Issyk Kul. You have probably never heard of it. But it is located in the little known Central Asian country of Kyrgyzstan, it’s the second largest alpine lake in the world and it is remarkable.

Surrounded by snowcapped mountains, it almost doesn’t seem real. For the first day, I thought I was seeing low hanging clouds all around its turquoise waters. It wasn’t until I hiked out for sunset that I noticed these fluffy clouds were actually striking peaks.

Fast fact: The largest alpine lake is Lake Titicaca

Issyk Kul Top 7

We were invited to Kyrgyzstan by US Aid to help explore some of their new trekking routes. If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination free from crowds, the Lake Issyk Kul region of Kyrgyzstan should be your next stop!

Many travelers follow the Silk Route overland and spend time exploring the north shore of the world’s second largest alpine lake. However, numerous activities await on the south shore as tourism continues to flourish.

1. Meet the Eagle Hunter

This was the top experience we sought during our visit to Kyrgyzstan, and it materialized on our final day.

While returning to Bishkek, our guide Cholpin reached out ahead to arrange a demonstration by the Salburuun Federation.

With very few eagle hunters remaining globally, witnessing them at work is essential when visiting Kyrgyzstan.

During communist rule, this tradition nearly vanished; yet, it’s reviving as the younger generation embraces the art of hunting with eagles. Events such as the World Nomad Games and the Birds of Prey Festival showcase the skills of these hunters and help restore their glory.

We had the privilege of meeting Nazuul Tan and his award-winning eagle, Kata Kuz, who demonstrated their hunting skills for us en route to Bishkek from Karakol on the south shore.

2. Skazka Canyon

Skazka Canyon undoubtedly secures the title of the most impressive rock formation site we encountered along the south shore of Issyk Kul. This enchanting canyon is especially beautiful at sunrise when it’s less crowded.

Dave and I enjoyed the morning, exploring the high lookouts and wandering through the narrow canyons.

It received the nickname “Fairytale Canyon” from a peak resembling a castle pulled straight from a Walt Disney movie.

Though visiting at sunset is recommended, we preferred sunrise. We witnessed the stunning hues of red and pink, without interruptions from other visitors, as we departed a few hours later while tour groups began to arrive.

Being there at dawn created unforgettable colors in the sky against the dramatic rock formations.

Getting There: Bus tours from Bishkek and Karakol are available. Taxis are reasonably priced, and Yurt Camps offer tours and shared mini-buses to Skazka Canyon. Inquire at your accommodation for details.

3. Manjyly-Ata Religious Site

Our guide Cholpon lacked detailed knowledge about this site, which posed challenges in finding information, but its beauty was undeniable.

From what I learned, locals believe the natural springs throughout the area possess healing properties. Bathing in these springs is said to treat various ailments.

Encouraged by Cholpon, we ventured towards the water. However, we decided to explore at our own pace, capturing photos of the stunning landscape.

Despite our efforts, we only spotted a single unimpressive spring near the trail entrance. Even our drone failed to reveal any additional water sources during our visit.

It appeared there were attempts to create pools and tubs for collecting water, but they were dry during our stay.

Whether it was the season or water diversion, we remained uncertain. Should you visit and discover flowing springs, please do share!

The landscape at Manjyly-Ata was breathtaking, and the area offered an enjoyable hiking experience. With a full day, we would have explored every inch of it. To our surprise, we had the entire site to ourselves, and the trails seemed endless.

Tip:

Manjyly-Ata serves as an active religious site of the Muslim faith. Therefore, women should bring scarves to cover their heads, while men should also ensure their heads are covered; a baseball cap suffices.

Getting There: Public transport is apparently available from Karakol, but it is quite a lengthy ride. Staying at a nearby yurt camp for a day trip to the site is advisable.

4. Barskoon Waterfall

This destination demands a full day to experience thoroughly—a day we regrettably didn’t have.

Visitors can explore three distinct waterfalls located at various elevations.

