Train connections in Kyrgyzstan
In Kyrgyzstan, the development of the railway network began during the Soviet period, when railways were being built to connect different cities across the country. However, due to the mountainous and rugged landscape, it is not possible to travel by train everywhere. In some remote areas, rail travel is limited.
One of the few popular routes is the train that connects Bishkek with the city of Balykchy, located in the Issyk-Kul region, right at the edge of the famous Issyk-Kul Lake. The journey by train takes about five hours, while by car, the same trip can be done in three hours. Nonetheless, the train offers not just convenience but also an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way. Some trains offer VIP carriages with panoramic windows, allowing travelers to take in the picturesque views of Kyrgyzstan’s nature in comfort.
However, it’s important to note that the railway network in Kyrgyzstan does not cover all parts of the country, and if you're planning to travel through Kyrgyzstan, trains will not always be an available or convenient means of transportation. To avoid inconveniences, it is recommended to plan your route in advance and book your transport ahead of time — especially if you want to visit more remote regions.
Thus, trains in Kyrgyzstan offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel along certain routes, but for a comprehensive journey across the country, it’s better to combine different modes of transport.
One of the few popular routes is the train that connects Bishkek with the city of Balykchy, located in the Issyk-Kul region, right at the edge of the famous Issyk-Kul Lake. The journey by train takes about five hours, while by car, the same trip can be done in three hours. Nonetheless, the train offers not just convenience but also an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way. Some trains offer VIP carriages with panoramic windows, allowing travelers to take in the picturesque views of Kyrgyzstan’s nature in comfort.
However, it’s important to note that the railway network in Kyrgyzstan does not cover all parts of the country, and if you're planning to travel through Kyrgyzstan, trains will not always be an available or convenient means of transportation. To avoid inconveniences, it is recommended to plan your route in advance and book your transport ahead of time — especially if you want to visit more remote regions.
Thus, trains in Kyrgyzstan offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel along certain routes, but for a comprehensive journey across the country, it’s better to combine different modes of transport.