You are in the Heart of Issyk-Kul

The water here is so clear, it feels like the lake has memorized the sky. Issyk-Kul doesn’t reveal its treasures right away: first come the sound of waves and the warmth of the sand, then the mountain gorges, canyons, and hot springs – and only later, sea buckthorn tea at sunset and the fairy tales tucked away in yurts. Just follow the route, and you’ll understand what it means to breathe in summer with your whole heart.

What to Do?

TOP activities in Cholpon-Ata (the main Issyk‑Kul resort) and surroundings

1. Relax at one of the many sanatoriums or guesthouses.

2. Enjoy the beaches and crystal-clear lake water – “Golden Sands” beach is among the best.

3. Take a yacht or motorboat, SUP, or kayak ride on the lake.

4. Go fishing and try to catch the big one.

5. Have family fun in Bosteri: the country’s tallest Ferris wheel (76 m), roller coasters, and a small water park.

6. Visit the Chingiz Aitmatov–named cultural center “Rukh Ordo” – 10 mini open-air museums in one.

7. Snap photos on the pier shaped like a komuz (the national musical instrument).

8. See ancient petroglyphs at the Rock Art Museum (Stone Garden).

9. Take a night tour through Cholpon‑Ata’s narrow streets under a sky full of stars.

10. Attend a horse race at the hippodrome built for the World Nomad Games.

11. Swim in the healing thermal waters of the Tash‑Suu or Ak‑Bermet springs.

12. Enjoy nature in Grigorievskoe, Semenovskoe, or Chong‑Ak‑Suu gorges.

13. Ride horses in the mountains of Grigoriev Gorge.

14. Relax at Upper Lake (Verkhnee) surrounded by forests and alpine meadows.

15. Buy local treats at the Bosteri bazaar.

16. Tour the entire Issyk‑Kul in one day – book a guided excursion with transport.

TOP Activities in Karakol (~200 km from the airport)

17. Wander among “martian landscapes” of stone dragons and castles in the “Fairy Tale” canyon.

18. See Issyk‑Kul from above by paragliding.

19. Marvel at the beauty of Jeti‑Oguz Gorge with its red cliffs, “Broken Heart” rock, and 50 m “Maiden’s Tears” waterfall.

20. For peace and pure nature, visit Altyn‑Arashan Gorge with yurts, hot springs, and alpine meadows.

What to Try

- Beshbarmak;
- Pilaf;
- Issyk‑Kul trout;
- Kattama (Kyrgyz layered flatbread);
- “Sunset of Issyk‑Kul” tea drink;

What to Bring Back

- Sea buckthorn products: teas, berries with honey;
- Blackcurrant jam;
- Honey;
- Dried herbs;
- Felt items – traditional shoes.