Sites and highlights of Kyrgyzstan
Here you can find places and sites to visit during tour in Kyrgyzstan.
Burana (from Turkic "monara" - minaret). One of the most important historical sites in the Chui valley, about 60 kilometers east of Bishkek. The Burana monument is a minaret left from probably a larger architectural complex on the territory of the ancient city of Balasagun, which disappeared in the medieval era. The history of building the complex still remains a mystery. It was built around the 11th century and the minaret originally was about 45 meters high (one of the highest in medieval Central Asia). The city was captured by Genghis Khan in the 13th century and was heavily damaged. It never recovered again and gradually disappeared in the 15th-16th centuries, though travelers observed ruins of its mud buildings and palaces until the 19th-20th centuries. During the Soviet era several archeological expeditions excavated areas around Burana and their findings can be viewed in the collection of the Historical Museum in Bishkek. After 1991 the site became one of the most frequently visited places in Kyrgyzstan on the route of the Great Silk Road tours.
Issyk Kul lake. Most of our tours in Kyrgyzstan covers Issyk Kul Lake. Issyk-Kul is the pearl of Tien Shan - the name means "warm lake" because it never freezes. This is because it is located in the center of the basin, it has no effluent, and the presence of vaporization means that the water is salty, which lowers the freezing level. In fact, in the northeastern part, which is the driest and narrowest, a thin ice crust can sometimes appear. The lake is located at an altitude of 1600 m above sea level, in the center of the lowlands, surrounded by mountains. It is about 180 km long and 60 km wide, and the maximum depth is 700m, the lake is the second largest mountain lake (after Lake Titicaca in South America). It is also called the second most transparent lake in the world (after Lake Baikal), visibility is 20 m. The water level varies and decreases, partly due to the distribution of rivers for irrigation, and this is also possible due to climatic changes. It is a drainless lake located in northeastern Kyrgyzstan. The lake is one of the world's largest, although its water level fell by about 8.5 meters between 1856 (year of the first official records) and 2002. Issyk Kul lake is bordered by the Kungey-Alatau Range in the north and the Terskey-Alatau Range in the south. The northern sandy beaches of the lake have been used for recreational tourism since the 1950s. The lake is also noted for clear water, which gives life to more than 20 kinds of fish. The naked osman, the chebak, and the carp are fished for commercial purposes. Kyrgyz archaeologists claim that they discovered large underwater settlements, which disappeared most probably due to a large earthquake or water rise in the Middle Ages
Rukh Ordo complex. Ruh Ordo is a center of exchange and mutual enrichment of cultures. You will discover for yourself the wonderful world, where the world and national religions, ancient legends and historical events, scientific facts and fantasy have met. The choice of place to create a complex is not unintentional. From South side Ruch Ordo is washed by the waters of the Issyk-Kul lake, full of secrets and mysteries. From the north, is located Kungei Ala-Too, Solar Mountain. The terrain is convenient for observing the Sunrise and Sunset. And Sun is eternal witness of History. The ideological purpose of this center was to present 5 major religions side by side symbolizing unity of all faiths. Ruh Ordo means Spiritual Centre and this place brings that spiritual aspect to the forefront. The center has the five identical white chapels in a circle equal-distant from each other with the symbols of each religion on top. The chapels itself contains relics of each religion and the idea is that there needs to be tolerance and respect for people of other faiths.
Dungan mosque. Dungan refugees moved to Karakol from China in 1877 and formed here community. In 1907 they invited Chjou Siy, an architect from Beijing. Together with other 20 people they started preparing materials for future mosque. In three years they completed the mosque. The most amazing thing about this mosque is that it was built without a single nail or any metal ligaments. The mosque was built in the style of a Chinese Buddhist temple. All colors of the mosque represent various Dungan cultural concepts. Red color protects against evil spirits, yellow color accumulates wealth and brings well-being to the house, and green color brings happiness. The building of the Dungan mosque in the city of Karakol was not always used for its intended purpose. In the 30s of the 20th century, when the practice of religious rites was prohibited throughout the country, Soviet authorities closed the mosque. In the years of World War 2, when Muslim community initiated collection of money for the needs oа war, practicing of religion and construction of places of worship were allowed. Moreover, the Dungan mosque in Karakol was also opened. Nowadays, the mosque belongs to all Muslim community of Karakol town, also it is one of the famous sight to visit in Karakol.
Altyn Arashan gorge
The mountain valley of the Altyn Arashan River is located 10 km east of the Karakol town. Altyn Arashan with its curative hot springs is one of the beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan. Altyn Arashan is translated from Turkik as "Golden Spa". Mineralized water contains radon which affect beneficially human body and health. Bathing in this water stimulates the immune system and adaptation of human body. People come to this place to get treatment. Radon normalizes metabolic processes, has a beneficial effect on reproductive function, tones neuro-humoral functions.
Jeti Oguz gorge (Seven Bulls)
"Seven bulls" graze 28 kilometers south-west of Karakol. There are seven red-brown rocks stretching for 35 kilometers, similar in outline to the bulls lined up in a row. Here is the name of the gorge. The Broken Heart rock (back side of the Seven Bulls) located at the entrance to the gorge is worthy of attention. In the upper part of Jety-Oguz you will find small alpine lakes, waterfalls and a health resort. Medical hot springs are beating on its territory. Nearby the yurt camp is set up annually, where you can get treatment with mare's milk.
