Trip to Kyrgyzstan
Batken province
Jalal-Abad province
Issyk-Kul province
Naryn province
Talas province
Osh province
Chuy province
Itinerary


Trip to Kyrgyzstan:
Tourist Guide

It’s easy to plan the ideal travel around Kyrgyzstan! Just add your favorite places in the route and find out the cost of your mapped travel.
If you have never been to Kyrgyzstan, then you have no idea about many interesting things here. We learned about the easiest ways get to the famous landmarks and mysterious places, and we calculated the cost of your holiday in the country of Tien-Shan and Issyk-Kul. All you have to do is to plunge into a nomadic eco-tourism, capture the natural wonders on your camera and share your impressions.
How to get to Kyrgyzstan?
By bus
Travelling by bus is the most economical way but available only to residents of the CIS countries and China. A trip to the capital of Kyrgyzstan - Bishkek, from Russian cities costs from USD 130. There is direct bus service from Moscow, Omsk and Novosibirsk. The journey takes no more than two and a half days.

There are buses connecting the capital of Kyrgyzstan with the Chinese cities of Kashgar and Artush. The minimum ticket price is USD 160; and the journey takes no more than two days.

More information about travelling to Kyrgyzstan by bus can be found at the Tour Guide website.
By car
It is also possible to get to Bishkek by car. The cost of travelling between countries is individual, but everyone, without exception, must carry the driver's license, the vehicle registration certificate and travel insurance policy for the vehicle. The journey will cost about a ton of fuel. How long it will take depends on the country you’re driving from. Be ready for mandatory inspection of the documents and the vehicle on the border.
By plane
Manas International airport is situated 23 kilometers north-west of Bishkek. You can get to the Kyrgyz capital from the airport by bus or by taxi. The minimum cost of a round trip flight from New York to Bishkek (with a connection in Istanbul) is USD 1,400. You can fly to the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan – Osh, only from Moscow for at least USD 400.

Also, you can fly from Bishkek to Osh and to Tamchi on the Issyk-Kul Lake. The average cost of a round trip flight around the country is USD 50.

The schedule of flights to Kyrgyzstan can be found on the airport's website.
By train
Kyrgyzstan cannot be reached by train from America, Europe and Scandinavian countries. But there are trains running every four days from Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Novokuznetsk and some cities of Kazakhstan to the Kyrgyz capital. The average ticket price is USD 300-400, it varies depending on the level of comfort of the train car. A journey by train from Russian cities takes, on average, two and a half days, from Kazakhstan - six hours.

More information can be found on the website of the Kyrgyz railway.

Welcome to Kyrgyzstan!

