Issyk Kul is undoubtedly the most well-known destination in Kyrgyzstan. Issyk Kul is one of the most unusual places on the planet, being enormously huge, incomprehensibly deep, and completely out of this world. Where else can you see red-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and snow-capped mountains all in one location? The best place in Issyk Kul to visit is the south shore. The south coast is significantly wilder than the north shore, which is largely populated by lake resorts and vacationing Russians. Jeti Oguz, Barskoon Gorge, and Fairytale Canyon, among Kyrgyzstan's most popular tourist destinations, are all located on this side of the lake.

You must stay in one of the many yurt camps that dot the shore when visiting the southern part of Issyk Kul. They benefit from stunning surroundings in addition to providing a more authentic lodging experience. The majority of them are located right on the lake's edge, so you will get those views, that water, and that cool red sand if you stay at one.

The north shore is unquestionably more resort-oriented. You can bypass most of this area of the lake if you do not want to, but be sure to stop by Chopon Alata. If you are going by, stop over to see the fascinating petroglyphs.

Location: Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Best time to visit: July and August

Bishkek has been the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic since 1991, but it has had a number of different titles throughout its history. Prior to 1991, the city was known as Frunze, after a Soviet military officer who was born in the area. Pishpek was the name of the town before 1926, and it had a fortification called Kokand, which was seized by Tsarist Russia in 1862. Archaeologists have discovered ancient artifacts in modern-day Bishkek that refer to a city called Suli. Today, the broad street is known as Jibek Jolu, which literally translates to "Silk Road", which serves as a reminder that this city was once a part of the Great Silk Road. Apart from that, the city is relatively new, and the city center tourism spots are largely made up of buildings constructed during the Soviet era.

Bishkek is not your usual tourist destination. The majority of visitors will stop here to plan transport through Kyrgyzstan, although it is not a destination they seek out for its tourist attractions. Despite this, the city has more to offer than meets the eye. In Bishkek, you will have a great time throughout the days. Plus, there will not be many other tourists around. The city is ideal for anyone looking to get away from the throng and explore a part of the world that few people see. If you are visiting Kyrgyzstan and want to know what to do in Bishkek, this page offers all you need to know.

Location: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Best time to visit: July and August

In Kyrgyzstan's Tian Shan mountains, the Ala-Archa Nature Park is a small alpine national park. The park, which was established in 1976, today covers 16,485 hectares. Hiking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling are all options for visitors who want to take in the park's breathtaking environment.

This is the place to go if you want to learn about the distinct culture and way of life of this distant area. Because the park is close to Bishkek, it is easily accessible by public transit. Koisha Hostel and Bugu Hotel are two neighboring hostels with good accommodations. Burana Tower, one of Kyrgyzstan's most well-known monuments, is also worth a visit. The 25-meter tower is the last surviving structure of Balasagun, a historic settlement that formerly hosted thousands of Silk Road caravans.

You may relax and take in the environment without having to worry about your fitness. There are various hiking trails that lead through the park's virgin forest. The park's longest hike will take you two hours, but the reward will be fantastic. There will be plenty of wildlife to witness, including a variety of species.

Location: Chüy Region, ‎Kyrgyzstan

Best time to visit: June to September

Burana is a village in Kyrgyzstan's Chüy Region. In 2021, it had a population of 772 people. The Burana Tower and the nearby Balasagun ruins are the city's most prominent landmarks.

Burana Tower was built in the 11th century as part of a thriving Silk Road city called Balasaghun. Originally, the tower was a minaret that stood over 40 meters tall and was the first of its kind in Central Asia. Unfortunately, the top part of the tower was damaged by an earthquake in the 15th century. It now stands at a height of a little over 20 meters, and you may even climb up it! There are many legends around the tower, so be sure to learn about the city's past. At the foot of the tower, there is also a "garden of rocks" where you can spend some time. Near the tower, there is also a small museum where you may see some ancient stone carvings called bal-bals.

Location: Burana, Kyrgyzstan
Best time to visit: Autumn

There are various places in Kyrgyzstan that you must visit if you are planning a trip there. Song Kol Lake, near Chaek, in central Kyrgyzstan, is one of the best places to visit. The lake is a popular tourist site, and its crystal clear water is regarded as the best in the world. The Jumgal region is also a fantastic place for equestrian riding and trekking.

This is a big alpine lake that reaches a height of 3016 meters. It is Kyrgyzstan's second-largest lake, with a surface size of 270 square kilometers, more than three times that of Zurich. It is often overgrown with reeds and is surrounded by mountains, summits, and meadows. The glacier-fed water of the lake goes into the Son-Kul river, which feeds into the Naryn.

Because Song Kol Lake is located in the high highlands, it can be freezing in the summer, but the sights are well worth it. Song Kol is the place to go if you are seeking for a nice lake to swim in. It is cool but not too cold, and it offers a beautiful perspective of the surroundings. The 33 Parrots Road is a famous 4-wheel drive trail to the lake, called after its switchbacks.

Location: Northern Naryn Region, Kyrgyzstan
Best time to visit: between June and July