The Pearl of the Celestial Mountains

In the morning, depart from Bishkek toward the scenic Issyk-Ata Valley, known for its natural hot springs and peaceful mountain setting. Take time to explore the gorge and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic spa area.

Continue to the archaeological site of Balasagun to visit the famous Burana Tower, a minaret dating from the 11th century and one of the most important Silk Road monuments in northern Kyrgyzstan. Walk among the ancient remains and petroglyphs scattered across the site.

In the afternoon, drive to Chong Kemin National Park, a beautiful protected valley of forests, rivers, and alpine pastures. On arrival, visit the Chabdan Batyr memorial park, dedicated to the Kyrgyz national hero and military leader.

In the evening, enjoy a cultural program organized by the regional ecotourism association in the village of Karol-Döbö, offering a warm introduction to local traditions and rural life.

Transfer to Karakol. We drive to Lake Issyk-Kul, the second largest mountain lake in the world after Titicaca. The lake is 1608m, and never freezes. Visit petroglyphs Bronze Age. Following road Karakol. Overnight in guest house.

In the morning, visit of the Jeti Oguz valley. Horse ride to the Chon Kyzyl-Suu (1-5 hours optional). Picnic in the mountains. Moving into the gorge Jukuuchak for bathing in warm sources. Transfert to Tamga. Accommodation at the guest house.

In the morning short walk in the Fairy Tale canyon, then visit a falconer (optional : show the training with Golden Eagle). Continue the road, and visit the manufacturer yurts in the village of Kyzyl-Tuu. Lunch at Kochkorka. A visit  the handicraft center. We will pass on the pass Kyzart 2650m. Arriving in the village Kyzart. Night in homestay.

A day drive in the losted valley of Jumgal, the road is in bad condition even if a new road is under construction linking Issyk Kul with Jalal Abad. Mountains are covered by high pastures, there are no forest. The climate is too cold in winter, so mostly of the agriculture is based on growing potatoes or grass for cattle. After Chaek, the road will link the road coming from Suusamyr. We will then drive through the colorful canyon of the river Kekemeren.  Arriving in the village of Kyzyl Oy, walk in the village, meeting with locals. Dinner and overnight in homestay.

In the morning we continue to drive to the main road connecting the two major cities of Kyrgyzstan: Bishkek-Osh. The scenery is stunning and varied. On the way stop at the village of Kojomkul, hero of the 20th century. After crossing the Ala-Bel pass, we drive into the Chychkan canyon. Dinner and overnight in a local family.

In the morning, we leave the mountainous village of Arslanbob, famous for its vast natural walnut forests that cover the surrounding hills. The road gradually descends from the cool mountainous landscapes to the fertile plains of the Ferghana Valley, 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, an important regional center known for its lively markets and multicultural atmosphere influenced by both Kyrgyz and Uzbek traditions. We take time to walk around the bustling bazaar district and discover the daily rhythm of the city before continuing our journey through the fertile valley.

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

In the afternoon, we reach the southern capital of the country, 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.

Early morning departure to the airport. Morning flight to Bishkek. Transfer into a guest house. Visit the Kyrgyz capital. Discovery of Osh market; walk in the park downtown. Evening and late dinner since leaving for the airport will take place in the middle of the night.

Depending on your flight time, your guide will join you to the airport and help you check in for your flight.  If your flight is later in the day your guide will show you more places in Bishkek before your flight. We hope you enjoyed your trip to Kyrgyzstan and we hope you come back again to explore other counties in Central Asia with us.