The Switzerland of Central Asia

Kyrgyzstan is often called the Switzerland of Central Asia, and for good reason. Natural beauty, dramatic mountain landscapes, and a deep sense of authenticity define Kyrgyzstan.

Surrounded by Kazakhstan, China, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country.

The name Kyrgyz means “forty tribes,” a reference to a legend in which the epic hero Manas united forty clans. to defend the land against invaders.

This spirit of unity, resilience, and freedom still lives on today through the country’s nomadic traditions and way of life.

So why is Kyrgyzstan becoming a top travel destination?

Because it offers what many modern travelers seek but rarely find: untouched nature, living nomadic culture, and real adventure.

From horseback riding to staying in yurts, hiking mountain trails, and exploring local markets. Kyrgyzstan delivers experiences that feel raw, genuine, and human.

Fun & Sun travel experts gathered the best things to do in Kyrgyzstan to help you explore this remarkable destination.

This guide will take you through the country's must-see: landscapes, cultural experiences, and unforgettable adventures.

Reading Recommendation: [Best Time to Visit Kyrgyzstan - Monthly Guide]

Things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Travelers often use Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, as the starting point for their tour.

Unlike the mountains and nomadic landscapes of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek offers a unique contrast. A blend of Soviet-era architecture, modern city life, leafy parks, and cultural landmarks.

Bishkek is a place where you can dive into Kyrgyz history, enjoy local food, and stroll through Soviet boulevards.

Let's discover the best things to do in Bishkek and why the city deserves more than a brief stop on your Kyrgyzstan itinerary.

1. Explore Ala-Too Square

Ala-Too Square is the main square of Kyrgyzstan and the symbolic heart of Bishkek.

The country hosts its most important national celebrations, festivals, and public events there.

At the center of the square stands the statue of Manas, the legendary hero of Kyrgyzstan. The monument reflects national pride and the deep-rooted history of the Kyrgyz people.

A day on Ala-Too Square will make you root deeper in the Kyrgyz culture.

From both Kyrgyz legends and everyday modern life, Ala-Too Square is an essential stop for Bishkek visitors.

2. Visit Osh Bazaar

If you want a true local experience, Osh Bazaar should be a priority on your list of things to do in Bishkek.

A 40-minute walk from Ala-Too Square, this vivid market is one of the largest and most authentic bazaars in Kyrgyzstan.

At Osh Bazaar, you’ll find everything from:

Clothes, souvenirs, spices, dried fruits, and indeed anything. The bazaar also has a gold-selling area and several currency exchange points.

Pro Tip:

The bazaar is massive. Plan at least half a day to explore in comfort without rushing.

For couples and nostalgia seekers. Osh Bazaar offers the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and take a piece of Kyrgyzstan home with you.

3. Walk Through Panfilov Park

Named after Soviet leader Ivan Panfilov, Panfilov Park is a popular green space near the city center. Families, couples, and travelers seeking relaxation after sightseeing prefer this spot.

The park features amusement rides, fountains, cafes, and shaded walking paths.

It’s especially lively in the evenings and on weekends.

Pro Tip:

Ride the Ferris wheel at sunset for panoramic views of Bishkek with the Tien Shan Mountains rising in the distance.

4. Discover the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum of Kyrgyzstan is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s past.

Located near Ala-Too Square, the museum displays Kyrgyz history from ancient times to the modern era.

The museum extends across 5 floors. The displays include ancient pottery, coins, clothes, weapons, jewelry, and nomadic artifacts.

Entrance fee: around 200 Kyrgyz soms.

Pro Tip:

Allow at least two hours to explore the main sections without rushing.

5. Ala-Archa National Park (Bishkek’s Backyard)

Ala-Archa National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Bishkek and a highlight of any Kyrgyzstan trip.

Only takes a short drive from the city.

The park offers breathtaking alpine scenery, frozen rivers, and stunning views of the Tien Shan Mountains.

Whether you’re planning a hike, a scenic walk, or a relaxed picnic, Ala-Archa delivers an unforgettable nature experience.

The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including ibex, argali sheep, lynx, foxes, and the elusive snow leopard.

With more than 800 plant species, 40 animal species, and 160 bird species.

Ala-Archa also offers over 150 hiking routes suitable for different seasons and fitness levels.

6. Enjoy a Traditional Kyrgyz Dinner

No visit to Bishkek is complete without trying traditional Kyrgyz cuisine.

The national dish, Beshbarmak, consists of boiled meat (usually lamb, beef, or horse meat) served with wide noodles and onions in broth.

It’s eaten by hand as a tradition, which explains the name “beshbarmak,” meaning five fingers.

Other dishes to try during your Kyrgyzstan holiday include:

Manti (steamed dumplings)

Lagman (hand-pulled noodle soup)

Shorpo (lamb soup)

Samsa (baked pastries)

7. Visit Victory Square

Victory Square is one of Bishkek’s most moving landmarks. At its center stands a powerful monument formed by three red arches that resemble Tynduk.

