jalal-Abad region. The deep turquoise color of the water is a stunning contrast to the red hills surrounding the reservoir.

You can go for a quick stop at the reservoir or spend more time hiking up to the Toktogul Kyzyl-Too Panoramic view (around 6km) and camp at the reservoir. You’re even allowed to swim in certain permitted locations in the reservoir (the water is around 28 ° C in summer!).

HOw to get to Tokotogul Reservoir

Toktogul Reservoir lies on the main road between Bishkek and Osh. You can get there by marshrutka or shared taxi, coming from either direction and ask the driver to let you out at the reservoir.

Where to stay at Toktogul reservoir

If you have a tent, you can easily (wild) camp on the shores of the reservoir.

There are also a few guesthouses in Toktogul town.

The one I recommend is the  RAHAT Hostel in Toktogul . This place is owned and operated by a sweet elderly couple who will do their utmost best to ensure you have a comfortable stay.

Maria cooks very delicious traditional Kyrgyz food and we’re sure it will be some of the best you have in Kyrgyzstan.

The location of this hostel is very good. It’s located right on the main street, three minutes from the bus station and five minutes from the bazaar.

Click to check out rates and availability for “RAHAT Hostel in Toktogul”

20. Sary Chelek Lake and National Reserve

Sary Chelek is located in the Jalal-Abad region in the west of Kyrgyzstan, tucked into the Western Tien Shan Mountains at the foot of the Chatkal Mountain Range.

This alpine lake is the highlight of a larger area called Sary Chelek Nature Reserve which has been declared as a  UNESCO Biosphere Reserve  in 1978.

The reserve has seven alpine lakes with Sary Chelek Lake being the largest one. Located at an altitude of 1887 meters and created by a landslide, the lake covers almost 500 hectares. The depth varies across the lake, with its deepest point at 245 meters.

The other six lakes in the area are smaller but nonetheless beautiful! There’s a hiking trail in the park that allows you to visit almost all the lakes in one day.

The dense forest with its wild fruit and walnut trees and the valleys surrounding the lakes are a habitat for thousands of plant species, hundreds of birds, and around 40 species of mammals, such as bears and lynx.

I think Sary Chelek is a must-see destination as it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful places to visit, especially if you’re a nature and outdoor lover!

How to get to Sary Chelek Lake

The entrance gate to Sary Chelek Nature Reserve is located in the village of Arkit. Getting there by public transport from Osh or Jalal-Abad is the easiest but it’s also possible to travel to Arkit from  Bishkek .

How to get to Sary Chelek Nature reserve and things to do at Sary Chelek

Where to Stay in Sary chelek

There are no guesthouses or homestays in the nature reserve. The only way to spend a night near the lake(s) is by camping.

If you don’t want to camp, you can stay in one of the many guesthouses and homestays in Arkit village . They also offer meals at an additional price as there are no restaurants in the village.

The prices vary between 500 and 1000 som per person per night. Breakfast is usually included. If you want to have lunch or dinner, count on an extra 300 som per person per meal.

Visit Sary Chelek during the 10-day Feel Like a Nomad Horse Riding Adventure !

21. Arslanbob

Arslanbob is a village tucked in the eponymous valley in the Chatkal mountain range in the south of Kyrgyzstan.

It’s a destination that is popular for its hikes, horseback riding, and skiing but more than anything else, it’s famous for having the world’s largest walnut forest (nowadays around 11,000 hectares) right at its doorstep.

The Arslanbob walnut forest is estimated to be 50 million years old and is also home to 130 varieties of other nut and fruit trees. Some of the trees are more than 1000 years old!

There are about 16000 people living in Arslanbob and the main population is mainly ethnic Uzbek. They speak a local Uzbek dialect and still wear their traditional clothing. This is one of the things that makes Arslanbob special and different from other places in Kyrgyzstan.

Families in Arslanbob spend fall harvesting nuts in this forest and it’s very interesting to be there and take part in the whole process. They will be more than happy to welcome you and show you how the walnut harvest is done if you offer a helping hand.

The ancient walnut forest isn’t the only reason why you should visit Arslanbob. There’s a variety of things to do and you don’t have to go far to visit the waterfalls, walk to the panoramic viewpoint, have a picnic in the forest or enjoy the village life and the picturesque mountainous views.

