Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Overview & Getting There
Issyk-Kul, the world's second greatest saline lake and eight deepest lake, sits at over 1,600 meters above sea level, surrounded by snowy peaks of the Tian Shan mountains. Its name translates to “warm lake” and due to its high salinity, it rarely if ever freezes. For centuries, it has been a crossroads for nomads, traders, and travelers.
Getting there: From Bishkek, it’s about a 5–6 hour drive to Karakol, the southern lakeside hub. Marshrutkas (minibuses) leave regularly from the western bus station in Bishkek, or you can arrange a private car or car rental.
Getting there: From Bishkek, it’s about a 5–6 hour drive to Karakol, the southern lakeside hub. Marshrutkas (minibuses) leave regularly from the western bus station in Bishkek, or you can arrange a private car or car rental.
A mosque in the Barskoon Valley
A monument to Gagarin in the Barskoon Valley
Horse-riding near Issyk-Kul
A young local boy riding his horse in Jeti-Ögüz
Jeti-Ögüz cliffs
Barskoon Valley
Tips for Activities
- Try horseback riding with local guides who will take you through valleys and up mountain trails
- Take a refreshing swim in the clean waters of the Issyk-Kul lake
- Visit the famous red rock formation Jeti-Ögüz (it translates to 'seven bulls')
- Go hiking in the scenic Barskoon Valley nearby and check out the monument to Gagarin, for more ideas, check out GetYourGuide
- Drive up to the Barskoon pass at nearly 4000m above sea level
- Eat fresh sprout in a yurt at Forel’ Balykchy
Where to Stay / Practical Tips
We stayed near Karakol (on the eastern edge of the lake) in the Agat Yurt camp, which was a 5/5 experience, the host cooked a traditional dinner for us and treated us with some vodka. On the second night, we tried Otel Issyk Kul for an authentic Soviet hotel experience. This can be only recommended for those willing to overlook some discomfort and cleanliness issues in exchange for the unique aesthetic.
If you're staying in Karakol and feel like socializing and having a drink, definitely pay a visit to the cozy The Hut travelers' pub.
If you're staying in Karakol and feel like socializing and having a drink, definitely pay a visit to the cozy The Hut travelers' pub.
Where to Get 35mm Film
If you're starting your trip in Bishkek, stop by Kult.lab before heading to Issyk-Kul to get your analog needs sorted.
