Kyrgyzstan Itinerary 🇰🇬
Part 3
Day 4 (Kyrgyzstan):
- Ak-Sai Canyon
- Burana Tower
- Bishkek City tour
- Overnight in Bishkek
> Apple Hostel Bishkek (6000 soms ~ 89 SGD for 2 + 3 room, breakfast included)
That night, Bishkek was absolutely smoggy and had low visibility. So we decided to have our meal in the restaurant next to our hostel. The design was like a SAF cookhouse with a plethora of choices for show, and you get to choose alacarte dishes. They served really good Central Asian food so we had a bit of everything:
- Kuurdak (Lamb)
- Kazakh Pilaf
- Lapshak
- Brezza egg omelette
- Huge chicken legs 🍗
Day 5 (Kyrgyzstan➡️Kazakhstan):
1) Osh Bazaar Market
> 9 mins away by car from Apple Hostel
> Our driver mentioned market opens at 10am
> Souvenir prices were cheaper here compared to Almaty and Karakol
2) Returned to Almaty
> Travelled 1h to the border
Border: Korday Kazak Border Station
> Crossing the border → estimated 40 mins to 2h.
> Travel 3h to outskirts of city
3) Stopped by this airplane ✈️ graveyard otw to Almaty
> had to pay a visitor fee to look around
> Google map name: Aerodrom Samsy
Traveling through Kyrgyzstan and into Kazakhstan offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and vibrant culture that any traveler will cherish. On Day 4, visiting Ak-Sai Canyon provides breathtaking views and a chance for light hiking in fresh mountain air. The Burana Tower, an ancient minaret near Tokmok, is a fascinating relic from the Karakhanid dynasty and serves as a window into Kyrgyz history. Spending the night at Apple Hostel Bishkek is a budget-friendly choice; it offers comfort and a centralized location to explore the city. Although Bishkek experienced smoggy conditions that evening, trying the local Central Asian cuisine at the nearby restaurant was a memorable experience. Dishes like Kuurdak (lamb stew), Kazakh Pilaf, and Lapshak (a traditional noodle soup) highlight the rich flavors typical of the region’s food. On Day 5, a morning visit to Osh Bazaar is a must for shoppers and culture enthusiasts alike. The market’s lively atmosphere and competitive souvenir prices compared to other cities like Almaty make it an excellent spot for authentic gifts. The market’s opening time around 10am allows for a relaxed start to the day. The journey continues with a border crossing at the Korday Kazakh Border Station, where wait times can vary, so planning ahead is important. For those interested in quirky roadside attractions, the Aerodrom Samsy airplane graveyard is an unusual stop that requires a small visitor fee. It offers a glimpse into the aviation history of the area and unique photo opportunities. Travelers should prepare for varying road and weather conditions, and always check local advice regarding border crossing times. Overall, this itinerary combines natural wonders, local culture, historic sites, and culinary delights to provide a comprehensive and enriching travel experience across Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.