For those seeking more action and adventure, there are a number of outdoor activities, such a multiple-day hikes, horse treks, and options to go rock climbing and mountain biking.

12 Wonderful Things to do in Arslanbob Walnut Forest

HOW TO GET TO ARSLANBOB FROM OSH BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

There’s a marshrutka (minibus) that goes directly from Osh to Arslanbob village. This marshrutka leaves daily around 1.30 pm at the   new bus station in Osh ,   located on the corner of Lenin and Kasymbekova street.

The mashrutka from Osh to Arslanbob costs 200 som per person and the journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, including the 30-minute stop at Bazar Korgon.

WHERE TO STAY IN ARSLANBOB

There are a number of CBT guesthouses in Arslanbob Village that offer food and accommodation. You can  book some online in advance  or you can go to the CBT office to help you arrange your stay.

Most guesthouses are equipped with warm showers and (outdoor) toilets and have beautiful courtyards filled with fruits and flower gardens.

The average cost is around 600 som per person per night, including breakfast. Your host will also provide dinner at an additional cost of 250 som.  Note: these prices are subject to change .

Best Places to visit in Osh Region

Osh, located in the Ferghana Valley in the south of Kyrgyzstan, is the country’s second-largest city.

Osh is a great transit point to explore the south of the country and it’s also the gateway to the Pamir Highway and the Ferghana Valley, both leading to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan .

That’s why Osh is very often seen as the cultural capital of Kyrgyzstan as it’s a melting pot of Kyrgyz, Tajik and Uzbek cultures. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan to try several regional dishes that reflect the multicultural nature of the city.

Osh was also the first and therefore the oldest city of the country with a history of over 3000 years as the fertile soil of the Ferghana Valley attracted the nomadic people to settle down. From the 8th century, it developed into an important center of silk production.

The Suleiman Too mountain is the heart of the city. This sacred mountain has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses several mosques, a museum, and sacred caves, some of which women visit to increase their fertility.

Osh is definitely worth visiting for a couple of days and I’d highly suggest taking a guided tour around the city as there’s so much history and places to be explored.

I highly recommend Atabek from Best of Osh as your guide. He speaks fluent English, is very knowledgeable and is highly passionate to show people the incredible features of his hometown.

1 4 Top Things to do in Osh – Osh City Guide

HOW TO GET TO OSH

• By public transport

Most towns and cities have marshrutkas or (shared) taxi’s going directly to Osh.

The road between  Bishkek  and Osh is a long one (10 to 12 hours!) but it takes you through some of the most beautiful mountain passes in the country.

Since the road between the two cities is really winding and quite narrow in certain areas, it’s inappropriate for large vehicles, even for marshrutkas. The only way to get there by local transport is by shared taxi.

A shared taxi between the two cities costs between 1000 and 1200 som.

• Taking a domestic flight from Bishkek to Osh

With really cheap flights between the two cities, the easiest and fastest way to travel to Osh is to fly directly from Bishkek.

There are many flights linking the two cities throughout the day and travel time is very short. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the southern city from Bishkek by plane so it’s a great option if you’re on a tight schedule.

The airport in Osh is not very far from the city center and you can reach the city center by taxi for about 250 som.

WHERE TO STAY IN OSH

Osh is the second biggest city in Kyrgyzstan and the number of high-quality guest houses and hotels operating there is increasing every year.

This destination offers a good quantity of  budget hostels  for backpackers who want to save money to explore during the day and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

If you are looking for more comfort and a place to wind down after the long journey there, the city also offers some fancy but affordable  hotels .

These are the hostels, guesthouses, and hotels I recommend in Osh:

• Lovely Home For You : dorm or private room, great location, beautiful garden, budget friendly
• Ethno Boutique Hotel : beautiful private rooms with mountain views
• Classic Hotel : deluxe rooms, great location, swimming pool and wellness center

23. the Alay Mountains

The Alay Mountains, also referred to as the Alay Valley, are a stunning sub-range of the Pamir-Alay Mountain system in the southwest of Kyrgyzstan.

They are known for being some of Central Asia’s most beautiful and dramatic mountains with their green and alpine landscapes.

The Alay region has small traditional villages with many nomadic shepherds living in yurt camps during summer. It’s a great place to learn more about local life, gain insight into the nomadic culture, and, of course, go on hikes to enjoy the wild and fabulous nature.

