Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions of Kyrgyzstan, explore hiking/biking routes, try local cuisine, find where to stay, and learn about safety and health while traveling in Central Asia.


Introduction to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan, a landlocked country in Central Asia, offers an array of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Surrounded by towering mountain ranges, Kyrgyzstan is known as the “Switzerland of Central Asia”. This small nation has gained popularity in recent years among outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious travelers looking for unique destinations. A mix of different cultures, Kyrgyzstan has a rich heritage of ancient history and nomadic traditions that are reflected in its museums, historical sites, and local customs.

List of Places to Visit in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan has a plethora of attractions that will satisfy any type of traveler. Below are some of the must-see places in Kyrgyzstan that should be on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Kyrgyzstan in Bishkek
  • Burana Tower and Archaeological Museum in Tokmok
  • Ala-Archa State Nature Park
  • Osh Bazaar in Bishkek
  • Tash Rabat, a 15th-century caravanserai in the mountains of the Naryn region

Natural Attractions of Kyrgyzstan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world and a popular summer destination for swimming and boating
  • Jeti-Oguz Canyon, famous for its red rocks and stunning views
  • Song-Kol Lake, a high-altitude lake surrounded by pastures and grazing animals
  • Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve, a protected area with pristine forests, lakes, and waterfalls
  • Karakol Valley, a hiking and trekking paradise with snow-capped peaks and stunning scenery

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, with a network of trails that traverse some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Some of the most popular hiking and biking routes include:

  • The Ala-Kul trek, a challenging and rewarding hike to a turquoise lake in the mountains
  • The Sary-Mogol to Inylchek trek, a difficult 12-day hike that takes you through remote valleys and over high passes
  • The Issyk-Kul bike trail, a scenic route that circles Issyk-Kul Lake
  • The Kok-Boru Valley trek, a moderate hike in the Suusamyr Valley with stunning views of the Tian Shan Mountains

Best Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are many other activities and tours that will keep you busy in Kyrgyzstan. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Horseback riding in the mountains or on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake
  • Visiting a yurt camp to experience traditional Kyrgyz hospitality and culture
  • Rafting on the Chon-Kemin River or Naryn River
  • Skiing and snowboarding in the winter at popular resorts like Karakol and Jyrgalan
  • Taking a hot-air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Kyrgyzstan

Week-Long Itinerary for Kyrgyzstan

Planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan can be overwhelming, so here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Bishkek and explore the city’s museums and parks
Day 2 Visit the Burana Tower and the nearby Tokmok bazaar
Day 3 Hike in Ala-Archa State Nature Park
Day 4 Drive to Karakol and explore the town and its surroundings
Day 5 Trek in the Karakol Valley and visit the Altyn Arashan hot springs
Day 6 Visit Cholpon-Ata and spend the day swimming in Issyk-Kul Lake’s warm water
Day 7 Return to Bishkek and shop at Osh Bazaar before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyz cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with an emphasis on meat, bread, and dairy products. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beshbarmak, a dish of boiled meat and noodles served with onions and a meat broth
  • Lagman, a noodle soup with vegetables and meat
  • Manti, dumplings filled with meat and onions and served with sour cream and tomato sauce
  • Shashlik, marinated meat skewers often served with onions and bread

Local Beverages

  • Kymyz, fermented horse milk that tastes slightly sour and salty
  • Bozo, a drink made from fermented millet and served chilled
  • Chalap, a yogurt drink that can be sweet or salty depending on the region

Where to Stay in Kyrgyzstan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kyrgyzstan has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to charming guesthouses, you can find something that fits your needs. Some of the most popular places to stay include:

  • Hyatt Regency Bishkek in downtown Bishkek
  • Apple Hostel in Bishkek for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Green Yard Guesthouse in Karakol for a cozy, family-run experience
  • Karakol Ski Lodge for ski and snowboard enthusiasts

What to Buy in Kyrgyzstan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kyrgyzstan is famous for its traditional crafts, such as felt making, wood carving, and rug weaving. Some of the best souvenirs to bring home include:

  • Shyrdak, a handcrafted felt rug
  • Kalpak, a traditional Kyrgyz hat worn by men
  • Kurak, a wooden cutting board used to make bread and noodles
  • Kyrgyz jewelry, made with silver and semi-precious stones

Local Culture and Customs of Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan has a rich culture that is a blend of different influences from the region. The traditional Kyrgyz way of life centers around hospitality, family, and nomadism. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, including:

  • Removing shoes before entering someone’s home
  • Dressing modestly in conservative areas
  • Giving small gifts as a sign of gratitude or respect
  • Greeting people with a handshake or nod

Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan

The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months (June-August) are perfect for hiking, biking, and swimming in the lake, while the winter months (December-February) are ideal for skiing and snowboarding in the mountains. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities and cultural events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kyrgyzstan

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when traveling in Kyrgyzstan:

Do:

  • Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness
  • Try local cuisine and support small businesses
  • Learn a few words of Kyrgyz or Russian to communicate with locals
  • Be respectful of cultural differences and customs

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes inside a home or mosque
  • Take photographs of people without permission
  • Criticize the government or political situation in Kyrgyzstan
  • Ignore local customs or beliefs

Safety and Health

Kyrgyzstan is generally safe for travelers, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Kyrgyzstan:

Safety in Kyrgyzstan

  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings
  • Use taxis and public transportation from reputable companies
  • Avoid demonstrations or large gatherings that may turn violent
  • Check the State Department’s website for travel advisories

Health in Kyrgyzstan

  • Drink bottled water or use a filter to avoid waterborne illnesses
  • Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies
  • Wear insect repellent to avoid tick-borne illnesses
  • Bring any necessary medication with you

Getting to Kyrgyzstan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Kyrgyzstan is relatively easy, with several international airports and bus connections to neighboring countries. Below are some transportation options to consider when planning your trip:

Airports Near Kyrgyzstan

  • Manas International Airport in Bishkek
  • Osh International Airport in Osh

Bus Stations Near Kyrgyzstan

  • Bishkek Bus Station, with connections to Moscow, Almaty, and Tashkent
  • Osh Bus Station, with connections to Kashgar and Dushanbe
  • Naryn Bus Station, with connections to Bishkek and Karakol

Other Options

  • Shared taxis, a popular and affordable way to travel around the country
  • Train, with connections to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Russia
  • Car rental, for those who prefer to drive on their own

How to Get Around in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan has a good network of public transportation, including buses, shared taxis, and marshrutkas (minibusses). Taxis and private cars are also available and are a good option for exploring more remote areas. For those looking for a more independent experience, you can even rent a car or motorcycle.

Where to Go Next from Kyrgyzstan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kyrgyzstan is a perfect hub for exploring other Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Some places to consider visiting include:

  • Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, just a few hours’ drive from Bishkek
  • Samarkand, the historic Silk Road city in Uzbekistan
  • Pamir Highway, a scenic road trip through Tajikistan’s high mountains
  • Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, which has a rich history and cultural attractions

Conclusion

Kyrgyzstan is one of the hidden gems of Central Asia. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor adventures, it’s a perfect destination for those looking for something off the beaten path. From hiking in the mountains to trying local cuisine, Kyrgyzstan has something to offer all types of travelers. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this unique country.

Regions of Kyrgyzstan Regions of Kyrgyzstan Ancient stone statues (''bal-bal'') outside of Burana Tower Ancient stone statues (''bal-bal'') outside of Burana Tower Although Lenin had never visited Kyrgyzstan, Soviet-era Frunze had a Lenin Museum, with a locally produced Lenin carpet among its exhibits. This is now the National Museum of Kyrgyzstan Although Lenin had never visited Kyrgyzstan, Soviet-era Frunze had a Lenin Museum, with a locally produced Lenin carpet among its exhibits. This is now the National Museum of Kyrgyzstan On the Issyk Kul's shore near Kosh Köl On the Issyk Kul's shore near Kosh Köl A village mosque A village mosque Visa policy of Kyrgyzstan Visa policy of Kyrgyzstan Entering Kyrgyzstan from Kazakhstan at the Korday border crossing, north of Bishkek Entering Kyrgyzstan from Kazakhstan at the Korday border crossing, north of Bishkek The entire long-distance train schedule at Bishkek Station can fit in one screen. (The commuter train schedule is even shorter) The entire long-distance train schedule at Bishkek Station can fit in one screen. (The commuter train schedule is even shorter) Monuments in an old rural cemetery combine Muslim crescents and Communist stars Monuments in an old rural cemetery combine Muslim crescents and Communist stars In the cavernous Dordoi Bazaar (mostly constructed out of empty shipping containers) In the cavernous Dordoi Bazaar (mostly constructed out of empty shipping containers) KGS200 banknote issued in 2010. KGS200 banknote issued in 2010. The flat ''naan'', bread, a staple food in the region The flat ''naan'', bread, a staple food in the region Laghman, salad, and green tea, a simple café meal Laghman, salad, and green tea, a simple café meal A bottle and glass of kumys A bottle and glass of kumys A village drug store in Tamchy A village drug store in Tamchy


    Bishkek and the Northwest
    Ferghana Valley
    Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan