Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is a vibrant city blending Soviet-era architecture, Central Asian culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Bishkek is a city engraved with cultural nuances. The vibrant and youthful atmosphere of the place is the reason why the city witnesses a massive tourist turnout every year. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or local markets, Bishkek has something for everyone! Here are the top 10 must-visit places in Bishkek:
1. Kashka Suu Ski Resort
Kashka-suu ski resort is located 2100 meters above sea level 35 km from the capital of Kyrgyzstan - Bishkek. Fresh air stunning panorama of the the Great Kyrgyz Range and the Chuy Valley great tracks and the quality of service contribute to a good winter holiday in Kyrgyzstan. There is one aerial ropeway chairlift and one ropeway trackback lift.
2. Ala-Too Square
Ala-Too Square is the heart of Kyrgyzstan and a must-see in Bishkek, surrounded by other notable landmarks of Bishkek such as the Manas Monument, the country's tallest flagpole at 45 meters, a history museum, and several government buildings. The square's name, inspired by the Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountains, translates to "colorful mountains." It's a hub for city celebrations, festivals, and public gatherings, making it a central piece among the attractions of Bishkek.
3. Kyrgyz State Historical Museum
The architectural showpiece, formerly the Lenin Museum is situated on Ala-Too Square. The museum catalogs exhibitions where a plethora of ancient artifacts are put on display such as rock paintings, accessories belonging to the Nomadic Era, Bronze Age Household Commodities, an assemblage of Turkic kurgan stelae, Ancient coins and rocks etched with runic imprints. The museum houses an all-inclusive collection of ethnographic items like leather, wool, clothing, jewelry, etc.
4. Panfilov Park Bishkek
Panfilov Park is a city memorial located near Old Square and Manas Square in Bishkek the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic. The park bears the name of the Hero of the Soviet Union and the chairman of the Military Committee of the Kirghiz SSR Ivan Panfilov. The park was made in the shape of a star when it was built.
5. Sary Chelek Biosphere Reserve
The Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve has the best environmental elements of Kyrgyzstan in one place, with a series of forests, meadows, and lakes. Central to this large biosphere reserve which is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and 160 species of bird, is the beautiful cobalt-blue lake of Sary-Chelek. The lake is surrounded by forest that turns yellow in autumn giving the lake its Kyrgyz name which translates as ‘yellow bucket’. This Biosphere reserve was established in 1959 and in 1978 it was designated as World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
6. Victory Square
The public square was established to celebrate the triumphant victory over Nazi Germany. It was constructed on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the USSR in 1984. In the heart of the square stands a statue of a woman waiting for her spouse to return from war. The square is enveloped together by three ribs of granite which symbolizes a yurt. The nucleus of the square is housed by an eternal fire.
7. Burana Tower
It is a giant minaret situated in the Chuy Valley, northern Kyrgyzstan. It is at a distance of about 80 km east of Bishkek. The remnants of the ancient city of Balasagun can be still unearthed along with a few grave markers, earthworks, three mausoleums, and a few leavings of an ancient castle. An external stairway is accessible to climb to the top.
8. Ala Archa National Park
Ala Archa National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers. Nestled in the Tien Shan Mountains, this breathtaking park offers snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, glaciers, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day trip from Bishkek or a challenging trek, Ala Archa has something for everyone!
9. Issyk Kul Lake
The endorheic lake has been crowned as the seventh deepest lake in the world. Ranked as the tenth largest lake in the world by volume, the lagoon sprawls across 6,236 square kilometers in area. Issyk-kul translates to ‘warm lake’ in Kyrgyz. The Moana is extensively surrounded by snow-capped peaks but surprisingly enough, it never freezes.
10. Osh Bazaar
Osh Bazaar is one of the largest markets in Bishkek. It is situated on the west side of the city. The market features a wide variety of food products, customary household goods, classic souvenirs, dated clothing pieces, and musical instruments. Shopaholics visiting the market are going to have the time of their lives!