The lower falls offer the easiest hike, taking only about 20 minutes. If hiking isn’t desired, horseback riding is an option for traversing the path.

The waterfall boasts an impressive 72-meter cascade. We had a brief moment to ourselves before larger crowds arrived, but if you find some free time, hanging around is worthwhile as tour groups fluctuate throughout the trails.

We learned that the third waterfall is challenging to reach and best suited for those with climbing experience, but due to our tight schedule, we could not confirm this firsthand. Thankfully, our drone gave us an aerial perspective of all three waterfalls, and we eagerly anticipate our return someday to explore further!

5. Horse Trekking in Jyrgalan

Kyrgyzstan is renowned for its equestrian culture. If you aren’t embarking on a horse trek, I highly recommend taking at least one horseback ride. How could anyone visit Kyrgyzstan without experiencing riding at its finest?

Thinking of a horse trek in Kyrgyzstan? Consider a 3-day horse trek through Jyrgalan.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24o1jNpCh_Y[/embedyt]

We opted to hike since we already had a three-day horse trek planned for the mountains of Jyrgalan.

6. Yurt Building Demonstration

In Kyrgyzstan, you will spend many nights in yurts, especially along the south shore of Issyk Kul, where hotel infrastructure is still under development. It’s unfortunate that the transition to hotels may overshadow these traditional nomadic dwellings.

The people of Kyrgyzstan have historically led nomadic lifestyles, migrating from mountainous regions in summer to valleys in winter. Today, some farmers still embrace a nomadic way of life.

The ability to swiftly dismantle and relocate yurts is impressive, making a stop in Kyzyl-Tuu for a yurt demonstration worthwhile.

Several organizations offer demonstrations in this town, which serves as the center for yurt building.

How to arrange a yurt camp demonstration:

Our private guide and driver coordinated our yurt demonstration, but if you stay at any yurt camps along the south shore, arrangements can easily be made locally.

7. Golden Thimble Crafts Workshop

To be honest, I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about visiting a crafts workshop.

Yet, it turned out to be one of our most memorable experiences in Kyrgyzstan. Janil Baishova, the warm and welcoming owner, guided us through her center, which provides employment for local women.

This positive initiative empowers women, who traditionally are expected to remain home caring for children, to create crafts, rugs, and clothing for sale to tourists.

A notable aspect is that many women can continue their work at home while still caring for their children.

During our visit, we observed rug-making techniques and learned about plans for a forthcoming museum to showcase unique designs and ancient art pieces to the public.

8. Stay at a Yurt Camp

Staying at a yurt camp is an experience of its own. As the traditional nomadic homes of the Kyrgyz people, these camps offer a glimpse into their lifestyle. Meals are served communal style, where guests sit on the floor, enjoying traditional breads and tea.

Your accommodation consists of a tent with small cots or sleeping pads, layered with thick comforters and tent walls adorned with tapestries for warmth and insulation.

We stayed at the Almaluu Yurt Camp, which provided a truly authentic off-the-beaten-path experience. Basic amenities include outhouses and cold water for showers.

On our second night near Lake Issyk Kul, we chose the Bel Tam Seaside Yurt Camp, which had better facilities, including solar-powered showers and flushing toilets. It is situated right on the beautiful beach of Lake Issyk Kul.

Yurt camps offer horse treks, hikes, and tours around Lake Issyk Kul.

As Kyrgyzstan becomes increasingly open to tourism, we expect improvements in accommodations and facilities.

The lodgings in Kyrgyzstan remind me of those we encountered while traveling in Southeast Asia during 2000-2003.

With its emerging tourism scene, both backpackers and trekkers can expect basic yet admirable accommodations.

Independent travelers will appreciate the challenge of navigating local transport while exploring the stunning landscapes of this remarkable country.

For more information about Kyrgyzstan, visit Discover Kyrgyzstan or explore the South Shore at Lake Issyk Kul Destination South Shore

This trip was made possible by the support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (US Aid). The contents are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of US Aid or the United States government.