Lake Issyk-Kul
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Issyk-Kul and Cholpon-Ata | One of the largest mountain lakes in the world, which never freezes, with beaches and resorts on its north shore. | About 4 hours from Bishkek |
| Fairy Tale Canyon (Skazka) | Colourful rocks in strange shapes near the lake's south shore. | South of Issyk-Kul |
| The Jeti-Oguz rocks | Towering red rocks and green valleys near Karakol. | Near Karakol |
| Ala-Kul lake | A turquoise lake between the peaks, reached by keen hikers on a mountain trek. | A trek from Karakol, in summer |
Bishkek and around
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Ala Archa National Park | A green mountain valley with hiking trails, rivers and snowy peaks. | About 40 minutes from Bishkek |
| The Burana Tower | An 11th-century minaret on the Silk Road, part of a World Heritage listing. | About an hour from Bishkek |
| Ala-Too Square and Osh Bazaar | The heart of the capital, and a busy market of fruit, nuts and crafts. | Bishkek |
| Song-Kol lake | A lake in a wide mountain pasture, with nights in traditional nomad yurts. | Central Kyrgyzstan, June to September |
Tips before you go
- Saudis enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free for up to 30 days within 60.
- The best time is June to September, when the mountain roads open.
- Distances are long and the roads mountainous, so a tour by car with a driver suits best.
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Kyrgyzstan?
Lake Issyk-Kul, Fairy Tale Canyon, the Jeti-Oguz rocks, Ala-Kul lake, Ala Archa National Park, the Burana Tower and Song-Kol lake.
Do Saudis need a visa for Kyrgyzstan?
No, visa-free for up to 30 days within 60.
When is the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan?
From June to September, for nature and the mountain lakes.
Planning your trip to Kyrgyzstan? Read Travel to Kyrgyzstan from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.
