Osh Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, stay, eat, and more in Osh, Kyrgyzstan with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Osh

Nestled in the Ferghana Valley in Kyrgyzstan, Osh is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Known as the “Capital of the South,” it is the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan and a gateway to the Pamir Mountains. Osh is a great starting point for travelers looking to explore the natural splendor and rich history of Central Asia. The city is famous for its Silk Road heritage, bustling bazaars, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Osh

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Osh has a rich history, and there are many museums and historical places to visit. Here are some of the top ones:

  • Osh bazaar: A sprawling market that has been operating for over 2,000 years. Here you will find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, and it’s a great place to experience the local culture.
  • Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of pilgrimage for Muslims. The mountain offers panoramic views of the city, and you can explore the many caves and shrines on its slopes.
  • Rabat Abdul Khan Mosque: A beautiful mosque that dates back to the 18th century. It features intricate tilework and a peaceful courtyard.
  • Museum of Fine Arts: A museum that showcases traditional Kyrgyz art, including felt rugs, jewelry, and paintings.

Natural Attractions of Osh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Osh is situated in a picturesque location, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the natural attractions in the area:

  • Jalal-Abad Mountains: A beautiful mountain range that offers incredible hiking and camping opportunities. There are many trails to explore, ranging from easy to challenging, and you’ll encounter stunning vistas along the way.
  • Lenin Peak: One of the highest peaks in Kyrgyzstan, and a challenging climb for experienced mountaineers.
  • Hiking in Alay Valley: This is a popular hiking destination for those looking to explore the rugged beauty of Kyrgyzstan. The valley is full of unique rock formations, glaciers, and hot springs.
  • Sarychat Ertash Nature Reserve: A pristine wilderness area that is home to many rare and endangered species, including snow leopards, ibex, and lynx.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Osh

There are many unique hiking and biking routes in the Osh area. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Trekking around Sulaiman-Too: This is an easy hike that takes you around the base of the sacred mountain, offering stunning views along the way.
  • Osh to Sary-Tash: This is a challenging multi-day trek that takes you through the rugged Kyrgyz countryside. You’ll encounter stunning vistas and traditional Kyrgyz yurt camps along the way.
  • Biking in the Ferghana Valley: A great way to explore the beautiful scenery and local culture of Osh. There are many cycling routes to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging.
  • Hiking in the Pamir Mountains: This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful areas of Kyrgyzstan. The Pamirs offer stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and traditional Kyrgyz nomadic culture.

Best Things to Do in Osh: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and sightseeing, there are many other fun things to do in Osh. Here are some of the best:

  • Attend a traditional Kyrgyz horse race: Horse racing is a popular pastime in Kyrgyzstan, and there are many races held throughout the year. You can witness the excitement of the race from up close and sample local delicacies at the festival that accompanies it.
  • Learn about Kyrgyz handicrafts: Kyrgyz crafts are renowned for their beauty and quality. You can visit local artisans and learn about traditional crafts like felt rug making, Kyrgyz embroidery, and ceramics.
  • Visit the Osh State Circus: A fun family-friendly attraction that offers acrobatic and clown performances.
  • Take a cooking class: Kyrgyz cuisine is a delicious mix of Central Asian and Russian flavors. You can take a cooking class and learn to make traditional dishes like beshbarmak (a type of noodle dish) and plov (a rice dish with lamb and vegetables).

Week-Long Itinerary for Osh

If you’re planning to spend a week in Osh, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Osh, explore the bazaar and Rabat Abdul Khan Mosque
2 Hike around Sulaiman-Too and visit the Museum of Fine Arts
3 Take a day trip to the Sarychat Ertash Nature Reserve
4 Visit the Lenin Peak Base Camp and trek in the Jalal-Abad Mountains
5 Explore the Pamir Mountains and traditional Kyrgyz nomadic culture
6 Attend a traditional Kyrgyz horse race and visit local artisans
7 Take a cooking class and departure from Osh

Food and Drink Scene of Osh

Kyrgyz cuisine is a delicious blend of Middle Eastern, Russian, and Central Asian flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beshbarmak: A hearty noodle dish made with lamb or beef and served with onions and potato.
  • Plov: A rice dish with lamb, carrots, and onions.
  • Samsa: Flaky pastries filled with beef, onions, and potatoes.
  • Laghman: A spicy noodle soup with vegetables and meat.

Local Beverages

  • Kumys: A traditional fermented drink made from mare’s milk.
  • Bozo: A sweet and sour fermented drink made from millet.
  • Shoro: A tea-like drink made from roasted wheat.

