Karakol Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan with our comprehensive guide featuring cultural attractions, hiking and biking routes, must-try cuisine, where to stay, travel logistics and more.


Introduction to Karakol

Karakol is a city located in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan, situated at the foothills of the Tian Shan Mountains. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and it is home to a diverse population, including Kyrgyz, Russian, and Dungan people. Visitors to Karakol can explore stunning natural attractions in the area, sample delicious local cuisine, and discover the region’s fascinating history.

List of Places to Visit in Karakol

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Przhevalsk Museum: dedicated to the life and work of Nikolay Przhevalsky, a 19th century Russian explorer who made significant contributions to the field of geography and cartography.
  • Karakol Historical Museum: showcases the region’s rich history with exhibits featuring everything from traditional Kyrgyz costumes to Soviet-era artifacts.
  • Dungan Mosque: built without nails by Chinese tradesmen in the early 20th century, this colorful mosque has a unique architectural style that blends Chinese and Muslim elements.

Natural Attractions of Karakol: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Altyn Arashan: located 25 km south of Karakol, this valley is home to a natural hot spring and offers excellent hiking trails, horseback riding, and camping opportunities.
  • Issyk-Kul Lake: at almost 7000 square kilometres, Issyk-Kul is the second largest alpine lake in the world. Visitors to Karakol can swim, fish, and boat on the crystal-clear waters or simply admire the stunning views.
  • Jety-Oguz Canyon: this picturesque canyon is famous for its distinctive red rock formations and is one of the most popular spots for hiking, rock climbing, and enjoying a picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Karakol

  • Karakol Valley: located just outside the city, the Karakol Valley is a popular destination for hiking and trekking. Visitors can explore the stunning landscape, which includes snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and lush green valleys.
  • Jukuu River Valley: this beautiful valley is located at the foot of the Tian Shan Mountains and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and mountain biking on the numerous trails.

Best Things to Do in Karakol: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding Tour: explore the natural beauty of Karakol on horseback with a guided tour led by a local expert.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: during the winter months, visitors to Karakol can hit the slopes at the local ski resort.
  • Community-Based Tourism: stay with a local family and learn about Kyrgyz culture through cooking classes, handicraft workshops, and traditional games.

Week-Long Itinerary for Karakol

Day Activity
1 Visit the Karakol Historical Museum
2 Hike in the Karakol Valley
3 Explore Altyn Arashan Valley
4 Visit the Dungan Mosque and have lunch in a local teahouse
5 Take a horseback riding tour in the Jukuu River Valley
6 Visit Issyk-Kul Lake
7 Rest and relax before departing Karakol

Food and Drink Scene of Karakol

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lagman: a hearty noodle soup made with vegetables and chunks of meat.
  • Beshbarmak: a traditional Kyrgyz dish made with boiled meat and noodles topped with onions and herbs.
  • Manty: steamed dumplings filled with meat and served with sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Kumys: a traditional Kyrgyz drink made from fermented mare’s milk.
  • Shoro: a non-alcoholic drink made from wheat, raisins, and water.

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

  • Destination Karakol Hostel: a popular hostel located near the city center.
  • Karagat Guesthouse: a traditional Kyrgyz guesthouse with stunning mountain views.
  • Green Yard Hotel: a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.

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

  • Felt Products: made from wool, felt is a popular material used to create everything from slippers to hats.
  • Shyrdak: a colorful and intricately designed traditional Kyrgyz rug.
  • Chak-Chak: a sweet dessert made of dough, honey, and nuts.

Local Culture and Customs of Karakol

  • Respect Religion: as a predominantly Muslim city, visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending prayer times.
  • Greeting Customs: it’s customary to greet locals with a handshake while saying “salaam aleikum” (peace be upon you).
  • Hospitality: locals are incredibly hospitable, and guests are often invited for tea or a meal.

Best Time to Visit Karakol

The best time to visit Karakol is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors can also enjoy winter sports, as the city has a ski resort and is known for its snow-covered mountain peaks during the winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Karakol

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Karakol is famous for its delicious food, and there are many unique dishes to try.
  • Learn about the culture and traditions: Karakol has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should take the time to learn about local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the natural beauty: the area around Karakol is stunning, with many opportunities for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions: visitors should dress modestly and be respectful when visiting religious sites.
  • Litter or harm the environment: visitors should take care to not leave trash behind or damage the fragile ecosystem.
  • Take photos of people without permission: visitors should ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially when photographing women.

Safety and Health

Safety in Karakol

Overall, Karakol is a safe city for visitors. However, it’s always advisable to take common-sense safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Karakol

Visitors to Karakol should be up to date on routine vaccinations, and it’s a good idea to check with a healthcare professional about any additional vaccinations needed. Visitors should also take precautions against altitude sickness if planning on traveling to higher elevations.

Getting to Karakol: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Karakol

The nearest major airport to Karakol is Manas International Airport, which is located approximately 400 km away in Bishkek.

Bus Stations Near Karakol

Visitors can easily reach Karakol by bus from nearby cities like Bishkek, Cholpon-Ata, and Naryn. The Karakol bus station is located in the city center.

Other Options

For visitors looking for a more unique way of getting to Karakol, it’s possible to take the famous five-day trek over the Ala Kul pass, starting from nearby Altyn Arashan Valley.

How to Get Around in Karakol

The easiest way to get around Karakol is by taxi or walking. Taxis are inexpensive, and it’s best to agree on a price with the driver before starting the journey. Visitors can also rent a car, but it’s advisable to be an experienced driver as road conditions may be challenging.

Where to Go Next from Karakol: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cholpon-Ata: located on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, Cholpon-Ata is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient petroglyphs.
  • Naryn: a small town located to the south of Karakol, Naryn is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts.
  • Tash Rabat: one of the best-preserved caravanserais in Central Asia, Tash Rabat is a must-visit for history buffs.

Conclusion

Karakol is a city full of wonders, from its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a lover of local cuisine or interested in learning more about Kyrgyz customs and traditions, Karakol has something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your trip and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Central Asia’s most fascinating destinations.

Bus time table at the southern bus station (for buses leaving) as of Sept 2018 Bus time table at the southern bus station (for buses leaving) as of Sept 2018 The Dungan Mosque The Dungan Mosque Holy Trinity Church Holy Trinity Church At the animal market At the animal market Karakol Gorge Karakol Gorge "Ashlyanfu the Karakolian way" Mountains in the horizon Mountains in the horizon