Kyrgyzstan in Winter: Unfold the Silk Road Adventure in Snow

Kyrgyzstan, a winter wonderland, is one of the premier winter destinations on the list of top places to visit in winter. This stunning destination has everything you may need for a winter holiday. From breathtaking mountainous scenery to horseback riding, impressive traditions to Silk Road history, adventurous skiing to mind blowing eagle hunting, Kyrgyzstan in winter will present you with many dynamics.

Kyrgyzstan’s countryside is one the must-see things to witness. During winter, the countryside gets a fresh blanket of snow that depicts eye-catching landscapes. If you seek off-the-beaten-path adventure in winter, Kyrgyzstan is the ideal destination to visit.

Without wasting more time- let us unfold the magic of winter in Kyrgyzstan in front of you. We’ll be sharing places to visit, things to do, and reasons to visit Kyrgyzstan in winter. Go through this post and plan your vacation accordingly.

Most Famous Places to Visit in Kyrgyzstan in Winter

To experience the richness of winter in Kyrgyzstan, you must visit the places mentioned below. No matter what kind of holiday you seek, you will encounter the best vacation of your life here.

1. Ala-Archa National Park

The Ala-Archa National Park is one of the best places to visit in Bishkek in winter. Established in 1976, Ala-Archa National Park is a gorgeous alpine national park. It is one of the main draws for tourists visiting Bishkek. The picture-perfect landscape of Ala-Archa National Park consists of a range of mountains, a river flowing through the narrow valley, stunning waterfalls, and incredible rock formations. Although this landscape looks breathtaking throughout the year, it looks out of the world with a blanket of snow. Add this place to your list if you are coming to Kyrgyzstan during winter.

2. Issyk-Kul Lake

Settled in the Northern Tian Shan mountains in Eastern Kyrgyzstan, Issyk-Kul Lake is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in winter. The fun fact about this lake is that it never freezes. The word Issyk Kul in Kyrgyz means ‘Hot Lake’. The name clearly depicts the significance of the lake. It is one of the world’s deepest and largest alpine.

Moreover, the beauty of this lake is undeniable. Issyk-Kul Lake creates a perfect backdrop for nature lovers. With sparkling blue water and snowy shores, Issyk-Kul Lake attracts many tourists during winter.

3. Korona Peak

Korona Peak is one of the most stunning peaks in the Ala-Too ranges. It is a popular destination among climbers in Kyrgyzstan in winter. Korona Peak has 600-900 meters long rock walls. Korona Peak is the highest in Ala Archa National Park, consisting of six rocky walls that seem like the crown of a medieval king. Korona Peak looks like a marvelous crown. The overall scenery of Korona Peak mesmerizes tourists from all over the world. Snow-capped mountains under the clear blue sky create a perfect backdrop for your Instagram-worthy pictures.

4. Altyn-Arashan Thermal Resort

Altyn-Arashan Thermal Resort is another splendid place to visit in Kyrgyzstan in winter. Situated 2600 meters above sea level on the banks of the Arashan River, this resort is a natural beauty with majestic scenery, a beautiful mountain river, and clear air. It is a place where beauty meets tranquility. The hot springs in this resort contain therapeutic properties. Besides, it is a romantic place to visit. If you are in Kyrgyzstan during the winter season, Altyn-Arashan is a must-visit place.

5. Song-Kul Lake

Song-Kul Lake is one of the serene and peaceful places to visit in Kyrgyzstan in winter. Positioned at an altitude of 3016m, it is the second-biggest lake in Kyrgyzstan, three times bigger than the Zurich lake. It is the spotlight of Kyrgyzstan’s sacred nature. Surrounded by soaring mountains, Song-Kul Lake has no trees yet- it is one of the most stunning lakes you will ever see. If you are visiting Song-Kul Lake, various activities are there to keep you entertained. Some of the famous activities are horse riding, hiking, biking, photography, camping, watching the sunset, and stargazing. Song-Kul Lake has everything you may want on your vacation.

Why You Should Visit Kyrgyzstan in Winter?

As tourists consider Kyrgyzstan as more of a summer destination, it is important to tell why you shouldn’t miss visiting it in winter. There are not a few but countless reasons to visit Kyrgyzstan in winter. From adventurous snow activities to warm & hearty food, gorgeous landscapes, delightful attractions, and welcoming people, you will get tired of counting the number of reasons that ask you to visit Kyrgyzstan during winter. Come, let’s dig out some of these reasons here:

• To Experience the Warmth of Hotsprings

Kyrgyzstan may be famous for its alpine glacial lakes, but no one can deny the fact that it has tons of natural hot springs. They are popular among tourists as they are beneficial for health. You can enjoy Hotspring anytime throughout the year, but they are highly pleasant during winter.

