Kyrgyzstan — Where to Go
Top Things to See
Tash Rabat caravanserai
The Tash Rabat caravanserai provided welcome respite for travelers on one of the toughest parts of the Silk Road. As well as being an attraction in itself, Tash Rabat is a good starting point for a number of hikes.
Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve
The Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve has the best environmental elements of Kyrgyzstan is one place, with a series of forests, meadows and lakes. The varying altitude in the reserve means it also contains a wealth of different plants and fruits.
Arslanbob walnut forest
A walk around this huge walnut forest that surrounds the village of the same name is a peaceful way to while away a few spring hours. The mountains that ring Arslanbob can be skied in the winter. A drink in the main square watching the locals play chess is enjoyable at anytime.
Osh market
The chaotic swell of people that duck and weave around Osh market make it one of Kyrgyzstan's main attractions. It's one of the largest in Central Asia and an excellent place to people watch or buy souvenirs, and everything else under the sun.
Saimaluu-Tash petroglyphs
There are thousands of petroglyphs in this collection, spread across two glacial marines, high in the Ferghana Valley. It was a sacred site as early as 2000BC and is still revered today by people of the Tien Shan.
Top Things to Do
Jeti-Ögüz Sanatorium
The Jeti-Ögüz sanatorium offers Kyrgyz-style pampering. Aside from the massages and surrounding red rock formations, it's worth a visit just to wander around the eerie building that could be lifted straight from a David Lynch film.
Trekking Altyn Arashan Valley
A number of treks start in Karakol, the major town near Lake Issyk-Kul, but one of the most popular is the three day hike around the Altyn Arashan Valley. The path is easy to follow and can be done without a guide. The second day is hard going, but the views from the highest point of the trek make the effort worthwhile. If you decide to take a guide, or need to hire camping equipment, contact Community Based Tourism (www.cbtkyrgyzstan.kg).
Swimming in Lake Issyk-Kul
Relax on Cholpon-Ata beach after a swim in Lake Issyk-Kul, the second highest alpine lake in the world. Once you've dried off, join the locals and Russian vacationers for a spot of karaoke on the town's main street.
Horse riding at Lake Song-kol
Although much smaller than Lake Issyk-Kul, Song-Kol is widely regarded as the most beautiful lake in Kyrgyzstan. Horse treks to the lake can be arranged from Kochkor or, alternatively, horses can be hired on arrival. Starry nights and a stay in a yurt complete the experience. Community Based Tourism (www.cbtkyrgyzstan.kg) can help arrange horse treks to Song-Kol.
Trekking Central Tien Shan
Even the local nomads avoid this part of Kyrgyzstan, which contains the country's two highest peaks. Only experienced climbers should attempt a trek in Tien Shan, but those who brave Kyrgyzstan's harshest conditions can see a disappearing lake and supposed UFO landing site. For more information contact Community Based Tourism (www.cbtkyrgyzstan.kg).
Featured Tours to Kyrgyzstan
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