I’d like you to please read this detailed Kyrgyzstan itinerary, with places to visit in Kyrgyzstan, distances between them, mid-budget hotel names, activities, and must-do tours.
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Kyrgyzstan Itinerary 10 Days – Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is a must-visit for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, including the Tian Shan range, and rich nomadic culture, offering travelers a unique and immersive experience in the heart of Central Asia. Save this Kyrgyzstan 10 days itinerary and plan your Kyrgyzstan trip.
Things to do in Kyrgyzstan – Places to visit in Kyrgyzstan
Visa to Kyrgyzstan
If you are a UAE resident with a valid residency visa, you can apply for an eVisa to Kyrgyzstan, and the approval process takes less than a week. Kyrgyzstan offers eVisa to Indian nationals and many other nationalities.
Please apply here for eVisa to Kyrgyzstan. Click here to Apply.
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek
- Arrive at Manas International Airport in Bishkek.
- Check-in at a mid-budget hotel like the Club-Hotel Flagman or Garden Hotel.
- Explore the city center, visit Ala-Too Square, and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Bishkek
- Visit the Osh Bazaar for a taste of local life and shopping.
- Explore the State History Museum and the Kyrgyz National Museum.
- Have dinner at a traditional Kyrgyz restaurant like Navat.
Day 3: Burana Tower (80 km from Bishkek)
- Drive to the Burana Tower in Tokmok.
- Visit the historical site and the open-air museum.
- Return to Bishkek for another night.
Day 4: Cholpon-Ata (280 km from Bishkek)
- Drive to Cholpon-Ata on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul.
- Check-in at a nature resort style stay like Dolinnka Hotel.
- Relax by the lake and enjoy the beach.
Day 5: Cholpon-Ata
- Explore the Petroglyphs at Cholpon-Ata and visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center.
- Enjoy water activities on Lake Issyk-Kul.
- Overnight in Cholpon-Ata.
Day 6: Karakol (160 km from Cholpon-Ata)
- Drive to Karakol, a charming town near Lake Issyk-Kul.
- Check-in at a mid-budget hotel like Green Yard Hotel.
- Visit the Dungan Mosque and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
- Have dinner in Karakol town center.
Day 7: Karakol
- Take a day trip to the stunning Karakol Gorge.
- Visit the Jeti Oguz red rock formations and the hot springs.
- Return to Karakol for the night.
Day 8: Kochkor (250 km from Karakol)
- Drive to Kochkor, a small town in the Naryn region.
- Check-in at a mid-budget hotel like Olive Hotel.
- Explore the town and learn about traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts.
Day 9: Song Kol Lake (150 km from Kochkor)
- Embark on a day trip to Song Kol Lake, a picturesque alpine lake.
- Stay in a yurt camp by the lake for a unique cultural experience.
Day 10: Return to Bishkek (300 km from Song Kol Lake)
- Drive back to Bishkek and return to the capital.
- Check-in at the same mid-budget hotel or another of your choice.
- Spend your last evening shopping for souvenirs or enjoying a final Kyrgyz meal.
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Optional: If you have more time, consider taking a multi-day trek into the Kyrgyz mountains or exploring other UNESCO listed areas like Sary Chelek, Jyrgalan, or the southern city of Osh.
Must-Do Tours and Activities:
- Horseback riding at Song Kol Lake.
- Ala-Archa National Park hike near Bishkek.
- Cultural experiences in Karakol.
- Yurt stays near Song Kol Lake.
- Petroglyphs at Cholpon-Ata.
Please note that this is a basic outline, and you can customize your itinerary based on your interests and available time. Kyrgyzstan is a stunning country with diverse landscapes and warm hospitality, so enjoy your trip to the fullest!
FAQs – Kyrgyzstan 10 Days Itinerary
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for first-time tourists to Kyrgyzstan:
- Do I need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan?
Travelers from many countries can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free for up to 60 days. Check the specific visa requirements for your nationality before your trip.
- What is the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan?
The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. Winters can be harsh, with snow and extremely cold temperatures, making travel challenging.
- What is the local currency, and are credit cards widely accepted?
The local currency is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS). While credit cards are becoming more accepted in larger cities like Bishkek, carrying cash is advisable, especially when traveling to more remote areas where card acceptance is limited.
- Is it safe to travel in Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like in any country, exercising common sense and taking precautions is important, especially when exploring remote areas. Be aware of your surroundings, respect local customs, and secure your belongings.
- What language is spoken in Kyrgyzstan, and is English widely spoken?
The official languages are Kyrgyz and Russian. While English is not widely spoken, especially in rural areas, you can manage with basic Russian or Kyrgyz phrases. It’s a good idea to carry a phrasebook or translation app.
- How is the food in Kyrgyzstan, and are there vegetarian/vegan options?
Kyrgyz cuisine features hearty and meat-based dishes, but you can find vegetarian options like lagman (noodle soup) and vegetable-filled plov. In larger cities, you’ll find international restaurants and more dietary choices.
- What are the must-see attractions in Kyrgyzstan?
Key attractions include Lake Issyk-Kul, the Ala Archa National Park, Karakol Gorge, Song Kol Lake, and historic sites like Burana Tower. Experiencing the nomadic culture, staying in yurts, and horseback riding are also must-do activities.
- How is the transportation system in Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan has various transportation options, including shared taxis, marshrutkas (minibusses), domestic flights, and long-distance buses. Renting a car is also an option, but roads can be challenging in some areas.
- What should I pack for my trip to Kyrgyzstan?
Pack clothing suitable for various weather conditions, especially if traveling in the mountains. Remember sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
Remember to do thorough research and planning before your trip, and consider obtaining local SIM cards for communication while in Kyrgyzstan.
Vegetarian/Vegan Kyrgyzstan Cuisine
Kyrgyz cuisine traditionally includes many meat-based dishes, but you can find some vegetarian and vegan options in Kyrgyzstan. Here’s a list of vegetarian and vegan Kyrgyz dishes to try:
- Lagman: A hearty noodle soup, often prepared with vegetables, spices, and a flavorful broth. Request it for a vegetarian option.
- Plov: A rice dish cooked with vegetables and spices. Ask for plov without meat or with extra vegetables to make it vegetarian.
- Samsa: A pastry filled with vegetables, often pumpkin, potato, or greens, making it a great vegan snack.
- Manti: Dumplings filled with pumpkin or potato and yogurt or sour cream. Ask for a vegan version without dairy products.
- Mors: A refreshing berry drink made from locally grown fruits. It’s usually vegan and a perfect choice to quench your thirst.
- Somsa: A baked or fried pastry filled with potatoes, onions, and spices, usually vegan.
- Borsok: A deep-fried bread, sometimes made without milk or eggs, making it suitable for vegans.
- Tashmyma: A dish made from layers of flatbread, oil, and spices. It can be served with various vegetable fillings, offering a vegan option.
- Kuurdak: A dish made from fried potatoes and vegetables, often served with a flavorful sauce. Request it without meat for a vegetarian version.
- Ashlan-Fu: A cold noodle dish topped with a spicy and tangy sauce. It’s usually vegan and commonly available in big cities.
Must-do shopping Kyrgyzstan 10 Days Itinerary
Shopping in Kyrgyzstan offers a unique experience, focusing on traditional handicrafts and locally-made products. Here’s a list of must-buy items when shopping in Kyrgyzstan:
- Shyrdak Rugs: These intricately designed felt rugs symbolize Kyrgyz craftsmanship. They come in various sizes and patterns and are perfect for adding a touch of Kyrgyz culture to your home.
- Ak-Kalpak: The traditional Kyrgyz white felt hat, often adorned with beautiful embroidery. It’s an iconic symbol of Kyrgyz culture and makes for a unique souvenir.
- Handwoven Textiles: Kyrgyzstan is known for its handwoven fabrics, including colorful scarves, shawls, and blankets. These make for great gifts or personal keepsakes.
- Felt Products: “shyrdak” rugs, you can find felt items such as slippers, hats, and small decorative items. Felt is a central element of Kyrgyz culture and crafts.
- Jewelry: Kyrgyz jewelry often features intricate silver and gold work. You can find necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings with traditional Kyrgyz motifs.
- Bishkek Osh Market Souvenirs: Bishkek’s Osh Bazaar is an excellent place to find traditional Kyrgyz souvenirs, including rugs, hats, textiles, and jewelry. Remember to haggle for the best prices.
- Natural Products: Kyrgyzstan’s pristine environment produces various natural products, including honey, dried fruits, and herbal teas. These items are perfect for enjoying a piece of Kyrgyz nature at home.
- Felt Slippers: Warm, comfortable, and stylish, felt slippers make a great gift or keepsake from your trip.
- Traditional Musical Instruments: In local markets, you can find traditional Kyrgyz musical instruments like the komuz (a three-stringed instrument) and temir komuz (a jaw harp).
- Yurt-Related Decor: Decorative items like yurt-shaped candleholders, miniature yurts, and yurt wall hangings are unique souvenirs and conversation pieces.
Remember to haggle for the best prices when shopping in Kyrgyzstan, particularly in local markets. It’s also a good idea to shop directly from artisans and cooperatives, as this ensures your purchases support local communities and traditional craftsmanship.
After reading this Kyrgyzstan itinerary, you know some of the best things to do in Kyrgyzstan. In this Kyrgyzstan 10 days itinerary article, I covered some of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan. So Save and share this Kyrgyzstan itinerary 10 days.
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