Top Ten Things To Do In Kyrgyzstan

Issyk-Kul Lake sits in northern Kyrgyzstan, just next to the Kazakhstan border, and it’s truly breathtaking.  Located 5,272 feet above sea level, it’s the second-largest mountain lake in the world. 

Along with its impressive altitude and size, Issyk-Kul is surrounded by the snow-capped Kungoi Ala-Too and Terskei Ala-Too mountain ranges. This has helped create a mild micro-climate, meaning the lake never freezes. Issyk-Kul even translates to ‘hot lake’ from Kyrgyz! 

Stay in the lakeside town of Cholpon-Ata, spending your days admiring its extraordinary natural beauty and exploring the rivers and hot springs that flow directly into its water.

This breathtaking canyon is tucked away on Issyk-Kul’s southern shores and is a must-visit for both avid hikers and keen photographers. The sandstone wonder is often nicknamed the Fairy Tale Canyon thanks to its unusual desert-like scenery that’s incongruous with Kyrgyzstan’s green valleys and thick forests.

Skazka Canyon is very easy to access, sitting en route between Bishkek and Karakol. The area is shrouded in local myth — supposedly its undulating red rocks are the frozen form of a mighty dragon. Spend an hour or so exploring the canyon and soaking up panoramic views of its striking landscape.

Once a thriving city on the Silk Road, Balasagun — just 50 miles from Bishkek — now lies in ruins. You can still see remnants of the city’s heyday, especially if you visit Burana Tower. This 1000-year-old monument is the largest minaret in the Chüy Valley and a must-see for those wanting to immerse themself in Kyrgyzstan’s ancient history. 

Admire the red-brick facade of the tower, which once formed a key part of Balasagun’s UNESCO World Heritage citadel. Nearby are the Balbal stones: totem-like stone structures built between the 6th and 9th centuries. There is additionally a small museum where you can view numerous historic Christian, Buddhist and Chinese artifacts up close.

This square is found at the very heart of Bishkek and is famed for its Neobrutalist concrete architecture. Constructed in the 1980s to mark the 60th anniversary of the Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic, Ala-Too Square now serves as the site of numerous cultural events and displays.
An unmissable sight is the square’s majestic statue of Manas — the hero from the traditional poem, the Epic of Manas — which was erected in 2011 to celebrate Kyrgyzstan’s independence. You will spot various other monuments and fountains dotted around Ala-Too too, plus a 150-foot flagpole at its center. Planning your Kyrgyzstan trip during the summer? Expect to find the square bedecked with vibrant floral displays.

For a dose of local culture, take a stroll around Bishkek’s maze-like Osh Bazaar. It’s one of the oldest and best shopping destinations in the city and a fantastic place to buy spices, freshly baked goods, dried fruits, authentic souvenirs and more. The bazaar is divided into two sections: the food market and the handicraft market. Head to the latter to barter for traditional Kyrgyz clothing and items made from felt, including kalpak hats, slippers and miniature yurts. 

Osh Bazaar is easily accessible by taxi or public transport, with several bus stops nearby. Visit in the morning to experience viewer crowds or on a Monday (one of the bazaar’s quietest days). Most vendors will only accept cash, so come prepared. Feeling hungry? Stop off at one of the food stalls in the market for a cheap and hearty local meal such as meat served with dumplings and rice.

For a day trip option from Bishkek, consider visiting Ala-Archa National Park. The 16,500-hectare alpine park is only a 45-minute drive from the city and a wonderful location to experience the country’s spectacular mountainscapes. Al-Archa has three main walking trails to choose from depending on the level of activity that you prefer. All of these offer magnificent views of waterfalls, valleys and cragged peaks. If you plan your hike to Al Archa National Park in the fall, you’ll be greeted with sublime seasonal foliage too.

Kyrgyzstan is famed for its handicrafts that reflect its nomadic heritage, culture and abundant natural resources like silk and silver. They make unique mementos to take home as well as great gifts for friends and family. 

There are countless bazaars to explore, especially in Bishkek, where you can barter for various handmade items. Handicrafts to look out for include handstitched shyrdak felt rugs, leather handbags, belts and saddles, intricately decorated tapestries, exquisite silver and stone jewelry, and various traditional clothing.

Soak up some of Central Asia’s most enchanting natural landscapes by adding Chon-Kemin to your Kyrgyzstan trip itinerary. Just a few hours east of Bishkek, this lush nature reserve has been left mostly untouched, with its valleys and thick forests home to elusive snow leopards, lynx and red deer. 

Explore it on a guided hike or venture down the Chon-Kemin River on a rafting excursion. The area is popular for camping too, with opportunities to stay in traditional yurts and journey around on horseback.

If you’d like to immerse yourself even further in the local Kyrgyz culture, plan your trip to coincide with one of the country’s delightful festivals. Early August is when the Birds of Prey Festival takes place at Issyk-Kul Lake and it’s packed with fascinating events — from hunting demonstrations from expert bird keepers to presentations on constructing traditional Kyrgyz yurts. 

Alternatively, July marks the National Horse Games Festival in the village of Kyzyl-Oi on Son-Kul Lake. This one-of-a-kind festival is a joyful celebration of Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic culture, with horse races and other equestrian competitions being the main activities. Festival-goers can also admire people in traditional costumes and sample all kinds of delicious local cuisine.

Book your Kyrgyzstan vacation in March to join in with the country’s largest celebration: Nooruz. It’s a holiday that symbolizes renewal, harmony and the coming of spring. The festival is also recognized by UNESCO on the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. 

Taking place on 21 March (the spring equinox), it’s the traditional New Year of Central Asia and is not to be missed. Festivities — including singing, dancing, feasting and outdoor activities — are hosted across the country to mark the arrival of the new season, although you’ll find the best celebrations are in Bishkek and Issyk-Kul. 

The Ala-Too square comes alive with music, concerts and dance performances with many locals turning up in traditional costumes showcasing Kyrgyz craftsmanship. This is also a time for feasting, and you can sample hearty dishes like plov, manti and sumolok at street food stalls.

Experience the top 10 things to do in Kyrgyzstan for yourself when you book a tailored escape with our travel experts.