The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Where to go in Kyrgyzstan? Here’s an overview of the most interesting, beautiful, and exciting places to visit in Kyrgyzstan, including famous landmarks in Kyrgyzstan and highlights, detailed info on how to get to all these places independently, and where to stay in each location.

My first visit to Kyrgyzstan in 2017 was a spontaneous trip while I was hitchhiking through Central Asia. I didn’t really know much about this destination as I hadn’t done any research. I was in for a big surprise!

I immediately fell in love with Kyrgyzstan. So much that I decided not to continue my overland journey and live here for nearly 11 months…

Kel Suu Lake - Cynthia Bil - Journal of Nomads Adventure Tour
At Kel Suu Lake

Is Kyrgyzstan beautiful and worth visiting? Absolutely!!

The country is defined by the beautiful Tien Shan mountain range which occupies 90% of the country, lush valleys and about 2000 crystal-clear alpine lakes. 

Holy Lake Arslanbob Trekking Guide - The Complete Guide to Arslanbob Walnut forest Kyrgyzstan - Arslanbob Things to do
Holy Lake near Arslanbob

What is also special about Kyrgyzstan is that it still preserves and values centuries-old nomadic traditions.

If you love mountains and the outdoors and you’re interested in learning more about the nomadic lifestyle of Central Asia, then you’ll love traveling to Kyrgyzstan! It’s one of the few off-the-beaten-path countries where you can still get a taste of the authentic nomadic culture.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

I return yearly to guide my Kyrgyzstan Tours and to visit new destinations in the country.

Would you love to go on an epic adventure on foot, on horseback or by 4×4 to the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan with a small group of adventurous travelers?

Check out my 6 Fantastic Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours!

Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours

This post currently lists 25 places but it’s a work in progress. I’ll be adding more as I continue to explore Kyrgyzstan over the coming years. You’ll find links to my comprehensive destination guides for most of the locations mentioned in this article.

The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan and explore the places I’ve mentioned would be in late spring and summer, between the end of May and the end of September. Most of the destinations are located in the mountains, which are only accessible when the snow has cleared.

Here’s my (current) list with an overview of the most beautiful and best places in Kyrgyzstan to visit. I hope this guide will inspire you to travel to one of my favorite destinations in the world!

Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tour - Camping at Lake Ala Kul
Ala Kul lake

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Best Places to visit in Bishkek (Chuy Region)

1. Bishkek

What are the best things to do in Bishkek

Bishkek is the largest city in Kyrgyzstan and the country’s capital. It’ll very likely be the first place you visit in Kyrgyzstan as nearly all flights arrive at the international airport of Manas, only a 30-minute drive from Bishkek’s city center.

Bishkek is located at an altitude of 800 meters and borders the Central Asian Tian Shan Mountains. On a clear day, you can the spectacular peaks of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Mountains in the city’s background.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

What is special about Bishkek? Bishkek doesn’t feel like a capital city to me. It’s a busy and bustling place but whenever I walk through its streets and parks, I have the impression I’m in a big provincial town rather than a capital city.

It’s Central Asia’s greenest city, with rich biodiversity in its tree-lined streets and many parks. You also won’t see any skyscrapers here.

While Bishkek is a modern and continuously evolving cosmopolitan, it still preserves the essence of the Kyrgyz culture and Soviet architecture. There are a ton of cool brutalist architecture that offer you a glimpse of the Soviet influence during its occupation in the 20th century.

best places to see in Bishkek - Kyrgyzstan

I wouldn’t say that Bishkek is one of Kyrgyzstan’s highlights but it’s worth visiting the city for at least one full day to experience the mixture of modern and national culture.

You could go shopping at the colorful Osh Bazaar, Kyrgyzstan’s most famous market, in the morning and pop in a hipster cafe for a good cappuccino afterward. You could go on a self-made Soviet architecture tour in the afternoon and every now and then take a break and have ice cream in one of the many parks.

You can explore Bishkek’s nightlife scene in the evening in one of the many pubs, bars, and nightclubs. Or you can just relax with a cocktail and a nice meal on the outdoor terrace of one of the many restaurants in the city.

I highly recommend reading my Bishkek City Guide where you’ll find all the information from where to go and the top things to do, to where to eat and stay in Bishkek.

How to get to Bishkek

  • Getting to Bishkek from other countries:

Manas International Airport is the main international airport in Kyrgyzstan, located 25 kilometers northwest of the capital Bishkek. This is where currently all international flights (with a connection in Istanbul, Dubai, or Moskow) arrive.

There will be plenty of taxi drivers greeting you upon arrival at the airport. The cost of a taxi from the airport to the city center in Bishkek is between 600 to 800 som (around €8 / $10).

You can also reach Bishkek by land if you’re coming from Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan. Read the following posts for more information:

  • Getting to Bishkek from other cities in Kyrgyzstan:

As Bishkek is Kyrgyzstan’s capital city, you’ll find nearly in every big town or city a marshrutka (minibus) or a shared taxi going directly to Bishkek. They’ll overly likely drop you off at the Western Bus Station in Bishkek.

This bus station is a bit outside of the city center so I recommend installing the Yandex app to get a taxi to the city. This app works like Uber and has fixed rates so no need to waste time and energy on negotiating prices.

Where to stay in Bishkek:

  1. High-end Hotel I recommend in Bishkek:
    1. Orion Hotel Bishkek: deluxe rooms, great location, fitness and wellness center: Check the price and availability here.

2. Ala Archa National Park

Things to do around Bishkek - Ala Archa National Park - Journal of Nomads

Ala Archa National Park, located 40km south of Bishkek, is one of the few national parks in Kyrgyzstan that is easily accessible and fun to visit no matter what time of the year it is.

This National Park in the Tian Shan Mountains is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Kyrgyz Mountains. It’s also a great place to acclimatize to hiking in high altitudes if you just arrived in the country.

There are some beautiful day hikes and multiple-day treks at Ala Archa starting at 1500 meters altitude and leading up to 2500 meters and higher.

Ala Archa National Park Kyrgyzstan- Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Ala Archa Hiking

Ala Archa is a popular destination and one of the more touristic places in Kyrgyzstan, not only for travelers but also for locals.

I visited this park on more than one occasion and I was surprised to see so many locals having a picnic and spending time with their family and friends cozily nested under the trees of the park.

The accessibility of this park (it’s located only an hour drive away from the city center of Bishkek) and the fact that it’s at the base of the beautiful Tian Shan mountains makes it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital city.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

If you’re planning on visiting Ala Archa, remember that this National Park is located in the mountains.

The weather will be a lot cooler than in Bishkek, especially if you’re going to hike to the waterfall (2500m) or to the Ratsek Hut (3300m) so always bring a warm sweater and foresee rain gear. The weather in the mountains is very unpredictable!

You should also wear hiking boots, even when going on the short hike to the waterfall. I’ve seen people hurting themselves on the trail to the waterfall on more than one occasion as they weren’t wearing proper footwear.

There aren’t any shops so pack some snacks and a reusable water bottle with filter, like a Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle, so you can refill your bottle with the water from the many streams and rivers.

When visiting Ala Archa in winter, you won’t be able to go on any hikes as the trails are covered in snow but it’s still beautiful to go there!!

Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Ala Archa National Park in Winter - Journal of Nomads

How to get from Bishkek to Ala Archa by public transport

To reach the Ala Archa National Park, you will have two options.

You can either take a taxi directly to the Alpager base (where the hiking trails start) or you can take a mashrutka (shared minibus) to the entrance of the national park and then hitchhike or take a taxi to cover the remaining 12 km of asphalt road to the Alpager base.

  • How to reach Ala Archa by mashrutka

In Bishkek, you’ll have to hop on mashrutka 265. This shared minibus can be found at the bus stop at Moscow Street 229 (near the entrance of Osh Bazaar).

Keep in mind that this minibus will only leave once it’s completely full so this option won’t be the best one if you’re in a hurry to get to the park.

-> If you have an android phone, install the app Maps.me, type in ‘mashrutka 265’ and the app will show you exactly on the map where to find the bus stop.-

The marshrutka will bring you for 25 som all the way to Kash- Kasuu, the nearest village to Ala Archa. You can also ask the driver if he can drop you off at the entrance gate of the National Park for an additional 50 som. 

Once you’re at the entrance of the park you’ll have to pay 80 som to get in. At the entrance, you can catch a taxi that will bring you to the Alpager base for 500 som.

