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Issyk-Kul Lake

Kyrgyzstan, Asia

Issyk-Kul Lake, the world's second-largest saline lake, is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters framed by majestic snow-capped peaks. This oasis offers a range of unique attractions, from relaxing beach resorts to vibrant local markets, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the warm mineral springs, exploring ancient petroglyphs, and savoring local cuisine. Whether you're sunbathing, hiking along scenic trails, or experiencing local culture, Issyk-Kul is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty with rich heritage.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Body of Water

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Almaty

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Issyk-Kul Lake

1. Relax on the beach

Enjoy stunning views and crystal-clear waters at the beach.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Visit the petroglyphs

Explore ancient rock carvings that tell Kyrgyz history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Hike the Ala Archa National Park

Discover breathtaking trails and stunning mountain scenery.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

4. Explore the town of Cholpon-Ata

Experience local culture, art, and lakeside attractions.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Take a boat ride

Enjoy a scenic boat tour on Issyk-Kul Lake.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Visit the Issyk-Kul State Historical-Cultural Museum

Learn about the rich history and culture of the region.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Stay in a yurt

Experience traditional nomadic life in a yurt.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1 hr

8. Go horseback riding

Explore the stunning landscapes on horseback.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

9. Try local cuisine

Taste traditional Kyrgyz dishes at local restaurants.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

10. Visit the Rukh Ordo Cultural Center

Explore a unique cultural and spiritual complex.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

11. Attend a local festival

Experience vibrant local culture and traditions.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

12. Go scuba diving

Explore the underwater beauty of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

3 hrs

13. Visit the ancient city of Balasagun

Discover historical ruins and ancient architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-7 (#118 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Som

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Kyrgyz

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Beshbarmak

Boiled meat with pasta and broth (National dish)

Laghman

Noodles with meat and vegetables

Kuurdak

Fried meat with potatoes and onions

Manti

V

Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables

Samsa

V

Savory pastry filled with meat or vegetables

Phrases to learn

English

Kyrgyz

Hello

Salamatsyzby

(Sah-lah-maht-siz-bee)

Yes/No

Ooba / Jok

(Oh-bah / Jok)

Thank you

Rakhmat

(Rahk-maht)

Excuse me

KechirdiƱiz

(Ke-chir-dee-neez)

How much?

Kancha?

(Kahn-cha)