There are many hiking trails in the Alay Mountains – from day hikes to multiple-day treks – along luxuriant valleys and pastures filled with grazing horses, yaks, sheep, and cows, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and rugged mountain passes with panoramic views over snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Some of the hiking trails are just one hour away from Osh in the  Kichik Alay , which means lower Alay Mountains.

The higher Alay Mountains in the southern part of the Alay mountain range have passes above 4000 meters altitude. The trailheads of the hikes in the higher Alay are close to Sary Mogul Village (about 4 hours driving from Osh).

There are just so many beautiful places to visit within the Alay Mountain region that it’s hard to point out just a couple.

Join the 12-day Best of Alay Trekking Adventure in Kyrgyzstan!

If you’re a physically fit person, then I highly recommend doing the Best of Alay Trek as this 12-day trek takes you to all the highlights of the higher Alay Mountains.

I’ve written a very comprehensive guide of all the most beautiful destinations and hikes within the Alay Mountains and how to reach them.

7 Best Hikes in the Alay Mountains

24. Tulpar Kol Lake

Tulpar Kol is one of the several small alpine lakes in the Alay Valley in the south of Kyrgyzstan.

This alpine lake lies at an altitude of 3500m. On clear days, the view of Lenin Peak, one of the highest mountains in Central Asia, is reflected on the surface of the lake.

Tulpar Kol is the largest of a string of 42 lakes. The surrounding landscapes are very colorful! The hills around these lakes consist of red soil, then you have the green grass growing around and the white snowcapped peaks of the Trans-Alay mountain range in the background.

I stayed a couple of nights in a yurt camp on the shores of this lake during my trek towards Lenin Peak Basecamp and Travellers Pass (see next best place to visit in Kyrgyzstan below).

It was such a good base for hiking in the area or just relaxing and enjoying the incredible beauty and peace of the place!

This destination is also part of my 12-day Kyrgyzstan Trekking Adventure and 16-day Best of Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tour !

How to get to Tulpar Kol lake

There’s no public transport going directly from Osh to Tulpar Kol Lake. You’ll first have to get to Sary Mogul Village.

You can get from Osh to Sary Mogul by (shared) taxi or marshrutka.

There’s  one daily marshrutka  that goes from Osh to Daraut-Korgon via Sary Mogul. It usually leaves around 2 pm from the Old Bus Station, which is located in the city center at the head of Osh Bazaar near Aravanskaya.

You can also take a  shared taxi  to Sary Mogul at the New Bus Station. These also don’t leave until the car is full, but several shared taxis run throughout the day. It costs 500 som, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours.

Tulpar Kul is a 25km drive from Sary Mogul Village. You can take a taxi or try and hitch a ride there.

You can also book a direct transfer from Osh to Tulpar Kol (5 hours) with CBT Osh , which would be around 6500 som per car.

Remember that you need a  Border Zone Permit  to visit Tulpar Kol Lake (the same one as for Lenin Peak Basecamp) as it’s close to the border with  Tajikistan . It takes 10 to 20 days to issue the permit, so you need to apply and pay in advance.  CBT Osh  can help you obtain this permit.

Where to stay at Tulpar Kol Lake

There are just a couple of yurt camps on the shores of Lake Tulpar Kol.

I stayed at the family-owned  Lenin Peak   Yurt Camp . You can also book your stay at the  CBT Yurt Camp .

25. Peak Lenin Basecamp & Traveller’s Pass

Peak Lenin is one of the highest mountains in Central Asia. This 7134 meters tall mountain, straddling the border of Kyrgyzstan and  Tajikistan  in the Pamir-Alay mountains, is on a clear day almost always visible from a distance.

When you go on the day hike to Traveller’s Pass, you’ll get a fantastic close view of Lenin Peak and its surrounding glaciers from this 4150m high ridge.

The trail to Traveller’s Pass starts right behind the yurt camp on the southern shore of Tulpar Kul. You’ll also pass Peak Lenin Basecamp along the way.

You might meet some mountaineers who are preparing for the climb to Lenin Peak. It’s quite a popular climb as it’s known to be the “easiest” 7000-meter summit in the world.

However, many people underestimate this climb. It’s not something you do in a day. Climbing Peak Lenin is a 3-week expedition and it’s a dangerous one!