You could also hitchhike the remaining 12 km. If you’re there in summer, there will be a lot of cars with tourists and locals passing by and they’re likely to give you a lift for free.

  • How to reach Ala Archa by taxi

If you want to get to Ala Archa early, you could get a taxi from Bishkek all the way to the entrance gate of the park for 500 som.

If you want the taxi to drop you off at the Alpager base (At the beginning of the hiking trails), you’ll have to pay the entrance fee for the car (400 som) + an additional 500 som for the taxi to drive you that extra 12 km.

If you’re planning on returning the same day, you can negotiate a price with your driver so he waits for you at the parking lot.

Otherwise, you’ll have to search for available taxis or try to hitchhike back.

If you’re just planning to spend the day at the park, I recommend requesting a private taxi for the day at your hostel/ hotel. This will be around €50 and covers all the costs, including the waiting time for the driver at the park.

WHERE TO STAY IN BISHKEK WHEN VISITING ALA ARCHA

It’s very convenient to do a quick day trip to Ala Archa and come back to the capital city in the evening if you don’t plan to camp in the park or go on a multi-day hike there.

In Bishkek, I recommend staying at Koisha Hostel or Bugu Hotel because it’s located very close to the bus stop at Osh Bazaar from where the marshrutkas to Ala Archa National Park leave.

Hiking in Ala Archa National Park -Hiking to the Ak-Sai Glacier - A Complete Guide to Trekking in Kyrgyzstan with the best and most beautiful hikes of the country - Journal of Nomads

3. Burana Tower

Burana Tower - Kyrgyzstan - historical monument - Landmark - Silk Road - Journal of Nomads

The Burana Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Kyrgyzstan. This 25m high tower is all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun, a once flourishing city that welcomed thousands of Silk Road caravans.

Although the tower itself might not seem very exciting to many people, if you’re interested in history, this will be a fascinating and one of the mysterious places to visit in Kyrgyzstan.

It’s crazy to imagine that this archaeological site used to be such a big city and was once considered the center of the world!

The book The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan explains it all and is a must-read if you’re a history lover!

Burana Tower - Kyrgyzstan - historical monument - Landmark - Silk Road - Journal of Nomads

Another remarkable sight is the collection of ancient bal-bals in the field near the Burana Tower.

The bal-bals are gravestones, carved by the nomadic Turkic tribes who used to roam around Central Asia in the 6th century.

Burana Tower - Kyrgyzstan - Bal-bal Gravestones - Silk Road - Journal of Nomads

These gravestones were initially erected as a representation of slain enemies and later became memorials for the ancestors of the people who sculpted them. They are oddly proportioned, with strange heads and short torsos. 

How to get from Bishkek to the Burana Tower by public transportation

You can easily visit the Burana Tower as a day trip from Bishkek or on your way towards Lake Issy-Kul. The Burana Tower is about 8 km from the town of Tokmok.

There is no direct marshrutka (minibus) going from Bishkek to the Burana Tower but if you follow my instructions, you should be able to get there in two hours.

First, you’ll have to take a city marshrutka or a taxi to the Eastern Bus Station.

In the bus station, look for marshrutka #353 that goes to Tokmok. A ticket will cost about 50 som. The marshrutka stops a couple of kilometers outside the center of Tokmok. You can see a huge monument with the town’s name on it as you arrive in this village.

Once you’re there, you got 3 options:

The first option is to take a taxi. Burana Tower is a popular destination, so there will be a lot of taxis heading in that direction.

If you can, find a taxi driver who is willing to take you there and back for a maximum of 300 som (wait for the next one if they ask for more money).

I would suggest asking the driver to stay and wait there while you visit the tower. One hour is more than enough to visit the whole site.

You can always try and hitchhike. Hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan is very easy and you won’t have to wait for very long, the only problem might be getting a free ride (I give great tips on hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan here).

It’s very common to pay for a ride in Kyrgyzstan however don’t pay more than you would for a one-way ride to the Tower with a taxi (around 150 som)

There are also a few mini-buses that run between Tokmok and Burana. You can ask a few locals about where you can take this marshrutka if you speak some Russian. 

You could also combine a visit to Burana Tower with a trip to another site near Bishkek.

4. Kol-Tor Lake

Things to do around Bishkek - hiking to Kel-Tor lake - photo by Stephen Lioy - Journal of Nomads
Photo by Stephen Lioy – Travel Photography

Kyrgyzstan has some of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the whole world and Kol-Tor lake is pretty high on that list. It shines in a bright turquoise shade and adopts different tones of blue throughout the day.

This lake is located at an altitude of 2700m above the village of Kegeti, around 92 km outside of Bishkek.

The two-hour moderate hike to the lake will take you across some gorgeous alpine meadows and coniferous forests. Although the trail to the lake is relatively short, I would suggest wearing good hiking boots to get there.

This lake is very popular and easily accessible from Bishkek so it can get a bit crowded during summer. It’s still possible to access the lake throughout the rest of the year and it’s lovely in winter.

My friend Stephen Lioy has a great photo report of his hike there in November when the mountains surrounding the lake were already covered in snow.

Depending on whether or not you start hiking early, you could reach the lake in one day and be back in Bishkek in the evening.

If you want to stay longer near the lake, you can also sleep in a mountain hut owned by the Trekking Union of Kyrgyzstan. You can reserve this cabin by contacting TUK ahead of time and sleeping there will cost 600 som.

HOW TO get to KOL-TOR LAKE FROM BISHKEK BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The hiking trail to Kol Tor lake starts in Kegeti gorge so you’ll have to reach this village first. You can hop on the minibus 303 from the Eastern Bus Station in Bishkek to get there. The bus leaves at 9:30 Am and takes about two hours to reach the small village.

What could be a bit harder is returning to Bishkek by public transport since the last mashrutka from Kegeti Gorge leaves at 3:30 pm. You could either stay in Kegeti if it’s getting late or try to hitchhike back.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR KOL-TOR LAKE

Apart from the cabin owned by the Trekkers Union of Kyrgyzstan near the lake, there are a few homestays where you could stay in Kegeti.

None of these homestays can be booked online in advance but you can find their location on the maps.me app or ask around in the village.

5. Chon Kemin National Park

Chon Kemin - Kyrgyzstan Travel - Kyrgyzstan Culture Tour - Journal of Nomads

The Chon Kemin National Park, located 150km east of Bishkek, covers an area of 500 hectares and is home to many species of plants and animals, including the snow leopard.

This National Park in the heart of the Chuy Valley is surrounded by three mountain ranges and has a wide variety of landscapes, from semi-deserts to lush forests, alpine lakes and stunning glaciers.

The Chon Kemin Valley offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and rafting on the Chu River. There are several trekking possibilities, from easy short walks along the Chong Kemin River to adventurous hikes over 3 000m passes.

You can visit the park all year through and you can choose to relax, go on an easy day hike or spend a few days horse riding, trekking, and rafting. You definitely won’t get bored here!

Chon Kemin Valley is part of my 9-day Overland Expedition. Click here for more information about my Kyrgyzstan Tours!

How to get to Chon Kemin from Bishkek by public transport

There are daily minibusses going between Chon Kemin and Bishkek. Take mashrutka #309 at the Eastern Bus Station in Bishkek. A ticket costs 120 som and the journey takes around 2 hours.

Where to stay in Chon Kemin National Park

There are a few guesthouses run by local families by the forest in Chon Kemin. Most of them can’t be booked online in advance (yet), with the exception of Kemin Guesthouse.

It’s also possible to wild camp in Chon Kemin Valley.

Are you looking for a customized guided tour in Kyrgyzstan and/or other countries in Central Asia? Do you need help planning your itinerary?

Have a look at my Central Asia tour and itinerary planning services!

Kyrgyzstan Tours - Journal of Nomads

Best Places to visit in Issyk Kul Region

6. Issyk Kul Lake

What are the best drones for travel - Lake Issyk Kul Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

Lake Issyk-Kul is the world’s second-largest mountain lake in the world. It’s located at an elevation of 1609 meters in northeastern Kyrgyzstan. It’s 182km long, 60km wide, and covers an area of 6236 km²!

The name Issyk-Kul means “warm lake”. It gets a lot of scientific interest as the lake never freezes because it’s so deep – its deepest point is at 668 meters – and fed by thermal springs. Don’t get fooled by the name tho, it’d still be very cold to go for a swim in winter…

Kyrgyzstan winter itinerary
Issyk Kul in winter

The lake is bordered by two mountain ranges of the Central Tien Shan mountains. You can see the Kungei-Alatau range (meaning “facing the sun” in Turkic) in the north and the Terskei-Alatau (meaning “turned away from the sun”) in the south, and they make the scenery around the lake magnificent.