#Kyrgyzstan
What tourists need to know
about travelling in Kyrgyzstan
You will definitely not have problems with currency exchange and cash withdrawals from ATMs in the province centers. But it is preferable to exchange the money or withdraw the necessary sum from ATMs in the capital of Kyrgyzstan - Bishkek. In Bishkek and in the province centers cashless payment systems and exchange offices are well developed, which is not the case on the periphery. Information about the location of ATMs in Kyrgyzstan can be found on the financial webportal.
In case of loss of documents, it is advisable to email certified copies of IDs before the trip. You can use services of tourist agencies to obtain visa and border crossing permits for some places of interest in the country. Those who do not want to use their services may apply to the 24/7 visa office at Manas airport and to the State Registration Service of the Kyrgyz Republic for the border crossing permit.
Don’t be surprised at friendliness and hospitality of the Kyrgyz people. In summer, villagers will be happy to welcome you in a yurt and will tell you a lot about the Kyrgyz culture, and local couchsurfers are ready to accommodate you in their houses and apartments and show you local attractions. Surely, if your budget allows it, you can stay in a hotel or a hostel, and hire a professional guide at an average of USD 150 per day.
Don’t be afraid, that on arrival in Kyrgyzstan you will lose contact with the outside world. Mobile communication convenient for foreign tourists is provided by three operators: SIM cards are provided for free. There will be no problem with the Internet: there is free Wi-Fi in all the shopping malls, cafes, restaurants and other public places. In some provinces, there is no access to Wi-Fi, in which case the mobile Internet will help you resolve the problem.
Be prepared that acquaintance with Kyrgyz cuisine will affect your weight, unless you’re going to drink only tea. There is no Kyrgyz meal without meat, dairy products and pastries. Their preparation and consumption is accompanied by interesting traditions, which they will share with you. You should know that in Kyrgyzstan tips are included in the bill, but you can express your gratitude for services by leaving a separate tip.
Be sure to put in the suitcase warm clothing that will save you from sudden cold snaps, trekking shoes for hiking on rocky trails and a raincoat to keep you and your backpack dry in the pouring rain in the mountains. Don’t forget about the propriety rules in dress: save your shorts and tank tops for the beach.
What to do in Kyrgyzstan?
Horse riding is a combination of horse riding and excursions to natural attractions. The cost of renting a horse for one day in different regions of the country varies from USD 3 to USD 10.
Kymys treatment is consumption of fermented or fresh mare's milk for the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. The cost of a treatment course ranges from USD 20 to USD 150, includes three meals a day and five-time intake of the medicinal drink.
Diving is studying the underwater world of lakes wearing special equipment. The cost of a dive for a beginner varies from USD 35 to USD 50, excluding the equipment rental.
Rafting is going down the mountain river on the raft. The cost of a rafting tour on the most popular river sections varies from USD 20 to USD 45.
Mountain ski tourism is skiing and snowboarding down the mountain slopes. In Kyrgyzstan, there are 23 ski resorts and there are several sites for extreme skiing.
Paragliding is flying paragliders with the help of the energy of the upward air current. The cost of a flight with an instructor is dependent on the height of the starting point and varies from USD 20 to USD 60.
Falconry is hunting of wild animals by means of specially trained eagles and falcons. Entertainment costs depend on the experience of the falconer and ranges from USD 300 to USD 500.
Mountaineering and trekking is climbing hard to reach mountain peaks and hiking in the natural environment. There is no charge for it. But you’ll have to pay USD 10 for pitching a tent.
Medical and health tourism involves treatment with mud, hot, mineral and thermal waters. The cost varies from USD 10 to USD 50.
Historical and cultural tourism implies visiting and studying sites of historical importance. In Kyrgyzstan, there are popular places with ancient stone sculptures and rock carvings (petroglyphs).
Fishing — almost all lakes, water reservoirs and rivers of Kyrgyzstan are suitable both for winter and summer fishing. The cost of fishing tours range from USD 30 to USD 60, including the rental of water crafts and delivery to the site.
Caving means exploring caves and negotiating obstacles with special sports equipment. Unique rock carvings can be found in the Kyrgyz caves.

Batken Province

#Batken #AkSuu #Dugoba #KanFortress #Apricot #Aigul
Batken province is a place for those who are not afraid of anything. Have you ever climbed deep into the dark cave with a flashlight? Have you ever pressed yourself against the cliff so as not to fall down from a height of 200 meters? The bonus is the air around permeated with the scent of honey apricots.
Sarkent National Park Karavshin Gorge Ai-Kohl Lake Kan-i-Gut Cave Mount Aigul-Tash Kan Fortress
Area: 16,995 square kilometers
Province Center: Batken
Population: 480,700 people
What to see
in Batken
Mount Aigul-Tash, because that’s where a unique plant - Aigul flower – is found. But never pick the flowers: they are listed in the Red Book of Kyrgyzstan! If you break the rule, you have to pay an administrative penalty of USD 30.
What to eat
in Batken
Pilaf cooked from selected Batken rice and fresh lamb. Be sure to order goshnan served with a large bowl of meat broth. Just don’t count calories!
What to buy
in Batken
Dried honey apricots (uryuk). They say unattractive apricots are the most delicious ones. Don’t be surprised at the sight of unusually big crimson cherries, buy them immediately - the taste of cherries will not leave you indifferent.
"Kyrgyzstan struck me as a special place: a combination of mountains, clean air and extraordinary beauty of the nature is amazing. Also, Kyrgyz cuisine is delicious. I especially liked the samosas and pilaf, despite their calorie content."
Julie Elzonberji
France

