Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan: general info for travelers

Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, China to the east, Tajikistan to the south-west and Uzbekistan to the west. The country is characterized by its stunning natural landscapes, including snow-capped mountain ranges and high-altitude lakes. The culture of Kyrgyzstan is heavily influenced by its nomadic history, and traditional practices such as eagle hunting and yurt building are still prominent. The cuisine of Kyrgyzstan includes many meat dishes, as well as dairy products, noodles, and bread. The official languages are Kyrgyz and Russian, and the country's population is approximately 6.5 million people. Kyrgyzstan is a great destination for adventure seekers, with opportunities for trekking, horse riding and mountaineering.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Kyrgyzstan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Kyrgyzstan: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Kyrgyzstan with their descriptions: 1. Lake Issyk Kul: It is the second largest alpine lake in the world, located in the northeast part of the country. The crystal clear blue water of the lake and the surrounding stunning mountain landscapes make for a perfect destination for relaxation and various watersports.
2. Son Kul Lake: Situated on a high-altitude plateau at an altitude of over 3000 meters, Son Kul Lake is known for its idyllic panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and pasturelands. The lake is popular among nomads and trekking enthusiasts and is one of the most remote locations in the country.
3. Tash Rabat Caravanserai: Tash Rabat is an ancient stone-built caravanserai, located in the Naryn region of Kyrgyzstan. It was built in the 15th century as a resting place for traders along the Silk Road and is considered a unique example of the ancient architecture of nomadic Central Asia.
4. Ala Archa National Park: Located just 40 km south of the Kyrgyzstan capital, Bishkek, Ala Archa is a popular destination for nature and adventure lovers alike. The park offers breathtaking mountain trekking trails, pristine glacier-fed rivers, and camping facilities.
5. Sary Chelek Lake: Located in the western part of the country, Sary Chelek Lake is a marvel of nature and is often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The turquoise waters of the lake surrounded by foothills, forests, and meadows provide visitors with the perfect atmosphere to relax and unwind.
6. Burana Tower: Located near the city of Tokmok, the Burana Tower is a historic tower that dates back to the 11th century. It was once part of a vast complex of buildings that served as the capital of the Karakhanid Khanate. The tower is now a popular tourist attraction in Kyrgyzstan, providing visitors with insights into local history and culture.
There is more to see and do in Kyrgyzstan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Kyrgyzstan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Kyrgyzstan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Kyrgyzstan has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit depends on your interests in traveling. In the summer months, from June to September, the weather is pleasant and warm. This is the ideal time to explore Kyrgyzstan’s beautiful mountains and lakes, and to participate in various outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and horseback riding.
During spring and autumn, particularly in April to May and October to November, the weather is cooler with the possibility of rain and snow in the mountains. This is an excellent time to visit the country if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenic views in solitude.
In winter, from December to February, the temperature drops drastically with heavy snowfall in the mountains. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities in famous ski resorts such as Karakol and Chimbulak. Overall, the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan depends on your preferences. If you love outdoor activities and stunning natural landscapes, summer would be the ideal time to go. If you want to explore the country's history and culture in the cities, spring or autumn might be best. Finally, if you enjoy winter sports and the snow, the winter season is perfect for you.

Kyrgyzstan: activities and what to do

Kyrgyzstan is a destination that offers many exciting activities and sports for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventure. Here are some of the best activities and sports to do on holiday in Kyrgyzstan: 1. Trekking and hiking: Kyrgyzstan is known for its stunning mountain ranges, including the Tien Shan and the Pamir-Alai, which offer some of the best trekking and hiking opportunities in the region.
2. Horse riding: Horse riding is a popular activity in Kyrgyzstan, where horses are an essential part of the country's culture and history. You can ride horses through mountains, valleys, and alpine meadows and experience the stunning views of the landscapes.
3. Skiing and snowboarding: During the winter months, Kyrgyzstan's mountains turn into a winter wonderland, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
4. Rafting and kayaking: Kyrgyzstan's many rivers, including the Chui, Kokomeren, and Naryn, offer some excellent white-water rafting and kayaking opportunities.
5. Mountaineering: Kyrgyzstan has many high peaks and summits, including Lenin Peak, which attracts mountaineers from all over the world.
6. Fishing: Anglers can enjoy fishing in numerous lakes, including Issyk-Kul, Song-Kul lakes, and rivers.
Overall, Kyrgyzstan is a paradise for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, providing endless opportunities to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Kyrgyzstan: few words on history and culture

Kyrgyzstan has a rich and fascinating history and culture. The Kyrgyz people were nomads who lived in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of various empires, such as the Mongols, Chinese, and Russians. The Kyrgyz people first accepted Islam in the 17th century and still practice it today. In terms of cultural heritage, Kyrgyzstan is known for its traditional music, especially the komuz, a three-stringed instrument made from wood and animal hide. Kyrgyzstan is also famous for its felt products, such as yurts, rugs, and clothing. The traditional dishes of Kyrgyzstan include meat stews, bread, and dairy products.
Kyrgyzstan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since been developing its own unique identity. Today, Kyrgyzstan is a multi-ethnic country with a diverse population and a vibrant culture.

