Off the beaten track in Kyrgyzstan

As you first glance upon the endless plains of Kyrgyzstan, you’ll learn that this is a country of quiet absorption. Pause, observe, and reflect — it’s the only way to experience this virtually untouched terrain that surrounds the ancient Silk Road.

With rolling hillsides, expansive green meadows, alpine forests, and tremendous lakes, Kyrgyzstan will appeal to a trailblazing instinct within you that no urban playground ever could. Bishkek and Osh have a lot to offer, but you’ll need to go off the beaten track to experience the truly unique things to do in Kyrgyzstan.

From wild camping and resting beside alpine lakes to hiking their surrounding mountains, exploring Kyrgyzstan is truly awe-inspiring. In this guide, you’ll discover the best and most authentic experiences of Kyrgyz culture like never before.

16 Kyrgyzstan things to do for an off-the-beaten-path experience

1. Stay at a yurt camp for an authentic Kyrgyzstan tourism experience

Kyrgyz culture is greatly influenced by their centuries-old nomadic heritage. In fact, only a third of the population lives in an urban environment. The majority lead a pastoral life.

Their traditional lifestyle sees many sleeping in cylindrical yurts wrapped in wool-felt, and raising four-legged grazers such as yaks, goats, and horses. In the summer, they traditionally herd their livestock to higher ground, leading them up to the mountains to graze and leaving little trace of their presence behind.

Many are involved in community tourism schemes, which can be easily organized. Staying overnight in one of these iconic yurts is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine sleeping amongst brightly colored blankets draped bohemian-style, and waking up to fresh air and expansive mountain views.

2. Try your hand at horse riding

The Kyrgyz have historically been both protected and isolated by their glorious mountainscape, freshwater lakes, and sprawling forests – and this abundance of natural extremes makes for some thrilling adventures.

Horseback tours along the sloping plains are a highly recommended and sometimes unavoidable method of transport. It is a Kyrgyz institution that filters through to their most popular sporting events.

One of the most desired riding routes is from Kyzart to Song-Kul, where you’ll be able to ride from the northern shore all the way to the southern shore. Another great option is to explore the riding trails around Jyrgalan, a picturesque village in the Ak-Suu District.

3. Try some culinary delights when you visit Kyrgyzstan

Culinary adventures through Kyrgyzstan aren’t difficult to come by, but you may struggle if you’re a vegetarian. The mountainous nomad people have a diet that is overwhelmingly meat-based, given their reliance on their faithful herd for food and clothing.

The flavors are intense and packed with meaty undertones. You’ll be tucking into meals like sumptuous meat broths and mutton-studded pilaf (paloo) with kymyz (fermented mare’s milk) to wash it all down.

Hospitality is a key part of the cultural identity here, so be sure to accept what your hosts offer you to gain an intrinsic Kyrgyz experience. Also, be prepared for generous hosts who pour cup after cup of hot tea until you politely decline.

Read more: The cultural highlights of Kyrgyzstan

4. Soak on the shores of Issyk Kul Lake

Offering a distinct array of epic views at sunrise, sunset, and midday, the Issyk Kul saline lake is calling your name. It boasts some pretty impressive numbers, including being the eighth-deepest lake in the world and the third-largest saline lake.

Aside from spending your summer days tanning on the beach or wading through the water, you can set out to explore the villages that neighbor Lake Issyk Kul. From the dramatic red rock mountain at Jeti Oguz to the resort town of Cholpon Ata, your time at Issyk Kul will be nothing short of sensational.

5. See rock art for a glimpse into old nomadic culture

While you can visit the Gapar Aitiev National Museum of Fine Arts in Bishkek, some of the best Kyrgyz works you’ll find are out in the open. Kyrgyzstan hosts some of the most impressive outdoor galleries in the world, all showcasing the unique nomadic petroglyphs.

Some of the best regions to view the totemic bal-bals markers include the Burana Tower and Cholpan Ata. That said, the top spot for petroglyph sites is definitely in the fields of Saimaluu Tash, where it’s believed there are over 10,000 engravings.

6. Admire the alpine lakes amongst the snow-capped peaks

You’ll need to strap on your hiking boots, as getting to some of the best turquoise lakes in Kyrgyzstan requires some tough treks. That said, they are all well worth the effort.

Venture to Ala-Kul, also known as the “lake of many colors”, or enjoy the striking mountain passes as you visit the vivid lakes of the Tian Shan Mountains. No matter the lake, these hiking trails are amongst the most scenic in Central Asia. With rolling hills, untouched nature, and the distinct colors of an alpine lake, Kyrgyzstan is a hiker’s paradise waiting to be explored.

7. Enjoy extreme river kayaking at Chon-Kemin

Paddle junkies will appreciate the many miles of high-volume rivers to be tackled by kayak. Don’t miss a journey into the Chon-Kemin Valley, one of the top day trip destinations that even Bishkek locals love. While the pastoral beauty and lakeside log cabins alone are worth the visit, the white-water rafting opportunities are truly impeccable.

It’s safe to say it’s not a beginner’s playground, with rapids ranging from Class 4 to Class 5. So, for more seasoned adrenaline seekers wondering what to do in Kyrgyzstan, grab a paddle and hit the choppy waters of Chon-Kemin.

8. Explore a local bazaar

To experience the local scents and flavors of Kyrgyzstan, look no further than the bustling bazaars and markets of its cities. The Osh Bazaar in Bishkek is one of the biggest and busiest in the country, and it’s a place where you can find just about anything.