Issyk Kul Lake, best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan
The Terskey Alatau mountains on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul

There are a lot of resorts on its northern shore as it’s a popular holiday destination for local, Kazakh and Russian tourists.

The southern shore of Issyk Kul lake is, in my opinion, more interesting and beautiful to visit. It’s wilder than the northern side and has some very unique sights (which I mention below).

It’s also one of the places in Kyrgyzstan where you can do some interesting ethnocultural activities.

You can visit the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, the center of the yurt craftsmanship in Kyrgyzstan, where about 50 traditional yurt makers live and learn how to build a yurt there.

You can participate in a culinary or felt-making workshop in Bokonbaevo, one of the biggest towns on Issyk Kul’s Southern Shore.

It’s also the place where you can visit the last remaining Eagle Hunters in Bakanbaevo, see a demonstration and learn all about this ancient Central Asian tradition.

Some of my Kyrgyzstan Adventures Tours also include a demonstration by the eagle hunters.

Eagle Hunter Kyrgyzstan _ Journal of Nomads

How to get from Bishkek to Issyk Kul Lake by public transport

The easiest way to get to Issyk Kul Lake from Bishkek is by marshrutka (minibus). They leave from the Western Bus Station in Bishkek.

If you want to go to the north shore of Issyk Kul, you have to take the marshrutka to Cholpon Ata. It costs 300 som per person and the journey takes about 4 hours.

If you want to travel to the southern shore of Issyk Kul, take the mashrutka heading for Karakol and get off at Bokonbaevo or any other place you’d like to visit on the southern shore, see below for more inspiration. The journey from Bishkek to Bakanbaevo takes around 5 hours and costs 400 som.

You can also take a shared taxi. A shared taxi picks up other people and baggage, meaning you may have to be stuffed in with several other people and their bags. Shared taxis are faster and usually cost slightly more than marshrutkas but they also pick up other people along the way.

A shared taxi from Bishkek to Cholpon Ata costs 500 som and you’ll pay around the same price for a shared taxi from Bishkek to Bokonbaevo.

Where to stay at Issyk Kul Lake

Here are some suggestions where to say on the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake.

Bel Tam Yurt Camp is a fantastic yurt camp on the shores of the lake in Tong, not too far from Bokonbaevo (take a (shared) taxi to get there).

It’s one of my favorite tourist yurt camps in Kyrgyzstan and I also stay there with my groups during my adventure tours.

Check the prices and availability of Bel Tam Yurt Camp.

best places to visit

If you want to stay in Bakanbaevo, I recommend:

7. Skazka Canyon

Things to do around lake Issyk Kul - Fairytale Canyon Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

The Skazka Canyon, located between the villages of Tosor and Kaji-Say on the south shore of Issyk Kul, is one of the most spectacular canyons in Kyrgyzstan.

It’s small compared to the Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan but equally beautiful and impressive.

The Skazka Canyon is nicknamed “Fairytale Canyon” because of its irregular rock formations that resemble animals, fantastical characters and castles. Not only the shapes in this canyon are remarkable, but also the colors of the rocks are very unique.

You’ll find yourself in a world of red, pink, orange and yellow and it almost feels like you’re walking in a very colorful painting!

The panoramic views in the canyon are spectacular, especially when you get to the higher rock formations and see lake Issyk Kul in the background.


Skazka is a small canyon and 1 to 2 hours is enough to enjoy the views.

How to get to the Skazka Canyon

The Skazka Canyon is located on the road from Bishkek to Karakol along the southern shore of Issyk Kul and is easy to reach by public transport.

You can stop there on your way from Bishkek to Karakol (see How to get to Issyk Kul Lake in the section above).

If you’re coming from Bokonbaevo, take mashrutka #315 at the bus stop near the bazaar.

It’s a 30-minute ride. Ask the driver to let you out at the Skazka Canyon. He’ll drop you off 2km from the entrance of the canyon. If you’re coming from Karakol, ask the driver to do the same.

The entrance fee to visit the canyon is 50 som. After spending some time there, catch a marshrutka to Karakol, Bokonbaevo or Bishkek from the main road before 4 pm.

Where to stay at the Skazka Canyon

There are no accommodation options at the canyon itself but you can stay either in Bokonbaevo (30 minutes), Kaji-Say (10 minutes) or Karakol (1,5 hours).

8. Barskoon Waterfall

Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Things to do at lake Issyk Kul - Barskoon Waterfall - Kyrgyzstan Itinerary - Journal of Nomads

The Barskoon Waterfalls are one of the most famous waterfalls in Kyrgyzstan.

They’re located in the equally stunning Barskoon Valley near Issyk Kul’s South Shore. The high mountains and thick spruce forests give you the impression that you’ve suddenly arrived in Switzerland.

The Barskoon Falls, which means “snow leopard tears”, is a chain of 3 waterfalls. The first small waterfall can easily be reached by following the uphill path behind a small yurt camp. It’s a 20-minute walk and not too steep.

The second waterfall, with an impressive height of 24 meters, is another 30-minute hike and is a bit harder to reach. The steep path leading to the waterfall takes you through a spruce forest and small meadows along the edge of the gorge. Be careful walking on slippery rocks!

The third waterfall is another 45 minutes of climbing but I don’t recommend going there by yourself as you’ll have to hike through wild and rough terrain. When you reach the top, you’ll also get a spectacular view of the Barskoon Valley and Issyk Kul lake in the distance.

Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan -Issyk Kul - Barskoon Waterfall - Kyrgyzstan Itinerary - Journal of Nomads

How to get to the Barskoon Waterfalls

When you’re coming from Bishkek, Bokonbaevo or Karakol by mashrutka or shared taxi, you’ll have to ask the driver to drop you off at Barskoon Village. From there it’s a 15km walk to the waterfalls.

You can also try to hitchhike from the village to the trailhead.

If you’re staying in Bokonbaevo or Karakol, you could also ask your guesthouse or hotel to arrange a private taxi for you and combine it with a visit to the Skazka Canyon (see above) and Jeti Oguz (see below).

Where to stay in Barskoon

I recommend visiting the Barskoon Waterfalls as part of your trip to or from Karakol.

There aren’t any guesthouses nearby but as of 2021, there’s a glamping site called Molvilla not far from the path to the waterfalls. It’s a site with bright yellow 2 person tents. Staying there costs 1500 som per person, including breakfast.

9. Jeti Oguz

Jeti Oguz Kyrgyzstan - Rock formation - Best places in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

Jeti Oguz is the name of a valley but also of a stunning sandstone rock formation about 25 km southwest of Karakol.

This sandstone crag used to resemble 7 bulls and that’s where its name comes from. It was a sacred place for the original inhabitants of the area and once you see it, you’ll totally understand why.

The original formation was eroded with time and there are now 9 or 10 different reddish bluffs that overlook the valley below.

Jeti-Oguz is a very popular day trip from Karakol. People go there to see a few other rock formations apart from the seven bulls such as one called the Broken Heart which is the source of many tragic love stories.

In summer, you’ll also come across plenty of beekeepers in the area who bring their beehives to the valley filled with flowers around the protruding rocks.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024
Jeti Oguz in winter

HOW TO GET TO JETI-OGUZ FROM KARAKOL BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

If you are going to Jeti-Oguz with public transport, you’ll have to make sure you reach Jeti-Oguz Kurort, a small village beside the seven bulls and not the town of Jeti-Oguz, which is located 12km away from the stone formation.

To get to Jeti-Oguz Kurort from Karakol, first go to the Ak-Tilek Market in Karakol. From there, you’ll need to catch mashrutka 355 to Jeti-Oguz Korort.

The mashrutka doesn’t have a fixed schedule and departs only a few times a week from Karakol, typically late morning and possibly mid-afternoon. It costs 100 som and takes about 45 minutes to reach Jeti-Oguz Korort from Karakol.

A much better option to reach the seven bulls rock formation would be to take a shared taxi from Karakol to Jeti-Oguz Korort.

A taxi going there should cost, at most, around 150 som per person. You’ll have to make it clear with the driver that you are going all the way to Jeti-Oguz Kurort and not Jeti-Oguz town.

WHERE TO STAY IN JETI OGUZ

There aren’t many guest houses or hotels in Jeti-Oguz Kurort. If you want to stay in a place that offers a fantastic view of the seven bulls, I recommend staying in Guesthouse Emir. It’s located literally just below the Seven Bulls, with a view of it out of almost every bedroom window.

The view of the rock formation is quite spectacular in the morning from this guest house.

They have an amazing breakfast served every morning on location and the guest house is also located very close to shops and restaurants. If you would like to cook your own meal, the kitchen is available. 

Click to check out rates and availability for “Guesthouse Emir”

28 top things to do in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads - Jeti Oguz

10. Altyn Arashan Valley & Hot Springs

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Altyn Arashan, which means ”Golden Spa” in Kyrgyz, is a lush green valley near Karakol and Lake Ala Kul.

The place is famous for its pristine untouched landscapes and natural hot springs.

It’s also a very popular trekking destination and attracts hikers and mountain enthusiasts from all over the world. It’s a valley in which I have hiked many times while in Kyrgyzstan.

Walking there always feels very soothing and it seems to recharge my soul and spirit with so much energy. The valley is breathtaking and could easily be used as a picture for a postcard.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

This environment is ideal for camping, horseback riding, and hiking in nature. The area is a pristine nature reserve but the main attraction of the place are its natural hot springs.

The hot springs of Altyn Arashan are probably the most famous hot springs in Kyrgyzstan. The water is generally around 45 ºC and is known to help with diseases related to the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

HOW TO REACH THE ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY FROM KARAKOL

From Karakol, you can take a mashrutka or a shared taxi to Ak-Suu. You’ll have to look for a mashrutka that has a sign with ”Kurort Ak-Suu” (Курорт Аксуу) from the main mashrutka station.

The price to reach Ak-Suu from Karakol will be around 15 to 25 som per person. Once you reach the town of Ak-Suu you can only reach the valley by hiking (see below).

If you’re not up for the moderate 4-hour hike, you can ask at your hostel or guesthouse in Karakol to arrange a special taxi for you. With special I mean a 4×4 ride as the road to Altyn Arashan is rough and rocky and not accessible for normal cars. The standard rate for a one-way journey from Karakol to Altyn Arashan by 4×4 taxi is $50.

Note: if you’re renting a car, the rental company won’t allow you to drive to Altyn Arashan as the road might cause damage to your car.

HOW TO HIKE AND TREK IN THE ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY FROM AK-SUU

If you want to start the trek from Ak-Suu, you’ll have to reach this small village first by public transport or with your own car from Karakol.

The starting point of the trek to the hot springs is located south of Ak-Suu. The first part of the trek will take you along the beautiful Arashan river. You’ll be walking along pastures filled with flowers and grazing horses.

A few kilometers later you’ll start seeing the beautiful snow-capped mountain peaks that dominate the valley. At this point, the trail becomes steeper and steeper and goes through patches of pine forest before finally reaching an open area where the hot springs are located.

Along the way to the hot springs, you might come across mountain goats, horses and groundhogs.

leaving Altyn-Arashan valley - Journal of Nomads

HOW TO REACH THE ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY FROM ALA KUL LAKE

It’s also possible to reach the valley coming north from Ala Kul lake as part of a 4-day trek. You can read how to reach this valley from the alpine lake here.

Visit Altyn Arashan by joining one of my Adventure Tours in Kyrgyzstan!

Would you love to go on an epic adventure on foot, on horseback or by 4×4 to the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan with a small group of adventurous travelers?

Check out my 6 Fantastic Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours!

Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours

WHERE TO STAY IN THE ALTYN ARASHAN VALLEY

If you have your tent, you can camp almost anywhere in the valley during summer as the weather is really ideal and there are tons of gorgeous flat areas where you can pitch camp.

There are a few yurts where you can stay in the valley and a few lodges and guest houses next to the hot springs. You can’t book them online as there’s no wi-fi reception in the valley.

I recommend staying at the Guesthouse Elza. It’s a guest house where it’s possible to stay in a room or in a yurt and it its own private hot spring.

Altyn Arashan Valley - Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

11. Ala Kul Lake

Ala Kul lake Kyrgyzstan - Adventure Travel Tour Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

I’m at a lack of words when it comes to describing the beauty of lake Ala Kul, located at an altitude of 3500m in the Terskey Alatau mountains.

It’s so beautiful that the locals often refer to it as the ‘pristine diamond of the Karakol Canyon’ and it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan!

The water of this glacier lake changes hourly from azure to violet, depending on the weather conditions and the time of the year.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

This lake is only accessible by going on a long strenuous multiple-day hike.

I yearly make the trek to Lake Ala Kul during my adventure tours and I would absolutely recommend anyone visiting the country to try hiking providing they are in shape.

Kyrgyzstan Tour - Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tour - Best of Kyrgyzstan - Rondreis Kirgizie - Journal of Nomads

HOW TO GET TO ALA KUL

It’s impossible to reach this lake by car or by public transport.  The only way to get there is by hiking. Reaching Ala Kul can be done independently or with a guide.

To get there, you will need to reach the Ala Kul Nature Reserve first and hike from there.

From the center of Karakol, you can take marshrutka 101 to the entrance of the park. You can also take a taxi for 400 KGS that will stop between the entrance and a broken bridge farther along the trail saving at least 1 hour of walk.

Once you have reached the park, you can follow the day-by-day instructions on how to hike to the lake here.

Tip → Download the Maps.me app and get a map of the region. The app has the whole trail mapped and is really useful. People occasionally get lost along this trail so check the app to stay on the right track.

If you don’t want to hike there by yourself and you’d rather go with a mountain guide and a fun group of international travelers, you could join one of my Adventure Tours!

WHERE TO STAY IN ALA KUL

There are no yurt camps or guesthouses near the lake (only in the Karakol Valley or Altyn Arashan Valley on the first and third day of the hike).

If you have your tent, it’s possible to camp around the lake in various areas where the terrain is flat. Be aware that it’s very cold and windy up there so prepare well!

Adventure Trekking in Kyrgyzstan July 2019 - camping at Ala Kul Lake

12. Jyrgalan Valley

Jyrgalan Valley Kyrgyzstan - best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

The Jyrgalan Valley is nestled between the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains east of lake Issyk Kul and it’s probably one of Kyrgyzstan’s most picturesque regions. Right in the center of this valley, there is a small village with the same name.

Jyrgalan used to be a small coal-mining town. It was thriving at first under the Soviet regime but things changed after the fall of the empire. Many families abandoned the town in search of work elsewhere. What was once a booming center quickly became a ghost town.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Luckily things have been changing a lot for this region in the last few years.

There are now a few guest houses in town and new hiking trails, some horse treks, and even mountain biking routes are being developed. Jyrgalan Valley is slowly becoming the next best hiking destination in Kyrgyzstan.

A Complete Guide to Trekking in Kyrgyzstan with the best and most beautiful hikes of the country - What you need to know before hiking in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

When it comes to Jyrgalan valley, the question isn’t whether or not you should trek there but rather which day-hike or multi-day trek will inspire you the most. There are plenty of awesome treks to choose from and they cover a wide range of difficulty levels.

Whether you have been hiking for years or you are an absolute beginner, you’ll find something that will be appropriate for your level in this untouched environment.

They go from short half-day hikes to multiple days treks that climb almost up to 4000 meters. I cover a few of them in the best hikes in Kyrgyzstan.

Hiking in Jyrgalan Valley - A Complete Guide to Trekking in Kyrgyzstan with the best and most beautiful hikes of the country - Journal of Nomads

HOW TO GET TO JYRGALAN VALLEY FROM KARAKOL BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There are daily marshrutkas going from Karakol to Jyrgalan. They leave from the Ak-Tilek Market three times a day. The cost of a ticket from Karakol to Jyrgalan is about 80 som per person.

Another way to get there is to take a shared taxi to Jyrgalan. This can be done by visiting Destination Karakol offices. They can help with arranging a taxi to the small idyllic town and provide information on all the various treks you can do in the valley.

WHERE TO STAY IN JYRGALAN VALLEY

There are now many guest houses in Jyrgalan. The one I absolutely recommend is Alakol-Jyrgalan Guest HouseThe owners are very knowledgeable about all the hiking trails in the region and I really felt at home there.

The owners made everyone feel welcome and after long days of hiking in the mountains, we would return to the guest house to be treated to the most sumptuous meals.

It was the perfect place to relax and discover the region at our own pace. The location is also ideal as the guest house is located where many of the best hiking trails in the region begin.

