Smack in the middle of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan is a hidden jewel of a country with beautiful nature, cool culture, and super-friendly people that one can see without necessarily having to spend loads of money. From the impressive Tian Shan mountains to the crystal-clear Lake Issyk-Kul, this amazing country is full of opportunities for adventure and totally plunging into the local atmosphere. In this blog post, we’ll show you the best backpacking tips and tricks to travel Kyrgyzstan on a budget so you can totally enjoy your trip without going broke.
How to get there:
From Kazakhstan:
- Almaty to Bishkek: Take the daily bus from Almaty’s Sayakhat Bus Station to Bishkek’s Western Bus Station (approx. 20 hours, 2,500 KZT / $6 USD)
- Taraz to Bishkek: Catch the daily bus from Taraz’s Bus Station to Bishkek’s Western Bus Station (approx. 18 hours, 2,000 KZT / $5 USD)
From Uzbekistan:
- Andijan to Osh: Take the daily bus from Andijan’s Bus Station to Osh’s Bus Station (approx. 6 hours, 10,000 UZS / $1 USD)
- Fergana to Osh: Catch the daily bus from Fergana’s Bus Station to Osh’s Bus Station (approx. 8 hours, 15,000 UZS / $2 USD)
From Tajikistan:
- Dushanbe to Osh: Take the daily bus from Dushanbe’s Bus Station to Osh’s Bus Station (approx. 12 hours, 200 TJS / $20 USD)
- Sughd to Batken: Catch the daily bus from Sughd’s Bus Station to Batken’s Bus Station (approx. 10 hours, 150 TJS / $15 USD)
From China:
- Kashgar to Osh: Take the weekly bus from Kashgar’s International Bus Station to Osh’s Bus Station (approx. 24 hours, 500 CNY / $75 USD)
- Ürümqi to Bishkek: Catch the weekly bus from Ürümqi’s International Bus Station to Bishkek’s Western Bus Station (approx. 36 hours, 800 CNY / $120 USD)
When to go:
Kyrgyzstan is a year-round destination for broke backpackers, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and the activities you have planned. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons to help you decide when to go:
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild temperatures, occasional rain, and snowmelt
- Pros:
- Fewer tourists
- Lush green landscapes
- Baby animals being born
- Cons:
- Some high-altitude trekking routes may be closed due to snow
- Limited accommodation options in rural areas
Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Warm temperatures, long days, and occasional heatwaves
- Pros:
- Access to high-altitude trekking routes
- Festivals and cultural events
- Warm weather for swimming and water activities
- Cons:
- Peak tourist season
- Higher prices for accommodation and transportation
- Can be hot and dry
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Comfortable temperatures, golden foliage, and occasional rain
- Pros:
- Comfortable hiking weather
- Harvest festivals and cultural events
- Fewer tourists
- Cons:
- Some rural accommodations may be closed
- Limited daylight hours
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cold temperatures, snow, and limited daylight
- Pros:
- Skiing and snowboarding opportunities
- Unique winter landscapes
- Fewer tourists
- Cons:
- Some rural areas may be inaccessible
- Limited accommodation options
- Extremely cold temperatures
Best Time for:
- Trekking: Summer and autumn
- Festivals and cultural events: Summer and autumn
- Skiing and snowboarding: Winter
- Budget travelers: Spring and autumn
- Nature lovers: Spring and autumn
Best Itineraries:
1-Week Itinerary:
- Day 1-2: Bishkek (explore the city, visit Osh Bazaar, and try local food)
- Day 3-4: Lake Issyk-Kul (relax on the beach, take a boat tour, and enjoy water activities)
- Day 5: Karakol (explore the town, visit the Dungan Mosque, and try local cuisine)
- Day 6-7: Jeti Oguz Gorge (hike, camp, and enjoy scenic views)
2-Week Itinerary:
- Day 1-3: Bishkek (explore the city, visit Osh Bazaar, and take a day trip to Burana Tower)
- Day 4-6: Lake Issyk-Kul (relax on the beach, take a boat tour, and enjoy water activities)
- Day 7-9: Karakol (explore the town, visit the Dungan Mosque, and try local cuisine)
- Day 10-12: Jeti Oguz Gorge (hike, camp, and enjoy scenic views)
- Day 13-14: Osh (explore the city, visit the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, and try local food)
1-Month Itinerary:
- Week 1: Bishkek and Lake Issyk-Kul (explore the city, visit Osh Bazaar, and relax on the beach)
- Week 2: Karakol and Jeti Oguz Gorge (explore the town, visit the Dungan Mosque, and hike in the gorge)
- Week 3: Osh and the Pamir Mountains (explore the city, visit the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, and trek in the Pamirs)
- Week 4: Naryn and the Tian Shan Mountains (explore the town, visit the Naryn Canyon, and trek in the Tian Shans)
3-Month Itinerary:
Month 1:
- Week 1-2: Bishkek and surrounding areas (explore the city, visit Osh Bazaar, and take day trips to Burana Tower and Ala Archa National Park)
- Week 3-4: Lake Issyk-Kul (relax on the beach, take a boat tour, and enjoy water activities)
- Week 5: Karakol (explore the town, visit the Dungan Mosque, and try local cuisine)
Month 2:
- Week 6-7: Jeti Oguz Gorge (hike, camp, and enjoy scenic views)
- Week 8-9: Osh and the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain (explore the city, visit the mountain, and try local food)
- Week 10-11: Pamir Mountains (trek, camp, and experience the unique culture of the Pamiri people)
- Week 12: Sary Tash (explore the village, visit the Sary Tash Lake, and enjoy scenic views)
Month 3:
- Week 13-14: Naryn and the Tian Shan Mountains (explore the town, visit the Naryn Canyon, and trek in the Tian Shans)
- Week 15-16: Kochkor and the Son-Kul Lake (explore the village, visit the lake, and experience traditional nomadic culture)
- Week 17-18: Return to Bishkek (reflect on your journey, visit any last-minute sights, and prepare for departure)
Transportation:
Public transportation in Kyrgyzstan is an adventure in itself! While it may seem daunting at first, with a little knowledge and preparation, you can navigate the country’s buses, marshrutkas, and taxis like a local.
Types of Public Transportation:
- Buses: Comfortable, but less frequent, buses connect major cities like Bishkek, Osh, and Karakol.
- Marshrutkas: Minivans that operate on fixed routes, marshrutkas are the most popular mode of transportation in Kyrgyzstan.
- Taxis: Private taxis are widely available, but be sure to negotiate prices beforehand.
How to Use Public Transportation:
- Buses: Buy tickets at the bus station or on the bus.
- Marshrutkas: Flag down a marshrutka and pay the driver when you exit.
- Taxis: Negotiate the price and destination before departing.
Tips and Tricks:
- Learn some Russian: Many drivers and conductors speak limited English.
- Be prepared for crowds: Marshrutkas can get packed, especially during peak hours.
- Bring snacks and water: Long journeys may not have food or drink options.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering homes or mosques.
Popular Routes:
- Bishkek to Osh: 6-8 hours by bus or marshrutka
- Bishkek to Karakol: 4-6 hours by bus or marshrutka
- Osh to Sary Tash: 4-6 hours by marshrutka
Safety Considerations:
- Be mindful of your belongings: Keep an eye on your luggage and personal items.
- Avoid traveling at night: If possible, plan your journeys during daylight hours.
- Follow local advice: If a route is considered unsafe, consider alternative options.
Top things to do:
Bishkek:
- Osh Bazaar: Explore the vibrant market
- State Historical Museum: Learn about Kyrgyzstan’s history and culture
- Ala-Too Square: Visit the heart of the city
- Kyrgyz Ala-Too Range: Hike and enjoy scenic views
- Panfilov Park: Relax in the beautiful park
- Bishkek Botanical Garden: Explore the peaceful gardens
- Kyrgyzstan White House: Visit the government building
- Bishkek Zoo: Meet the local wildlife
- Victory Square: Explore the historic square
- Bishkek Philharmonic: Enjoy a performance
Lake Issyk-Kul:
- Beach relaxation: Soak up the sun and enjoy water activities
- Boat tours: Explore the lake’s scenic shores
- Hot springs: Unwind in natural hot springs
- Surrounding villages: Experience traditional Kyrgyz culture
- Cholpon-Ata: Visit the scenic town and beach
- Kara-Oi: Explore the picturesque village
- Tamga: Visit the ancient petroglyphs
- Santash: Explore the scenic village
- Koshkol: Visit the scenic village
- Tup: Explore the scenic village
Karakol:
- Dungan Mosque: Marvel at the unique architecture
- Russian Orthodox Church: Explore the historic church
- Karakol Museum: Learn about the region’s history and culture
- Jeti Oguz Gorge: Hike and enjoy scenic views
- Kochkor Village: Experience traditional nomadic culture
- Skazka Canyon: Explore the unique rock formations
- Barskoon Valley: Trek and enjoy scenic views
- Karakol Animal Market: Experience local livestock trading
- Djeti Oguz: Explore the scenic valley
- Karakol Ski Base: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding
Osh:
- Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain: Hike and explore the historic site
- Osh Bazaar: Experience the vibrant market
- Babur’s House: Visit the historic residence
- Trekking: Explore the surrounding mountains and valleys
- Achik-Tash: Visit the scenic village and trekking base