This Tynduk is also known as the circular crown of a traditional Kyrgyz yurt.

Beneath the arches is a statue of a woman called the Mother of Kyrgyzstan.

Symbolizing all mothers who waited for their sons during World War II. The square is a place of reflection and remembrance, and the atmosphere in the evening is amazing.

8. Bishkek Central Mosque

Bishkek Central Mosque is one of the most visited religious landmarks in Kyrgyzstan. Its grand scale, domes, and complex patterns create a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.

As you enter the courtyard, the symmetry of the arches and the calm color immediately hook your eye.

Whether you visit during the day or at night, the mosque offers a vivid experience that showcases another side of Bishkek.

9. Dordoy Bazaar

Dordoy Bazaar is the largest open-air market in Kyrgyzstan and one of the biggest in Central Asia. It operates as a small city, with endless rows of shipping containers turned into shops.

You’ll find everything here, from clothing and electronics to household goods and wholesale items.

Reading Recommendation: [Best Places to Visit in Kyrgyzstan + More Activities (2025 Edition)]

Things to Do in Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan

The Pearl of Central Asia

Often called the Pearl of Central Asia, Issyk-Kul Lake is the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan and one of the biggest alpine lakes in the world.

Northern Tien Shan Mountains, Issyk-Kul, is a mix of crystal-clear water, snow peaks, canyons, and nomadic life.

Issyk-Kul is also known as the “Hot Lake” because it never freezes, even during harsh winters.

This phenomenon, caused by its depth, and mild salinity, has amazed scientists and travelers for centuries.

From beach-style resorts and charming landscapes to cultural villages and outdoor adventures.

Issyk-Kul is a highlight of any Kyrgyzstan itinerary.

1. Cholpon-Ata Resort Town

Cholpon-Ata sits on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake and is the region’s most popular resort town.

For decades, it has attracted visitors from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Siberia, and Russia.

Cholpon-Ata offers a beach-style holiday experience unlike anywhere else in Central Asia.

It combines lakefront relaxation with a Soviet-era resort atmosphere and lively summer events.

Things to do in Cholpon-Ata include:

Relaxing on Issyk-Kul’s sandy beaches

Visiting the Cholpon-Ata Hippodrome for horse races

Exploring the Open-Air Petroglyph Museum, home to ancient rock carvings

Attending cultural festivals and events such as the World Nomad Games

Cholpon-Ata is the heart of Issyk-Kul tourism and a must-visit stop for travelers seeking relaxation.

2. Fairytale Canyon (Skazka Canyon)

Fairytale Canyon, also known as Skazka Canyon, is one of the most vivid and striking natural attractions near Issyk-Kul Lake. Wind shaped the canyon's red and orange rock formations.

Unlike Kyrgyzstan’s typical alpine scenery, Fairytale Canyon offers a surreal landscape that feels out of this world.

Things to do at Fairytale Canyon:

Hiking and exploration along marked trails (1.5 to 4 hours)

Photography, especially during sunrise or sunset, when colors intensify

Viewpoints overlooking the canyon and Issyk-Kul Lake

Visiting small souvenir stands and learning about nearby nomadic life

It’s a short, easy excursion and one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Kyrgyzstan.

3. Explore Karakol

Karakol is the cultural and adventure hub of the Issyk-Kul region.

Located near the eastern shore of the lake, the town serves as a base for mountain trekking, skiing, and cultural exploration.

Highlights in Karakol include:

The Dungan Mosque, built without nails

The Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Church

Local markets and cafes offering traditional Kyrgyz and Dungan cuisine

Active travelers favor Karakol in Kyrgyzstan as a stop because it offers one of the most famous trekking routes and alpine valleys.

4. Barskoon Gorge Waterfalls & Off-road Adventure

Lush valleys, pine forests, and dramatic waterfalls cascading from the mountains create Barksoon Gorge's beauty.

The area offers a perfect mix of nature and adventure.

Visitors can:

Hike to scenic waterfalls

Join off-road 4x4 adventures through mountain tracks

Enjoy panoramic viewpoints overlooking Issyk-Kul

Barskoon is ideal for travelers who want to experience Kyrgyzstan’s wild landscapes without long treks.

5. Jeti-Ögüz Gorge and the “Seven Bulls” Viewpoint

Jeti-Ögüz Gorge is famous for its striking red sandstone cliffs known as the “Seven Bulls”. According to local legend, the rocks represent seven powerful bulls turned to stone.

The gorge offers:

Short hikes through green valleys.

Horseback riding opportunities.

Scenic viewpoints perfect for photography.

It’s one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Kyrgyzstan and a favorite stop on Issyk-Kul tours.

6. Eagle Hunting Demonstration near Bokonbayevo

One of the unique cultural experiences in Issyk-Kul is eagle hunting near the village of Bokonbayevo.

Your host, a skilled berkutchi (eagle hunter), introduces you to the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles.

You'll learn how people train eagles, how they hunt, and how generations have passed down this practice.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try archery, often leading to laughs and unforgettable moments.