This guesthouse also features a traditional Kyrgyz Banya (Russian sauna) where I relaxed my legs after intense hiking around the valley.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Alakol-Jyrgalan Guest House”

13. Sary Jaz Valley

Sary Jaz Valley Kyrgyzstan- beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

The Sary Jaz Valley, located 150km from Karakol, is a hidden beauty I’ve only discovered during my 4th visit to Kyrgyzstan.

The valley is part of the Khan-Tengri National Park, the largest national park of Kyrgyzstan. It’s a stunning and wild place with vast landscapes as far as the eye can see.

It’s so remote that you won’t see people here, with the exception of a few sheep and yak shepherds and the guards at the checkpoints (you need a border permit to get here, more about that in How to get to Sary Jaz).

Sary Jaz Kyrgyzstan yaks remote places in Kyrgyzstan

Sary Jaz means yellow spring and you’ll understand how it’s gotten its name when you see the rolling yellow hills with breathtaking views of the snowcapped Celestial Mountains in the background. Only in the months of April and May are the hills green.

Sary Jaz Kyrgyzstan places to visit

Several powerful rivers cut the valley and bring water from the mountain glaciers, the main source of freshwater in Kyrgyzstan. You’ll also see some of Kyrgyzstan’s highest mountain peaks, including the Khan Tengri Peak at 7010m and Victory Peak at 7439m.

Sary Jaz offers some great hiking possibilities but it’s also nice to just drive there along the stunning scenery and imagine you’re all alone in the world.

Sary Jaz Kyrgyzstan - Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

How to get to the Sary Jaz Valley from Karakol

The Sary Jaz Valley is a restricted area and border zone so you need to have a border permit. You have to apply for this permit at least 14 days in advance and include a copy of your passport with your application. The costs of a border permit are between $20 and $30 per person.

I made the trip to the Sary Jaz Valley with Aydarbek from Hiking in Kyrgyzstan and he helped me with the application process.

You can only get to the Sary Jaz valley by 4×4 car. It’s a real off-road trip along windy gravel roads and steep mountain passes. If you want to drive yourself, you need to be a confident driver and know how to handle a 4×4 vehicle well.

You can also arrange a tour with a private driver and a 4×4 SUV vehicle.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

The Sary Jaz Valley is a 6-hour drive from Karakol. You’ll be driving next to the border of Kazakhstan, close to Jyrgalan. There you’ll have the first military checkpoint where you need to show your passport and border permit.

The road then continues through the lush Turuk Gorge across the Turuk Pass (3481m) into the Sary Jaz Valley.

It’s also possible to take a different road through the Turgen Valley and across the beautiful Chong Ashu Pass (3800m). While you skip the bordering road with Kazakhstan, there is another military checkpoint on this road.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

You can do this road trip as a day trip from Karakol. However, it’s a very long road and a lot of effort to just go there for one day.

My recommendation would be to combine it with a visit to the old USSR mine town Engilchek (see below) and make it into a 2- or 3-day trip.

Are you looking for a customized guided tour in Kyrgyzstan and/or other countries in Central Asia? Do you need help planning your itinerary?

Have a look at my Central Asia tour and itinerary planning services!

Kyrgyzstan Tours - Journal of Nomads

Where to stay at the Sary Jaz Valley

Aside from some nomadic settlements, there’s absolutely nothing in the Sary Jaz Valley. Your only option is to camp here.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

I loved the camping experience, the feeling of being completely alone in this wonderful part of the world and, the silence and the closeness to nature.

14. Engilchek Ghost Town and Hot Springs

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

I wouldn’t call Engilchek beautiful but it’s definitely one of the most fascinating places to visit in Kyrgyzstan!

The town of Engilchek (Inylchek) was once a prosperous mining town during the Soviet Union. It’s located in the isolated Engilchek Valley near the border with China.

Many young people came to work here in the early 1980s when the mining industry in the region was developing. A whole town including a school and a hospital got built to house the employees of the mine and entire families moved to Engilchek in the hope of building a good life and future here.

There were around 5000 people living here when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. The mining was stopped, people lost their jobs and were forced to move to search for work elsewhere. Engilchek became a ghost town.

Engilchek Ghost Town USSR Kyrgyzstan interesting places to visit Kyrgyzstan

There are nowadays about 100 people living in Engilchek, many of them working with livestock in the mountains. I’ve been told that a Chinese company reopened the mines and is slowly providing new working opportunities.

I’ll be honest, I really wouldn’t want to live between these deteriorated buildings. It was very interesting to spend a day and an evening there, to experience how it must be to live in such a remote and abandoned place and to witness the daily life of the few people living there.

If you decide to visit Engilchek, don’t skip the Kara Tash hot springs. They’re wedged between the Sary Jaz River and a cliff, about 15 minutes driving from Engilchek town towards At Jailoo.

These hot springs consist of two open-air pools. One is so hot that you could boil an egg in there, but you can bathe in the other one and enjoy the surrounding views.

Engilchek Kyrgyzstan Hot Springs - Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

Remember that the Kara Tash hot springs aren’t always accessible – usually halfway spring – when the river level becomes so high that it covers the springs.

Engilchek hot springs Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

This region is also home to the Engilchek Glacier, one of the longest and largest glaciers of the Tian Shan Mountains. The Engilchek glacier is only accessible on foot. The trek starts at the At Jailoo base camp and it takes 2 to 3 days and 8 hours walking a day before reaching the glacier.

Don’t undertake this trek by yourself as the terrain is rough and dangerous! If you have $750 per person to spare, you can also go on a helicopter excursion to the glacier.

How to get to Engilchek Ghost Town

The Engilchek Valley lies right next to the Sary Jaz Valley and borders China so you’ll need a border permit to get there.

Apply for this permit at least 14 days in advance and include a copy of your passport with your application. The costs of a border permit are between $20 and $30 per person.

I combined my visit to Engilchek with the trip to Sary Jaz, organized by Hiking in Kyrgyzstan, who also took care of arranging my permit.

Engilchek can’t be reached by public transport. You can only get there with your own vehicle or by renting a 4×4 car (with an optional driver).

You’ll be driving on one of the highest roads in the country surrounded by spectacular sceneries and via the Chong Ashu Pass (3800m).

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

The accessibility to the village is limited during the winter due to large amounts of snow blocking the road and mountain passes.

Where to stay in Engilchek

I’d highly recommend spending one night in the only homestay in Engilchek as it will give you an insight into the daily life of the few families living there.

Nellie, who’s an English teacher at the school in Engilchek, is always happy to host visitors at her home. She’ll treat you to delicious homemade meals and will very likely invite you to visit the school with her and show you around.

You can’t book your stay in advance as there’s no cellphone or wi-fi reception. Just ask for Nellie when you arrive in Engilchek and people will show you the way.

Are you looking for a customized guided tour in Kyrgyzstan and/or other countries in Central Asia? Do you need help planning your itinerary?

Have a look at my Central Asia tour and itinerary planning services!

Kyrgyzstan Tours - Journal of Nomads

Top Places to visit in Naryn Region

15. Song Kol Lake

Song Kol lake is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan! I was charmed from the first moment I set foot on its shores!

It’s not an easy place to access but any traveler worth his salt knows that the more challenging it is to reach a destination, the more rewarding it will be. This is exactly the case with Song Kol Lake.

Adventure Trekking in Kyrgyzstan July 2019 - horseback trek in Kyrgyzstan - Song Kol lake

I visited it for the first time while marking hiking trails with Discover Kyrgyzstan. I was left breathless by the vastness of the mountains surrounding it and by how pristine and untouched the area around the lake was!

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Song Kol is the second largest lake of Kyrgyzstan and lies at an altitude of 3000m (9895 feet). The lake is surrounded by mountains and lush meadows.

Nomads have used these meadows as pastureland for their flocks for hundreds of years and today there are still a lot of semi-nomadic shepherds who settle here for the summer and live in their yurts while tending to their herds.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

It’s possible to reach Song Kol by horse almost throughout the whole year.

Kyrgyzstan is a country known for its horse culture and going on a horseback trek to this pristine lake almost feels like the epitome of everything Kyrgyzstan has to offer.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

HOW TO GET TO SONG KOL LAKE BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

A great option is to take a marshrutka from Bishkek to Kochkor and then hitchhike or take a taxi from there to Kyzart. You can easily get to Kyzart by shared local taxi for less than 2 USD. If you want to go by private taxi, you will pay at least 10 USD.