• To Enjoy a Delightful Horse Ride in the Snow

Horses are the lifeline of Kyrgyzstan people. This majestic animal offers a fulfilling horseback ride to tourists. It is one of the most exciting winter activities to indulge in. While riding on the horse, you will witness the breathtaking landscapes of the beautiful Kyrgyz mountains. You can take a horse riding tour to Song Kul Lake.

• To Adore the Mesmerizing Frozen Waterfalls

Kyrgyzstan has numerous glaciers and waterfalls that get frozen during winter. These frozen waterfalls offer climbers an opportunity to enjoy ice climbing. One of the most popular waterfalls is Barskoon. There are three waterfalls in Barskoon, out of which two can only be accessible through horseback riding.

• It is a Famous Skiing Destination

If you are a ski lover, there is no better place than Kyrgyzstan for you. In winter, the beautiful alpine lakes and valleys get converted into perfect skiing trails for ski enthusiasts. In Kyrgyzstan, you can experience some adrenaline-filled skiing adventures. It is the most common reason among tourists to travel to Kyrgyzstan in winter.

• To Witness Incredible Snow-filled Landscapes

You may have seen a lot of Kyrgyzstan landscapes in summer. But wait for the winter to witness the breathtaking scenery of winter wonderland. Kyrgyzstan gets stunning at this time of year.

• To Click the Mind-blowing Pictures of Eagle Hunters

Central Asian countries are the birthplace of eagle hunting. And Kyrgyzstan is one of them. It is a nomadic cultural tradition in Kyrgyzstan. Kyrgyzstan even holds various eagle-hunting festivals. In winter, you will get a perfect snow-covered eagle-hunting backdrop for your pictures.

• To Have Affordable Vacation

If you want an affordable holiday in winter, Kyrgyzstan is the place you should visit. As winter is the low season, more and more people prefer to visit during this time.

Thrilling Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan in Winter

If you are visiting Kyrgyzstan in winter and wondering what to do, here are the unique things you can do. Winter allows you to indulge in life’s best adventure in Kyrgyzstan. Many exciting activities are awaiting your arrival in Kyrgyzstan:

1. Indulge in Local Culture

Kyrgyzstan has a lot of traditions and cultures. The locals warmly welcome you and ask you to be part of their local traditions. Some of the cultural activities you can be part of are yurt buildings, eagle hunting, folk music events & dances, etc. When you visit during winter, you can enjoy traditional Christmas and New Year festivities.

2. Enjoy the Winter Sports

Winter is the best time to try skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, ice climbing, and much more. During winter, Kyrgyzstan gets converted into a winter wonderland. It offers a lot of winter adventures, which you cannot have during the summer.

3. Rejuvenate in Chon Kemin Valley

Positioned between Bishkek and the Issyk Kul Lake, Chon Kemin Valley is a beautiful and charming place. It is a perfect getaway if you want to relax and rejuvenate in the arms of nature. It is one of the best places to head to Bishkek in winter for a peaceful experience.

4. Live in a Yurt Camp for a Night

It is one of the most unique things to do in Kyrgyzstan in winter. It is also the best way to learn about Kyrgyzstan’s culture and traditions. Many people in Kyrgyzstan still follow the nomadic culture and stay in a yurt.

5. Meet the Eagle Hunters of Kyrgyzstan

Eagle Hunting in Kyrgyzstan is a year-old tradition. It was passed on from generation to generation as it used to be done for the survival of locals in winter. However, it is no longer essential for survival. As there are many eagle hunters in the country, you can get a chance to meet a few of them on your vacation.

Have an Exquisite Winter Holiday in Kyrgyzstan in Winter!

If this post gives you what you are looking for, the next step is to book your Kyrgyzstan tour packages. For that, you don’t even have to go further than Dook International. We have inexpensive Kyrgyzstan holiday packages that are customizable. Our tour packages are hand-woven, keeping your travel preferences in mind. We provide thorough assistance throughout the trip and ensure you have the best time. When all is here, what do you need now? Come book your upcoming winter vacation with us!

Know More About Kyrgyzstan:

10 Best Cities in Kyrgyzstan to Visit

Must-try Traditional Kyrgyzstan Food