One of the most attractive places for tourists in recent years has become the Issyk-Kul mountain lake in Kyrgyzstan. It is one of the thirty largest lakes in the world, and is in seventh place in the ranking of the deepest. Residents used to call it the Kyrgyz Sea, and the official translation means Hot Lake. There are no thermal springs in this place, however, despite the subzero temperatures in winter, the water in Issyk-Kul does not freeze.
In the ranking of popular vacation destinations in the CIS, the lake ranks fourth, second only to such resorts as Sochi, Gelendzhik, Abkhazia. In 2023, there was a significant increase in demand for visits to Kyrgyzstan. A large number of tourists try to spend their holidays in Issyk-Kul, because there are all kinds of recreation here, starting from the beach option and ending with extreme tourism in the highlands. Entertainment prices are also at an affordable level.
The best time for a vacation in Issyk-Kul is considered to be the period from mid-June to early September. It is worth taking care of the purchase of the tour in advance. Despite the large number of hotels and a diverse number of rooms, it may turn out that at the last moment there will be offers for a decent price.
Why is Issyk-Kul so popular
Tourists are constantly interested in Issyk-Kul: where is this wonderful place for an unforgettable vacation. The mountain lake is located in the northeastern part of Kyrgyzstan at an altitude of more than 1,500 meters. It is surrounded by the Terskei-Ala-Too and Kungei-Ala-Too ranges. The reservoir is located in a pit, which was formed due to the movement of tectonic plates. The depth of the lake reaches 700 meters.
The country is considered one of the largest cultural and historical centers, therefore, there are many attractions in the vicinity of the reservoir, which provide an opportunity for tourists to see monuments of various eras. Lake Issyk-Kul has become the national pride and joy of Kyrgyzstan. A place of amazing natural beauty. The turquoise hue of the purest water and the beautiful framing of high mountain ranges, which changes its color depending on weather conditions, amazes tourists.
The length of the coast is almost 700 meters. There are large beaches and popular resorts, where sanatoriums and luxury hotels on Issyk-Kul are located. The average cost of living in a hostel or a three-star hotel is 14-50 USD. The price for one night in a luxury hotel reaches 120 USD.
Previously, employees of subordinate organizations could stay in boarding houses for recreation in Issyk-Kul, now the places are open to everyone. A variety of cafes, restaurants, walking areas and other popular entertainment will make your stay unforgettable, and prices for establishments are kept at an affordable level.
Those who do not like beaches are recommended to start exploring the natural wonders that are generously scattered around the resort. Tourists are expected to have active entertainment at affordable prices, the range of which is represented by fishing, cruises on a motor ship, vivid emotions on a roller coaster. Flying by parachute or helicopter over the lake will give you an unforgettable experience.
The most popular question among tourists is how to get to Issyk-Kul? You can get to the place through the airport in the village of Tamchy, located 35 kilometers from Cholpon-Ata. However, it is worth considering that, as a rule, the flight arrives at night, and accommodation in Issyk-Kul hotels starts from 08:00-12:00 hours.
Why Issyk-Kul is an ideal place to relax
There are many different zones, bases, boarding houses, and sanatoriums on the Northern coast of Issyk-Kul. The price of accommodation depends on the desired comfort level of tourists. The most common and popular places are Cholpon-Ata, Sary-Oi and Tamchi. In the southern part, it is worth paying attention to Kaji-Sai and Tamga.
A ticket to Issyk-Kul, the price of which depends on the number of vacation days, hotel conditions and other factors, will allow you to enjoy a varied vacation.
— Bathing. Despite the fact that the lake is located in a mountainous area, all beaches on the coast are sandy with spotlessly clean water. Issyk-Kul recreation areas are equipped in the surrounding areas. You can endlessly enjoy the unique beauty of nature. The cleanest water and gentle approach are suitable for staying with young children.
— Excursions. Most hotels and boarding houses organize a varied excursion program at an attractive price for guests during their holidays. You can visit the historical sights of the area and picturesque corners of nature. Issyk-Kul tours to Grigoryevsky, Semenovsky gorges, Skazka Canyon, Barskoon Gorge and hot mineral springs are popular. The rich program offers unforgettable trips to the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Przewalski Museum and a visit to the Karakol ski resort. In the latter place, cable car riding is in demand among tourists.
