Ysyk-Köl Lake

Issyk-Kul Lake: The Pearl of Central Asia

Issyk-Kol Lake in Kyrgyzstan is a truly mesmerizing natural wonder that attracts travelers from all over the world. As the second largest mountain lake in the world, it boasts crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic mountains, making it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. This high-altitude lake is unique in that it does not freeze even in the coldest months, due to its large size and the presence of mineral springs. The south shore of Issyk-Kol Lake is more natural and less developed, while the north shore offers more entertainment facilities and amenities. How to Get to Issyk-Kol Lake is located approximately 200 kilometers from Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. You can reach it by car, bus, or marshrutka. The drive takes about 4-5 hours, passing through scenic landscapes. Marshrutkas and buses run regularly from Bishkek. Transport Around Issyk-Kol Lake, there are several villages, and Transportation options include buses, marshrutkas, and taxis. In most villages, it's easy to find Transportation for getting around. Where to Stay There are plenty of accommodation options around Issyk-Kol Lake, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses. You can choose accommodation to suit any taste and budget. The south shore is known for its natural beauty and tranquility, while the north shore offers more entertainment facilities and amenities. What to Eat There are many cafes and restaurants around the lake offering traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, such as plov, laghman, and shashlik, as well as international dishes. What to Do Issyk-Kol Lake offers a range of activities for visitors. You can swim, boat, hike, and horseback ride around the lake. There are also hot springs and mineral baths for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, you can visit historical and cultural sites, such as petroglyphs, ancient burial mounds, and medieval fortresses. Issyk-Kol Lake is a unique destination that offers something for everyone: relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration. Winter Activities During the winter months, Issyk-Kol Lake offers snow-related activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The surrounding mountains provide excellent terrain for winter sports enthusiasts. Summer Activities In the summer, Issyk-Kol Lake is perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. The warm weather and clear waters make it an ideal destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

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Karakol City - Where to Go, What to See and Do

Located at the crossroads of Central Asia, Karakol in eastern Kyrgyzstan serves as a fascinating gateway to the region's rich history, diverse cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes. The city’s cultural and culinary heritage is shaped by influences from Kyrgyz, Tatar, Russian, Dungan, Uyghur, Kalm... read more

Cholpon-Ata: a quiet city on the north shore of Issyk-Kul lake

Cholpon-Ata Town is a picturesque destination located on the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, in the Ysyk-Köl Region of Kyrgyzstan. With its stunning natural beauty and historical significance, Cholpon-Ata is a popular spot for both local and international travelers. Cholpon-Ata is known for its... read more

Bokonbay Village: Charm of Issyk-Kul

Bokonbay is a small village located on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan, and it is one of the lesser-known tourist destinations in the region. Despite its low profile, Bokonbay is a hidden gem that offers visitors an authentic and immersive experience of the local Kyrgyz culture and way... read more

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Jeti-Oguz Gorge: Seven bulls made of stone

Jeti-Oguz gorge, also known as the Seven Bulls, is a stunning natural wonder located in the heart of Kyrgyzstan's Tien Shan Mountains. This breathtaking landscape is characterized by towering red cliffs, rolling green meadows, and crystal-clear streams, making it one of the most picturesque and popu... read more

Altyn Arashan Valley: a Great Hiking with Hot Springs

Altyn Arashan, meaning 'The Golden Sources', is a stunning valley located around ten kilometers (6.2 miles) from the city of Karakol, in eastern Kyrgyzstan. Famous for its landscapes and hot springs, it's an ideal destination for hikes. History: During the Soviet period, 25 snow leopards were tra... read more

Chon Ak-Suu Gorge: A Natural Wonder in Kyrgyzstan

Choñ Ak-Suu Gorge (also known as Grigoryev Gorge) is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Kyrgyzstan. Located on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, the gorge is known for its stunning alpine scenery, towering peaks, and crystal-clear streams. Hiking i... read more

Skazka Canyon: Fairy Tale in the Heart of Kyrgyzstan

The Skazka Canyons, also known as the Fairy Tale Canyons, located on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan, stand as a breathtaking testament to nature's artistry. This otherworldly destination beckons travelers with its vivid colors, peculiar rock formations, and a sense of wonder that leaves... read more

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Ala-Kul Lake: Dammed Among the Mountains

Ala-Kol lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the heart of Kyrgyzstan's Tian Shan Mountains. This breathtaking destination is surrounded by towering peaks and verdant meadows, making it one of the most picturesque places in the country. How to Get to Ala-Kol Lake is typically accessed via a ... read more

Tuz-Kol Lake: A Unique Natural Wonder in Kyrgyzstan

Lake Tuz-Kol, also known as the 'Blue Pearl of Kyrgyzstan,' is a captivating natural wonder located in the Issyk-Kul region. Its bright blue waters and vast salt flats create a mesmerizing and surreal landscape that has enchanted travelers for many generations. Despite its nickname, Lake ... read more

