Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan 18-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival at Manas Airport

Arrive at Manas International Airport (FRU) in Bishkek.

Clear customs and collect your luggage.

It's recommended to pre-arrange an airport transfer or use official airport taxis. Exchange some local currency (Kyrgyzstani Som).

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation in Bishkek.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

The Futuro Hotel is a budget-friendly option in Bishkek. Address: Udmurtskaya Street, 13 Crosses Chui Avenue, Bishkek 720000 Kyrgyzstan

Local Lunch Experience

Enjoy your first Kyrgyz lunch at a local restaurant, trying dishes like Laghman (noodles with meat and vegetables) or Beshbarmak.

Ask your hotel for recommendations on authentic local eateries nearby.

Ala-Too Square & State History Museum

Visit the central Ala-Too Square, admire the monuments, and explore the State History Museum (if open and time permits) to understand Kyrgyzstan's past.

The square is a popular spot for locals. The museum often houses exhibits on nomadic life and Soviet history.

Explore Osh Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Osh Bazaar, one of Central Asia's largest markets.

It's a great place for people-watching and getting a feel for local life.

Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. You can find everything from spices and textiles to local crafts here.

Dinner in Bishkek

Savor dinner at a restaurant offering a mix of Kyrgyz and international cuisine.

Bishkek City Walking Tour

Join a private or group walking tour with 'Kyrgyz Vibes' to get an in-depth understanding of Bishkek's history, architecture, and local culture.

This will cover main sights and hidden gems.

This tour offers a personalized experience of Bishkek. Ensure to book in advance. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293948-d20151180-Reviews-Kyrgyz_Vibes_Guide_In_Central_Asia-Bishkek.html?m=66827

Casual Cafe Lunch

Grab a light lunch at a charming local cafe, enjoying the relaxed Bishkek atmosphere.

Panfilov Park Stroll

Relax and stroll through Panfilov Park, a green oasis in the city center.

You might see locals playing chess or enjoying the Ferris wheel.

Oak Park & Open Air Art Gallery

Continue to Dubovy Park (Oak Park), home to a variety of sculptures and an open-air art gallery, perfect for an afternoon wander.

Dinner with Cultural Show

Experience a traditional Kyrgyz dinner, possibly with live music or a folklore show, for a deeper cultural immersion.

Ask your hotel concierge for recommendations and reservations for restaurants offering cultural performances.

Depart for Ala-Archa

Head out early for a refreshing day trip to Ala-Archa National Park, a stunning alpine nature reserve just south of Bishkek.

You can hire a private taxi or negotiate with a driver for a round trip. Alternatively, marshrutkas (minibusses) go part of the way, requiring a short taxi ride for the remainder.

Mountain Trekking & Scenery

Enjoy light trekking or a leisurely walk along one of the well-marked trails in Ala-Archa.

Options range from easy river walks to more challenging hikes with stunning glacier views. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and admire the dramatic landscapes.

Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Consult park rangers for trail conditions. A popular easy hike is to the Ak-Sai waterfall.

Picnic Lunch in Nature

Have a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful natural surroundings of the national park.

Pack sandwiches and other treats from Bishkek.

Remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the park clean.

Return to Bishkek

Start your journey back to Bishkek, enjoying the changing scenery as you descend from the mountains.

Relaxation & Evening

Spend the late afternoon relaxing at your hotel.

Enjoy a relaxed dinner.

Dinner in Central Bishkek

Explore another part of Bishkek for dinner, perhaps trying a restaurant in a different neighborhood.

Day Trip to Burana Tower

Take a half-day trip to the historic Burana Tower complex, an ancient minaret near Tokmok.

Explore the ruins of Balasagun, an old Silk Road city, and the Balbals (ancient grave markers).

This is a significant historical site showing Kyrgyzstan's rich past. It's about an hour's drive from Bishkek. Can be reached by shared taxi or private car. Entrance fee is nominal.

Lunch in Tokmok or en route

Enjoy a traditional lunch in the nearby town of Tokmok or at a small cafe along the way back to Bishkek.

Gapar Aitiev Fine Arts Museum

Return to Bishkek and visit the Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing Kyrgyz, Russian, and Soviet art.

A great way to see local artistic expression. Check opening hours before visiting.

Souvenir Shopping

Wander through local shops or return to Osh Bazaar to pick up souvenirs like felt products, traditional clothing, or ceramics.

