Kyrgyzstan is a breathtaking gem of Central Asia and it used to be a vital stop on the Silk Road. If you’re travelling from India, it is ideal for travellers who have a week to spare and are seeking raw natural beauty, rich nomadic culture, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. It is often known as the “Switzerland of Central Asia” and with good reason. Expect towering mountain ranges, lush valleys, and pristine alpine lakes

Over 90% of the country is covered by mountains – this means dramatic landscapes perfect for trekking, horseback riding, and camping in yurts. The crown jewel of Kyrgyzstan’s natural wonders is Issyk-Kul Lake, the world’s second-largest alpine lake. Other must-visit destinations include the rugged beauty of Ala Archa National Park, the surreal red rock formations of Jeti-Ögüz, and the untouched wilderness of Song-Kul Lake, where travelers can experience authentic nomadic life. Kyrgyzstan is one of the few countries that have retained its nomadic traditions, with locals still practicing eagle hunting, felt-making, and yurt-building

Here is everything you need to know before you visit Kyrgyzstan – this itinerary provides the perfect combination of adventure, history, and culture Whether hiking through remote valleys, exploring ancient Silk Road relics, or simply sharing tea with nomads under a starry sky, a journey through Kyrgyzstan promises an unforgettable experience.

Here’s a detailed 5 to 6 day road trip itinerary for Kyrgyzstan, covering Bishkek, Issyk-Kul Lake, Ala Archa National Park, and Karakol

Flights from India to Kyrgyzstan

Aero Nomad offers direct flights from Delhi to Bishkek. However these don’t often show up on search engines, so you will need to book directly from their website. Our return flights cost approximately INR 40,000 ($500) per person. Alternatively you can take an indirect flight with Air Astana which is also cheaper.

Visa from India to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is visa-free for 7days if you have a valid, multiple-entry UK, USA, or Schengen visa (Please read details here). If not, you can apply for an e-visa to visit Kyrgyzstan, the details for which can be found here: Kyrgystan E-visa official. Please keep in mind that you’ll need a Letter of Invitation from a Kyrgyz travel agent or a Kyrgyz national (see details below)

Before leaving for Kyrgyzstan

Download the Google Translate App and the Yandex App before you travel to Kyrgyzstan. Uber doesn’t work there and you can use Yandex to conveniently book cabs in bigger cities. English is understood only in big cities, so you will definitely need Google Translate for your one week trip in Kyrgyzstan.

We booked all our day trips and excursions in Kyrgyzstan with Visit Bishkek – you can Whatsapp them on the number +996 707 727 888 – they can also arrange an invitation letter for your visa at a cost, even if you are not booking travels with them. We found out about this tour provider from a friend and they were super safe and reliable!

Day-by-day itinerary for Kyrgyzstan

Day 1 Explore Bishkek

Spend a day in Bishkek, the vibrant capital of Kyrgyzstan. Sheraton Bishkek and Novotel Bishkek City Centre are both good hotels and conveniently located to explore the city. We suggest choosing a nice and comfortable hotel in Bishkek as you will find only basic amenities once you head to the countryside on days 2 and 3.

Rest well and spend a day exploring Bishkek. Start your morning at Ala-Too Square, the heart of the city. Take some photos at the impressive Manas Statue, a tribute to the country’s legendary hero, and, if you’re lucky, witness the hourly changing of the guards. From here, a short walk will bring you to the “Russian Church” (you can put it on google maps) – it’s a quiet and beautiful structure in the midst of the city’s commotion – ideal if you enjoy city architecture photography.

From there, head to the bustling Osh Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s most authentic markets. Wander through the colourful stalls filled with fragrant spices, fresh produce, dried fruits, and traditional kurut (dried yogurt balls). This is also a great place to pick up handmade souvenirs for your house, such as felt carpets and traditional Kyrgyz hats (kalpaks).

For lunch, head to Navat, a cozy restaurant offering an authentic Central Asian dining experience. Try beshbarmak (noodles with meat), lagman (hand-pulled noodles), or manty (steamed dumplings), all served in a beautifully decorated setting with traditional Kyrgyz elements.