Kyrgyzstan: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach and visit Kyrgyzstan, including: 1. Plane: The easiest way to reach Kyrgyzstan is by plane. The Manas International Airport in Bishkek is the main point of entry for international flights. Many airlines operate direct flights to Bishkek from major cities around the world.
2. Train: Another option is to travel by train. Kyrgyzstan is connected to Russia, Kazakhstan, and China by rail. The journey can be long and uncomfortable, but it can be an interesting way to see the landscape of Central Asia.
3. Bus: If you are in the neighboring countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan or Tajikistan, you can reach Kyrgyzstan by road. There are several bus services that operate between these countries and Kyrgyzstan.
4. Car rental: This is a good option if you want to explore the country at your own pace. You can rent a car in Bishkek and drive around the country.
5. Shared taxis: Shared taxis are a popular means of transport in Kyrgyzstan. You can catch a shared taxi from Bishkek to other parts of the country. These taxis are cheap and comfortable.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. To hire a car to visit Kyrgyzstan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Kyrgyzstan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Kyrgyzstan with a full stomach:D
Certainly! Kyrgyz cuisine is a rich blend of Central Asian, Russian, and Chinese flavors, with an emphasis on meat and dairy products. Some of the most typical foods of Kyrgyzstan include: 1. Beshbarmak - This is the national dish of Kyrgyzstan. It consists of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with homemade noodles and served in a flavorful broth.
2. Lagman - Similar to beshbarmak, lagman is a noodle dish that typically contains vegetables and meat, seasoned with spices and herbs.
3. Manti - These are steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef) and onions. They are served with sour cream or spicy tomato sauce.
4. Samsa - A baked pastry filled with minced lamb or beef, onions, and spices.
5. Kuurdak - This is a common dish in Kyrgyzstan, which consists of fried lamb or beef with potatoes and onions.
6. Chuchuk - A type of spicy sausage made with horse meat and a blend of spices. It's a traditional Kyrgyz food usually served as a snack or part of a larger meal.
7. Kumys - A fermented dairy product made from mare's milk, which is slightly sour. It is considered a traditional Kyrgyz drink and is believed to have healing properties.
These are just a few of the many delicious and unique foods you can try in Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

No, Kyrgyzstan is generally regarded as an affordable destination for tourists. Daily expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation are relatively inexpensive. Visitors can stay in budget guesthouses or hostels for as little as $10-$15 per night, and eat at local restaurants for as little as $3-$5 per meal. Public transportation is also affordable, with buses and shared taxis available throughout the country. However, prices may vary depending on the activities and experiences you choose to partake in during your visit.

Kyrgyzstan: where to find accodation

There are various options for finding accommodation in Kyrgyzstan. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Use online booking portals: Websites like Booking.com, Agoda, and Airbnb can help you find the best deals on accommodation in Kyrgyzstan. These websites allow you to compare different options based on your preferences, budget, and other factors.
2. Consider local homestays: In Kyrgyzstan, many locals offer homestays where you can stay with a family and experience the local culture. The accommodation is often basic but can be a unique experience.
3. Check with travel agencies: Some travel agencies in Kyrgyzstan offer accommodation services as part of their packages. They may be able to find you the best deals based on your needs and budget.
4. Check with local hotels: You may also directly contact hotels in the cities or towns where you plan to stay. Some of them may offer discounts if you book directly with them.
You can check hotel prices in Kyrgyzstan here:
Booking.com

Kyrgyzstan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Kyrgyzstan received around 1.6 million tourists in 2019, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the numbers have decreased significantly. As for crowded periods, the peak tourist season in Kyrgyzstan is between June and August, with July being the busiest month. However, even during this time, Kyrgyzstan is not as crowded as some other tourist destinations, and visitors can still enjoy relatively quiet and peaceful surroundings.
Kyrgyzstan is considered a relatively safe country for tourists. The crime rate is generally low and local people are quite friendly and helpful. However, like in any travel destination, there are some places that should be avoided, especially at night. It is advised not to walk alone in unlit or isolated areas, and to take extra precaution in crowded places such as markets and bazaars. The borders with neighboring countries can be sensitive, and it is recommended to adhere to the latest travel advisories from your home country's embassy or government before making travel plans to Kyrgyzstan. Overall, by taking reasonable precautions, most visitors to Kyrgyzstan have a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Kyrgyzstan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Kyrgyzstan: events for tourists