Kochkor is one of the biggest towns near Song Kol and it’s easily reached from Bishkek. You can get a shared taxi or a marshrutka to this town from the western bus station in Bishkek.

A marshrutka ticket from Bishkek to Kochkor should cost around 350 som and the journey to get there from the capital should take less than 3 hours.

Once in Kyzart, you can hike to the lake of Song-Kol over the course of two days.

HOW TO REACH SONG KuL LAKE WITH A LOCAL GUIDE

Song Kul is quite a remote lake and definitely not the easiest one to access. There are many tour companies offering a multi-day trip to Song Kul lake

If you’d like to do this trek by horse and with a small group of like-minded travelers, check out my Adventure Tours in Kyrgyzstan!

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

WHERE TO STAY AROUND SONG KOL LAKE

There are many yurt camps spread around the lake, operated by different travel organizers and families. You can arrange your stay in these yurt camps ahead of time or directly with the yurt owners upon arriving there.

Remember that these yurt camps are only there from the end of May/ beginning of June until mid-September!

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

16. Kel Suu Lake

Although this fantastic canyon lake is hard to get to, it’s one of Kyrgyzstan’s beautiful points of interest!

It was formed in the 1980s when part of the mountains around it collapsed and created a massive natural reservoir. Kel Suu is surrounded by cliffs so tall that it defies the imagination.

There are numerous caves and alcoves in the rocky crags around Kel Suu that you can explore on foot and there’s a small island in the center of the lake that you can reach by boat.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

There are plenty of fun activities to do in the vicinity of the lake. The whole area can be explored on foot, on horseback, or by boat.

If you want to explore the farthest parts of the lake, you can rent a boat from the locals. If you like horseback riding, you can always rent a horse from the local shepherds. You could also go for a swim, however, the water is freezing (around 6ºC)!

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

This natural gem is considered to be one of the most beautiful and spectacular mountain lakes in the Kyrgyz Republic and it’s also one of the highest lakes in the world.

It’s located in a valley called Kok-Kiya at an elevation of about 3,520 meters altitude and not too far from the Chinese border. You’ll need a border permit to get here.

You can occasionally see wild eagles flying over the mountains and herds of wild yaks grazing in the distance. This is a place that would fit very well the description of untouched nature.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024
Horses grazing near the lake

Since this lake is not completely closed off, its water level tends to vary considerably throughout the year.

When I went there with a group of travelers during one of my Overland Expedition Tours in 2018, Kel-Suu was empty but it was still beautiful and special to walk in the dry lake bed.

Trekking to Kel Suu Lake - A Complete Guide to Trekking in Kyrgyzstan with the best and most beautiful hikes of the country - Journal of Nomads

Reaching this lake requires a border permit that you can get by contacting the local CBT office in Naryn. The lake is also so remote that you will need a 4×4 vehicle to get there. 

HOW TO GET TO KEL-SUU LAKE

This lake is very remote. The only road to get there is very rough and bumpy and there are many river crossings where there is no bridge. Even with a 4×4 car, the water level in these rivers might be higher than the floorboards.

There are no local marshrutkas that go there either so I would advise contacting a local tour company to arrange transportation to this lake.

Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - How to get to kel Suu lake

WHERE TO STAY NEAR KEL-SUU LAKE

There is plenty of space for wild camping in the valley near Kel-Suu lake.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

There are also a few yurt camps around Kel-Suu. You can arrange your stay there upon your arrival at the Kok Kiya Valley.

Visit Kel Suu Lake on my Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours!

Kyrgyzstan Travel Tour - Overland Trip to Kel Suu Lake - Yurt camp Kyrgyzstan

17. Tash Rabat

Tash Rabat was a very important place during the period when the Silk Road was used actively by Asian traders and merchants. It’s a place known as a Caravanserai, a roadside inn where the merchants could stop and rest for a few days.

On top of being the perfect place to rest for travelers, it was also a place where the various animals transporting the wagons along the silk road could be well fed and taken care of.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Caravanserais were scattered all along the silk road and were providing shelter in isolated regions from the hostile environment and from bandits.

What is so interesting about Tash Rabat is the unusual architecture of the place which leads many researchers to believe it was originally a Buddhist monastery before being used as a caravanserai.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

This unusual building really stands out against the green mountains that surround it. It gives the place very peaceful and calm energy.

The whole area is very quiet and the silence is only occasionally broken by herds of horses running down from the hills.

Travelers coming here can spend a few days relaxing in the yurt camps nearby and go for a few hikes in the quiet mountains around the caravanserai.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

If you are more adventurous, I would recommend renting a horse from one of the camps to go explore the valley more in-depth and spend some time on the trails that used to be part of the silk road.

You can rent a horse for about 3 USD an hour at the yurt camps and go ride by yourself or you can go on a longer guided tour to some of the more remote peaks of the region.

HOW TO GET TO TASH RABAT BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There are marshrutkas and shared taxis going directly from the bus station in Naryn city to Tash Rabat.

The distance between Naryn and Tash Rabat is 117 km and getting there by shared taxi should cost around 3000som.

You could also visit Tash Rabat by joining one of my Kyrgyzstan Adventure Tours!

WHERE TO STAY NEAR TASH RABAT

Tash Rabat is the ideal place to pitch your tent if you enjoy camping. There are a lot of flat areas in the valley near this archaeological site and you should be able to camp there without being bothered.

If you would prefer to have a typical Kyrgyz experience, you can sleep in a yurt in one of the various yurt camps that you will encounter near the caravanserai.

They charge around 1500 som per person and dinner and breakfast are included in this price. You can arrange your stay in the yurts by walking directly to the camps and talking with the owners.

The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Beautiful Places to visit in the Jalal-Abad Region

18. Too Ashuu Mountain Pass

Ala Bel Mountain Pass - best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

The Too Ashuu mountain pass (3594 m) is on the mountainous road connecting Bishkek to Osh. It’s one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Kyrgyzstan and it’s easily accessed by car.

What is great about Too Ashuu is that it is located above two gorgeous valleys and the whole panorama there is truly a feast for the eyes.

From one side of the pass, you can admire Chichkan Valley and from the other side, you can see the Susamir Valley.

This place also looks incredibly in winter. The whole area becomes buried under big layers of snow and looks like a vast white desert. The road can be a bit dangerous if you drive there when there is a lot of snow so drive with caution.

In spring, the alpine meadows that are visible from the pass are blooming with more flowers than the mind can imagine and it’s likely you’ll see shepherds moving their animals across the pass in fall.

Ala Bell Mountain Pass in winter - best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

HOW TO REACH THE Too Ashuu MOUNTAIN PASS FROM BISHKEK BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

You can get to the Too Ashuu pass by public transport from Bishkek by (shared) taxi and marshrutka. You can take a shared taxi or hop on a marshrutka in Bishkek at the Western bus station or at the bus stand south of the Osh Bazaar.

You will need to take a shared taxi or a marshrutka going in the direction of Osh or Jalal-Abad to reach the Too Ashuu pass.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE Too Ashuu PASS

Since Too Ashuu is a very high mountain pass, staying there is practically impossible. There aren’t any hotels or hostels and camping there could be hard because there isn’t much flat ground in the surroundings.

What I would recommend is to continue your journey from the Too Ashuu pass towards the south until you reach Toktogul (see the next place to visit in Kyrgyzstan below).

19. Toktogul Reservoir

Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Lake Toktogul in Kyrgyzstan - Hitchhiking in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

Toktogul is the largest water reservoir in Kyrgyzstan and in the whole of Central Asia. It covers 284 km² and has an average depth of about 215 m. 

Toktogul is also home to Kyrgyzstan’s biggest hydro-electric station. The reservoir is sourced from the Naryn River, whose waters flow from the northern part of the Jalal-Abad region. The deep turquoise color of the water is a stunning contrast to the red hills surrounding the reservoir.

You can go for a quick stop at the reservoir or spend more time hiking up to the Toktogul Kyzyl-Too Panoramic view (around 6km) and camp at the reservoir. You’re even allowed to swim in certain permitted locations in the reservoir (the water is around 28°C in summer!).

HOw to get to Tokotogul Reservoir

Toktogul Reservoir lies on the main road between Bishkek and Osh. You can get there by marshrutka or shared taxi, coming from either direction and ask the driver to let you out at the reservoir.

Where to stay at Toktogul reservoir

If you have a tent, you can easily (wild) camp on the shores of the reservoir.

