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Family-Friendly Itinerary for Kyrgyzstan - December 13-17, 2023

Wednesday, December 13: Arrival in Bishkek

Start your family adventure in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. In the morning, explore Ala-Too Square, a central square with monuments and fountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch in Oak Park, a beautiful green space dotted with oak trees. Spend the afternoon at the State History Museum, where you can learn about Kyrgyzstan's rich cultural heritage. In the evening, stroll along the bustling Chuy Avenue, lined with shops and cafes.

  • Ala-Too Square: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Oak Park: Free, 1-2 hours
  • State History Museum: $3 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Chuy Avenue: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • For a tasty breakfast, head to Cafe de Bishkek, known for their delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
  • For a satisfying lunch, visit Supara Ethno Complex, offering traditional Kyrgyz cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss their flavorful manty and refreshing ayran. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
  • For a memorable dinner, try Navat Restaurant, specializing in authentic Kyrgyz dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect choice for a family dinner. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Thursday, December 14: Issyk-Kul Lake

Embark on a day trip to Issyk-Kul Lake, one of the world's largest alpine lakes. Spend the morning soaking up the beautiful scenery and relaxing on the sandy beaches. After lunch, visit the Skazka Canyon, known for its colorful rock formations that resemble fairytale figures. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kyrgyz dinner at a yurt camp near the lake.

  • Issyk-Kul Lake: Free, half-day
  • Skazka Canyon: $5 per person for entrance fee, 2-3 hours
  • Yurt camp dinner: $15 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Sary-Oi Bazaar which offers a variety of local pastries and fresh fruits. The average cost for a meal is about 200 KGS per person.
  • Lunch at Yurta Cafe, a charming eatery overlooking Issyk-Kul Lake, serving delicious Kyrgyz dishes such as beshbarmak. The average cost for a meal is about 500 KGS per person.
  • For dinner, experience the authentic Kyrgyz cuisine at Jannat Resort Restaurant, offering dishes like manti and shashlik. The average cost for a meal is about 800 KGS per person.
Friday, December 15: Ala Archa National Park

Experience the natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan with a visit to Ala Archa National Park. In the morning, embark on a hike through the stunning alpine landscapes, taking in the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Afterward, visit a traditional nomadic yurt and learn about the Kyrgyz way of life. Return to Bishkek in the evening for a leisurely dinner.

  • Ala Archa National Park: $5 per person for entrance fee, half-day
  • Nomadic yurt visit: $10 per person, 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 16: Burana Tower and Cholpon-Ata

Explore the historical heritage of Kyrgyzstan by visiting the Burana Tower, a minaret from the ancient city of Balasagun. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, head to Cholpon-Ata, a resort town on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Visit the Open-Air Petroglyph Museum and marvel at the ancient rock carvings. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake.

  • Burana Tower: $2 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Open-Air Petroglyph Museum: $3 per person, 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Departure from Bishkek

Spend your last day in Bishkek exploring the local markets, such as Osh Bazaar, where you can buy traditional Kyrgyz souvenirs. Take a leisurely walk through Victory Square and admire the monuments dedicated to Kyrgyz heroes. Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.

  • Osh Bazaar: Varies by purchases, 1-2 hours
  • Victory Square: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Farewell lunch: Varies by restaurant, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off-the-beaten-path attractions and places loved by locals, consider a visit to Karakol. This charming town located on the eastern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore the Karakol Ski Base and enjoy skiing or snowboarding with your family. Visit the stunning Jeti-Oguz Gorge, known for its red rock formations shaped like seven bulls. Don't miss the opportunity to soak in Altyn Arashan's hot springs for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience amidst the snowy landscape.

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