Visit Kyrgyzstan – Top 10 must go places and exhibitions

Do you have plans to visit Kyrgyzstan? Then, it would be best to consider this comprehensive guide. Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful country with a rich history. It is known for its rugged mountains, vast steppes, and vibrant culture. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the scenery is stunning. However, if you’re interested in visiting Kyrgyzstan, you’ll need to plan. The best way to see Kyrgyzstan is to plan your trip, especially if you want to visit remote areas.

There are few direct flights into Kyrgyzstan, so you’ll likely need to connect through other countries. Get organized, and ensure you have all the documentation required for your visa (including a passport photocopy) and any insurance that your destination country may require.

This article will explore the top 10 must-go places and exhibitions in Kyrgyzstan.

Top 10 places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

Here are the top ten places you should not hesitate to visit if you are in Kyrgyzstan:

#1. Ala Archa Gorge

If you’re in the mood for an adventure, head to Ala Archa Gorge in Kyrgyzstan. The gorge is a popular spot for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers who want to experience some of the most stunning natural scenery on Earth. This narrow, steep-sided canyon is made up of ancient rock formations dating back 2.6 billion years.

According to local legend, the gorge was once the bed of a vast river flowing through Kyrgyzstan and central Asia. Today, the river has been dammed within the gorge, forming a series of pools and waterfalls cascading down into the ravine below. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by riding on horseback along scenic trails that wind through the canyon.

#2. Arslanbob Village

Arslanbob Village is a small Kyrgyz village located in the Almaty Province. The village is home to about 120 people, mainly subsistence farmers. Arslanbob Village is famous for its jade and turquoise mines, operating for centuries. In addition to mining, the villagers also produce wool, cotton, and fruits.

#3. Bishkek

Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan and the largest city in Central Asia. The city is located in an oasis on the Silk Road and was once home to vibrant Buddhist culture. Today, Bishkek remains an important cultural center and popular tourist destination. The city has a variety of exciting attractions, including ancient mosques, palaces, and museums. Additionally, Bishkek is home to several significant marketplaces where you can find everything from traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts to imported goods.

#4. Song Kul Lake

If you’re in the mood for a scenic getaway, Song Kul Lake is well worth a visit. Located in the expanses of Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul National Park, this tranquil body of water is perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The surrounding wetlands and forests are also home to wildlife, including ibex, argali sheep, and snow leopards.

#5. Visit Kyrgyzstan Jyrgalan

Jyrgalan is a national park in Kyrgyzstan that covers an area of 2,000 hectares. Again, the park is home to many plant and animal species, including leopards, lynx, wolves, and elephants. Visitors can explore the park on foot or horseback. Jyrgalan is also home to the Jyrgalan Monastery, which was founded in 886 AD.

#6. Karakol

Karakol is a Kyrgyz village located in the Tian Shan Mountains. It is an ancient village and has been a tourist attraction for centuries. The village has been a popular place to visit for tourists worldwide because of its beauty and the tranquility it offers. The village is also known for its hot springs, which are healing properties.

#6. Mountains of Heaven

Mountains of Heaven is an unspoiled natural wonder in Kyrgyzstan that you should not miss. The area is covered in snow year-round, and the peaks are capped with glaciers. The trekking is challenging but well worth it for the spectacular views. Visitors can stay in comfortable lodges or simple tents along the way.

#7. Naryn

Naryn is a small Kyrgyz town located in the Issyk Kul Region. It is known for its beautiful lake and mountains, making it an excellent place to spend a weekend or a vacation. The town has many restaurants and bars, as well as souvenir shops. There are also several hiking trails nearby that will take you up to the mountain peaks.

#8. Tash Rabat

When planning your trip to Kyrgyzstan, add Tash Rabat to your itinerary. This charming town is a great place to visit if you want to experience the traditional Kyrgyz lifestyle. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and they will be happy to show you around their community.

Tash Rabat is located in the Issyk-Kul province, known for its natural beauty. You can explore the nearby mountains and lakes or walk through the town’s bustling market square. However, if you’re looking for something more exciting, head to the nearby villages and explore their traditional Kyrgyz homes.

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, Tash Rabat is a great location to consider when planning your itinerary in Kyrgyzstan.

#9. Visit Kyrgyzstan Chon Kemin Valley

Chon Kemin Valley is a stunning location in Kyrgyzstan that is perfect for a nature lover. The valley is located in the Chon Valley National Park and offers visitors some of the best views of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Mountains. The area is also home to lakes, streams, and meadows that are perfect for hiking and camping.

#10. Visit Khadjy Sai Village in Kyrgyzstan

Khadjy Sai Village is a small, isolated Kyrgyz village located in the Issyk Kul National Park. The village is known for its traditional Kyrgyz horse-riding culture and the Khadjy Sai Monolith, one of Central Asia’s most famous ancient monoliths. Visitors can explore the village’s conventional Kyrgyz houses, visit the monastery, and watch Kyrgyz horse riders ride exhibition rounds.

When is the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan?

The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan depends on your preference, as several different seasons offer unique attractions. The high season in Kyrgyzstan runs from May to October, while the low season runs from November to April.

The high season is peak tourist season and sees a surge in arrivals due to favorable weather conditions and much lower prices. Unfortunately, this is also when many hotels and resorts are busiest, so you may find it difficult to get accommodation during this time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kyrgyzstan safe for tourists?

Kyrgyzstan is a safe country for tourists, especially if you take basic precautions such as not walking alone at night and being aware of your surroundings. However, some areas of the country are less safe, and you should always use caution. Overall, Kyrgyzstan is a very safe place to travel in, and there are no significant areas of concern.

Is Kyrgyzstan worth visiting?

Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country in Central Asia that borders Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. The capital city of Bishkek is located in the eastern part of the country. Kyrgyzstan is best known for its stunningly beautiful mountains and valleys and its diverse culture. The people of Kyrgyzstan are friendly and welcoming and make excellent tour guides. There are many things to see and do in Kyrgyzstan, including hiking in the mountains, visiting ancient monasteries and temples, sampling local wines and beers, or simply relaxing on a quiet beach.

Do I need a visa to go to Kyrgyzstan?

Yes, you will need a visa if you are traveling to Kyrgyzstan for tourism. The visa application process is straightforward and can be completed online. Make sure you have all the required documents ready before starting the application process, as mistakes can lead to delays or refusal of your visa. If you are traveling for business purposes, you will likely require an invitation from a local business or organization.

How can I get a Kyrgyzstan tourist visa?

Tourists can visit Kyrgyzstan visa-free for up to 30 days. To obtain a tourist Visa, visitors must provide their passport copy, a plane ticket to Kyrgyzstan, and valid travel insurance. In addition, visitors must have proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Kyrgyzstan. Visitors should also be aware that passports must be valid for at least six months after arriving in Kyrgyzstan.

How long does it take to get Kyrgyzstan E-Visa?

The process of obtaining a Kyrgyzstan E-Visa can be time-consuming, but fortunately, the visa is not difficult to obtain. First, applicants must submit application materials and pay an application fee and other applicable taxes. Once all required documentation has been submitted and fees paid, applicants will receive confirmation of their application status. Depending on the applicant’s nationality and location within Kyrgyzstan, processing times can vary, but typically applications are processed within two weeks.

Conclusion

Finally, Kyrgyzstan is a fascinating country with a rich culture and history. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking mountains and valleys, picturesque villages, or a taste of the exotic, Kyrgyzstan will not disappoint. So why wait? Make your trip to Kyrgyzstan soon!