There are also a few guesthouses in Toktogul town.

The one I recommend is the RAHAT Hostel in Toktogul. This place is owned and operated by a sweet elderly couple who will do their utmost best to ensure you have a comfortable stay.

Maria cooks very delicious traditional Kyrgyz food and we’re sure it will be some of the best you have in Kyrgyzstan.

The location of this hostel is very good. It’s located right on the main street, three minutes from the bus station and five minutes from the bazaar.

Click to check out rates and availability for “RAHAT Hostel in Toktogul”

20. Sary Chelek Lake and National Reserve

Sary Chelek Lake Kyrgyzstan - Sary Chelek Travel Guide - Journal of Nomads

Sary Chelek is located in the Jalal-Abad region in the west of Kyrgyzstan, tucked into the Western Tien Shan Mountains at the foot of the Chatkal Mountain Range.

This alpine lake is the highlight of a larger area called Sary Chelek Nature Reserve which has been declared as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978.

The reserve has seven alpine lakes with Sary Chelek Lake being the largest one. Located at an altitude of 1887 meters and created by a landslide, the lake covers almost 500 hectares. The depth varies across the lake, with its deepest point at 245 meters.

Beautiful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Visit Sary Chelek Lake Kyrgyzstan - Sary Chelek Travel Guide - Journal of Nomads

The other six lakes in the area are smaller but nonetheless beautiful! There’s a hiking trail in the park that allows you to visit almost all the lakes in one day.

The dense forest with its wild fruit and walnut trees and the valleys surrounding the lakes are a habitat for thousands of plant species, hundreds of birds, and around 40 species of mammals, such as bears and lynx.

Sary Chelek Lake Kyrgyzstan - Sary Chelek Travel Guide - Journal of Nomads

I think Sary Chelek is a must-see destination as it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful places to visit, especially if you’re a nature and outdoor lover!

How to get to Sary Chelek Lake

The entrance gate to Sary Chelek Nature Reserve is located in the village of Arkit. Getting there by public transport from Osh or Jalal-Abad is the easiest but it’s also possible to travel to Arkit from Bishkek.

Where to Stay in Sary chelek

There are no guesthouses or homestays in the nature reserve. The only way to spend a night near the lake(s) is by camping.

Camping Sary Chelek Nature Reserve - Sary Chelek Lake Kyrgyzstan - Sary Chelek Travel Guide - Journal of Nomads

If you don’t want to camp, you can stay in one of the many guesthouses and homestays in Arkit village. They also offer meals at an additional price as there are no restaurants in the village.

The prices vary between 500 and 1000 som per person per night. Breakfast is usually included. If you want to have lunch or dinner, count on an extra 300 som per person per meal.

Visit Sary Chelek during the 10-day Feel Like a Nomad Horse Riding Adventure!

21. Arslanbob

Arslanbob Valley - The Complete Guide to Arslanbob Walnut forest Kyrgyzstan - Arslanbob Things to do

Arslanbob is a village tucked in the eponymous valley in the Chatkal mountain range in the south of Kyrgyzstan.

It’s a destination that is popular for its hikes, horseback riding, and skiing but more than anything else, it’s famous for having the world’s largest walnut forest (nowadays around 11,000 hectares) right at its doorstep.

The Arslanbob walnut forest is estimated to be 50 million years old and is also home to 130 varieties of other nut and fruit trees. Some of the trees are more than 1000 years old!

There are about 16000 people living in Arslanbob and the main population is mainly ethnic Uzbek. They speak a local Uzbek dialect and still wear their traditional clothing. This is one of the things that makes Arslanbob special and different from other places in Kyrgyzstan.

Arslanbob Walnut forest Kyrgyzstan

Families in Arslanbob spend fall harvesting nuts in this forest and it’s very interesting to be there and take part in the whole process. They will be more than happy to welcome you and show you how the walnut harvest is done if you offer a helping hand.

The ancient walnut forest isn’t the only reason why you should visit Arslanbob. There’s a variety of things to do and you don’t have to go far to visit the waterfalls, walk to the panoramic viewpoint, have a picnic in the forest or enjoy the village life and the picturesque mountainous views.

For those seeking more action and adventure, there are a number of outdoor activities, such a multiple-day hikes, horse treks, and options to go rock climbing and mountain biking.

Kyrgyzstan Arslanbob - Kyrgyzstan travel

HOW TO GET TO ARSLANBOB FROM OSH BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

There’s a marshrutka (minibus) that goes directly from Osh to Arslanbob village. This marshrutka leaves daily around 1.30 pm at the new bus station in Osh, located on the corner of Lenin and Kasymbekova street.

The mashrutka from Osh to Arslanbob costs 200 som per person and the journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, including the 30-minute stop at Bazar Korgon.

WHERE TO STAY IN ARSLANBOB

There are a number of CBT guesthouses in Arslanbob Village that offer food and accommodation. You can book some online in advance or you can go to the CBT office to help you arrange your stay.

Most guesthouses are equipped with warm showers and (outdoor) toilets and have beautiful courtyards filled with fruits and flower gardens.

The average cost is around 600 som per person per night, including breakfast. Your host will also provide dinner at an additional cost of 250 som. Note: these prices are subject to change.

Best Places to visit in Osh Region

22. Osh

Sunset in Osh Kyrgyzstan - Osh, Places to visit in Kyrygzstan - Journal of Nomads

Osh, located in the Ferghana Valley in the south of Kyrgyzstan, is the country’s second-largest city.

Osh is a great transit point to explore the south of the country and it’s also the gateway to the Pamir Highway and the Ferghana Valley, both leading to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

That’s why Osh is very often seen as the cultural capital of Kyrgyzstan as it’s a melting pot of Kyrgyz, Tajik and Uzbek cultures. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan to try several regional dishes that reflect the multicultural nature of the city.

Osh - Best places in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

Osh was also the first and therefore the oldest city of the country with a history of over 3000 years as the fertile soil of the Ferghana Valley attracted the nomadic people to settle down. From the 8th century, it developed into an important center of silk production.

The Suleiman Too mountain is the heart of the city. This sacred mountain has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses several mosques, a museum, and sacred caves, some of which women visit to increase their fertility.

28 top things to do in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads - Sulaiman-Too Mountain Osh

Osh is definitely worth visiting for a couple of days and I’d highly suggest taking a guided tour around the city as there’s so much history and places to be explored.

I highly recommend Atabek from Best of Osh as your guide. He speaks fluent English, is very knowledgeable and is highly passionate to show people the incredible features of his hometown.

HOW TO GET TO OSH

  • By public transport

Most towns and cities have marshrutkas or (shared) taxi’s going directly to Osh.

The road between Bishkek and Osh is a long one (10 to 12 hours!) but it takes you through some of the most beautiful mountain passes in the country.

Since the road between the two cities is really winding and quite narrow in certain areas, it’s inappropriate for large vehicles, even for marshrutkas. The only way to get there by local transport is by shared taxi.

A shared taxi between the two cities costs between 1000 and 1200 som.

  • Taking a domestic flight from Bishkek to Osh

With really cheap flights between the two cities, the easiest and fastest way to travel to Osh is to fly directly from Bishkek.

There are many flights linking the two cities throughout the day and travel time is very short. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the southern city from Bishkek by plane so it’s a great option if you’re on a tight schedule.

The airport in Osh is not very far from the city center and you can reach the city center by taxi for about 250 som.

WHERE TO STAY IN OSH

Osh is the second biggest city in Kyrgyzstan and the number of high-quality guest houses and hotels operating there is increasing every year.

This destination offers a good quantity of budget hostels for backpackers who want to save money to explore during the day and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

If you are looking for more comfort and a place to wind down after the long journey there, the city also offers some fancy but affordable hotels.

These are the hostels, guesthouses, and hotels I recommend in Osh:

  • Budget Hostel I recommend in Osh:
  • Mid-Range Hotel I recommend in Osh:
  • High-end Hotel I recommend in Osh:
    • Classic Hotel: deluxe rooms, great location, swimming pool and wellness center

23. the Alay Mountains

Ak Tor Pass Trek - Alay Mountains Hikes - Hiking in Kyrgyzstan - Trekking Guide - Journal of Nomads

The Alay Mountains, also referred to as the Alay Valley, are a stunning sub-range of the Pamir-Alay Mountain system in the southwest of Kyrgyzstan.

They are known for being some of Central Asia’s most beautiful and dramatic mountains with their green and alpine landscapes.

