Kyrgyzstan Tour

• Visit Issyk-Kul and Song-Kul lakes
• Go on a horseback trek
• Set out on picturesque day hikes
• Stay in a Yurt and learn to make one
• Enjoy a game of Kok Boru – their national sport
• Witness a demonstration of Eagle hunting and traditional sports
• Learn to make local dishes of Dungan community

Photos

Day 1: Bishkek

Pickup from Manas International airport and drive to our hotel in Bishkek, the vibrant capital of Kyrgyzstan. Relax for the remainder of the evening. Night stay in a hotel

Day 2 : Bishkek

Start our Kyrgyzstan tour with a scenic hike through the picturesque Ala-Archa National Park, named after the river that winds its way across the valley. Spread over 165 sq. km and rising from 1,500 to 5,000 meters, this spectacular alpine landscape offers the perfect introduction to Kyrgyzstan’s wild beauty.

Later, head back to the capital to explore its cultural and historical highlights—stopping by the State History Museum, Pobeda Square, Ala-Too Square, and finally the lively Osh Bazaar, where the city’s everyday rhythm truly comes alive. Night stay in a hotel

Day 3: Bishkek to Chon Kemin

In the morning visit the Burana Tower, an 11^th century minaret. Over here we will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the Silk route. We will also visit an open air museum of Balbals (stone warriors).

By mid-day reach the picturesque Chon Kemin valley, parts of which have been designated as a nature park. After lunch set out on an optional hike through the pine forests of the nature reserve, else just sit back and absorb the tranquil atmosphere of nature. Night stay in a guesthouse

Day 4: Chon Kemin to Song Kul

A five hour drive will get us to Song-Kul, one of the highlights of our trip to Kyrgyzstan. After lunch at our Yurt camp walk along the shore line, absorbing the tranquillity and beauty of the place.  Later in the evening experience making traditional bread “borsook” which is served at every Kyrgyz celebration. Night stay in Yurts

Day 5 : Song Kul

In the morning set out on a half a day horseback ride over undulating mountains with grand views of Song Kul lake . After lunch enjoy an exciting game of Kok Boru, the national sport of Kyrgyzstan. This involves two teams on horseback, with players trying to manoeuvre with a goat’s carcass and score by putting it into the opponents’ goal.  This sport has a deep cultural value, showcasing horsemanship, team work and community bonding. Relax and amble around for the remainder of the day.  Nights stay in Yurts

Day 6: Song Kul to Issyk Kul

Today  continue driving to another popular lake Issyk Kul. Covering a surface area of 6000 sq. kilometers , it feels more like an ocean than a lake.

Post breakfast drive to a village on the southern shore of the lake where we will see an interesting demonstration on how Yurts are made. This will be followed by a traditional lunch with a local family. After lunch drive to one of the most picturesque canyons in Kyrgyzstan. The views of the moon-scaped canyon are simply stunning when seen from the top.  Descend from the canyon to take a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Issyk Kul lake, bringing to end a varied day. Night stay in a guesthouse

Day 7: Issyk Kul to Karakol

In the morning we will have a session on traditional felt making which plays an important role in Kyrgyz culture. A shyrdak is a stitched wall or floor carpet made out of felt from sheep wool. Pattern and motifs play an important part in the shyrdak, holding information  about the maker and history. Later in the morning witness a live demonstration of Eagle hunting and interact with the hunter to learn more about this unique practice.

From here drive to a village for a traditional lunch with a local family. Over here we will learn about the intricacies and significance of traditional headwear of the women, each piece telling its own unique story.

Continue on to Karakol, the gateway to central part of the Tien Shan mountain range. In the evening we will go to a local café for dinner with live traditional music.  Night stay in a hotel

Day 8: Karakol

After breakfast drive to a nearby gorge for an easy hike . This wild landscape is known for its natural beauty of spruce forests, gurgling rivers and alpine lakes. The walk will be followed by a picnic lunch spread over flower laden meadows.

By late afternoon drive to the house of a Dungan family where we learn to make some traditional food. We will have the opportunity to master the art of making steamed Dungan bread and crafting homemade, hand-rolled noodles, complemented by three exquisite sauces. This experience promises to be both delicious and unforgettable. Night stay in a hotel

Day 9: Karakol to Jyrgalan

After breakfast drive for an hour and a half to Jyrgalan, a fairy tale of a village tucked in the Tian Shan mountains. Over here we head out for a picturesque day hike followed by a picnic lunch besides the river. You can also optionally go for a horseback trek over here. Night stay in a guesthouse

Day 10 : Jyrgalan to Kazhak border

Stepping off the beaten path,  journey further to a valley near the Kazakh border. Here we will have some interactive sessions with a nomadic family to learn more about their culture. Those interested can also go for a hike through the picturesque mountainscapes. Night stay in Yurts

Day 11: Kazakh border to Bishkek

After breakfast depart for Bishkek. In the second half visit some local markets from where you can shop for local handicrafts and other items. Night stay in a hotel

Day 12: Bishkek

After breakfast drop to Manas airport

Cost per person: $2225/-  + 5% GST