- Sary-Mogol: Explore the picturesque village
- Osh Museum: Learn about the region’s history and culture
- Kyzyl-Kala: Explore the ancient fortress
- Uzgen: Visit the historic town
- Nooken: Explore the scenic village
Naryn:
- Naryn Canyon: Hike and enjoy scenic views
- Kochkor Village: Experience traditional nomadic culture
- Son-Kul Lake: Relax and enjoy scenic views
- Trekking: Explore the surrounding Tian Shan mountains
- Tash-Rabat: Visit the historic caravanserai
- Kyzart: Explore the scenic village
- Naryn River: Enjoy scenic views and fishing
- Keminsky Canyon: Explore the unique rock formations
- Baetov: Visit the scenic village
- Dostuk: Explore the scenic village
Pamir Mountains:
- Trekking: Explore the stunning mountain scenery
- Lake Sary Chelek: Relax and enjoy scenic views
- Pamir Village: Experience traditional Pamiri culture
- Yak herding: Learn about traditional nomadic practices
- Lenin Peak: Trek to the base camp of the highest peak in Kyrgyzstan
- Kashgar: Explore the historic town
- Murgab: Visit the scenic village and trekking base
- Pamir Highway: Drive the scenic route
- Yashilkul: Explore the scenic lake
- Bulunkul: Visit the scenic village
Tian Shan Mountains:
- Trekking: Explore the stunning mountain scenery
- Horseback riding: Experience traditional nomadic transportation
- Eagle hunting: Learn about traditional Kyrgyz hunting practices
- Scenic views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains
- Altyn Arashan: Relax in the natural hot springs
- Kungey Alatau: Explore the scenic valley
- Terskey Alatau: Trek and enjoy scenic views
- Chon-Kemin: Explore the scenic valley
- Kol-Tor: Visit the scenic lake
- Kaindy: Explore the scenic valley
Food:
Meat, Meat, and More Meat
Kyrgyz cuisine is unapologetically meat-centric. Beshbarmak, a noodle dish served with horse meat, is a staple. So are kuyrdak (boiled meat), shashlik (skewers), and kazi (cured meat). As a visitor, be prepared for a carnivorous diet, with meat often served with a side of bread, onions, and sometimes, a token vegetable.
Bread, the Staff of Life
Bread holds a sacred place in Kyrgyz culture. Naan, a leavened flatbread, is baked in tandoor ovens and served with almost every meal. Its crispy crust and soft interior are irresistible. Be sure to try it with a pat of butter or a dollop of sour cream.
Russian and Chinese Influences
Kyrgyzstan’s history as a Soviet republic and its proximity to China have left an indelible mark on its cuisine. Plov (pilaf), a Russian-inspired dish, is a staple, while Chinese noodles and stir-fries have become integral to Kyrgyz cooking.
Fresh Produce, a Rare Delight
Fresh fruits and vegetables are scarce in Kyrgyzstan, especially outside of Bishkek. Be prepared for a diet heavy on preserved foods, such as pickled vegetables and dried fruits.
Hospitality and Food
In Kyrgyzstan, food is a symbol of hospitality. Visitors are often greeted with a spread of bread, meat, and tea. Refusing an offer of food is considered impolite, so come hungry and be prepared to indulge.
Culture:
Nomadic Traditions
Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic heritage is still evident in its modern culture. Many families continue to practice transhumance, moving seasonally between summer and winter pastures. This tradition has instilled a deep respect for nature and a strong sense of community.
Hospitality
Kyrgyz hospitality is legendary. Visitors are greeted with a warm smile, a firm handshake, and a traditional meal. The concept of “guest is God” is deeply ingrained in Kyrgyz culture, ensuring that visitors feel welcome and respected.
Festivals and Celebrations
Kyrgyzstan’s festivals are a kaleidoscope of color, music, and dance. The annual World Nomad Games showcase traditional sports like kok-boru (horse polo) and kyrgyz kurosh (wrestling). The Osh Festival celebrates the country’s cultural diversity with music, dance, and theater performances.
Music and Dance
Traditional Kyrgyz music features instruments like the komuz (a three-stringed lute) and the kui (a bowed string instrument). Dance is an integral part of Kyrgyz culture, with the traditional ” Kara Jorgo” dance being a highlight of any celebration.
Art and Craftsmanship
Kyrgyz artisans are renowned for their expertise in felt-making, woodcarving, and metalwork. The country’s vibrant textiles, adorned with intricate patterns and designs, are a testament to its rich cultural heritage.
Cuisine
Kyrgyz cuisine is a hearty blend of meat, bread, and noodles. Beshbarmak (noodle dish served with horse meat), kuyrdak (boiled meat), and shashlik (skewers) are staples of the Kyrgyz diet.