The smell of freshly baked katama bread and a wide range of loose spices will help guide your journey through this buzzing site. While dried fruits and fresh vegetables are the main calling at a bazaar, it’s also a meeting point for many locals to chat, drink, and trade local crafts. As such, be sure to grab a souvenir while you’re there, like a stunning felt artwork or some woven or leather products.

9. Witness traditional nomad games

Kyrgyzstan finished second in terms of medal count at the 2024 World Nomad Games, so it’s no surprise that the nomadic lifestyle runs deep within Kyrgyz locals. Although the games only take place every two years across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, you can still see these unique games played year-round throughout Kyrgyzstan.

Alysh, or belt wrestling, is one of the most popular sports, but buzkashi, a nomadic version of polo, is also a fan favorite. Some of the other sports Kyrgyzstan is renowned for include er ernish (wrestling while riding a horse) and shagai (bone throwing).

Read more: Experiencing the World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan

10. Witness the beauty and wildlife of Song-Kul lake

Song-Köl — the world’s second-largest mountain lake — is yet another alpine destination that teems with unique wildlife. From admiring local horses grazing on the grasslands to spotting golden eagles and Himalayan vultures as they circle overhead, visiting Song-Kul is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Being just over four hours from Bishkek, it makes for a great day trip from the capital city. You’ll most likely need to take a 4×4 vehicle and then trek a bit, but the views from the south shore are well worth the effort.

11. Plan to visit the Burana Tower

Kyrgyzstan isn’t short on historical monuments and artefacts, and even if you visit the country for its natural beauty, be sure to also stop at the Burana Tower. Although humble compared to some of the other archeological sites within Central Asia, it holds its own for many reasons.

The now-restored Burana Tower was once part of the much larger city known as Balasagun. It was constructed by the Karakhanids, a powerful Islamic and nomadic dynasty that was eventually wiped out by the Mongols.

The intricate stonework is now one of the few remnants of the Karakhanids, offering a magical photo opportunity with the Ala-Archa mountains in the distance.

12. Explore Ala-Archa National Park

For those traveling to Kyrgyzstan with the hope of snapping some truly remarkable photographs, Ala-Archa is the place to be. It’s a serious mountaineering spot in the country, with three premier treks to consider.

The Ala-Archa Valley walk is a gentle but breathtaking route that’ll take you just half a day to complete. The Ak-Say Valley hike is fairly strenuous and takes about five hours to complete, and the views of the Ak-Say Waterfall are genuinely amazing. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, challenge yourself to the full-day route to the foot of the Ak-Say Glacier.

13. Enjoy an eagle hunting demonstration

An intrinsic part of the nomadic Kyrgyz lifestyle is eagle hunting, and being able to see one of these demonstrations is spectacular. Locals raise golden eagles to learn how to track and hunt prey, such as desert hares and marmots.

While the need for this traditional hunting technique isn’t as necessary in modern life, select groups within Kyrgyzstan are still trying to keep this nomadic tradition alive.

14. Soak in the hot springs at Altyn-Arashan

For Kyrgyz locals, Altyn-Arashan is the cream of the crop, and for good reason. The region is as picturesque as they come: a fairy-tale canyon surrounded by high mountains creates the perfect setting for a gentle river and vast fields of feeding horses.

The views are sublime, but the region earns its fame for its refreshing hot springs. Stopping here is the perfect way to end Kyrgyzstan vacations, and it will undoubtedly be one of the fondest memories you’ll take home with you.

15. Drive the Pamir Highway

Starting in Bishkek and heading all the way to Dushanbe in Tajikistan, this attraction is truly unforgettable – and joining a Pamir Highway tour is unlike any other experience. It spans a length of over 745 miles (1,200km), and there’s plenty to see along the way.

It’s also one of the many ancient routes used along the Silk Road, so the cities you’ll pass on the way offer blends of unique cultures and traditions. From the mountain views at Toktogul and the walnut forests at Arslanbob, to the base camp of Lenin Peak and the historic town of Khorog, this road trip destination has it all.

16. Spend some time exploring Kyrgyzstan’s cities

So as not to burn out on nature and outdoor experiences, you might want to balance your itinerary with an occasional change of scene – after all, some of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan are its vibrant cities.

Bishkek is home to state-of-the-art museums, the historic Victory Square, and a bubbling brewery scene. Osh, on the other hand, is a true historic hub: it’s home to the archaeological complex of Sulaiman-Too, the tallest statue of Lenin in Central Asia, Navoi Park, and the Jayma Bazaar. Then there’s Karakol, offering a distinct look into Dungan culture through its stunning architecture.

Read more: Our ultimate guide to Kyrgyzstan

FAQs for planning a Kyrgyzstan vacation

Before visiting beautiful Kyrgyzstan, here are some of the most common questions to consider about the country.

When is the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan?

The best time for Kyrgyzstan travel is undoubtedly in summer, from May to September. This is when the weather conditions are at their best, which is ideal for enjoying the country’s abundant outdoor activities.

Is Kyrgyzstan safe?

Generally speaking, if you are visiting Kyrgyzstan as a tourist, you will be safe — especially if you have a dedicated tour guide. As long as you respect local customs and err on the side of caution in the major cities, you’ll enjoy a safe, stress-free trip to Kyrgyzstan.

How many days are needed to travel Kyrgyzstan?

Your Kyrgyzstan itinerary can range anywhere from an eight-day tour to an epic 14-day excursion; it really depends on your available time and what you want to see and do. That said, the minimum amount of time you should spend in the country is at least one week, in order to truly make the most of it.

Make it happen

For a freeing experience in mountainous Kyrgyzstan, get in touch with our local experts, who can put together your perfect tailor-made trip.