If you're looking to travel outside the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, I highly recommend you take a trip to Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan and often referred to as the "capital of the south". It is one of Central Asia's oldest cities, with a history spanning more than 3000 years, and is famously home to the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, the only World Heritage Site located in Kyrgyzstan.
Osh is located close to the border of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, so if you are looking to travel to Uzbekistan, spending a day in Osh can be part of your itinerary.
WHY VISIT OSH, KYRGYZSTAN
Delicious food and cuisine
Osh, Kyrgyzstan has a reputation for having delicious food. The city's diverse population, including Kyrgyz, Uzbeks, Tajiks, and Russians has contributed to a vibrant food culture that offers a unique blend of flavors and cooking techniques. That makes Osh a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts eager to explore Central Asian cuisine.
I recommend you eat the following dishes:
Plov: One of the most iconic dishes, a flavorful rice dish cooked with lamb, carrots, onions, and a variety of spices.
Lagman: Hand-pulled noodles with meat and vegetables. This can be either served in a soup or dry.
Samsa: A type of savory pastry filled with meat, onions and spices. They are baked in tandoor ovens, giving them a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful filling. These are a popular street food and you can find them being sold by vendors throughout the city.
During the summer, you should eat as much produce, fruits, especially watermelon as much as possible. It is locally grown and they are usually delivered to Bishkek to sell in bazaars.
Affordable prices and costs
Osh is often more cheap and affordable than Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. I noticed the cost of living and prices for accommodation and meals to be lower in Osh than in Bishkek. Osh is an attractive destination if you're a budget-conscious traveler, seeking an economical yet enriching travel experience.
Significant landmarks
One of the major landmarks in Osh is the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds great cultural and historical significance. At this sacred site, you can explore its ancient mosques, shrines, and petroglyphs, which offer a glimpse into the Osh's rich religious and spiritual heritage. You'll also get breathtaking panoramic views of the city, and surrounding landscapes, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
HOW TO TRAVEL FROM BISHKEK TO OSH, KYRGYZSTAN
When traveling from Bishkek to Osh, you should consider the optimal travel period, the variety of transportation methods available, and the range of accommodation options to best suit your needs.
Plane
Traveling from Bishkek to Osh, Kyrgyzstan by plane is the quickest option, with a flight time of approximately 40 minutes. There are daily flights available from the Kyrgyz domestic airline called TezJet Airlines. As of December 27, 2023, a one-way flight from Bishkek to Osh costs 3,850 Kyrgyz soms which is equivalent to approximately USD 44.
Car
Another option to travel from Bishkek to Osh is driving by car vehicle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 620 kilometers, and the route will take you from the Chuy Valley in the north to the south, providing you with stunning views of towering mountains, rolling hills, and flowy rivers along the way. However, the driving time is about 10 to 12 hours via the M41 highway.
If you're looking to rent a car, I highly recommend you to read my other blog post where I share my experience of renting a vehicle and the car rental companies I recommend. The road conditions can vary from well-maintained roads to mountainous terrain so I highly recommend you to be cautious.
Bus
Buses depart daily from the Zapadnyy Avtovokzal bus station and you can review their website to look at their schedule and costs. This is more of an economical option and the journey can take around 12 to 14 hours.
Visiting Osh, Kyrgyzstan will be a way for you to see the natural beauty and cultural richness of this Central Asian country. Whether by air, or road, there are several convenient and affordable options for making this journey. You can explore the scenic landscape and the journey is sure to create lasting memories. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, you can look forward to an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Kyrgyzstan.
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