Arkyt village - Osh

In the morning, we leave the mountain village of Arkyt, famous for its lakes and the Sary Chelek Nature Reserve. The road gradually descends from the cool mountain scenery to the fertile plains of the Ferghana Valley, crossing the Naryn River and passing through orchards, small villages, and cultivated fields that reveal the agricultural richness of southern Kyrgyzstan.

Our first stop is the city of Jalal-Abad, a major regional hub known for its bustling markets and multicultural atmosphere influenced by both Kyrgyz and Uzbek traditions. We take time to stroll through the lively bazaar district and experience the city’s daily rhythm before continuing our journey through the fertile valley.

A short drive takes us to Uzgen, one of the region’s historical gems and a former trading town on the Silk Road. There, we visit the remarkable medieval complex, featuring an elegant minaret and several Karakhanid mausoleums decorated with intricate brickwork. These monuments, dating from the 11th and 12th centuries, offer a fascinating glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of Central Asia.

In the afternoon, we reach the country’s southern capital, Osh. The highlight of the visit is the sacred mountain of Sulaiman-Too, an impressive limestone hill rising in the middle of the city and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk along its trails leads to several small shrines and viewpoints, offering a panoramic view of Osh and the surrounding Ferghana Valley.

Although the trip can be completed in a single long day, we recommend splitting it into two days to fully enjoy the rich cultural and historical sites of the Ferghana Valley—a choice that also promotes a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to travel.