There are various interesting events for tourists in Kyrgyzstan throughout the year. Here are some events that you might find fascinating: 1. Nomad Games: This is a unique event that showcases the traditional sports of Central Asia such as horseback archery, eagle hunting, and traditional wrestling. It is usually held in September.
2. Bishkek Art Fair: This is an annual art exhibition that showcases the work of local and international artists.
3. Silk Road Festival: This festival celebrates the historic Silk Road trade route that passed through Kyrgyzstan. It features traditional music, dancing, and crafts.
4. Issyk-Kul Jazz Festival: Held annually in July, this festival features local and international jazz musicians performing against the beautiful backdrop of Issyk-Kul Lake.
5. World Nomad Games: This is a larger-scale event than the Nomad Games, featuring traditional sports, cultural performances, and crafts from various parts of the world. It is usually held every two years in September. These events can offer a great way to learn more about the culture and traditions of Kyrgyzstan and make your trip even more memorable.

Kyrgyzstan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Kyrgyzstan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a sample two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Kyrgyzstan: Day 1-2: Arrival in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. Spend time exploring the city and visiting the Kyrgyz National Museum, Ala-Too Square, and Osh Bazaar. Day 3-4: Head to Karakol, a charming city in Eastern Kyrgyzstan, and explore the city’s many sights such as the Dungan Mosque, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the Karakol Ski Base. Day 5-6: Explore the beautiful Issyk-Kul Lake, located close to Karakol, and enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty. Also visit the nearby villages of Tamchy and Bosteri. Day 7-8: Drive to Naryn and explore the surrounding areas. Visit the Tash Rabat Caravanserai, a 15th-century stone caravanserai located in the mountains. Day 9-10: Take a trip to Song-Kul Lake and spend time enjoying the scenic views and landscape. Try horseback riding and camping near the lake. Day 11-12: Head to the city of Osh, which is known for its ancient history and pilgrimage sites. Visit the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain and the Osh Bazaar.
Day 13-14: Return to Bishkek and spend the final days of your trip exploring the city's food and nightlife scenes, as well as visiting the nearby sites such as the Ala-Archa National Park.
This itinerary can be customized based on your interests, budget, and travel preferences.

Kyrgyzstan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Kyrgyzstan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ak-Talaa is a small village located in the Naryn Region of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated at an altitude of 2.200 meters above sea level, and it's surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. The village has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ak-Talaa
- Ak-Terek is a small village located in the Chui Region of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated around 70 kilometers east of the capital city of Bishkek and is known for its beautiful scenery, including mountain... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ak-Terek
- Ala-Archa is a natural park located about 30 kilometers south of the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek. It stretches for 200 square kilometers and is home to beautiful valleys, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ala-Archa
- Ala-Buka is a small town located in the Osh region of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters and is surrounded by the breathtaking Alay Mountains. The town has a population of appro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ala-Buka
- Alay is a mountainous region located in southern Kyrgyzstan, near the border with Tajikistan. The region is known for its stunning scenery, including high mountain peaks, deep valleys, and alpine lake... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alay
- Arslanbob is a village located in the Jalal-Abad region of Kyrgyzstan. It is famous for its vast walnut forest which is one of the largest in the world. The village is also surrounded by picturesque m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arslanbob
- At-Bashi is a small town located in the Naryn Region of Kyrgyzstan, in the heart of the Kyrgyz Tian Shan Mountains. It is situated at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level and has a population o... CONTINUE here for a trip to At-Bashi
- 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 peopl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balykchy
- Batken is a province located in the southwestern part of Kyrgyzstan. The region is characterized by a mountainous landscape, and it is part of the Fergana Valley. It has a population of around 500,000... CONTINUE here for a trip to Batken
- Bishkek, also spelled as "Biskek", is the capital and largest city of Kyrgyzstan. It is located in the Chuy Valley in the northern part of the country, at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level. Bi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Biskek
- Chatyr-Kul is a stunning alpine lake located in the Naryn region of Kyrgyzstan. Sitting at an altitude of 3,541 meters above sea level, it is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the country, cover... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chatyr-Kul
- Cholpon-Ata is a resort town located on the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan. It is known for its beautiful beaches, hot springs, and stunning mountain views. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cholpon-Ata
- Chon-Kemin is a valley located in the northern part of Kyrgyzstan, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chon-Kemin
- Chong-Kemin is a valley located in northern Kyrgyzstan, between the Kyrgyz Ala-Too and Kungey Ala-Too mountain ranges. The valley is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, including forests, rive... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chong-Kemin
- Dostuk is a small village located in the Chui region of Kyrgyzstan near the border with Kazakhstan. It is situated at an elevation of 1263 meters and has a population of around 3,000 people. The villa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dostuk
- Jalal-Abad is a city located in southwestern Kyrgyzstan, situated in the foothills of the Babash-Ata mountains. It is the administrative center of the Jalal-Abad region and has a population of over 90... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jalal-Abad
- Jety-Oguz is a scenic and remote destination in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan. It is known for its distinctive red sandstone rock formations and the beautiful Jety-Oguz Gorge. The name Jety-Oguz ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jety-Oguz
- Jumgal is a rural district located in the Naryn Region of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated in the highlands of the country, surrounded by mountains and vast meadows. The area is known for its traditional Ky... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jumgal
- Kara-Suu is a district located in the southern part of Kyrgyzstan. It is located in the Osh Region and is known for its diverse landscapes, including vast grasslands, green forests, and high mountain ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kara-Suu
- Karakol is a city located in northeastern Kyrgyzstan, near the eastern tip of Lake Issyk-Kul. It is the administrative center of Issyk-Kul Region and an important tourist destination in Kyrgyzstan. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karakol
- Karavshin is a valley located in the southern part of Kyrgyzstan, near the border with Tajikistan. It is a popular destination for rock climbing, trekking, and mountaineering, with many peaks over 5,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karavshin
- Karkara is a valley located in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan, at an altitude of 1,655 meters above sea level. It is home to a number of scenic mountains, natural hot springs, and beautiful landsc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karkara
- Kochkor-Ata is a town located in the Naryn Region of Kyrgyzstan, nestled in the foothills of the Tien Shan Mountains. It is known for its hot springs and lush green landscapes, making it a popular des... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kochkor-Ata
- Kochkor is a small town located in the Naryn region of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated in the foothills of the Tian Shan mountain range at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters above sea level. The tow... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kochkor
- Koshoi-Korgon is an ancient fortress located in the Jalal-Abad region of Kyrgyzstan. It is believed to have been built in the 8th century and played an important role in the region's history as a stra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koshoi-Korgon
- Kyzart is a small village located in the Kyzyl-Oi Valley in central Kyrgyzstan. It is surrounded by mountains and beautiful landscapes, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyzart
- Kyzyl-Kiya is a town located in the Batken region of Kyrgyzstan. It has a population of around 45,000 people and is known for its coal mining industry. The town is situated in the foothills of the Ala... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyzyl-Kiya
- Kyzyl-Oi is a small village located in the heart of Kyrgyzstan's Tien Shan Mountains. It sits at an altitude of 1,800 meters and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including babbling rivers, so... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyzyl-Oi
- Kyzyl-Suu is a village situated in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan. The village is located on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains offering stunning views... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyzyl-Suu
- Naryn is a region located in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, consisting mostly of high-altitude mountains and wide valleys. It is the largest region in the country and is known for its stunning natura... CONTINUE here for a trip to Naryn
- Nookat is a town located in the Osh region of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated at an altitude of around 1,250 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 50,000 people. The town is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nookat
- Osh is a city in the southern part of Kyrgyzstan, located at the foot of the Alay Mountains. It is the country's second-largest city after Bishkek and is considered the cultural capital of Kyrgyzstan.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Osh
- Sary-Chelek is a natural reserve located in the Jalal-Abad Region of Kyrgyzstan. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers due to its stunning landscapes, including a serene lake and lu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sary-Chelek
- Sary-Tash is a small village located in the southern part of Kyrgyzstan, near the border with Tajikistan. It is situated at an altitude of over 3000 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Pamir ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sary-Tash
- Sogment is a small village located in the heart of Kyrgyzstan, near the town of Kochkor. Surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges, pristine rivers, and lush pastures, Sogment offers visitors a chance t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sogment
- Son Kul is a high-altitude lake situated at an altitude of 3016 meters above sea level in the central Tian Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan. It is one of the largest alpine lakes in Kyrgyzstan and i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Son Kul
- Suusamyr is a picturesque high-altitude plateau located in the Tian Shan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan, at an altitude of around 3,000 meters above sea level. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, fr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Suusamyr
- Talas is a region located in the northwestern part of Kyrgyzstan, and it is also the name of the regional center. The region is known for its breathtaking valleys, high peaks, and natural beauty. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Talas
- Tash-Kumyr is a city located in the western region of Kyrgyzstan, in the Jalal-Abad Oblast. It is situated in the foothills of the Tian Shan Mountains and is known for its beautiful natural surroundin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tash-Kumyr
- Tash-Rabat is a historical site located in the At-Bashy district of Naryn province in Kyrgyzstan. It is a 15th-century stone caravanserai situated on the ancient Silk Road, which used to be a place of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tash-Rabat
- Tokmok is a small city located in the Chuy Valley in northern Kyrgyzstan, about 60 kilometers east of Bishkek. It has a population of around 50,000 people and is known for its historical and cultural ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tokmok
- Uzgen is a historical town located in the Osh region of Kyrgyzstan. It is situated on the banks of the Kara Darya River, about 50 km east of the city of Osh. Uzgen was an important center of commerce ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uzgen


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