No Issyk-Kul itinerary is complete without this experience. It’s one of the most authentic and memorable things to do in Kyrgyzstan.

Trivial Fact:

Nomadic tribes in Central Asia have practiced eagle hunting, known as berkutchi, for thousands of years.

Other Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan

Beyond Bishkek and Issyk-Kul.

Kyrgyzstan opens onto vast highlands, remote lakes, ancient forests, and dramatic mountain passes. These experiences reveal the country’s true soul, making Kyrgyzstan one of Central Asia’s top destinations for tourism.

1. Song-Kul Lake (Son-Köl Lake)

The Soul of Kyrgyzstan

Song-Kul Lake is often described as the image travelers picture when they imagine Kyrgyzstan for the first time.

Located high in the Tien Shan Mountains, this remote alpine lake sits at over 3,000 meters above sea level and feels untouched by time.

In summer, wide green pastures surround the lake, dotted with grazing horses and traditional yurt camps.

Couples, solo travelers, and adventure seekers come here to disconnect from modern life. Plus experience authentic nomadic hospitality.

At Song-Kul, you can:

Stay overnight in traditional yurts

Enjoy home-cooked Kyrgyz meals prepared by local families

Ride horses across open plateaus

Watch unforgettable sunsets and star-filled night skies

While some travelers stay in Chaek town, the real magic happens at the yurt camps.

Because it's built around the lake during July and August. offers the perfect summer holiday and provides a romantic experience for nature geeks.

Pro Tip:

Do not drink water from the lake. Always boil it first.

2. Arslanbob Walnut Forest

The Arslanbob Walnut Forest is one of the oldest and largest walnut forests in the world, with trees that are over 500 years old.

This place blends the sounds of nature with the whispers of legend and the chatter of village life.

Many stories surround the forest’s origins.

One legend claims Alexander the Great brought walnuts to Europe from this region. Another says the seeds were a gift from heaven. Some even believe the wood was once used in Rolls-Royce interiors.

Beyond legends, Arslanbob offers a rare cultural experience.

In late October, locals gather for the annual walnut harvest, a tradition repeated for centuries. Families spend days in the forest, sharing meals, tea, and stories under towering trees.

Life here is simple.

By staying with a local family, visitors can understand the Kyrgyz culture and tradition.

3. Lenin Peak (Lenin Chokusu)

For adventure seekers, Lenin Peak, also known as Lenin Chokusu, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyrgyzstan.

Rising to over 7,100 meters, it attracts climbers from around the world.

Even if you’re not planning to summit, the journey to Traveler’s Pass offers spectacular views of glaciers tumbling down massive slopes.

Many travelers say the moment they first see Lenin Peak up close is unforgettable. Lenin Peak attracts tourists who want to hike, as one of the "easiest" peaks to climb.

4. Chatyr-Köl Lake

The Celestial Lake

Chatyr-Köl Lake lies between the At-Bashy and Torugart-Too mountain ranges at an altitude of 3,350 meters.

Its name translates to “Celestial Lake, and the scenery lives up to that title.

This vast alpine lake covers about 180 square kilometers and reflects snow-capped mountains in its calm blue waters.

Travelers can explore the area on foot or horseback, enjoying peaceful landscapes far from crowds.

Chatyr-Köl feels quiet and untouched. Perfect for travelers seeking solitude and high-mountain beauty.

Pro Tip:

Chatyr-Köl is in the border zone. Authorities demand a special border permit to visit and stay overnight.

5. Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve

Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve is one of Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful yet lesser-known natural areas.

The reserve is home to six glacial lakes, rolling hills, forests, and rugged cliffs.

As you approach the main lake, the landscape opens into a stunning panorama backed by steep rock walls and cascading waterfalls. Even in summer, the lake remains cold.

Things to do in Sary-Chelek include:

Hiking the 11 km loop trail around smaller lakes

Swimming (for the brave)

Birdwatching and nature photography

Enjoying peaceful views away from tourist crowds

While Sary-Chelek is popular with locals from Jalalabad, it remains a hidden gem for international travelers.

6. Chunkurchak Gorge

Chunkurchak Gorge in Bishkek offers rock formations, green valleys, and activities.

In summer, visitors hike, picnic, and explore mountain trails. In winter, the gorge transforms into a popular ski and snow recreation area.

Its accessibility makes it a favorite weekend escape for both locals and travelers.

Chunkurchak Gorge is ideal if you want a taste of Kyrgyzstan’s mountain landscapes without traveling far from the capital.

Final thought of Kyrgyzstan 

Kyrgyzstan is one of Central Asia’s most rewarding destinations for travelers who want:

(mountain lakes, nomadic culture, authenticity, and real adventure.)

From Bishkek and Ala-Archa to Issyk-Kul and Song-Kul. Kyrgyzstan delivers unforgettable scenery and authentic experiences without the crowds.

If you’re building your list of the best things to do in Kyrgyzstan, start with nature, add culture, and leave room for surprise.

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