Dinner at an International Restaurant

Try one of Bishkek's many international restaurants, offering cuisines like Italian, Turkish, or Georgian.

Kalpak Travel Bishkek City Tour

Join the guaranteed Sunday city tour offered by Kalpak Travel.

This group tour is an excellent way to see the city's highlights and learn from local guides.

Meeting point is at 9:00 AM at Ala Too Square. Departures are guaranteed every Sunday until September 24. Booking in advance is recommended. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293948-d12324153-Reviews-Kalpak_Travel-Bishkek.html?m=66827

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a final lunch in Bishkek, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot or trying a new one.

Relax at Gorki Park

Spend a leisurely afternoon relaxing or strolling in Gorki Park, enjoying the peaceful environment.

Pack and Prepare for Next Destination

Return to your hotel to pack your belongings and prepare for your journey to the next destination in Kyrgyzstan.

Evening Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Bishkek before heading out to the Issyk-Kul region.

Travel to Cholpon-Ata

Depart from Bishkek for Cholpon-Ata, a popular resort town on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Enjoy scenic views of the changing landscapes on your way to the lake.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your accommodation in Cholpon-Ata and have lunch at a local cafe.

Relax and prepare for an afternoon by the lake.

Lakeside Relaxation

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy beaches of Issyk-Kul, known for its clear, slightly saline waters. You can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the tranquility.

Dinner with Lake Views

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Cholpon-Ata, many of which offer fresh local cuisine and picturesque views of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Cholpon-Ata Petroglyph Field

Visit the open-air museum of petroglyphs (stone drawings) dating from 800 BC to 1200 AD.

These ancient carvings depict animals, hunting scenes, and daily life of early inhabitants.

Rukh Ordo Cultural Center

Explore the unique Rukh Ordo Cultural Center, a spiritual complex dedicated to different religions and philosophical ideas, featuring sculptures and art installations against the lake backdrop.

Lunch in Cholpon-Ata

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant.

Issyk-Kul Boat Trip

Take a relaxing boat trip on Issyk-Kul Lake, enjoying the vast expanse of water and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Evening at Leisure

Enjoy a free evening, perhaps a sunset walk along the lake or dinner at a different local spot.

Travel to Karakol

Journey along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul to Karakol, the largest town in the Issyk-Kul region and a historical hub.

Enjoy views of the lake and mountains.

Check-in & Lunch in Karakol

Check into your Karakol accommodation and have lunch, perhaps trying some local Uighur or Dungan cuisine.

Dungan Mosque Visit

Explore the unique Dungan Mosque, built in 1910 without nails in the style of a Chinese pagoda by Dungan craftsmen.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Visit the beautiful Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral, an impressive wooden structure with intricate details and a serene atmosphere.

Karakol Animal Market (Optional)

If it's a Sunday or Wednesday (important for this schedule, it's a Wednesday), visit the bustling Karakol Animal Market. Otherwise, explore the local food market.

The main animal market is typically on Sundays, but smaller sections or local markets are active daily. Given it's a Wednesday, focus on the general produce/food market.

Dinner in Karakol

Enjoy dinner at one of Karakol's diverse restaurants, perhaps trying the famous 'Ashlan-Fu' (cold Dungan noodle soup).

Jeti-Oguz Gorge Exploration

Embark on a day trip to Jeti-Oguz Gorge, famous for its unique red sandstone rock formations, including 'Seven Bulls' and 'Broken Heart'.

Enjoy light hiking and breathtaking scenery.

Pack water, snacks, and wear comfortable hiking shoes. A picnic lunch can be arranged or purchased from local vendors.

Eagle Hunting Demonstration

Experience an ancient nomadic tradition with an eagle hunting demonstration (subject to availability).

Learn about the revered skill of hunting with trained golden eagles.

Dinner in Karakol

Return to Karakol for a well-deserved dinner after a day of exploration.

Scenic Drive to Bokonbaevo

Drive along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul towards Bokonbaevo, a village known for its traditional Kyrgyz crafts and nomadic culture. Enjoy picturesque views of the lake with the Tian Shan mountains as a backdrop.

Bokonbaevo Felt-Making Workshop

Visit a local family in Bokonbaevo to witness a traditional Kyrgyz felt-making demonstration.

Learn about this ancient craft and perhaps try your hand at it.

Lunch in Bokonbaevo

Enjoy a traditional Kyrgyz lunch at a local guesthouse or cafe in Bokonbaevo.