Once you’ve reached the top of the ridge of Traveller’s Pass and see the magnificent view of glaciers tumbling off the majestic Lenin Peak, I guarantee that you won’t stop smiling for a while!

GETTING A BORDER PERMIT TO VISIT PEAK LENIN

Since Peak Lenin is located on the border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, getting there requires a border permit. There are a few military checks on the road to the base camp of the mountain and you will be required to show your permit to proceed.

It can take anywhere between 10 days to 3 weeks to get the permit and you can do so by  contacting CBT Osh .

It is better to get the border permit through the CBT office instead of through a travel agency because most travel agencies will tell you that you have to organize an official tour there with them to get the permit which is absolutely not the case.

HOW TO GET TO Peak Lenin Basecamp and traveller’s Pass

Peak Lenin Basecamp and Traveller’s Pass can only be reached on foot or on horse.

The trail starts right behind the yurt camp on the southern shore of Tulpar Kol. Read the full description of this hike here .

WHERE TO STAY NEAR PEAK LENIN Basecamp

You can camp anywhere you like along the trail or you could stay in one of the yurt camps near Tulpar Kol Lake and go on a day hike to Lenin Peak Basecamp and Traveller’s Pass.

Join one of my Kyrgyzstan Trekking Adventures to visit these places!

I hope this guide has inspired you to visit Kyrgyzstan and helped you plan your trip! Please let me know in the comments below if you have any questions left!

Plan your trip to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Money Guide: Costs of Living and traveling in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Best Tips and complete Packing List for Traveling in Central Asia in 2024 – When to go and what to wear when visiting Central Asia

Kyrgyzstan Horseback riding: Everything you need to know about horse riding in Kyrgyzstan+ the 9 best horse Riding destinations

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide: 20 Useful Things you should know to visit Kyrgyzstan in 2024

The 28 Best Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan – culture, nature, history, and sights

Is Kyrgyzstan safe? 15 Useful Things to Know before you go in 2024

More kyrgyzstan travel resources.

• The Complete Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
• The 14 best hikes in Kyrgyzstan
• The 25 most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan
• 8 beautiful lakes in Kyrgyzstan
• 15 useful safety tips for Kyrgyzstan
• The complete packing list for Kyrgyzstan
• 28 Things to do in Kyrgyzstan
• 13 Top Things to do in Bishkek – City Guide
• How to visit the Osh Bazaar in Bishkek
• 14 Top Things to do in Osh – City Guide
• 15 Best Things to do in Karakol – City Guide
• The 21 best hikes in Karakol and Jyrgalan
• Tash Rabat Travel Guide
• The complete travel guide to Kel Suu Lake
• The complete travel guide to Arslanbob
• How to visit Sary Chelek Lake and Nature Reserve
• Top things to do around Issyk Kul Lake, a one week itinerary
• Facts and legends of the Burana Tower
• Everything you need to know about horse riding to Song Kul lake
• A comprehensive guide to skiing in Kyrgyzstan
• 6 reasons why you should visit Kyrgyzstan in winter
• Visit Kyrgyzstan in winter by using this 10-day Kyrgyzstan winter itinerary
• Here are the 7 best hikes in the Alay Mountains near Osh
• Use this day-by-day itinerary to hike independently to Ala Kul lake
• Hike independently to Son Kul lake by using these 2 itineraries
• 8 great day trips and hikes near Bishkek
• Ready steady goat! An insight into Kok Boru, Kyrgyzstan’s unusual national sport
• Meet the Golden Eagle Hunters of Kyrgyzstan

10 thoughts on “The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024”

Hi, the detailed information provided in your central Asia travel blog is simply captivating & very helpful to those wanting an adventure in central asia. Well done & 2 thumbs up for your contribution. Keep it up.

with thanks, Ivan Lai

Thank you so much Ivan!

We are two seniors and would like to explore this beautiful country in September. Is there a tour to see all of these places in 8 days? Is it possible for a female to rent a car? Love your article, thank you so much.

Hi Arlene, I’m happy you loved the article!

I’m afraid it won’t be possible to see all these places in 8 days. Kyrgyzstan might be a small country in comparison with its neighbors (with the exception of Tajikistan) but it’s still quite a big country. The distances between all these places require a lot of driving and not all the roads are very good, which adds even more driving time. You’re always welcome to contact me and I can help you with an itinerary suggestion. It is also definitely possible to rent a car as a woman!

hey! great article! thank you very much for sharing to much experience and knowledge.

Thank you Roger!

What a great write up and stunning photos! We are planning a trip end of March/early Apr but looks like its not the right time to be visiting Kyrgystan. Were you there around that time? Please could you advise. Thank you!

Hello Ranjani, thank you! 🙂 It’s still very cold end of March/ early April and there won’t be many yurt camps around as most semi-nomads set up their camps from May on. But if you prepare for the cold temperatures, you can still get a very beautiful experience in Kyrgyzstan as the winter landscapes are stunning!

Great article! Do you still have a high resolution version of this picture? https://www.journalofnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_6488-1.jpg I’d love to use it as my laptop’s wallpaper. Cheers! Bob

Hi Bob, if you’re interested in one of our photos, please send us an email at hello(at)journalofnomads(dot)com or use the contact form on our website! 🙂

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• 10 Places To Visit In Bishkek In 2024: A Detailed Guide For Your Next Trip!

23 Mar 2023

The capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, is the borderline of Central Asia’s Tian Shan range. The Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountains and Ala Archa National Park adorned with wildlife trails and glaciers, concludes the scenic beauty of the place. Be it the monumental State Museum of Fine Arts or the ballet theater, the city’s artistic background will dazzle one’s senses. The city is home to some of the most heavenly places to visit in Bishkek .

Filled with exotic foliage and historic post-Soviet anachronisms, Bishkek is a city engraved with cultural nuances. The vibrant and youthful atmosphere of the place is the reason why the city witnesses a massive tourist turnout every year. The pulsating nightlife of Kyrgyzstan’s capital city is unparalleled. They they way to one’s heart is through the stomach. If that’s the case, then the city’s food scene is definitely going to ring a bell. Be it the mouthwatering Oromo or the tasteful Besh Barmak, one is served with a myriad of food choices.

10 Best Places To Visit In Bishkek

From the alluring architecture to the beguiling landscapes, the city offers a cornucopia of pursuits to indulge in. We have compiled a list of places to visit in Bishkek that one shall stick to in order to have a memorable experience!

• Kyrgyz State Historical Museum
• Erkindik Boulevard
• Victory Square, Bishkek
• Burana Tower
• Ala Archa National Park
• Dubovy Park
• Issyk Kul Lake
• Panfilov Park
• Dordoy Bazaar

1. Kyrgyz State Historical Museum

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The architectural showpiece, formerly as the Lenin Museum, is situated on Ala-Too Square. The museum catalogues exhibitions where a plethora of ancient artifacts are put on display such as rock paintings, accessories belonging to the Nomadic Era, Bronze Age Household Commodities, an assemblage of Turkic kurgan stelae, Ancient coins and rocks etched with runic imprints.The museum houses an all-inclusive collection of ethnographic items like leather, wool, clothing, jewelry etc.

Must Read: 9 Things To Do In Bishkek That Will Make You Fall In Love With The City

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2. Erkindik Boulevard

Boulevard Erkindik is one of the most renowned public spaces in Bishkek. The locals love to take a stroll in the long streets with foliage all around. Be it an early morning stroll or grabbing a cup of ice cream from Fresco, Erkindik Boulevard is the quintessential leisure locale. Regarded as one of the top places to visit in Bishkek, The location is jam-packed with a wide range of eateries and coffee shops. If you ever come to this magical place, do witness the Musical Erkindik!

Suggested Read: 6 Places To Visit In Asia In November: An Escape From The Snow Into The Tropics

3. Osh Bazaar

Osh Bazaar is one of the largest markets in Bishkek. It is situated on the west side of the city. The market features a wide variety of food products, customary household goods, classic souvenirs, dated clothing pieces and musical instruments. Shopaholics visiting the market are going to have the time of their lives!

Suggested Read: The Great Niah National Park Guide: The Birthplace Of Civilization In Southeast Asia

4. Victory Square, Bishkek

The public square was established in order to celebrate the triumphant victory over Nazi Germany. It was constructed on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of USSR in 1984. In the heart of the square stands a statue of a woman waiting for her spouse to return from war. The square is enveloped together by three ribs of granite which symbolizes a yurt. The nucleus of the square is housed by an eternal fire.

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5. Burana Tower

It is a giant minaret situated in the Chuy Valley, northern Kyrgyzstan. It is at a distance of about 80 km east from Bishkek. The remnants of the ancient city of Balasagun can be still unearthed along with a few grave markers, earthworks, three mausoleums and a few leavings of an ancient castle. An external stairway is accessible in order to climb to the top.

6. Ala Archa National Park

The Ala Archa National Park is situated in the Tian Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan. The alpine national park was established in 1976, 40 km south of the capital city. The park sprawls across 200 square kilometers. There are more than 20 large and small glaciers with some 50 mountain peaks. The Adygene and Ak-Sai, are two tributaries, sprung out of the glaciers’ melting waters. The park is a visual treat and offers a serene environment. It is truly in every sense, one of the best places to visit in Bishkek Kyrgyzstan.

Suggested Read: 36 Best Places To Visit In Southeast Asia That Won’t Let You Put Your Camera Down!

7. Dubovy Park

The park features a small open air sculpture garden behind the statue of Kurmanjan Datka, amidst the oaks. Travelers looking for local themed paintings will find a wide range of timeless art pieces sold by talented artists. The park has been renamed after the esteemed author, Chingiz Aitmatov. The locals address it as ‘oak park’.

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8. Issyk Kul Lake

The endorheic lake has been crowned as the seventh deepest lake in the world. Ranked as the tenth largest lake in the world by volume, the lagoon sprawls across 6,236 square kilometers in area. Issyk-kul translates to ‘warm lake’ in Kyrgyz. The moana is extensively surrounded by snow-capped peaks but surprisingly enough, it never freezes.

9. Panfilov Park

The park is a city memorial situated near the Old square. It was founded in the year 1924 as Zvezda Park. The park was named after the Hero of Soviet Union and the chairman of the Kirghiz SSR, Ivan Panfilov. The park is designed in the shape of a star. The park offers a beautiful foliage with a relaxing undertone. It is one of the best places to visit in Bishkek Kyrgyzstan for a tranquil experience.

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10. Dordoy Bazaar

Dordoy Bazaar, also spelled as Dordoi Bazaar, has been crowned as Asia’s greatest market place. It a wholesale and retail market of consumer goods dispatched by China. The existence of the market can be dated back to the year 1992. The market is divided into different sections selling various consumer goods and commodities such as clothing, furniture, toys, automotive supplies etc. One can also find occasional produce vendors accommodating the market.

Further Read: 10 Cheapest Cities In Asia For The Shoestring Budget Travelers

Regardless of all the atrocities Bishkek has managed to endure and overcome, It is a city that radiates positivity and happiness. With so many magnificent places to visit in Bishkek, travelers will always be on their toes. If you are ready to hit that bucket list, then plan a trip to Bishkek with TravelTriangle and have an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bishkek

What language is spoken in Bishkek?

The primary language used in Bishkek is Russian. Also, in hotels, restaurants, and several tourist places, you will find people who can converse well in English.

What is special about Bishkek?

Bishkek is adorned with a plethora of tourist attractions where travellers can visit and make most of their vacation. Some of the top-rated places to see in Bishkek which should definitely be visited include Ala Archa National Park, Ala-Too Square, Erkindik Boulevard, Victory Square, and many more. Also, this place is not only ideal for families, but for couples and solo vacationers as well.

Is it safe to visit Bishkek, given the covid situation?

Yes, it is safe to visit Bishkek given that you follow all guidelines and take all the necessary precautions. Make sure to get yourself vaccinated before planning a trip, also wear masks at all times, maintain social distance at public places and sanitize your hands regularly.

How many days are enough to explore Bishkek?

To see almost all the attractions in Bishkek, a 2-3 day trip is sufficient. With numerous places to visit and things to do, this destination is a perfect hub for naturists and globetrotters. Also, if travellers want a bit more relaxing vacay, then they can plan a trip of 5-6 days.

Is Bishkek safe to visit?

Bishkek is quite a safe destination. Even if you are travelling solo, you will feel safe while visiting this place. Interestingly, even after being a populated city, Bishkek boasts a very low crime rate.

What is the best time to visit Bishkek?

Bishkek is one destination that experiences a huge influx of travellers throughout the year. If you are interested in adventurous activities like skiing, hiking, trekking, and mountaineering then months from April to September are the best ones. Apart from this, if you are fond of cold weather, then you can visit during the winter months that are from October to January.

Which tips one should keep in mind while visiting Bishkek?

Following are some common things one should pay heed to while travelling to Bishkek: 1. Since English is not commonly used here, you can hire a translator 2. The weather in Bishkek is unpredictable. So, travellers are recommended to pack for both hold and cold weather conditions 3. It is advised to carry local currency in care if card payment is not accepted

Do we need a visa to visit Bishkek?

Yes, a foreign national may need a Kyrgyzstan tourist visa, business visa or transit visa depending on the kind of trip they are taking. For a short stay, one can also apply for an eVisa.

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Things To Do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan in Winter

If at all, Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is only known as a summer destination. The famous Tian Shan Mountains offer some supreme hiking opportunities that are definitely worth exploring if you are there during the warmer months. But is there anything to do in Bishkek in winter and is it worth travelling there?

The answer is: Yes, absolutely! Keep on reading and find out why!

Bishkek is the perfect winter holiday destination: with several ski resorts just outside the city, traditional Kyrgyz bath houses to regenerate after a day on the slopes, exquisite traditional food and an unexpectedly vibrant nightlife scene this Central Asian jewel is definitely one of the top places to visit if you are looking for something off the beaten track and yet still safe and easy to travel to. And how cool is it to tell your friends that you have been skiing in Kyrgyzstan?

How to get to Bishkek?

A few years ago, travelling to Kyrgyzstan still required a lot of planning and flights were very expensive. That has changed. Since July 2012, citizens from 44 countries (among them all EU countries, the US and several Asian nations) can travel to Kyrgyzstan visa free. Since the Turkish low cost carrier Pegasus Airlines added Bishkek to its international network, getting to Kyrgyzstan became a lot easier and especially cheaper. Flights from Istanbul, a major international gateway start at just over $100 round trip.

Read my guide at how to always find the lowest flights

Skiing near Bishkek

Tip: Busses to Chunkurchak leave every morning at 9 am in front of the Gergert Sport shop . Be there a few minutes early to rent your ski equipment for the day so you can maximize your time on the slopes. I you don’t make it in time, don’t worry, you can rent some skis at Chunkurchak as well.

Cost: I paid roughly $9 for the ski and boot rental and another $7 for the bus to Chunkurchak and back. The ski pass was around $16 for the day. Compared to skiing in Europe or the US an absolute steal!

Here is a video of me skiing down the slopes of the Chunkurchak ski resort:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uu4_1llfpEU&w=560&h=315]

Are you looking for a real adventure? Kyrgyzstan is considered to be the cheapest place for heli skiing. A helicopter will bring you to the top of untouched mountains from where you can ski down the untouched whites of the mountain. Tours start at around $4000 for an 8-day tour .

Tip: It can get terribly cold in Kyrgyzstan during the winter months. Check the weather forecast a couple of days before you actually get there and pack accordingly. In case the temperatures are dropping too low, bring foot and hand warmers with you so you can still enjoy the sights and ski resorts of this amazing Central Asian country.

Banya – Bath Houses in Bishkek

After a long and possibly cold day on the slopes, there is nothing more relaxing and reviving than visiting one of the traditional bath houses in Bishkek. I headed to Zhirgal Banya , the most traditional bath house in Bishkek – an absolutely unique experience (entrance is around $5). There are several rooms, a steam sauna, a Finnish sauna and a cold pool to refresh yourself. If your muscles are still sore, you are offered to pay a little extra to get a “massage” – something I don’t recommend, at least if you are a man. Since there are separated areas for men and women in the bath, your muscles will be worked by a 200 pound Kyrgyz dude. And he isn’t gentle.

Restaurants in Bishkek

Kyrgyz food usually means a lot of meat. Usually lamb or mutton. Be sure to try the national dish Besh Barmak , a delicious stew of horse or sheep meat, often mixed with homemade noodles. Head to Fakir Restaurant for an authentic Kyrgyz restaurant with well sized portions and excellent prices. Good thing in Kyrgyzstan is, that you won’t find any Western fast food chains in the country – so you have to go for the delicious local choices.

Nightlife in Bishkek

After the relaxing bath and a filling meal, your batteries are recharged. Time to party. Bishkek offers a wide range of affordable nightclubs and foreigners are welcomed at most places with open arms. Most young people speak English very fluently so you won’t have any problems connecting to some locals. Start out at 12Bar , a rooftop bar where you will meet the rich and famous of Kyrgyzstan – and still only pay around $5 per drink. Later you can head to the nightclub Retro Metro.

Compared to other big cities, Bishkek is quite safe. But just like anywhere, try not to flash your Rolex in a dark alley at night and you should be fine. If you feel uncomfortable, take a taxi back to your hotel from the nightclub – a ride should only be around $5.

Sight seeing in Bishkek

Bishkek is much more than just a gateway point to some ski resorts and a few nightclubs. When you walk around town, you can still experience the old Soviet past. Ala-Too Square is the perfect example for that. A massive square surrounded by concrete blocks – Lenin’s dream.

Whenever I travel to a new country, one of my favourite things is heading to local markets. At one glimpse you can see how locals interact, what they eat and how they negotiate their prices. Osh Bazaar in Bishkek is just the right place to do that. From healthy nuts to a sheep’s head and delicious Korean salads, you can find it all here.

Where to stay in Bishkek in Winter

There are plenty of accommodation options in Bishkek. The range varies from cheap local guest houses to upscale international hotel chains. If you are looking for something a little different, you should check out the Alpinist Hotel . It is located right in the center of Bishkek and even offers its guests a climbing wall.

Have you been to Bishkek or are you planning to travel there? Let us know in the comment section below. If you are planning an extented backpacking trip through the beautiful country of Kyrgyzstan, check out this helpful guide about backpacking in Kyrgyzstan.

19 thoughts on “ Things To Do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan in Winter ”

This was an excellent read! I’d never thought of going to Bishkek, but now I might. It’s very cheap here, and yes, I’ll also avoid the massage!

Never heard about this place before but those snowy places looks so appealing. I must add this to my alley for my love of winters. Thanks for sharing.

It looks like the perfect place we’d like to explore during this winter season! We love that you have wrote about the nightlife, it’s part of the trip 🙂

Oh yeah, never forget about the nightlife 🙂 and its especially noteworthy in Bishkek since nobody expects a good nightlife scene in Central Asia.

It is nice to know about the Visa and glad that such places are connected well compared to how it was earlier. The landscape looks so beautiful and pristine. I love the way the breads looks and I agree woth you when you say markets are the best place to understand how the city works.

It seems nice pleasant winter with some sunshine. Great article.

Somehow I never associated snowscapes and white blankets with Kyrgyzstan, but then what do I know? Certainly looks like a beautiful place. And the breads look so yum too. The spice sacks in the marketplace remind of India’s bazaars.

I dont’ snowboard anymore but if I did I’d be headed here! Fantastically affordable-which is half the battle of skiing snowboarding these days (no one can afford to do it all that often!) and to do it in a country where you get to explore a completely different culture is even cooler!

While I totally would love to see and experience snow, I don’t know if I’ll enjoy a Ski Resort (coming from someone who doesn’t even know how to balance a bike or use rollerblades. LOL). Good to know though that there are a lot of options for non-skier like me. 😉 For one, the bath houses sounds heavenly and I’d definitely love to explore Bishkek’ food scene too.. Those breads looks pretty unique!

Very nice! We’ve always wanted to ski off a mountain. Too bad there’s no snow here in the Philippines. And those mountains look very tempting to climb. Is climbing permitted there?

I am sure that you could to some climing in the summer months. There are lots of outdoor activities in Kyrgyzstan

Bishkek is truly a destination off the beaten track. It looks really enticing in winter. The skiing options look great and also I am sure you get lesser crowds than other ski destinations. Apart from skiing there seem to be lots of things to do there. I was especially enamoured by the look of the breads on display, they look so wonderful.

Thanks for your comment! Yeah, the bread looks absolutely amazing. They do this with every bread in Kyrgyzstan – I thought it is a lot of work put into a loaf of bread but it sure does look amazing! 🙂

This is a good guide Kyrgyzstan which is also in my bucket list. I also love how you post some of pictures of the landscape and how the people look like. How safe is Kyrgyzstan?

Love the pictures. Must have been amazing out there. Have you tried their hangover food Ashlyam Fu? https://lordsofthedrinks.com/2018/03/04/ashlyam-fu-a-cold-soup-from-kyrgyzstan-that-cures-hangovers/ Cheers, Micky

No, I haven’t tried it… another reason to go back to Kyrgyzstan 🙂

Haha indeed! 😀

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