Bishkek city. Where to go? Where and what to eat and what to do?

Bishkek was founded in 1878 and that time lived about 1 million people.

The city is rich in the legacy of previous eras:
  • historical museums;
  • buildings that have survived from the time of the Red Army;
  • monuments to the soldiers of the Great Patriotic War;
  • buildings of Soviet architecture.

At the same time, the unique Eastern Asian spirit is preserved here in the long rows of markets with Eastern sweets and handicrafts.

The city is interesting for:
  • tourists studying the history of Central Asia and/or the Soviet era;
  • trading interests. The modern Dordoi market attracts with the cheapness of goods from Chinese manufacturers, local sewing workshops and handicraft souvenirs;
  • students from neighboring CIS countries, India and Pakistan;
  • and of course gourmets, because this is a paradise for eaters. All kinds of cuisines and trends are popular in the city.

The location is suitable for visiting by everyone, as there is all the tourist infrastructure:

  • air traffic;
  • railway communication;
  • highways;
  • abundance of large, medium and small hotels of any format;
  • close proximity to many historical and natural locations;
  • many entertainment events and activities;
  • accessibility of protected areas;
  • opportunity to go to the nearby mountains and/or lakes;
  • observation natural and man-made sites;
  • plenty for photos.

Another advantage is the all-season. For example,

  • in winter it attracts lovers of winter city walks and mountaineering for a temporary stop,
  • in spring - from connoisseurs of awakening nature to rock climbers for further advancement,
  • in summer - followers of active collective and/or family recreation,
  • autumn beckons with iridescent colors of fire and spruce, white clouds and the smell of damp earth.

What can you see in Bishkek city?


Victory Square

Victory Square in Bishkek is a historical and symbolic square that commemorates the victory of the Soviet Union in World War II. This square is an important place in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, where various events and celebrations are held dedicated to Victory Day, which is celebrated on May 9. Victory Square is decorated with various memorials and monuments, including a stele with the inscription "Victory" and fountains. The main symbol of this square is the eternal flame, which burns in memory of the fallen Soviet soldiers and citizens during the war. Every year on Victory Day, this square hosts solemn ceremonies, rallies, and parades, gathering many people, veterans, and families of fallen soldiers.


Oak park

Oak Park is a picturesque place in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, which is famous for its natural beauty and unique forest ensemble. The name "Oak Park" comes from the many oak trees that grow in this green oasis. The park provides an excellent opportunity for city residents and visitors to enjoy nature, spend active time in the fresh air and stroll along picturesque alleys.


National museum

The National Museum in Bishkek is an important cultural institution, one of the leading museums in the country and central to the preservation and promotion of Kyrgyz history and culture. The museum is located in the historical center of the capital and is an important cultural resource for citizens and tourists. The National Museum displays an extensive collection of archaeological finds, ethnographic exhibits, artworks and artifacts reflecting the history and culture of Kyrgyzstan from ancient times to the present day.


Ala-Too Square

Ala-Too Square is one of the most famous and central squares in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek. The name "Ala-Too" translates as "Motley Mountain", which symbolizes the richness and beauty of nature in this country. Ala-Too Square is an important public space where various events, holidays and rallies take place. It often becomes a gathering place for citizens and tourists, especially during the celebration of national and state holidays, including Independence Day and New Year.


Philharmonic

The Philharmonic offers a variety of musical and cultural events, including classical music concerts, folk performances, opera performances, and choral concerts. It also supports and develops young musicians and artists, providing a venue for their performances and creative development. On the grounds, you can find several significant monuments and architectural landmarks.

One such monument is the Manas Monument, a legendary epic hero and national symbol of Kyrgyzstan. This monument is a work of art and a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage.

In addition to the Manas Monument, in the square in front of the Philharmonic, you will also find a monument to the "manaschy" - those who transmit and preserve the epic of Manas in the history and culture of the country. This monument recognizes the importance of the manaschy in preserving and transmitting Kyrgyz cultural history.


Osh Bazar

The Osh market has a variety of goods and products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, clothing, footwear, home appliances, household goods, handicrafts and much more. It is the place to find almost everything you might need.

