Joy in Kyrgyzstan

5 Things to Do In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Updated: Jun 22

Is visiting Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on your travel list? You may be planning your itinerary and noticing that there's a list of things to do, whether you come in the summer or winter season. I've lived here for 1.5 years and I've curated a list of the top must-visit attractions and activities that you can do in or near the capital city. You can either hike in Ala-Archa National Park or absorb the rich history of the country but know you'll be captivated by the breathtaking landscape and delicious food. Even though Kyrgyzstan is a lesser-known travel destination, I hope this blog post will give you a general idea of things you must do in the capital.

ACTIVITIES TO DO IN BISHKEK, KYRGYZSTAN

1. Visiting Ala-Too Square

Location: Google Maps

Cost: Free

Ala-Too Square is in the heart of Bishkek, and serves as the city's central gathering place. Most importantly, the Statue of Manas is located there. Manas is a legendary warrior and holds immense importance to Kyrgyzstan and serves as a source of inspiration and the nation's ancestral roots.

I love visiting Ala-Too Square in the Spring season because you can expect to see a ton of markets and vendors that sell local and cultural goods. There is also a large park located near the square that is beautiful to walk around. In the park, you can easily find ice cream vendors that sell a cone for less than a dollar. It's also great to visit with kids because they have tons of activities such as renting quadricycles and kiddie train rides.

ala too square in bishkek, kyrgyzstan — Ala Too Square in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

2. Learn at the State History Museum

Location: Google Maps

Cost: Tickets range from 110 soms to 550 soms

This is my favorite museum to visit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. You can spend hours walking through the museum and absorbing all the exhibits about the country's rich and diverse history. It's a trove of sculptures, objects, and artifacts. Separated into different eras, you'll dive into the ancient nomadic civilizations to the Soviet era and the nation's modern development. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about significant historical events, heroic figures, and cultural practices that have shaped the country's identity.

I noticed that approximately 90% of the signage and exhibits have English translations. For the latest information, here is their website: https://historymuseum.kg/ . As of this post's publish date, they are closed on Mondays.

3. Satisfy your Cravings at the Bazaars

Visiting the bazaars here reminds me of the times I visited the markets in South Korea when I was younger. I visit my local bazaar once a week to do my grocery shopping, but visiting the bazaars offers visitors a great way to see what fruits and produce are unique to the country and are in season. You'll see a rich assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and meats. Beyond food, you'll be able to browse through textiles, fabrics, and unique crafts that reflect the local craftsmanship.

Make sure you bring cash and a folding shopping cart to make the shopping process easier. These are some bazaars you can visit:

Ortosay Bazaar (located in the Southern District of Bishkek). For directions, here is the location on Google Maps.
Osh Bazaar (located in the Northern District of Bishkek). This is the largest and most well-known bazaar in Bishkek. For directions, here is the location on Google Maps.

If you're looking to book some guided tours, here are a few options:

4 Hours Private Bishkek Food Tasting Tour

4. Explore Ala Archa National Park

Location: Google Maps

Less than an hour's drive away from Bishkek is Ala Archa National Park. It is perfect for a day trip or short excursion. It's an escape from the city, offering fresh air, a beautiful landscape, and a peaceful environment. During the warmer months, you'll be able to hike through lush forests and crystal-clear streams. You can even enjoy a nice picnic!

Known for its various hiking and trekking trails, it's suitable for all levels of experience. I've also heard that it serves as a base for mountaineering expeditions to the nearby Tian Shan mountain range. Climbing enthusiasts can conquer peaks like Peak Semenov-Tien-Shanskiy or Peak Korona.

If you're interested in booking a day trip, I found some of these options :

5. Burana Tower

A perfect day trip away from Bishkek is visiting the Burana Tower, a historic site that was once an important stop along the Silk Road. It played a significant role in the region's history and trade. The tower itself backs to the 11th century and you can climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Throughout the year, the Burana Tower site hosts various cultural events and festivals, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional music, dance, and other performances. These events provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture and traditions.

If you're interested in booking a day trip, I found some of these options: