The 8 Best Places To Visit In Kyrgyzstan | Bishkek, Issyk-Kul Lake And More…

Are you looking to visit a beautiful, less explored country for a serene vacation? If yes, then Kyrgyzstan fits the description. This landlocked country in Central Asia is full of unexplored beauty, rich culture, and less-visited landscapes that crowds of tourists haven’t spoiled.

Unlike other popular Asian countries, it has a distinct nomadic tradition preserved over generations. Moreover, the stunning scenery, high mountain ranges, clean lakes, and enticing history make it worthwhile. The country offers an ideal escape from the well-known crowded tourist destinations in Europe or the USA for a more relaxed vacation.

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan that you can’t miss:

1. Issyk-Kul Lake

How about visiting a lake that never freezes, even in minus temperatures? Yes, it’s exactly what makes Issyk-Kul Lake, also known as the warm lake, famous. Despite being surrounded by snow-clad mountains at a high altitude, its water won’t ever get frozen.

It is one of the top tourist attractions in Kyrgyzstan, the second-largest saline lake, and the seventh-deepest lake in the world. Moreover, it’s close to the towns of Cholpon-Ata and Karakol, with Soviet-era architecture. They hold immense historical and cultural significance.

Things to do at Issyk-Kul Lake

Enjoy beach activities
Engage in water sports
Go for scenic boat rides

2. Ala-Archa National Park

Are you looking for an escape from your busy daily life? Ala-Archa National Park offers you that ideal escape. It is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers and has mesmerising natural beauty. The pleasant climate provides a break from the hot and humid cities. As one of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan, the national park is located a short drive from Bishkek, the country’s capital city.

Things to do in Ala-Archa National Park
Hiking up the mountains
Go for a horse-riding spree
Set on for off-road tours

3. Bishkek

You can go on a beautiful trip to Kyrgyzstan without traveling to Bishkek’s capital. The city features an interesting mix of Soviet architecture and modern culture. It is well-known for its history, culture, and culinary experiences. It houses famous museums like Frunze House Museum and Kyrgyz State Historical Museum, where you can learn more about the country’s history. Also, it has several parks, busy markets, and tasty street food stalls where you can enjoy your time.

Things to do in Bishkek
Eat tasty local cuisine at restaurants and cafes
Pay your respects at the Victory Square that highlights the country’s significance in WW2
Get entertained at the National Opera and Ballet theatre

4. Song-Kul Lake

Want to get a break from busy city life? The Song-kul lake offers the perfect escape from the busy city life. It’s located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. Song-Kul Lake is one of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan, as it has clear blue waters and yurt. You can stay in the traditional Mongolian dwelling and experience the ancient nomadic life. Its untouched beauty with clear sky makes watching sunsets and the Milky Way great.

Things to do in Song-Kul Lake
Go for horseback riding across the shoreline
See rich wildlife
Enjoy watching natural beauty across the lake

5. Tash Rabat Caravanserai

Want to visit an architectural monument from the Middle Ages? Visit the Tash Rabat, which is an ancient Silk Road caravanserai. It is located high on the mountains, a key point providing shelter to the merchants in the 15th century. Also, it served as a hiding place for dangers when merchants traveled through the treacherous mountain passes. Moreover, there are several fascinating local tales about this place.

Things to do in Tash-Rabat Caravanserai
Get a glimpse of the historical chambers of the past
See and imagine how the traders used to pass through busy trade routes in middle age
Hiking/horse riding to Panda Pass
Hike to Chatyr Kul lake

6. Karakol

You can enjoy skiing and trekking adventures in Karakol. It’s a town prominent for its history, culture, and adventures. Karakol near the Issyk-Kul Lake, with clear water and sand beaches. The lake offers a way to go trekking in the Terskey Alatau mountains. It also has a Dungan Mosque, built without nails by architects and carvers from Beijing. In addition, it has a turquoise-colored Ala-Kul Lake, which looks mesmerising in the day.

Things to do in Karakol
Take a dip down the hot springs in the town
Go skiing at the ski resorts during the winter months
Visit the unique Karakol cattle market, where houses, sheep, cattle, and donkeys are traded

7. Osh

One of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan is Osh, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. It is an important city in the southern part of Kyrgyzstan. Also, Osh houses the Sulayman Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The place is a paradise for history enthusiasts, where they can see significant historical structures, pilgrimage sites, and untouched serene mountain views.

Things to do in Osh
Shop at the bustling local Bazar, which has been a trading center for more than 1000 years
Hike to the top of Sulaiman Too
Wander around the Russian Orthodox Church

8. Jeti-Oguz Canyon

Want to visit a unique destination in Kyrgyzstan? Explore the dramatic red rock formations of Jeti-Oguz Canyon. The stunning natural attraction is one of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan, also known as the ‘Seven Bulls’ due to its shape and color. Apart from viewing those mesmerising sites, you can enjoy hiking and horseback riding at the canyon. Moreover, there is a special rock called ‘Broken Heart’ that has an interesting legend linked to it.

Things to do in Jeti-Oguz Canyon
Go for nature photography at Jeti-Oguz Canyon
Have a peaceful walk along the countryside
Enjoy horseback riding and hiking

Final Words

Kyrgyzstan is a lesser-known touristic gem with enchanting landscapes, diverse nomadic culture, and historical wonders in Central Asia. From middle-age passages to unique lakes and vibrant cities, it’s an ideal destination with numerous must-see destinations for tourists. So, whether you are a nature enthusiast or an adventure lover, don’t miss out on the chance to witness the charm of Kyrgyzstan on your next trip.

---

Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan
The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan is in the summer, from June to August, when the weather is warm, and conditions are ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, yurt camping, and exploring beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan like Issyk-Kul Lake and Song-Kul Lake. Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are also excellent for visiting as the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are fewer, enhancing the appeal of exploring places to see in Kyrgyzstan

The post The 8 Best Places To Visit In Kyrgyzstan | Bishkek, Issyk-Kul Lake And More… appeared first on RVCJ Media.

from RVCJ Media https://ift.tt/dKhUSjB