Places where you can eat delicious food in Bishkek and tips for choosing dishes in Bishkek:


If you are in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, and are experiencing Kyrgyz culture for the first time, one of the dishes you must try is "beshbarmak". Beshbarmak is a dish made from fresh noodles made from flour and water, meat and onions. The name "beshbarmak" translates as "five fingers", a reference to the fact that these noodles are traditionally eaten with the hands. The dish is served on a large platter, where the noodles are placed on top, and then pieces of meat and onions are placed on top.


The second dish we can recommend is Kuurdak. This dish is meat, usually lamb or beef, which is fried with onions and spices until it acquires a rich taste and aroma.


Boorsok is a traditional pastry of the peoples of Central Asia. Boorsok is a must-have treat in every Kyrgyz family. Boorsok is served with tea, before main courses, with kumys (horse milk), as an appetizer or with shorpo (soup). Slices of dough are rolled out and fried in oil for 20-30 seconds, then transferred from the cauldron to a sieve or colander to properly drain excess oil. This traditional "decorated" on the table - because boorsoks are presented on the dastarkhan (tablecloth) during every major holiday.


Laghman is a Central Asian dish that has a unique taste and is one of the popular dishes in the region. The dish can be described as a cross between noodles with sauce and soup, and it has its own characteristics. The basis of lagman is long, flat noodles, often handmade and with a history dating back hundreds of years. These noodles give the dish its texture and unique flavor. The noodles are then served with a rich sauce that includes various ingredients such as meat (usually lamb or beef), vegetables (carrots, onions, peppers), spices and various sauces. This creates a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the noodles and gives the dish its characteristic taste.


Manty - consists of a simple but delicious combination of ingredients. The traditional manti filling usually includes finely minced meat, such as beef or lamb, mixed with finely chopped onions and various seasonings. The meat is often seasoned with spices such as black pepper, cumin and paprika to give it a rich, full-bodied flavor. Some regional variations may also include garlic or other spices.


Based on our recommendations, we can recommend several places in Bishkek: cafe Navat, canteen Faiza, cafe Bukhara

And also restaurants: ethno complex Supara, Zerno, Frunze restaurant, restaurant Pishpek

Other places to visit in Kyrgyzstan

Kegety Gorge is a wonderful place near the capital of Kyrgyzstan at an altitude of 4000 m above sea level. Not a classic gorge is appreciated by tourists for its spaciousness - wide and long, about 27 km.

Within our republic's territory, there exist numerous architectural monuments, with one of the most renowned being the Burana Tower. The term "Burana" is derived from the word "monora," which means minaret. The minaret is a part of the ancient Burana settlement, situated 12 kilometers from the town of Tokmok and 80 kilometers from Bishkek. Burana Tower stands as one of the oldest structures within our republic. Its construction dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries. Originally, the minaret's height reached 40 meters, and according to some researchers, possibly 45 meters. Its upper section was crowned with a dome-shaped lantern, similar to other structures of its kind. However, due to the consequences of an earthquake that occurred around the 15th or 16th centuries, the upper portion was destroyed. As of today, the tower's height stands at 21.7 meters.

Sary Chelek is an enchanting place that captivates even the most discerning enthusiasts of flora and fauna. The most popular route leads to Lake Sary Chelek, located near the Chatkal Range at an altitude of 1940 m.

The national park Ala-Archa is a picturesque delight for the eyes, it is located nearby Bishkek, Ala-Too Kyrgyz ridges. The national park stretches at an altitude of 1600-4860m and is a favorite place of citizens and guests of the capital.

Lake Issyk-Kul - a mountain drainless lake (1610 m above sea level), included in the list of the deepest lakes in the world (698 m), located between the Tien Shan ranges. The astronauts call it the eye of the Earth for its color and shape, and the locals call it a pearl because of its framing with snowy peaks

Karakol (formerly known as Przhevalsk from 1889 to 1922 and from 1939 to 1992) is the fourth most populous city in Kyrgyzstan. It serves as the administrative center of the Issyk-Kul region. The city is located near the eastern end of Lake Issyk-Kul, approximately 150 kilometers from the Kyrgyz-Chinese border and 380 kilometers from the capital, Bishkek. Geographically, it is situated at an elevation ranging from 1690 to 1850 meters above sea level.

Tours in Kyrgyzstan
Open a beautiful gorge near Bishkek in one day
Fascinating tour with eagle hunting show
3 days
See pearl of Kyrgyzstan