Family and Community
Family is the cornerstone of Kyrgyz society. Respect for elders and tradition is deeply ingrained, with many families living in close-knit communities.
Education and Literature
Education is highly valued in Kyrgyz culture, with a strong emphasis on literature and poetry. The country has a rich literary heritage, with famous poets like Toktogul Satylganov and Kasym Tynystanov.
Accommodations:
Bishkek:
- Best Budget: Friendship Hostel (dorms from $5)
- Best Mid-Range: Bishkek Hostel (privates from $20)
- Best Luxury: Supara Chunkurchak (privates from $50)
- Best for Solo Travelers: Nomad’s House (dorms from $8)
- Best for Couples: Bishkek Boutique Hotel (privates from $40)
Lake Issyk-Kul:
- Best Budget: Karakol Hostel (dorms from $10)
- Best Mid-Range: Issyk-Kul Hostel (privates from $30)
- Best Luxury: Raduga Resort (privates from $80)
- Best for Families: Cholpon-Ata Guest House (privates from $35)
- Best for Adventure Seekers: Lake Issyk-Kul Campground (tents from $15)
Karakol:
- Best Budget: Karakol Guest House (dorms from $8)
- Best Mid-Range: Altyn Arashan Hostel (privates from $25)
- Best Luxury: Karakol Resort (privates from $60)
- Best for Foodies: Karakol Culinary Hostel (dorms from $12)
- Best for Nature Lovers: Jeti Oguz Eco-Lodge (privates from $30)
Osh:
- Best Budget: Osh Guest House (dorms from $6)
- Best Mid-Range: Osh Hostel (privates from $20)
- Best Luxury: Sunrise Hotel (privates from $40)
- Best for History Buffs: Osh Historical Hostel (dorms from $10)
- Best for Shopping: Osh Bazaar Guest House (privates from $25)
Naryn:
- Best Budget: Naryn Hostel (dorms from $5)
- Best Mid-Range: Khan Tengri Hostel (privates from $18)
- Best Luxury: Naryn Resort (privates from $35)
- Best for Trekking: Naryn Trekking Lodge (privates from $30)
- Best for Relaxation: Naryn River Guest House (privates from $25)
Pamir Mountains:
- Best Budget: Murghab Hostel (dorms from $8)
- Best Mid-Range: Pamir Hostel (privates from $25)
- Best Luxury: Pamir Resort (privates from $50)
- Best for Adventure Seekers: Pamir Mountains Campground (tents from $20)
- Best for Scenic Views: Pamir Viewpoint Guest House (privates from $35)
Nightlife:
Bishkek:
- Bars:
- Sierra Bar: Cozy spot for craft beers and live music
- The Pub: Classic British-style pub with a wide selection of beers
- Bar 360: Rooftop bar with stunning city views
- Clubs:
- Decadence Club: Upscale club with international DJs
- Zona Club: Popular spot for local and international music
- Millennium Club: Dance the night away with themed parties
- Party Areas:
- Erkindik Boulevard: Lively street with bars, clubs, and cafes
- Chuy Avenue: Popular spot for nightlife and dining
Lake Issyk-Kul:
- Bars:
- Kara-Oi Bar: Beachside bar with stunning lake views
- Cholpon-Ata Bar: Cozy spot for drinks and live music
- Clubs:
- Issyk-Kul Club: Popular spot for local and international music
- Party Areas:
- Cholpon-Ata Beach: Vibrant beach parties during summer
Karakol:
- Bars:
- Karven Four Bar: Cozy spot for drinks and live music
- Duet Bar: Intimate bar with a wide selection of cocktails
- Clubs:
- Karakol Club: Popular spot for local and international music
- Party Areas:
- Karakol Downtown: Lively area with bars, clubs, and cafes
Osh:
- Bars:
- Osh Bar: Cozy spot for drinks and live music
- Sulaiman Too Bar: Rooftop bar with stunning city views
- Clubs:
- Osh Club: Popular spot for local and international music
- Party Areas:
- Osh Bazaar: Lively area with bars, clubs, and cafes
Backpacking Kyrgyzstan costs:
Daily Budget:
- Accommodation: $3-5 (hostel dorm or homestay)
- Food: $5-10 (street food, markets, and cooking own meals)
- Transportation: $5-10 (marshrutkas, taxis, and hitchhiking)
- Total: $13-25 per day
Weekly Budget:
- Accommodation: $21-35 (avg. $3-5 per day)
- Food: $35-70 (avg. $5-10 per day)
- Transportation: $35-70 (avg. $5-10 per day)
- Total: $91-175 per week
Average Costs:
- Meal at a local market: $1-3
- Marshrutka ride: $1-5
- Hostel dorm: $3-5
- Homestay: $5-10
