Kyrgyzstan 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Kyrgyzstan

Day 1: Bishkek - Capital City

  • Arrival at Manas International Airport, Bishkek.
  • Visit the Osh Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s largest markets.
  • Explore Ala Too Square, the city center with impressive statues and fountains.
  • Visit National Philharmonic Hall for a glimpse of Soviet architecture.

Things to Know:

  1. Kyrgyzstan uses the Som (KGS) as its currency.
  2. English is widely spoken, especially in Bishkek.
  3. Electricity: 220V, European two-pin plugs are used.
  4. Local SIM cards can be bought at mobile operators’ stores. Beeline and MTS have the best coverage.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries do not need a visa for stays up to 60 days. However, check the official Kyrgyzstan government website for your specific nationality.

Transportation: Taxis are readily available and affordable. You can also use mobile apps like “Get Taxi” or “Gismart.”

Day 2: Bishkek to Issyk-Kul Lake

  • Travel to Issyk-Kul Lake, the second largest alpine lake in the world (3-4 hours by car).
  • Spend the day relaxing on the beach, exploring nearby villages, or try out water sports.

Day 3: Issyk-Kul to Karakol

  • Drive to Karakol Town (2-3 hours from Issyk-Kul) and visit the Dungan Mosque.
  • Explore the Przhevalsky Museum, dedicated to Russian explorer Nikolay Przhevalsky.
  • In the evening, take a stroll along the lake shore or enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant.

Day 4: Karakol to Jeti-Oguz and Song-Kul Lake

  • Visit Jeti-Oguz Gorge, famous for its red rocks and panoramic views of Tian Shan Mountains.
  • Continue to Song-Kul Lake (2-3 hours from Jeti-Oguz) and spend the night in a yurt camp.
  • Enjoy traditional Kyrgyz hospitality, horse riding, and stunning landscapes.

Day 5: Song-Kul to Bishkek

  • Return to Bishkek (6-7 hours by car) and spend the afternoon exploring any missed sights or souvenir shopping.
  • Prepare for your departure the next day.

Additional Tips:

  1. Cash is king in Kyrgyzstan, though major cities have ATMs.
  2. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available.
  3. Respect local customs and traditions when visiting sacred sites or villages.
  4. Don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes like Beshbarmak, Manti, and Kymyz (fermented mare’s milk).
  5. Enjoy your adventure in the Heart of Tien Shan!