After lunch, visit the stunning Blue Mosque (Central Mosque of Imam Sarakhsi), an architectural masterpiece blending Ottoman and Central Asian influences. Make sure you include this as its intricate blue tile-work and peaceful ambiance makes it an under-rated gem in Bishkek.

Continue your exploration with a leisurely walk through Oak Park & Erkindik Boulevard, a green oasis in the city. The park is home to Soviet-era sculptures, outdoor cafés, and tree-lined paths perfect for relaxing. Erkindik Boulevard, a pedestrian-friendly street, is ideal for soaking in the city’s lively atmosphere.

End your day at a café along Erkindik, sipping tea or Kyrgyz coffee while reflecting on Bishkek’s unique mix of history, culture, and modern charm.

Day 2 Drive to Issyk-kul Lake and Aksai Canyon

Leave for a 2 day trip to the South Shore of Issyk-kul Lake. We suggest booking a private car with driver for this. This 2 day trip costs approximately $650 including car, accommodation, and meals and we booked it with Visit Bishkek as previously mentioned.

Start your trip early, driving 1.5 hours from Bishkek to the Burana Tower, a 10th-century minaret and a remnant of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagun. Climb the tower for panoramic views and explore the surrounding balbal (stone warrior statues) that date back to the Turkic era.

Next, continue to Aksai Canyon, a hidden gem with dramatic red rock formations. Take a short hike to enjoy breathtaking views over the rugged landscapes. The canyon is much less visited than other sites, so you might not see many people around. A 4×4 is recommended for this 🙂

In the afternoon, arrive at the south shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, where you can experience a traditional yurt stay. This is the more scenic shore of the lake, so it’s the ideal place to spend a night! Enjoy a delicious Kyrgyz meal, relax by the lake, and take in the stunning sunset over the Terskey Alatau mountains. In the evening, sit by the fire, listen to local legends, and gaze at the star-filled sky.

 

 

Day 3 Hike at Fairytale (Skazka) Canyon & Return to Bishkek

Wake up early for a short drive to Fairytale (Skazka) Canyon, named for its surreal, multi-colored rock formations that resemble castles, animals, and mystical creatures. Hike through the otherworldly landscape, exploring the deep red and orange cliffs shaped by wind and water over centuries.

After the hike, we suggest driving further towards Barskoon Waterfalls, in the Jeti-Ögüz district –     it’s a beautiful drive through lush green mountains, and the multi-tiered falls are worth hiking for.  From here you can continue onto Karakol or head back to Bishkek, arriving by early evening. This two-day adventure offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and nomadic culture, making it an unforgettable Kyrgyz experience.

 

Days 4 & 5 Bishkek and Ala Archa National Park

You can take Day 4 to rest and spend a slow day in Bishkek after the long drives and hikes in the countryside. On Day 5, it is time for a day trip to Ala Archa National Park

Leave Bishkek early in the morning for a 45-minute drive to the park entrance. The road winds through picturesque landscapes before reaching the Ala Archa Gorge, where snow-capped peaks and dense forests create a stunning backdrop. From the main parking area, choose the Ak-Sai Waterfall Trail, a moderate hike leading to a stunning waterfall. The trail ascends through rocky terrain, offering panoramic views of glaciers and towering peaks. This hike takes around 2-3 hours round trip, making it ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

If you are with parents or kids, skip the hike and take a short walk along the Ala Archa River. And if you’re an adventurous hiker, then take the path to Ratsek Hut – a longer, steeper trail popular among climbers.

No matter which of the three routes you choose – enjoy a picnic lunch in the valley, surrounded by towering fir trees and the sound of the river flowing through the gorge. You can request your guide to pack some local snacks like samsa, dried fruits, and fresh bread, or stop by a café near the park entrance.

After that it is time to return to Bishkek and pack for your flight the next day

 

Day 6 Fly back home

That is it – everything you need to plan a trip from India to Kyrgyzstan. We’ve tried to cover everything from flights to visas to local tour operators to apps that you will need to plan the perfect trip to Kyrgyzstan. If you have any questions please ask us below and we’ll answer them soon 🙂

Love Central Asia? Don’t forget to read Planning The Ultimate Trip To Uzbekistan