Ak-Say Canyons: Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Issyk-Kul

The Ak-Say Canyons, a hidden gem nestled along the southern shores of the breathtaking Issyk-Kul Lake in the enchanting Ak-Sai village. A mere 16 kilometers from the district center of Bokonbay village, these canyons have earned the endearing moniker of the 'Valley of forgotten rivers' among the loc... read more

The Barskoon Gorge: A Natural Beauty of Waterfalls and Fir Forests

Nestled on the southern shore of the stunning Issyk Kul Lake, the Barskoon Gorge stands as one of Kyrgyzstan's most enchanting natural wonders. Renowned for its towering waterfalls and lush fir forests, the gorge beckons travelers with its captivating beauty and rich heritage. Stretching approximat... read more

Jyrgalañ Valley: Where Adventure Meets Nature's Beauty

Embark on a journey of a lifetime at the Enchanting Jyrgalañ Valley in Kyrgyzstan, where adventure, natural splendor, and cultural treasures await. Nestled away from the ordinary, this off-the-beaten-path paradise is a haven for thrill-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and culture connoisseurs alike. St... read more

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Kyrchyn Gorge: Nature's Symphony in Issyk-Kul Region

Tucked away on the northern fringes of Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrchyn Gorge, also known as Semyonov Gorge, unveils a picturesque haven in the heart of the Issyk-Kul region. Meandering just 40 km east of the idyllic Cholpon-Ata, this natural masterpiece stands as a testament to Kyrgyzstan's unparalleled bea... read more

Ak-Suu Hot Springs: Embracing the Healing Power of Thermal Waters

In Kyrgyzstan, water is revered as the country's primary treasure. Rivers are known for their might, lakes for their breathtaking beauty, drinking water for its purity, and mineral springs for their therapeutic properties. If the combination of beach vacations and explorations in Kyrgyzstan's pictur... read more

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Kajy-Say: History of the Soviet Nuclear Project

Founded in 1947 to exploit a brown coal deposit, Kaji-Sai village holds a significant historical narrative. The settlement witnessed the establishment of an experimental electrical plant. In a grand celebration on August 12, 2017, Kaji-Sai commemorated its 70th anniversary. Positioned on the sout... read more

Merzbacher Lake: The Highest Lake in Kyrgyzstan

Uncover the breathtaking beauty of Merzbacher Lake, a high-altitude ice-dammed lake nestled in the eastern part of the central Tien Shan range in Kyrgyzstan. This natural wonder, situated between the Tengri-Tag and Sarydzhaz ridges, offers a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates all who behold it. ... read more

Exploring the Eñilchek Glacier: A Majestic Ice Expanse in the Tien Shan Mountains

The Eñilchek glacier is renowned as one of Kyrgyzstan's, if not the largest and fastest, glacial wonders. Remarkably swift, it advances at rates varying from 10 to 200 meters annually, surpassing many of its glacial counterparts. Nestled on the border with China, east of Lake Issyk-Kul, it stretches... read more

Khan-Tengri Peak: A Majestic Summit of the Tien Shan Range

Khan-Tengri Peak stands as a distinguished pinnacle within the Tengri-Tag ridge of the Tien Shan range, straddling the borders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and China. Revered since ancient times, this peak garnered mention from ancient Chinese authors and travelers. In the folklore of antiquity, Khan-... read more

Karkyra River: A Tranquil Getaway in Kyrgyzstan

Amid the awe-inspiring beauty of Kyrgyzstan lies the captivating Karkyra River. Flowing from the eternal glaciers of Kungei Ala-Too, this untouched waterway is more than just a river—it's a doorway to an unexplored realm of natural marvels. As you follow the winding path of the Karkyra, you'll beco... read more

Bosteri Village: Nightlife on the shores of Ysyk-Köl Lake

Located near Cholpon-Ata in the picturesque Ysyk-Köl Region of Kyrgyzstan, Bozteri Village offers a tranquil escape for travelers seeking an immersive experience in local culture and breathtaking natural landscapes. How to Get to Bozteri Village is accessible via road from the city of Cholpon-At... read more

Bökönbay Village

Bokonbay Village: Charm of Issyk-Kul... read more

Choñ Ak-Suu Gorge

Chon Ak-Suu Gorge: A Natural Wonder in Kyrgyzstan... read more

Karakol Gorge

Karakol Gorge: A Must-See Destination for Nature Lovers... read more

Merzbacher Lake

Merzbacher Lake: The Highest Lake in Kyrgyzstan... read more

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Karakol City

Karakol City - Where to Go, What to See and Do... read more

Dungan Mosque

Dungan Mosque: Elegance and Heritage in Karakol... read more