Kyrgyzstan is one of the largest and stunning countries in Central Asia. Adorned with breathtaking topography, Kyrgyzstan is known for a lot of outdoor enthralling activities, making it a heaven for adventure enthusiasts. The places to visit in Kyrgyzstan are gorgeous and even make up for the best honeymoon destinations. Slightly offbeat as compared to other Asian countries, Kyrgyzstan is a hidden gem that should not be missed out on. In order to help you plan a holiday out there, here is a glimpse of the best tourist places for a surreal vacation in this Asian country.
10 Best Places To Visit In Kyrgyzstan
Here is a list of must-see places in Kyrgyzstan that should be a part of your itinerary. Check them out!
1. Bishkek
2. Ala Archa National Park
3. Issyk Kul Lake
4. Song Kol Lake
5. Karakol
6. Cholpon Ata
7. Osh
8. Burana
9. Kel-Suu
10. Jyrgalan Valley
1. Bishkek
Bordered by mighty Tian Shan Range, Bishkek is the capital city and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan. Known as the doorway to Ala Archa National Park and Kyrgyz Ala-Too Mountains, Bishkek boasts of state museums, art museums, galleries, opera and ballet theatre.
The centrally located public square; Ala-Too Square has the Manas Monument which is built in memory of Kyrgyz Epic of Manas. The city always buzzes with tourists coming from different corners of the world.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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2. Ala Archa National Park
Nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains, Ala Archa National Park is surrounded by alpine vegetation, presenting a spectacular terrain. Accessible round the year, Ala Archa National Park is located 40 km from Bishkek and one of the must-see places to visit in Kyrgyzstan. Visited by locals and tourists alike, Ala Archa National Park is ideal for picnics, wildlife trails, mountain treks, nature walks, and hikes.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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3. Issyk Kul Lake
Nestled in the Northern Tian Shan Mountains, Issyk kul Lake is a sprawling endorheic lake, known for its tranquillity and scenic beauty. It is the second largest lake after the Caspian Sea and showcases stunning surrounding beauty of Tian Shan ranges.
Estimated to be 25 million years old, Issyk kul Lake is one of the few ancient lakes in the World worth visiting. Swimming, rafting, kayaking, and horse riding on the bank are some of the tourists’ favourite things to do.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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4. Song Kol Lake
Nestled at an elevation of 3000 m, Song Kol Lake is known for its heavenly beauty and serenity. Surrounded by mountains and verdant meadows, Song Kal Lake is the second largest lake in Kyrgyzstan. Reached by horse rides, this lake offers such a beauty that will make your jaw drop in amusement.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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5. Karakol
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Famed as one of the major tourist attractions and one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Kyrgyzstan, Karakol reflects the true culture and traditions of the country. From hiking to trekking, a sunset cruise to food tours and city walks; the place offers everything to make the holiday worth and exciting.
There are cafes and pubs to relax and sprawling local markets for hearty retail therapy. Moreover, the Animal Market where the barter system is still in practice is a place to explore during the Karakol visit.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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6. Cholpon Ata
Located on the northern shore of Lake Issyk Kul, Cholpon Ata is a buzzing resort town. Flocked by tourists, round the year; Cholpon Ata is famous for museums, famous statues, and monuments. The Museum of Petroglyphs, the Historical Museum, Equestrian Hippodrome, Lenin Statue, and Veteran Monument are the must-see places. The beauty and wilderness of abandoned airport at Cholpon Ata and the runway are surely worth experiencing.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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7. Osh
Just like Bishkek, which is the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Osh is the cultural capital of the country which displays a beautiful amalgamation of Kyrgyz, Uzbek and Tajik cultures and traditions. There are buzzing bazaars and markets where one can shop traditional souvenirs, handicrafts and knick-knacks, and restaurants where one can rejoice traditional food. Enjoy walking tours and experience the cultural vibe of the country.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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8. Burana
Burana is a small hamlet in the Chuy Region but what makes it one of the best places to see in Kyrgyzstan is the historical Burana Tower and remnants of Balasagun. Burana Tower is one of the most popular historical minarets.
This 25-meter-tall tower reflects rich history of Silk Caravans and hence attracts visitors from parts of the world. One can also see bal-bals in the field close to the Burana Tower which are gravestones, engraved by the nomadic Turkic tribes
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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9. Kel-Suu
Set in the mountains bordering China, Kel Suu is one of the most popular attractions in Kyrgyzstan. With greenish-blue water, surrounding mountains and tranquillity, Lake Kel Suu makes its place in the list of amazing places to visit in Kyrgyzstan. The lake is spotlessly clean and is popular for swimming, diving, and kayaking.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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10. Jyrgalan Valley
Perfect for hiking, trekking, and skiing, Jyrgalan Valley is surrounded by virgin mountains and alpine forests. Located at the east of Lake Issyk Kul, this valley is a paradise for those seeking a peaceful retreat. With Jargalan hamlet, located at the centre, the valley showcases beauty which is nothing less than a picture postcard.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani som
Language: Russian, Kyrgyz
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Are you enchanted with the beauty and charm of these places to visit in Kyrgyzstan? Then wait no further and plan a customised holiday in Kyrgyzstan with Travel Triangle. Enjoy the beauty and aura and create splendid holiday memories.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kyrgyzstan
How to reach Karakol?
The closest airport to Karakol is at Tamchy, located north of Lake Issyk Kul. Only domestic flights from Osh and certain locations from Russia ply to this place.
Is there any nightlife in Kyrgyzstan?
There are quite a few night clubs and pubs in Bishkek which offers an awesome nightlife scene. Promzona Club, Save the Ales and Pepto-Metpo are the few places.
How is the climate of Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is characterized by a continental climate. Winter months are cold and bitter and often receive frost. Summer is hot and moderately humid in low altitudes while mountains are still cooler.
Name the popular trekking trails in Karakol?
The popular trekking trails in Karakol are Inylchek trek, Alakul trek, and Karakol Valley trek.
Name the popular cafes and restaurants in Osh?
The popular cafes and restaurants in Osh are Café Atabek, Borsok, Classic, Brio, Restaurant Tsarskiy, and Dolce Vita.
Is there any cruising facility in Kyrgyzstan?
Lake Issyk Kul is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in Kyrgyzstan and offers an amazing sunset cruise.
Is there any Indian restaurant in Kyrgyzstan?
Yes, there are Indian restaurants in Kyrgyzstan. The popular ones are Pappa Roti, The Host, and Salaam Namaste.
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