Son Kul lake
Fabulous alpine lake, Son Kol, is located in a giant depression between two ridges at an altitude of 3000-16 meters above sea level. The lake stretches for 29 kilometers long and 18 kilometers in width reaching 22 meters depth. It is one of the largest high-mountain lakes and the largest natural freshwater reservoir in Kyrgyzstan. The transparent glittering surface of the lake is a dream cult from far away. This lake is like a precious pearl of the snowy mountains. from the surrounding landscape breathes primal force, something ancient and mysterious. The pristine beauty of the lake and its surroundings creates a unique picture. Depending on the weather, the water surface of the Son Kul is painted every time in different colors: purple and blue, then suddenly yellow and orange, so there is a deceptive feeling that the lake also has different moods, which sometimes can even convey to you the climate. Son Kul is very different from low mountain plains. In winter, a dream cult for tourists is not available due to the low temperatures of the high snow cover that lies here for 130 - 160 days and closed passes. But in summer the air is fresh and transparent, the temperature regime is favorable for air and sun bathing. This place is covered with numerous legends and tales. One of the legends says that the brutal khan's headquarters once stood at the site of the lake. To replenish his harem, he collected the most beautiful girls from all over Tien Shan. from their suffering, they unleashed the mountains where the Khan's palace stood and the water flooded the headquarters of the sovereign with the adjacent territory and this lake was formed.
The coast of the lake is home to 66 species of waterfowl, which usually spend time here from May to September. It is noteworthy that sleep a stake instead of nesting the Indian goose. Also sleep Kul space for scientific research. By nature, Son Kul without fish lake. However, there were acclimatized many types of fish. Up to 100 tons of fish are caught in the lake annually. Since ancient times, this place was chosen by herders for the campsites. Nomads use the coast of the lake as pasture. They spend summer here with their families. Like a huge sparkling bowl, the lake radiates a pearl shine in the rim of the snow-white mountain ranges. hospitable shepherds will meet you as dear guests. here you can taste koumiss fresh milk and every inhabitant will gladly invite you to stay overnight. being here on the shore of a mountain lake around which giant expanses of green grasses and colorful flowers are stretched, I understand where you can get the real world of the world, which gives the supreme opinion. this world can be in your heart.
Sulaiman mountain
In the very center of the three thousand year old Osh is a Muslim shrine.
The mountain of calcareous rock is a five-headed rocky height 1175 meters above sea level. Its length is more than 1,140 meters, width - 560.
From time immemorial Sulaiman-Too had a sacred significance, as evidenced by the petroglyphs preserved here. According to legend, the biblical King Solomon (Suleiman) himself visited the mountain. Until the 16th century, it was called Bara-Kukh, and later became known as Takht-i-Suleiman - "The Throne of Solomon". At the top of the mountain is the mosque "Taht-i-Suleiman", built during the reign of the commander Bobur of the Timurid dynasty.
Inside Sulaiman-Too there are seven caves, one of which is the Osh United Historical and Cultural Museum. Ancient monuments of architecture, such as mosques and mausoleums, are also spread out at the foot. On June 29, 2009 Sulaiman-Too was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Arslanbob
In 80 kilometers north of Jalal-Abad, walnut forests of Arslanbob stretched over 6,080 square kilometers. Arslanbob is the largest walnut forest in the world. Some fruitful trees are over a thousand years old and 30 meters high. Every year they give more than one and a half thousand tons of walnuts. In the rocky gorges of the valley at an altitude of 2,200 meters above sea level there are amazing waterfalls Big and Small with a height of 80 and 35 meters. And among the fruit and nut forests there is the sacred lake Kel-Mazar and Mount Babash-Ata, to which dozens of people make pilgrimages every year.
Uzgen complex
The Uzgen historical, cultural, architectural and archaeological complex is located 54 kilometers from Osh on the right bank of the Kara Darya River. The city of Uzgen emerged in the II-I centuries BC as a center of commerce on the way from the Fergana Valley to Kashgar. In the XI-XII centuries, it was the second capital of the Karakhanid state.At this time - during the heyday of the dynasty - the Uzgen minaret was built. The complex consists of a beautiful minaret and a group of mausoleums in which the Karakhanid nobility are buried. The initial height of the minaret was approximately 45 meters, but later the tower was destroyed, and today its height is 27.5 meters.Structurally, the building consists of three parts. The square foundation with a depth of two meters with sides of nine meters is made of stones and sealed with loess solution. The lower part of the Uzgen minaret is an octahedral base with a height of about five meters, built of burnt bricks. On the southern side, at a height of two meters, there is a pointed entrance to the minaret. The middle part of the minaret has a cylindrical shape, tapering upwards. The diameter at the bottom - eight meters, in the upper part - about six. Inside the minaret is a spiral staircase with 53 steps. Minarets are built at mosques. From a high tower, the mullah makes an adhan (call to prayer).
Manas complex
In the village of Tash-Aryk, 22 kilometers from the city of Talas, is the national cultural-historical complex "Manas-Ordo", which area is 2.25 square kilometers. All the local buildings are shrouded in legends about the batyr Manas. In the center there is a hero's kumbez, according to legend, built by the heroes of the hero. Scientists say that the mausoleum was built in 1334 for the burial of the daughter of the emir Abuka. This is evidenced by a carved inscription placed on the upper base of the building. In the composition, stone sculptures - balbals and various rock paintings - occupy an honorable place.
Lenin Peak
The most famous mountain of Kyrgyzstan - the majestic peak of Lenin. This is one of the highest peaks in all of Central Asia - 7134 meters above sea level. Alas, the dazzling views from the mountain are available only to the most experienced climbers who are accustomed to survive in extreme conditions. Ordinary mortals who do not claim the Golden Ice Picker can simply admire the power of the mountain from the Achik-Tash base camp in Osh.
Hiking in Ala Archa gorge
Located 41 kilometers south of Bishkek at an altitude of 1600-4800 meters above sea level. The park area is more than 22 square kilometers. City dwellers often spend their weekends here, located in the lower reaches of the park by the river. It is from here that trails are laid to the Ak-Sai glacier, which is famous in Kyrgyzstan. The path to it lies through the famous Ratzek's hut - the base camp - in the mountaineering circles. There you can conveniently arrange your tent, and in the morning go to conquer the mountain peaks.
Konorchek canyons
Located 125 kilometers from Bishkek, are divided into Large and Small. The place is simply magnetic: in the labyrinths of rocky sandstone columns time seems to stop. In addition to the unique landscapes for Kyrgyzstan, you will find here an extinct volcano 3 million years old.
Exploration of Konorchok Canyons. This is the place where time and thoughts about the everyday stay. Konorchok's eolian canyons are over one and a half million years old. During this time, a column of clay pillars honed by the wind rose to 500 meters, its labyrinths stretched 200 kilometers. Images of famous animals and fairy-tale creatures are easily guessed in the rocky clay castles. You need to explore this place for at least two days, just beware of the caustic sun and not hoping for rain. And do not miss the opportunity to capture the sunset in the canyons.
Horse riding in Chon Kemin gorge
Lack of experience in riding is not a reason to refuse to walk through the gorges. Seasoned riders will tell you about the nuances of communicating with horses, or even go to accompany you. Words are not enough to describe the incredible landscapes that you will see along the way. These are blooming alpine meadows, where allergies are not terrible; and forests, from the height of which the head is spinning; and turbulent mountain rivers, which beckon to raft.
Meet the sunrises here is a pleasure. Just imagine how you will walk barefoot on the grass covered with dew, or wander through the forest with a basket in search of beautiful pine cones or wild berries. As in the morning, you will drink hot and fragrant rosehip tea, comfortably seated in a road chair.
Boat cruise in Issyk Kul lake
A nice addition to your rest will be riding on a steam-ship on the Issyk-Kul lake. Boat trips are a great opportunity to relax, rejuvenate and get a boost of energy, and, moreover, a great way to have fun, learn more about the Issyk-Kul region, and pay attention to each other. Passenger motor ships "Moltur", "Adilet", "Korsar", "Kyrgyzstan" and many others, invite you to board for pleasure trips and excursions. Ride along the Issyk-Kul on a motor ship, feel the lake coolness and the breath of the wind. Enjoy the panorama of the city and touch the nature. A great pleasure comes from swimming from the board at the depths.
You can breathe the fresh air of the lake in the morning or evening, comfortably sitting on board a comfortable boat. Enjoy the picturesque scenery of the shores of the lake. Each motor ship is equipped with seats, bathing vests for both adults and children. The diving is done under the supervision of experienced sailors who will assist you at any moment. You will be served by a friendly and experienced captain. There is a bar with refreshing drinks on board. During the ride, the researcher will tell you a lot of interesting information about the Issyk-Kul water area!
Ski in Karakol
Kyrgyzstan is a country of celestial mountains, so it is not surprising that there are 23 ski resorts operating in the republic. 20 of them are located in Chui oblast, 2 - in Issyk Kul and one - in Naryn. The biggest ski resort is situated in Karakol town, center of Issyk Kul region. The ski season in Kyrgyzstan begins in December and lasts until April. On the "skiers" there is the opportunity to ride on the slopes of varying difficulty - from the "kid" to the free ride and just enjoy the passive tourism.
Rafting
Rafting in Kyrgyzstan is an unforgettable adventure and struggle with the water that delivers unique feelings.
Tours, designed for people without special training, do not suggest overcoming obstacles above the third category, which, although it does not exclude the likelihood of an extreme situation, does not threaten anything serious except the release of adrenaline into the blood.
However, rafting requires strict adherence to safety rules and the availability of necessary equipment.
Those who quickly get tired of the city bustle go here - in the evenings on the coast and in the nearby mountain gorges it is cool, in the mornings the air is saturated with freshness. You can book a tour in Kyrgyzstan via this website and have a rest on the Shore of Issyk Kul Lake.