Skazka Canyon Exploration

Explore Skazka Canyon, also known as 'Fairytale Canyon', with its bizarre red and yellow rock formations resembling animals and mythological creatures.

Wear good walking shoes. The formations are particularly striking in the late afternoon sun.

Yurt Camp Check-in & Dinner

Check into a traditional yurt camp for an authentic nomadic experience.

Enjoy dinner and the evening atmosphere under the stars, perhaps by a bonfire.

Many yurt camps offer cultural programs or simply a peaceful setting. Bathrooms may be shared and basic.

Travel to Bishkek Airport

Travel from the Issyk-Kul region to Manas International Airport (FRU) in Bishkek to catch your flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents for border crossing into Uzbekistan. Factor in potential traffic when planning your departure from Issyk-Kul.

Flight to Tashkent

Board your flight from Bishkek to Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan.

Enjoy views as you transition between Central Asian nations.

Flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours. Allow extra time for immigration and customs upon arrival.

Hotel Check-in & Rest

Arrive at your hotel in Tashkent and check in.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Local Tashkent Dinner

Enjoy your first dinner in Uzbekistan at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Uzbek cuisine such as plov, samsa, or shashlik.

Ask your hotel for recommendations or explore nearby options for an authentic culinary experience.

Hazrati Imam Complex

Explore the spiritual heart of Tashkent, including the beautiful Tillya Sheikh Mosque, the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, and the Muyi Mubarak Madrasah which houses the Uthman Quran, one of the oldest in the world.

Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered). Headscarves are recommended for women when entering mosques.

Chorsu Bazaar & Lunch

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Chorsu Bazaar, one of Central Asia's oldest and largest markets.

Explore its vibrant sections selling spices, fresh produce, handicrafts, and more. Enjoy lunch at one of the bazaar's many food stalls.

A great place for people-watching and trying local street food. Don't be afraid to haggle for souvenirs.

Tashkent Metro Ride

Experience the famous Tashkent Metro, known for its ornate and beautifully decorated stations, often resembling underground palaces.

Visit a few key stations like Alisher Navoi and Kosmonavtlar.

Photography was once restricted but is now allowed. It's an efficient way to travel and a sightseeing attraction in itself.

Amir Timur Square

Stroll around Amir Timur Square, featuring a prominent statue of the national hero, surrounded by historic buildings and a beautiful park.

A central point in Tashkent, good for relaxing and observing city life.

Evening & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner at one of Tashkent's modern or traditional restaurants.

Consider exploring the vibrant Broadway area for an evening walk.

High-Speed Train to Samarkand

Experience Uzbekistan's modern infrastructure with a scenic high-speed train ride (Afrosiyob) from Tashkent to the ancient city of Samarkand.

Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as they sell out quickly.

Hotel Check-in, Samarkand

Arrive in Samarkand, transfer to your hotel, and check in.

Drop off your luggage before starting your exploration.

Lunch in Samarkand

Enjoy lunch at a traditional Samarkand restaurant, perhaps trying Samarkand plov, which has its own unique regional twist.

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

Visit the stunning Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur and his descendants.

Admire its fluted dome and intricate mosaic work.

The interior is breathtaking with its rich gold and blue decoration. Dress respectfully.

First Glimpse of Registan

Take an initial walk to Registan Square to witness its grandeur.

Spend some time absorbing the atmosphere of this iconic Silk Road landmark.

The square truly comes alive in the late afternoon light. Many cafes nearby for a quick refreshment.

Evening Dinner in Samarkand

Dine at a restaurant offering views of the illuminated monuments, or a cozy local spot.

Registan Square Exploration

Spend your morning thoroughly exploring the three magnificent madrasahs of Registan Square: Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori. Admire their intricate tilework, grand portals, and learn about their history.

Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for deeper insights into the history and symbolism of the architecture.

Lunch Near Registan

Enjoy lunch at a cafe or restaurant conveniently located near Registan Square.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque & Siyob Bazaar

Visit the colossal Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world.

Afterwards, explore the adjacent Siyob Bazaar, a lively market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local crafts.

The bazaar is great for sampling local snacks like halva and traditional bread (non).

Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis

Explore the breathtaking Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, an avenue of mausoleums with stunning blue tiles.

This sacred site is one of the most beautiful examples of Timurid architecture.

Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps. The intricate tilework offers incredible photo opportunities.

Leisure & Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely evening in Samarkand.

Perhaps revisit Registan Square to see it illuminated at night (seasonal light shows sometimes occur), or try another local restaurant.