— Radon baths. The territory of Issyk-Kul is strewn with radon springs, one of which is located near the resort town of Cholpon-Ata. For those who are not planning vacation trips, procedures can be obtained directly at the sanatoriums.
— Night parties. Young tourists who cannot imagine their lives without discos and clubs will appreciate the local entertainment venues. Most of them are located right on the coast in hotels. Therefore, when planning an active vacation with dancing and delicious cocktails, choose a hotel with daily entertainment programs.
— Shopping. The Northern coast offers vacationers regular fairs on Saturdays, where original souvenirs, handicrafts, and delicious sweets are sold at affordable prices. A great opportunity to save money and fully enjoy shopping is available at the Dordoi market in Bishkek, which has become a must-visit place in excursion programs.
— Delicious cuisine. The coastal areas of Issyk-Kul are distinguished by a variety of local dishes. Beshbarmak, lagman, manti, tandoor tortillas, samsa are cooked in this place. The hotels serve dishes made from fresh fish caught in the lake. Issyk-Kul hotels include a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and berries on the menu.
It is worth mentioning the most popular entertainment — recreation in the Aitek Park entertainment park, located in the village of Bosteri. There are water slides, a Ferris wheel, carousels, unforgettable roller coasters and other attractions. Tourists can enjoy camel rides along the coast, take memorable photos with a falcon. Parachute flights, helicopter flights, boat trips, fishing, diving and other options for a rich holiday await tourists in Issyk-Kul.
Vacation in Issyk-Kul: how much will the ticket cost
Many people are concerned about the question, how much does a trip to Issyk-Kul cost? Agencies offer tours for any budget. The average price of a week's rest in the sanatorium Blue Issyk-Kul starts from 1000 USD. The price includes flight, insurance, accommodation in standard double apartments, three meals a day and transfer — depending on the operator. For a double room of increased comfort with a similar set of services, you will have to pay about 1150 USD. Guests note the hospitable attitude of the staff and the advantageous location.
A stay in a double apartment in the hotel State Residence No. 2 will cost at least 1100 USD. The service does not include a transfer. The territory of the sanatorium has beautiful nature, a clean beach, a coniferous park and comfortable places to relax.
For expensive hotels, the cost can reach up to 140 USD for a double room based on breakfast. There is no all inclusive system in Issyk-Kul. Most boarding houses only offer breakfast. You can buy a ticket with three meals a day of medium and high level.
The final price for the trip depends on the desired level of comfort, availability of food, saturation of the excursion program and other factors that can be indicated to the tour operator during selection. Determine the acceptable budget, and the specialist will select the best option at an attractive price so that the vacation is eventful and unforgettable.
How to get to Issyk-Kul
There are several popular ways to find yourself in this wonderful place. A popular way for tourists is to fly to Bishkek, and then get to the place by bus or taxi. This way you will quickly find yourself on vacation. The ticket price depends on the destination and class of the flight, as well as the date of purchase. The earlier you book and purchase an air ticket, the lower the cost.
The most convenient option for a vacation is considered to be a car trip from Bishkek. Various types of transport regularly travel to Issyk-Kul, for example, a minibus, a taxi, so getting there is not a problem. The journey takes about four hours, but it is a great opportunity to enjoy the picturesque places. Comfortable buses with seating and sleeping places, as well as transport with private drivers run regularly. In summer, tourists prefer to get to the lake by train.
Conclusion
A vacation in Issyk-Kul will give tourists unforgettable emotions. Here you will find the purest mountain air, clear azure water of the purest lake, developed infrastructure and amazingly beautiful nature around! A wide range of hotels and hotels at affordable prices allows you to choose the best option. Lovers of a measured and comfortable rest should give preference to magnificent sandy beaches and entertainment on the water. For fans of outdoor activities, take a closer look at the routes, including visits to picturesque mountain gorges, exciting cycling and horseback riding routes around Issyk-Kul. Kyrgyzstan is a place for a full-fledged family vacation.