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

Osh has many options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Classic Hotel: A modern hotel located in the heart of Osh, with spacious rooms and excellent service.
  • Sunrise Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and a homely atmosphere.
  • Biy Ordo Guesthouse: A traditional Kyrgyz guesthouse with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Nomad Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that offers comfortable dorms and a friendly atmosphere.

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

Osh is known for its traditional handicrafts, and there are many souvenirs and local products you can bring back home. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Felt rugs and slippers: Kyrgyz felt products are made from sheep’s wool and are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
  • Shyrdak: A type of Kyrgyz rug made from felt and decorated with traditional designs.
  • Ceramics: Kyrgyz ceramics are renowned for their bright colors and unique designs.
  • Kyrgyz hats: Known as kalpaks, these traditional fur hats are a great souvenir and make for a unique piece of headwear.

Local Culture and Customs of Osh

Kyrgyz culture is rich in tradition and hospitality. Here are some important things to keep in mind when visiting Osh:

  • Respect local customs: Kyrgyz people are known for their hospitality, but it’s important to respect their customs and traditions. Avoid making negative comments about Kyrgyz culture, religion, or politics.
  • Dress modestly: Kyrgyzstan is a conservative country, and it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting places of worship.
  • Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques: It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque.
  • Be polite to elders: Respect for elders is an important cultural value in Kyrgyzstan.

Best Time to Visit Osh

The best time to visit Osh is from May to October, when the weather is warm and dry. July and August are the busiest months, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visit in May or September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Osh

Do:

  • Learn a few words of Kyrgyz: Locals appreciate when you make an effort to speak their language, so try to learn a few simple phrases.
  • Try local food: Kyrgyz cuisine is delicious, and there are many unique dishes to sample.
  • Explore the natural beauty: Osh is surrounded by stunning mountains and landscapes, so be sure to take advantage of the outdoor adventures available.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs: As mentioned before, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Drink tap water: It’s best to stick to bottled water to avoid any stomach issues.
  • Insult Islam: Kyrgyzstan is a predominantly Muslim country, so be respectful of religion and avoid making any negative comments about Islam.

Safety and Health

Safety in Osh

Overall, Osh is a safe city for visitors. However, it’s important to take some common-sense precautions:

  • Take care when crossing the street: Traffic in Osh can be chaotic, so be careful when crossing the street and always use marked crosswalks when available.
  • Avoid walking alone at night: While it’s generally safe to walk around Osh during the day, it’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas.

Health in Osh

When visiting Osh, it’s best to take precautions to avoid getting sick:

  • Drink bottled water: As mentioned before, stick to bottled water to avoid any stomach issues.
  • Use sunscreen: The sun in Osh can be intense, so be sure to use sunscreen to protect your skin.
  • Pack insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance in some areas, so be sure to pack insect repellent.

Getting to Osh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Osh is located about 600 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Bishkek. Here are some transportation options for getting to Osh:

Airports Near Osh

  • Osh International Airport: Flights from Bishkek, Almaty, and Moscow.

Bus Stations Near Osh

  • Bishkek Bus Station: Daily buses from Bishkek to Osh.
  • Andijan Bus Station (Uzbekistan): Daily buses from Andijan to Osh.

Other Options

  • Train: There is a train that runs from Bishkek to Osh, but it’s a slow and arduous journey.
  • Shared taxis: A popular option for getting around Kyrgyzstan, shared taxis offer a more comfortable and affordable way to travel than buses.

How to Get Around in Osh

Getting around in Osh is easy and affordable. Here are some popular transportation options:

  • Marshrutkas: Shared mini-buses that run on fixed routes throughout the city.
  • Taxis: Taxis are abundant in Osh and are a good option for getting around the city quickly.
  • Walking: The city center of Osh is compact, so walking is a good option for getting around.

Where to Go Next from Osh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Osh is a great starting point for exploring the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Central Asia. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Son-Kul Lake: A beautiful alpine lake that is a popular destination for hiking and horseback riding.
  • Arslanbob: A beautiful walnut forest that is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
  • Toktogul Reservoir: A stunning reservoir located in the Jalal-Abad region that is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming.
  • Tash Rabat: An ancient stone caravanserai located in the At-Bashy district that is a popular destination for history buffs.

Conclusion

Osh is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and hospitality of Kyrgyzstan. From hiking in the Pamir Mountains to exploring the ancient Silk Road heritage of the city, there is something for everyone in Osh. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, you’re sure to find it in Osh.

Panoramic view of Osh Panoramic view of Osh Breads at Osh Bazar Breads at Osh Bazar Sulayman Too, Mount Sulayman Sulayman Too, Mount Sulayman