Ulugbek Observatory & Afrosiab Museum

Discover the scientific legacy of Ulugbek at his historical observatory, and then delve into Samarkand's ancient past at the Afrosiab Museum, built on the site of the original city.

The observatory gives insights into the advanced astronomical knowledge of the 15th century. The museum displays artifacts from the Sogdian period.

Mausoleum of Prophet Daniel

Visit the unique and revered Mausoleum of Prophet Daniel, a holy site with a very long sarcophagus, attracting pilgrims from various faiths.

Located on a picturesque hill overlooking the Siab river, near a spring said to have healing properties. Dress respectfully.

Free Time & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping, revisit a favorite site, or relax at a cafe.

Samarkand is known for its exquisite ceramics and traditional embroidery.

Look for local artisans in workshops around Bibi-Khanym or near Registan.

Farewell Dinner & Prep for Bukhara

Enjoy a final dinner in Samarkand, perhaps trying a different local specialty.

Afterward, prepare for your journey to Bukhara, the next Silk Road gem on your itinerary.

Pack your bags and ensure all arrangements for the next leg of your journey are confirmed.

High-Speed Train to Bukhara

Travel from Samarkand to Bukhara by high-speed Afrosiyob train, enjoying the Uzbek countryside.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Hotel Check-in & Settle In

Check into your hotel in Bukhara and take some time to settle in before starting your exploration of the city.

Traditional Uzbek Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Uzbek lunch at a local restaurant near Lyab-i Hauz.

Try Bukhara's famous 'Oshi Sofi' (Bukharian Plov).

Explore Lyab-i Hauz

Begin your Bukhara exploration at the tranquil Lyab-i Hauz complex, a central point of the Old City.

Admire the Nadir Divan-Beghi Madrasah, Khanaka, and Kukeldash Madrasah surrounding the ancient pond.

This area is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere. Many cafes are located here.

Silk Road Shopping Domes

Wander through the historic trading domes (Taqi Sarrafon, Taqi Telpak Furushon, Taqi Zargaron) and browse for local crafts, spices, and souvenirs.

Evening Dinner in Old City

Dine at a restaurant offering views of the illuminated Lyab-i Hauz, enjoying the magical evening ambiance of Bukhara.

Poi Kalyan Complex Exploration

Visit the majestic Poi Kalyan Complex, a centerpiece of Bukhara.

Marvel at the Kalyan Minaret ('Tower of Death'), the vast Kalyan Mosque, and the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah.

The Kalyan Minaret is a landmark visible from most parts of the Old City. Dress respectfully for mosque and madrasah visits.

Samanid Mausoleum Visit

Discover the exquisite 10th-century Samanid Mausoleum, an architectural masterpiece and one of Central Asia's oldest and finest examples of Islamic architecture.

Admire the intricate brickwork that changes patterns with the light.

Lunch in Bukhara

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe, perhaps trying some local pastries or laghman.

Chor Minor Madrasah

Visit the unique Chor Minor ('Four Minarets') Madrasah, an architectural gem with four turquoise-domed minarets.

This smaller madrasah offers great photo opportunities and a quieter atmosphere.

Wander Bukhara Old Town

Spend the afternoon getting lost in the narrow, winding alleys of Bukhara's Old Town.

Discover hidden mosques, madrasahs, and local workshops.

Explore at your own pace, pop into artisan shops, and enjoy the timeless atmosphere.

Cultural Show & Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a traditional cultural show, often accompanied by dinner, showcasing Uzbek music, dance, and fashion.

A perfect way to conclude your cultural immersion in Bukhara.

Booking in advance is often recommended for these popular evening events.

Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace

Visit the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the Summer Palace of the last Emirs of Bukhara.

This blend of Russian and traditional Uzbek architecture offers a glimpse into royal life.

Located a short drive outside the city, it showcases opulent interiors and beautiful gardens.

Last-Minute Souvenirs

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from the local markets or trading domes in the Old City.

Farewell Uzbek Lunch

Enjoy your final authentic Uzbek lunch, perhaps trying a dish you haven't yet, before heading to the airport.

Hotel Check-out

Check out from your hotel and ensure all your belongings are packed and ready for departure.

Transfer to Bukhara Airport

Take a taxi transfer from your hotel to Bukhara International Airport (BHK) for your international flight.

International Departure

Proceed through check-in and security for your international flight departing from Bukhara.