Arslanbob Travel Guide

Planning to visit Arslanbob, Kyrgyzstan? Read our complete travel guide to know the best places to visit, activities to do, food scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Arslanbob

Arslanbob is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Ferghana Valley in Kyrgyzstan. It is most famous for its sprawling walnut forest- the largest in the world- and lush mountainous terrain that makes it a hub for outdoor adventurers.

This complete guide will help you plan a memorable visit to Arslanbob. We’ll take a look at the must-visit places, the best things to do, where to stay, the food scene, and more!

List of Places to Visit in Arslanbob

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Arslanbob Historical Museum: Discover the cultural and historical significance of Arslanbob through its exhibits, including traditional handicrafts, costumes, and artefacts.

  • Uzgen Mausoleums: These UNESCO-recognized mausoleums were built during the Karakhanid Empire and are well-preserved examples of early Islamic architecture.

Natural Attractions of Arslanbob: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Walnut Forest: The most famous attraction in Arslanbob is the walnut forest, covering over 11,000 hectares of land. The best time to visit is during September and October when you can witness the harvest and learn about the local traditions.

  • Waterfalls: Arslanbob is home to many beautiful waterfalls. The most famous is the 80-meter-high “Big Falls,” a trek through the lush forest.

  • Sacred Lakes: Hike the Kum-Bel Mountains to discover three sacred lakes with a breath-taking view.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arslanbob

  • To Kul Lake: A challenging 10 km trek up and over the mountains leads to this beautiful lake, situated at an altitude of 2550 meters. You’ll have a breathtaking view of the valley on this steep, winding trail.

  • Sary Chelek Lake: Identified as the “jewel” in the Tien Shan Mountains, this lake is surrounded by mountains with forests, alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and green valleys.

Best Things to Do in Arslanbob: Activities and Tours

  • Horse Riding: Get on horseback to discover the beautiful surroundings, green steppe, and unique walnut forest.

  • Honey Tour: Arslanbob is famous for its honey production. You can learn about the traditional methods of beekeeping, and try out different types of honey varieties.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arslanbob

Day 1-2: Visit the Arslanbob Historical Museum and enjoy a city tour of the village.

Day 3-4: Hike to the Kum-Bel Mountains and explore the three sacred lakes.

Day 5-6: Go horseback riding, visit the Walnut Forest and the Big Falls.

Day 7: Shop for souvenirs, attend a local festival or just relax in this heavenly village.

Food and Drink Scene of Arslanbob

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beshbarmak: A traditional Kyrgyz dish that consists of boiled meat, noodles, and a vegetable sauce.

  • Plov: This dish comprises of fried beef or mutton with carrots, onion and garlic mixed with rice.

Local Beverages

  • Ayran: A traditional cultural drink made of yogurt, salt, and water.

  • Shoro: A special drink made up of millet, which not only quenches your thirst but also is good for health.

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

  • Arslanbob Guest House: Situated in the heart of the village, this guest house provides comfortable rooms, great food, and friendly staff.

  • Sanat Guesthouse: This guest house provides excellent food, comfortable accommodation with Ensuite bath, indoor and outdoor showers, flat-screen TVs, and many other amenities.

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

  • Honey: Arslanbob is well-known for its honey production, so buy some pure, fresh honey as a souvenir.

  • Walnut products: Buy the unique walnut products, including walnut oil, walnut wine, and handicrafts made from the hard walnut shell.

Local Culture and Customs of Arslanbob

Kyrgyzstan is a Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly while visiting Arslanbob. Religion plays a vital role in society, and it’s crucial to respect local customs.

Best Time to Visit Arslanbob

The peak season to visit Arslanbob is from May to September when the weather is the most pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arslanbob

Do:

  • Wear modest clothing and respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try the local delicacies, including the delicious honey and nuts.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs or video of people without their permission.

  • Don’t wander off from the beaten path or hike alone.

Safety and Health

Safety in Arslanbob

Visitors to Arslanbob can travel safely. However, be aware of pickpockets and take the usual precautions while visiting the Walnut Forest.

Health in Arslanbob

While the village has hospitals and clinics in case of emergencies, it’s important to have a general understanding of local health risks before you arrive. Carry medication and other protection as required.

Getting to Arslanbob: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Arslanbob

The closest airport is Osh airport (OSH), which is located around 120 km away from the village.

Bus Stations Near Arslanbob

The public bus links Arslanbob to other nearby cities and resorts.

Other Options

Shared taxis are the best alternative when it comes to traveling to Arslanbob easily.

How to Get Around in Arslanbob

Walking and horseback riding are the two most common ways of getting around, both of them offer the best view of the village’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Arslanbob: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Osh: The second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan with amazing tourist sites.

  • Bishkek: The capital city of Kyrgyzstan, with a fusion of traditional and modern life.

Conclusion

Arslanbob is a hidden gem in Kyrgyzstan, with vast natural beauty and local culture. This comprehensive tour guide provides useful information and tips to plan your visit, whether it’s for adventure or relaxation. Don’t miss out on experiencing the natural and cultural wonders of this paradise on earth!