Jalal-Abad Province

#Jalal-Abad #Arslanbob #Sary-Chelek #Saimaluu-Tash
Would you like to know what it feels like to ride a horse? A real horse with a harness? Stroking the soft mane, ride through the Arslanbob walnut forests past flowering pistachio and almond trees, past mountain lakes and colorful canyons? Then you should visit Jalal-Abad Province!
Kol Lake Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve Besh-Aral Nature Reserve Arslanbob Valley Chatkal Valley Chychkan Gorge Toktogul Water Reservoir Kara-Suu Lake Medieval Shah-Fazil
Mausoleum Saimaluu-Tash National Park Kara-Tokoy Valley Itagar Gorge
Area: 33,700 square kilometers
The province center: Jalal-Abad
Population: 1,122 mln people
What to see
in Jalal-Abad
Sary-Chelek Lake is a place known to every Kyrgyzstani. It is capable of enchanting anyone with its blue-green waters. We advise you to take the diving gear with you and dive to the bottom of the "yellow bowl" (the meaning of the lake’s name in Kyrgyz).
What to eat
in Jalal-Abad
Mastava soup is an everyday dish. According to the traditional recipe, mastava is cooked with meat, rice and vegetables. Also here, as in all the southern provinces, no meal is complete without pilaf.
What to buy
in Jalal-Abad
Handicrafts and wooden dishes. They will remind you of the journey in "royal woods". Also, buy a jar of natural fragrant honey: during tea time it will remind you of the mountainous Kyrgyzstan.
"In Kyrgyzstan, I met many hospitable people. A Chechen family accommodated me here. I was surprised the country is multi-ethnic, but no food can surprise me anymore. I also enjoyed a swim in the Toktogul reservoir"
Nikita Vasilyev
Chuvashia (Russian Federation)

Issyk-Kul Province

#Barskoon #Grigoriev #Karakol #Issyk-Kul #Inylchek
Everyone knows about Issyk-Kul region and its lake with cool mojito served on the beach and uninterrupted wi-fi in hotels. Have you ever heard of the mysterious Merzbacher Lake? Twice a year water in the lake disappears and reappears over time. Issyk-Kul region is rich in miracles!
Issyk-Kul Nature Reserve Sarychat-Ertash Nature Reserve Grigoriev Gorge Karakol City Altyn-Arashan Gorge Jeti-Oguz Gorge Chong Kyzyl-Suu Gorge Juuku Gorge Barskoon Gorge Karkyra Gorge Inylchek Valley Fairytale Canyon Tuz-Kol lake Jyrgalang Valley Karakol City
Area: 43,100 sq. km
The province center: Karakol
Population: 463,900 people
What to see
in Issyk-Kul
You should explore the surroundings of the lake on horseback. You’re strongly discouraged from lying on the beach all day, because there is so much to see around: clay canyons, in the mazes of which you can easily get lost, disappearing lakes and large yurt settlements in the summer pastures.
What to eat
in Issyk-Kul
Cold snack Ashlyan-Fu is a local favorite and beyond. It has Dungan - Chinese roots, but the Kyrgyz version differs in that traditional noodles made of flour and eggs or meat and green herbs are added to the original gel-like starch base. The sauce is made of vinegar, water, burnt sugar and spicy dressing - garlic and pepper fried in oil.
What to buy
in Issyk-Kul
Kyrgyz musical instrument komuz made of apricot tree, or a nice felt carpet. Also, you can stock up on fish and fruit and mountain berries in buckets.
"I find life in Kyrgyzstan, especially in jailoo (summer pasture) fascinating. I spent a few weeks in the yurt on the coast of Issyk-Kul, and then went to Suusamyr valley, where I learned a lot about horses and useful properties of mare's milk. I decided this is not my last trip to Kyrgyzstan."
Scott Turner
USA

Naryn Province

#TashRabat #SongKol #ChatyrKol #SalkynTor #AkSay #KolSuu
You have a falcon sat on your arm, ready to dig its claws in a timid hare. Even if you come back without a trophy, in the yurt there will be a meal of freshly slaughtered lamb cooked on fire and fresh mare's milk. People of cold Naryn Province will help you become a full-fledged nomad.
Tash-Rabat Architectural Monument Koshoy-Korgon Hillfort Naryn Nature Reserve Karatal-Zhapyryk Nature Reserve Salkyn-Tor Natural Park Kok-Kiya Valley Arpa Valley Ak-Say Valley Eki-Naryn Valley Son-Kul Lake Orto-Tokoy Water Reservoir Kekjerty Canyons
Area: 45,200 sq. km
The province center: Naryn
Population: 274,500 people
What to see
in Naryn
This is a place that absorbed all the best from the life of the nomad: endless green mountain pastures with vast plains for horse riding and lakes framed by mountains. Paradise can be found on the coast of the Son-Kul Lake. Planning a trip to the ideal nomad "home", keep in mind, the best time to do so is summer.
What to eat
in Naryn
A dish with the same name - Naryn, the forefather of the modern beshbarmak. 70 percent of this unpretentious dish is tender meat and a bit of dough, plus the secret of the hostess.
What to buy
in Naryn
Kyrgyz leather container, kookor, filled with kymys. Horse riders can purchase handmade saddles decorated with ethnic ornaments.
"It's incredible, but I came back unscathed after the falconry and horse riding tours in the mountains. I like Kyrgyzstan. I've been everywhere and will definitely come back again."
Andrei Ershov
Moscow

Osh Province

#SulaimanToo #ShahFazil #Alai #Pamir #Uzgen #Pilaf
You are holding a stone - the same stone a silk merchant from China held in his hands two thousand years ago. Osh Province is a large museum of ancient holy places. You can also feel like a time traveler in the local market: shouting sellers touting fruits warmed by the sun, packs of colorful fabrics, a rescue shadow from a makeshift shelter...
Osh City Alai Valley Lenin Peak Kyrgyz-Ata National Park Kara-Shoro National Park Kulunata Nature Reserve Uzgen City Chil-Ustun Cave Tuya-Moyun Massif
Area: 29,200 sq. km.
The province center: Osh
Population: 1,498 mln people
What to see
in Osh
Sulaiman Mountain. It does not matter what religion you practice, but, when you arrive in Osh and check in the hotel, go immediately to the sacred mountain famous all over Central Asia. Be prepared that the way to "the second Mecca" is not easy, but steep paths and slippery stones will lead you to the place that, according to the locals, is capable of curing from various ailments.
What to eat
in Osh
Samsa is a dish of thin dough stuffed with meat. There are special rules for eating them: you must first cut off the base, then start eating the filling. The main dish is pilaf cooked with Uzgen rice. Here it is served with a special spicy soup "wah-wah" of meat broth with chilli, which must be eaten before pilaf.
What to buy
in Osh
Some nice felt handicrafts. You will not regret it! Felt slippers are not only worn for years, but are also very warm. You can also buy a souvenir ak-kalpak – a man’s felt hat.

In the high valleys of Osh Province they make delicious kurut (dried fermented milk balls), a health nomadic product.
"We had a small expedition in the caves of Osh Province and experienced unforgettable emotions. In general, speleological tourism is very popular in the world, and Kyrgyzstan could make money on this. Therefore, we would like to see here tourists specializing in narrower directions, not just those who come here to see the mountains, the lake and sunbathe on the beach."
Yuri Boyanin
Austria

Talas Province

#Manas #Kirov #BeshTash #UrMaral
When traveling in Talas region, carefully look around: you may catch a glimpse of the snow leopard or the Marco Polo sheep, or the curious brown bear may wander into your tent. At night, don’t be frightened of loud noise: it's only herd of horses.
"Manas-Ordo" Historical and Cultural Complex Besh-Tash National Park Ur-Maral Gorge
Area: 11,400 sq. km.
Province center: Talas
Population: 247,200 people
What to see
in Talas?
Repository of the Kyrgyz people’s secrets - a national historical and cultural complex "Manas Ordo". Local will be happy to tell you about many legends about this place. One of them says that here even people with iron nerves may suddenly break into tears.
What to eat
in Talas?
Gulchetay. It is boiled or roasted meat with large chunks of pasts and vegetables. Every Talas hostess has her own way of cooking this dish to make it deicious and surprise the guest. For example, you.
What to buy
in Talas?
A charm made of stone, metal or leather. Local believe the sacred spirit of Manas is able to save you from all troubles and clear your mind from unnecessary thoughts.
"I was received there like one of the family. And according to the law, tourists can stay here for two months. Imagine, two full months of hiking in the mountains and exploring incredible places! I will definitely come back again"
Jonny Blair
United Kingdom

Chui Province

#Burana #Kegeti #Ysyk-Ata #Frunze #Ala-Archa #Chu #OshBazar
Imagine you are standing on top of a snowy mountain surrounded by tall spruce forests, towering above the clouds. It is breathtaking to think that you are about to ski down full speed dodging evergreen spruce trees. And in summer you can soar paragliding from the same mountain tops, but now green and flowering. Chui region is diverse: here clay canyons and gorges with lakes are the coolest, and the best slopes for skiing.
Burana Tower Krasnaya Rechka Ancient Settlement Ala-Archa National Park Chong-Kemin Valley Kashka-Suu Gorge Belogorsk Gorge Suusamyr Valley Ak-Say Glacier Chunkurchak Gorge Issyk-Ata Gorge Kegety Gorge Shamsi Gorge Kel-Tor Gorge Konorchok Canyons Bishkek City
Area: 20,200 sq. km.
The province center: Bishkek
Population: 1,807 mln people
What to see
in Chui Province
You should pack your backpack and go hiking to Shamsi, Kel-Tor and Kegety Gorges. In general, Chui region is so diverse that it is impossible to choose and advise you one thing.

Certainly, like most tourists, you can start with a visit to the ancient architectural structure, Burana tower, and the nearby "rock garden" (sepulchral sculptures - balbals).
What to eat
in Chui Province
Lamb cooked in a traditional Kyrgyz oven - tandoor. The whole lamb is marinated, sometimes stuffed with rice and baked in a tandoor for two hours. The tandoori lamb is served with vegetables and pieces of deep fried dough - boorsok.

In general, the Chui cuisine is diverse. Restaurants and cafes in Bishkek and its outskirts offer everything - from borshch (Russian beetroot and cabbage soup) and dumplings to Uzgen pilaf and tandoori lamb now in style.
What to buy
in Chui Province
A yurt. More precisely, its miniature version, because you definitely will not be allowed on the plane with a real one weighing 250 kg. The best yurts are made by famous craftsmen of Ton district, Issyk-Kul Province.

And in the capital's shops and art stores you can buy Kyrgyz national outfits, unique sets of ceramics and pottery decorated in traditional style, and felt products, that will become a fine addition to the interior of your home.
"It is awesome here! I will definitely come back. Most of all, I like hiking in the mountains and gorges, it never ends. I have the best memories of the night at Kel-Tor Lake and hiking in the Kegety Valley. By the way, I went horse riding for the first time there, and I should say, it went very well."
Anastasiya Odintsova
USA

Your trip to Kyrgyzstan


The calculator takes into account the cost of a roundtrip airfare


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Visa requirements depend on your nationality, and the visa cost depends on its validity period



The route length is the sum of the distances between the regions, and it doesn’t take into account the distance you need to travel to the place you like.
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The cost of accommodation is calculated based on the average cost of a hotel room for one night
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Subsistence cost is calculated based on the average cost of lunch and dinner in the country
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The duration of travel is the sum of individual time recommended to spend in each selected site
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* The cost of travel is calculated based on the estimated average prices for services in Kyrgyzstan. Prices are given to guide you in the preparation of the travel budget.

National Holidays and Festivals
Kyrgyzstan is not only the mountains, flowering valleys and the Issyk-Kul Lake. It’s a place where colorful oriental cultures merge together and nomads land stretch endlessly. You can learn more about the life and history of the people of the Central Asian country, by visiting one of the national holidays.
"Felt World is the Nomad’s Spirit" Nomad Camp

15 June - 23 July
Issyk-Kul Province, Ton District pasture

Annually a yurt camp is set up on the Issyk-Kul summer pasture for those interested in the real life of a nomad. During the week, the keepers of the traditional Kyrgyz culture train participants in Kyrgyz crafts, share the secrets of cooking national dishes and tell about nomadic people’s customs. Each day spent in the camp on the pasture will be special and will bring a lot of new experiences.
"Oimo" Festival of Traditional Crafts and Culture

29 - 31 July, Bishkek, Ala-Too Square
1 - 7 August, Issyk-Kul Province, Cholpon-Ata

For 10 years in a row in late July, the main square of the capital turns into the best oriental bazaar, where the works of artisans and ethnic designers from different countries are displayed. But before demonstrating their ethnic products, festival participants, dressed in national costumes, pass through the main streets of the city, waving flags. After the urban fest the event moves to the Issyk-Kul Lake shore.
"Karagat Fest" Festival of Berries and Fruits

August 6
Issyk-Kul Province, Teploklyuchenka Village

This festival greets the summer. It’s a day when farmers from all over the country present the fruits of their daily hard work. At the fest, you’ll get a lot of useful tips on how to grow the choice fruits and berries, and then cook them. For example, how to make a tender apple strudel or pear and peach jam for winter.
World Nomads Games II

3 – 8 September
Issyk-Kul Province, Cholpon-Ata

It’s a unique event similar in scale to the Olympic Games. All sporting events and cultural activities of the nomad peoples of the world will take place in one site. You have never seen anything like this before: spectacular fights on horseback, horse racing, alchik game and horse riders fight for a goat carcass. This is the best place to learn about the traditions of the nomad people. Anyone can participate in the Games along with the sports delegations from 20 countries.

Find out what region of Kyrgyzstan suits you best

1. What is your idea of holiday on water?

2. How much would you like to learn about the history of the country you travelling in?

3. Do you have any food preferences?

4. Can you permanently give up the benefits of civilization?

5. What do you think about when you look at the mountains?

6. Who would you like to take on a trip with you?

7. What landscape would you like to see in the window every morning?

8. What kind of clothes do you feel most comfortable in?

9. How important is it for you to improve your health while travelling?

10. What kind of weather do you like?

Useful links
Paperwork
How to get a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan
All about tourism in Kyrgyzstan
Honorary Consulates in Kyrgyzstan
Travel agencies
Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan
Online accommodation reservation in Issyk-Kul
Kyrgyz couchsurfers
Housing rent
Kyrgyzstan Real Estate Catalogue
Hotel booking
Kyrgyz Culture
Supara Ethnic Complex
Tumar Art Salon
Uni Yurt Ethnic Souvenirs
Kyrgyz Meat Delicacies
Winter Recreation Activities
Karakol Ski Camp
Orlovka Ski Resort
Chunkurchak Ski Camp
About freeride and backcountry in Kyrgyzstan
Summer Recreation Activities
Trekking Union
Paragliding School
Issyk-Kul Diving Club
Buggy Tours in Kyrgyzstan

Chief
Ernis Alymbaev

Authors
Ekaterina Mikhailova, Asel Minbaeva, Svetlana Fedotova

Programmer
Mikhail Dudin

Designer
Daniil Sulaimanov

Producer
Nurjan Naizabekova

Photo and video
Akylbek Batyrbekov, Emil Sadyrov, Tabyldy Kadyrbekov, Vlad Ushakov, Gennadiy Zakirov, Akelsandr Fedorov, Vladislav Bachevsky, Vyacheslav Aleksandrov, Ekaterina Ivaschenko, Ismail Mamytov

Sources
Ministry of culture, information and tourism of the KR, National Statistics Comittee of the KR, State Border Service of the KR, Department of Tourism of the KR

Special thanks to:
Antares Creative Group company, Aziz Hasanov
ProAir Studio, Akylbek Turganov
Tien-Shan Travel company
Kyrgyz association of touroperators
Supara Ethnic Complex
Tumar Art Salon
Uni Yurt Company
Roman Zykov, Dmitry Fadeev, Vladislav Bachevsky
Made on
Tilda