The Alay region has small traditional villages with many nomadic shepherds living in yurt camps during summer. It’s a great place to learn more about local life, gain insight into the nomadic culture, and, of course, go on hikes to enjoy the wild and fabulous nature.

Horseback trek Kyrgyzstan - Hiking in Kyrgyzstan - Alay Mountains - Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tours - Journal of Nomads

There are many hiking trails in the Alay Mountains – from day hikes to multiple-day treks – along luxuriant valleys and pastures filled with grazing horses, yaks, sheep, and cows, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and rugged mountain passes with panoramic views over snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Sary Mogul Pass - Best of Alay Mountains Trek - Alay Mountains - Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tours - Journal of Nomads

Some of the hiking trails are just one hour away from Osh in the Kichik Alay, which means lower Alay Mountains.

The higher Alay Mountains in the southern part of the Alay mountain range have passes above 4000 meters altitude. The trailheads of the hikes in the higher Alay are close to Sary Mogul Village (about 4 hours driving from Osh).

There are just so many beautiful places to visit within the Alay Mountain region that it’s hard to point out just a couple.

Join the 12-day Best of Alay Trekking Adventure in Kyrgyzstan!

Alay Mountains Hikes - Hiking in Kyrgyzstan - Trekking Guide - Journal of Nomads

If you’re a physically fit person, then I highly recommend doing the Best of Alay Trek as this 12-day trek takes you to all the highlights of the higher Alay Mountains.

I’ve written a very comprehensive guide of all the most beautiful destinations and hikes within the Alay Mountains and how to reach them.

24. Tulpar Kol Lake

Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Kyrgyzstan beautiful places - Tulpar Kul Lake - Lenin Peak Basecamp - Alay Mountains - Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tours - Journal of Nomads

Tulpar Kol is one of the several small alpine lakes in the Alay Valley in the south of Kyrgyzstan.

This alpine lake lies at an altitude of 3500m. On clear days, the view of Lenin Peak, one of the highest mountains in Central Asia, is reflected on the surface of the lake.

Tulpar Kol is the largest of a string of 42 lakes. The surrounding landscapes are very colorful! The hills around these lakes consist of red soil, then you have the green grass growing around and the white snowcapped peaks of the Trans-Alay mountain range in the background.

Tolpar Kol Lake - Lenin Peak Basecamp -

I stayed a couple of nights in a yurt camp on the shores of this lake during my trek towards Lenin Peak Basecamp and Travellers Pass (see next best place to visit in Kyrgyzstan below).

It was such a good base for hiking in the area or just relaxing and enjoying the incredible beauty and peace of the place!

This destination is also part of my 12-day Kyrgyzstan Trekking Adventure and 16-day Best of Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tour!

How to get to Tulpar Kol lake

There’s no public transport going directly from Osh to Tulpar Kol Lake. You’ll first have to get to Sary Mogul Village.

Sary Mogul Village - Alay Mountains - Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tours - Journal of Nomads
Sary Mogul Village

You can get from Osh to Sary Mogul by (shared) taxi or marshrutka.

There’s one daily marshrutka that goes from Osh to Daraut-Korgon via Sary Mogul. It usually leaves around 2 pm from the Old Bus Station, which is located in the city center at the head of Osh Bazaar near Aravanskaya.

You can also take a shared taxi to Sary Mogul at the New Bus Station. These also don’t leave until the car is full, but several shared taxis run throughout the day. It costs 500 som, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours.

Tulpar Kul is a 25km drive from Sary Mogul Village. You can take a taxi or try and hitch a ride there.

You can also book a direct transfer from Osh to Tulpar Kol (5 hours) with CBT Osh, which would be around 6500 som per car.

Remember that you need a Border Zone Permit to visit Tulpar Kol Lake (the same one as for Lenin Peak Basecamp) as it’s close to the border with Tajikistan. It takes 10 to 20 days to issue the permit, so you need to apply and pay in advance. CBT Osh can help you obtain this permit.

Where to stay at Tulpar Kol Lake

There are just a couple of yurt camps on the shores of Lake Tulpar Kol.

I stayed at the family-owned Lenin Peak Yurt Camp. You can also book your stay at the CBT Yurt Camp.

25. Peak Lenin Basecamp & Traveller’s Pass

Best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan - Lenin Peak Basecamp - Travelers Pass - Alay Mountains - Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tours - Journal of Nomads

Peak Lenin is one of the highest mountains in Central Asia. This 7134 meters tall mountain, straddling the border of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in the Pamir-Alay mountains, is on a clear day almost always visible from a distance.

When you go on the day hike to Traveller’s Pass, you’ll get a fantastic close view of Lenin Peak and its surrounding glaciers from this 4150m high ridge.

Lenin Peak - Peak Lenin Basecamp - travelers pass - Alay Mountains Hikes - Hiking in Kyrgyzstan - Trekking Guide - Journal of Nomads

The trail to Traveller’s Pass starts right behind the yurt camp on the southern shore of Tulpar Kul. You’ll also pass Peak Lenin Basecamp along the way.

Lenin Peak Basecamp - Lenin Peak - Alai Mountains - Alay Mountains - Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tours - Journal of Nomads

You might meet some mountaineers who are preparing for the climb to Lenin Peak. It’s quite a popular climb as it’s known to be the “easiest” 7000-meter summit in the world.

However, many people underestimate this climb. It’s not something you do in a day. Climbing Peak Lenin is a 3-week expedition and it’s a dangerous one!

Once you’ve reached the top of the ridge of Traveller’s Pass and see the magnificent view of glaciers tumbling off the majestic Lenin Peak, I guarantee that you won’t stop smiling for a while!

GETTING A BORDER PERMIT TO VISIT PEAK LENIN

Since Peak Lenin is located on the border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, getting there requires a border permit. There are a few military checks on the road to the base camp of the mountain and you will be required to show your permit to proceed.

It can take anywhere between 10 days to 3 weeks to get the permit and you can do so by contacting CBT Osh.

It is better to get the border permit through the CBT office instead of through a travel agency because most travel agencies will tell you that you have to organize an official tour there with them to get the permit which is absolutely not the case.

HOW TO GET TO Peak Lenin Basecamp and traveller’s Pass

Peak Lenin Basecamp and Traveller’s Pass can only be reached on foot or on horse.

The trail starts right behind the yurt camp on the southern shore of Tulpar Kol. Read the full description of this hike here.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR PEAK LENIN Basecamp

You can camp anywhere you like along the trail or you could stay in one of the yurt camps near Tulpar Kol Lake and go on a day hike to Lenin Peak Basecamp and Traveller’s Pass.

Join one of my Kyrgyzstan Trekking Adventures to visit these places!

I hope this guide has inspired you to visit Kyrgyzstan and helped you plan your trip! Please let me know in the comments below if you have any questions left!

Plan your trip to Kyrgyzstan

10 thoughts on “The 25 most beautiful and best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in 2024”

  1. Hi, the detailed information provided in your central Asia travel blog is simply captivating & very helpful to those wanting an adventure in central asia. Well done & 2 thumbs up for your contribution. Keep it up.

    with thanks,
    Ivan Lai

  2. We are two seniors and would like to explore this beautiful country in September. Is there a tour to see all of these places in 8 days? Is it possible for a female to rent a car?
    Love your article, thank you so much.

    1. Hi Arlene, I’m happy you loved the article!

      I’m afraid it won’t be possible to see all these places in 8 days. Kyrgyzstan might be a small country in comparison with its neighbors (with the exception of Tajikistan) but it’s still quite a big country. The distances between all these places require a lot of driving and not all the roads are very good, which adds even more driving time.
      You’re always welcome to contact me and I can help you with an itinerary suggestion. It is also definitely possible to rent a car as a woman!

  3. What a great write up and stunning photos! We are planning a trip end of March/early Apr but looks like its not the right time to be visiting Kyrgystan. Were you there around that time? Please could you advise. Thank you!

    1. Cynthia - Journal of Nomads

      Hello Ranjani, thank you! 🙂
      It’s still very cold end of March/ early April and there won’t be many yurt camps around as most semi-nomads set up their camps from May on. But if you prepare for the cold temperatures, you can still get a very beautiful experience in Kyrgyzstan as the winter landscapes are stunning!

    1. Cynthia - Journal of Nomads

      Hi Bob, if you’re interested in one of our photos, please send us an email at hello(at)journalofnomads(dot)com or use the contact form on our website! 🙂

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *