Bishkek 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Airport Transfer & Check-in

Arrive at Manas International Airport (FRU) in Bishkek.

Your private transfer will take you to your hotel for check-in and some time to freshen up after your journey.

Relax at Oak Park

Take a leisurely stroll through Oak Park, one of Bishkek's oldest parks, known for its open-air sculpture gallery, lush trees, and tranquil atmosphere.

Kyrgyz Welcome Dinner

Enjoy your first taste of Kyrgyz cuisine at a local restaurant.

Try traditional dishes like Laghman (pulled noodles), Shashlik (grilled skewers), and freshly baked bread.

Stunning Bishkek City Tour

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant life and Kyrgyz culture of Bishkek with an experienced guide.

Visit key landmarks like Ala-Too Square, Manas Statue, and Victory Park.

This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city's history and modern life. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Osh Bazaar Exploration & Lunch

Dive into the sensory overload of Osh Bazaar, one of Central Asia's largest and most vibrant markets. Explore different sections from fresh produce to traditional crafts, and enjoy a local lunch from one of the many food stalls.

Be prepared for crowds and haggling. Keep an eye on your belongings. Try some Samsa or Kurt!

Walk by National Philharmonic

Enjoy an evening walk around the beautiful National Philharmonic building, an architectural landmark in Bishkek.

Check if there are any evening performances (optional, booking separate).

Burana Tower & Ancient City Tour

Embark on a half-day trip to the historical Burana Tower, an 11th-century minaret near Tokmok, which is all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun.

Explore the tower, the associated museum, and the 'balbals' (ancient Turkic grave markers).

The drive to Burana Tower is scenic. You can climb the tower for panoramic views of the Chuy Valley. Consider a packed lunch or snacks for the trip.

Traditional Kyrgyz Lunch

After returning to Bishkek, enjoy a hearty lunch featuring more Kyrgyz specialties.

Perhaps try Beshbarmak, the national dish, or various types of Ashlyan-Fu (cold noodle soup).

Souvenir & Craft Shopping

Explore local craft shops or art galleries in Bishkek for unique souvenirs, felt products, traditional textiles, and handmade jewelry to remember your trip.

Ala Archa Mountain Hike

Spend a full day exploring the stunning Ala Archa National Park, a beautiful alpine nature park just 40 km from Bishkek. Enjoy a refreshing hike along the river, surrounded by majestic Tien Shan mountains. Choose a trail suitable for your group's energy level, from easy walks to more challenging paths.

Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers of clothing as mountain weather can change quickly. A private transfer or guided tour is recommended for convenience.

Relax & Rejuvenate

After a day of hiking, return to Bishkek and take some time to relax at the hotel.

Consider a traditional Banya (sauna) or simply unwind before dinner.

Scenic Drive to Issyk-Kul

Check out from your Bishkek hotel and embark on a scenic drive to the Issyk-Kul Lake region.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you leave the capital and head towards the 'Pearl of Central Asia'. Your destination for this part of the journey will be the northern shore, for example, near Cholpon-Ata.

Arrival & Lakeside Lunch

Arrive at your accommodation near Issyk-Kul Lake, check-in, and enjoy a relaxing lunch at a lakeside cafe or restaurant, savoring the fresh mountain air and beautiful views.

Afternoon Lake Relaxation

Spend the afternoon unwinding on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Go for a swim in the clear, cool waters, relax on the beach, or simply enjoy the tranquil environment.

Travel to South Issyk-Kul

Depart from Bishkek for the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, a scenic drive through diverse landscapes. Your destination is typically the Bokonbaevo area, known for its traditional culture and access to natural sights.

Start 2-Day Issyk Kul Tour

Begin your '2-Day Issyk Kul Small Group Tour with Yurt Stay and Eagle Show'.

The first day typically involves exploring parts of the south shore, learning about local life, and engaging in cultural activities.

This tour offers a deep dive into nomadic life and local traditions. Ensure you have comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for outdoor activities.

Traditional Yurt Dinner & Stargazing

Enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner prepared by your host family in a traditional Kyrgyz yurt.

Spend the evening relaxing and possibly stargazing, experiencing true nomadic tranquility.

Included as part of the 2-day tour package. Dress warmly as evenings can get cool, even in July.

Issyk-Kul Tour: Eagle Show & Culture

Continue with the second day of your '2-Day Issyk Kul Small Group Tour'.

Highlights often include an impressive eagle hunting demonstration, visits to local craft workshops, and learning more about Kyrgyz traditions.

This is a fantastic opportunity to witness ancient traditions firsthand and interact with local communities. The tour concludes in the afternoon, often around the south shore, from where you'll transfer to Karakol.

Transfer to Karakol

After the tour concludes, arrange for transportation to Karakol, the administrative center of the Issyk-Kul region.

It's a charming town with unique architecture and a good base for further exploration.

Dinner in Karakol

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant in Karakol.

The town has a variety of eateries offering Kyrgyz, Dungan, and Uyghur cuisine.

Try Ashlan-Fu, a cold, spicy Dungan noodle soup, a specialty of Karakol.

Visit Dungan Mosque

Explore the unique Dungan Mosque in Karakol, built in 1910 entirely without nails in a colorful Chinese pagoda style.

It's a testament to the town's diverse cultural heritage.

Remember to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Visit the Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral, a beautiful wooden church consecrated in 1895.

Its vibrant interior and peaceful atmosphere offer a glimpse into the region's spiritual history.

Modest dress is appreciated. Photography inside may be restricted.

Lunch in Karakol

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe or restaurant in Karakol, perhaps trying some more Dungan or Uyghur specialties.

Jeti-Oguz Gorge & Red Rocks

Take a scenic drive to Jeti-Oguz Gorge, famous for its striking red sandstone formations known as the 'Seven Bulls' and the 'Broken Heart'.

Enjoy a leisurely walk or short hike through the picturesque valley.

Evening Leisure in Karakol

Return to Karakol for an evening of relaxation.

Perhaps visit a local bar or simply unwind at your guesthouse.

Explore Skazka Canyon (Fairytale Canyon)

Journey to Skazka Canyon, known as 'Fairytale Canyon' for its whimsical red and yellow sandstone formations that resemble various animals, castles, and fantastical creatures. Enjoy light hiking and photography in this unique landscape.

Lunch at Local Cafe

Have lunch at a local eatery near the south shore of Issyk-Kul, perhaps in Bokonbaevo, known for its traditional craft community.

Felt Making Workshop

Participate in a hands-on felt-making workshop in Bokonbaevo.

Learn the ancient Kyrgyz art of creating felt rugs and souvenirs, a fascinating cultural insight.

This is a great souvenir opportunity and a chance to support local artisans. Inquire at your guesthouse or a local information center for workshop availability.

Return to Karakol & Dinner

Travel back to Karakol and enjoy your evening, perhaps trying a different restaurant for dinner.

Boat Trip on Issyk-Kul Lake

Enjoy a relaxing morning boat trip on Issyk-Kul Lake, soaking in the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters.

This is the perfect way to appreciate the 'Pearl of Central Asia'.

Boats can be hired from various jetties, including those closer to Karakol or a short drive towards Cholpon-Ata. Your guesthouse can assist with arrangements.

Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs (Optional)

If time permits and you're heading towards the north shore, visit the open-air museum of petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata, featuring thousands of ancient rock carvings depicting animals and hunting scenes.

This site is located on the north shore, which might be slightly out of the way if your next destination is Naryn directly from Karakol. Consider if it fits your route.

Lunch & Free Time

Enjoy a leisurely lunch and some free time in Karakol or a nearby town.

Perhaps do some last-minute souvenir shopping or simply relax.

Prepare for Next Segment

Use the afternoon to prepare for your departure to the Song-Kul Lake and Naryn region on Day 11.

Organize your belongings, recharge devices, and finalize any travel arrangements.

Day 11 will involve a significant travel day towards Naryn/Song-Kul, so ensure you are well-rested and organized.

Travel to Song-Kul Lake

Enjoy a scenic drive through mountain passes and vast green pastures to reach the stunning high-alpine Song-Kul Lake, the heart of Kyrgyzstan's nomadic culture.

Lunch on arrival at your yurt camp.

Horse Trek to Son Kol Lake (Day 1)

Embark on the first leg of your 3-day horse trek around Song-Kul Lake.

Ride across vast meadows, taking in the serene beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains. Your expert guide will lead the way, suitable for all skill levels.

This activity is part of the 'Year-Round Adventure: 3 Days Horse Trek to Song Kul Lake' tour. Wear comfortable riding clothes and sturdy shoes. Sun protection is essential at this altitude.

Traditional Yurt Dinner

Enjoy a hearty, home-cooked dinner prepared by your nomadic hosts in a traditional yurt.

Experience authentic Kyrgyz hospitality and dishes like manty (dumplings) or plov.

Meals are typically included with the 3-day horse trek tour package.

Stargazing at Song-Kul

With no light pollution at this high altitude, the night sky over Song-Kul is incredibly clear, offering a spectacular display of stars and the Milky Way.

Horse Trek to Son Kol Lake (Day 2)

Continue your horseback adventure, exploring more remote corners of the Song-Kul basin.

Visit different nomadic families, observe their daily life, and perhaps try milking a mare or making kymyz (fermented mare's milk).

Lunch will be a picnic packed by your hosts. Remember your camera for stunning photo opportunities.

Nomad Cultural Exchange

Spend time with a local nomadic family.

Learn about their traditions, daily routines, and the challenges and joys of their pastoral lifestyle. A unique opportunity for cultural immersion.

Yurt Cooking Experience

Participate in preparing a traditional Kyrgyz meal with your host family, learning about local ingredients and cooking techniques, followed by a delicious dinner.

Horse Trek to Son Kol Lake (Day 3 - Morning)

Enjoy one last morning ride around Song-Kul Lake, savoring the tranquility and fresh mountain air.

Return to your yurt camp for a final nomadic lunch.

Farewell Yurt Lunch

Enjoy a final traditional lunch at your yurt camp before departing from Song-Kul Lake.

Travel to Naryn Town

Depart from Song-Kul and embark on a scenic drive to Naryn, the regional capital.

Check into your guesthouse and relax after your mountain adventure.

Dinner in Naryn

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant in Naryn, reflecting on your Song-Kul experience.

Explore Naryn Local Market

Visit Naryn's local market, a great place to observe daily life, find fresh produce, and pick up some last-minute souvenirs or local snacks for your journey.

Naryn Town Sightseeing

Take a short walk around Naryn, seeing the main street, the Naryn River, and perhaps visit a small local museum or historical site.

Lunch in Naryn

Enjoy a final lunch in Naryn before beginning your scenic journey back to Bishkek.

Scenic Drive to Bishkek

Embark on the picturesque journey back to Bishkek, passing through diverse landscapes including mountains, valleys, and small villages.

This is a long but rewarding drive.