Balykchy - Discovering Kyrgyzstan

Travelling to Balykchy

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Balykchy, a pretty good destination in Kyrgyzstan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Balykchy and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Balykchy, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Kyrgyzstan, here's everything to know about Balykchy for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Balykchy

Balykchy is a city located in the northern region of Kyrgyzstan, near the eastern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, the second largest alpine lake in the world. The city has a population of around 40,000 people and serves as an important transportation hub for the region. Balykchy is also known for its fish market, which sells fresh fish caught from the lake, and it's a popular destination for tourists interested in trekking, water sports, and exploring the surrounding mountains and valleys.

What to visit in Balykchy

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan: 1. Issyk-Kul Lake: This is the main attraction in Balykchy. It is the second-largest alpine lake in the world and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. The lake is also known for its unique thermal springs and boating opportunities.
2. Dungan Mosque: This mosque was built by Chinese craftsmen in the 19th century and is a unique blend of Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. The mosque is made entirely of wood and is a popular place of worship in the area.
3. Burana Tower: This tower is located about 70 km from Balykchy and was built in the 11th century by the Karahanid Empire. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Petroglyphs at Cholpon-Ata: These petroglyphs, located about 20 km from Balykchy, date back to the 2nd millennium BC and depict scenes of hunting, battles, and daily life of the ancient tribes that inhabited the area.
5. Karakol Gorge: This beautiful gorge is located about 50 km from Balykchy and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and horseback riding. It also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is home to several hot springs.
6. Central Market: The Central Market in Balykchy is a bustling place where locals come to buy fresh produce, meat, and other local goods. It's a great place to experience the local culture and try some authentic Kyrgyz food.
I hope this helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Kyrgyzstan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Balykchy.

When to go on holiday to Balykchy

The best time to visit Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan is during the summer months of June to August. During this time, the weather is warm with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding region. However, Balykchy can also be visited during spring and autumn, from April to May and September to October respectively, as the weather is still pleasant but cooler. Winter, from November to March, is generally very cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, so it is not recommended for tourism purposes.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Balykchy

There are several ways to get to Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan: 1. By air: The nearest airport to Balykchy is Manas International Airport in Bishkek. From there, you can take a taxi or a shared minibus to Balykchy, which is around a 3-hour drive.
2. By shared taxi: There are shared taxis available from Bishkek to Balykchy. They are a faster option compared to public buses, and you can negotiate the price with the driver.
3. By public bus: Buses run regularly from Bishkek to Balykchy, and the journey takes approximately 4 hours. You can take a bus from the Western Bus Terminal in Bishkek.
4. By car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive from Bishkek to Balykchy. The journey takes around 2.5 - 3 hours, depending on the traffic.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balykchy, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balykchy

Balykchy is a small town located in northern Kyrgyzstan, on the shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. Here are some typical foods that can be found in Balykchy: 1. Ashlam-Fu: A cold noodle soup made from thin noodles, vinegar, vegetables, and a sour cream sauce. It is a refreshing dish that is perfect for a hot summer day.
2. Beshbarmak: A traditional Kyrgyz dish made from boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) and served on a bed of boiled noodles. It is often served with a side of broth and a spicy tomato sauce.
3. Kuurdak: A hearty dish made from fried lamb or beef with onions, peppers, and potatoes. It is typically served with fresh herbs and bread.
4. Shorpo: A hot soup made from lamb or beef with vegetables and spices. It is a comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.
5. Lagman: A spicy noodle soup made with vegetables, meat, and a variety of spices. It is similar to the Chinese dish, "Lamian." 6. Kazy: A type of sausage made from horse meat. It is often sliced thinly and served as a snack or appetizer.
7. Samsa: A baked pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and onions. It is a popular snack in Kyrgyzstan and can be found in many markets and street vendors.
8. Manti: Dumplings filled with minced meat and onions. They are typically steamed and served with sour cream or a spicy tomato sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kyrgyzstan here.

Is Balykchy an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Kyrgyzstan, Balykchy can be considered a bit expensive for tourists. However, the cost of travel depends on various factors such as the standard of accommodation, modes of transportation, food options, activities, and more. If you are on a tight budget, you can choose to stay in budget-friendly guesthouses, eat local street food, and use public transport. If you prefer more comfortable accommodation and private transport, you can expect to pay a higher price. Overall, it is important to research and plan your trip carefully to fit your budget and preferences.

Where to find accomodation in Balykchy

Balykchy is a small town located on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan. The best areas to find accommodation in Balykchy are: 1. Downtown Balykchy: This area is convenient as it is located in the heart of the town and close to the main attractions. You can find a range of accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses.
2. Lake Issyk-Kul beachfront: If you want to enjoy the views of the lake and have easy access to the beach, then staying in a hotel or guesthouse along the lake Issyk-Kul beachfront is a good option.
3. Kurortnaya Street: This area is located on the outskirts of Balykchy and offers a peaceful environment. There are also a few hotels and guesthouses in this area.
Overall, Balykchy is a small town and you can easily explore its attractions from any location.
You can check hotel prices at Balykchy here:
Booking.com

Is Balykchy a safe destination for tourists?

Balykchy is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists in Kyrgyzstan. The city does not have a significant history of crime, but like any other destination, it is important to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings. It is recommended that tourists exercise basic safety precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not leaving valuables unattended. Additionally, it is important to take adequate precautions against altitude sickness if you plan on traveling to higher elevations in the region. Overall, by practicing good travel safety practices, you should be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Balykchy.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Kyrgyzstan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Balykchy.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balykchy the most?

Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan is a great destination for those seeking a relaxing vacation amidst stunning natural landscapes. It is perfect for families and couples who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend time together amidst the tranquil beauty of the mountains.
The town of Balykchy and the surrounding areas offer several outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, horseback riding and swimming in the nearby Issyk-Kul lake. Balykchy is also a great place to experience the local culture, including the tradition of yurt building and the unique Kyrgyz cuisine.
As for young people looking for fun, Balykchy does not have much to offer in terms of nightlife or party destinations. However, there are still various outdoor adventure options that may interest them.
Overall, Balykchy is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a relaxing, cultural or adventurous experience in a serene and breathtaking atmosphere.

How to get around Balykchy

There are several transportation options available for moving around Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan. The most popular one is the shared taxi or marshrutka, which is a minibus that follows a set route and picks up passengers along the way. There are also buses that run regularly between Balykchy and nearby cities. For short distances within the town, you can also hire a bicycle or walk. Taxis are also available, but it is recommended to negotiate the fare before getting in the car.

What to see around Balykchy

There are a lot of beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Balykchy in Kyrgyzstan. Here are some of the most popular: 1. Issyk-Kul Lake - This is a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, and it is only a short distance from Balykchy. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and sunbathing on the beaches.
2. Barskoon Gorge - This is a stunning gorge located about an hour from Balykchy, and it features a beautiful waterfall, hot springs, and crystal clear streams.
3. Burana Tower - This is an ancient tower that dates back to the 11th century, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is located in the nearby city of Tokmok.
4. Konorchek Canyons - This is a unique natural formation that features red rock canyons and impressive rock formations. It is located about 2 hours from Balykchy.
5. Jety-Oguz Gorge - This is another beautiful gorge that features stunning rock formations and waterfalls. It is located about 2.5 hours from Balykchy.
6. Chon-Kemin Valley - This is a beautiful valley that is home to a nature reserve, and it features stunning mountain landscapes, wildlife, and hiking trails. It is located about 2 hours from Balykchy.
For every travel information about Kyrgyzstan you can click here.

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