KYRGYZSTAN

No one else would be more thrilled to explore the top tourist attractions in Kyrgyzstan than adventurers. Ninety percent of the country is covered in tall mountains, snow-capped peaks, jagged valleys, breathtaking gorges, majestic glaciers, and beautiful lakes. Even nature lovers would find Kyrgyzstan irresistible for its breathtaking sceneries.

Ala Archa river in the Ala Archa National Park

One of the best natural attractions in Kyrgyzstan is Ala-Archa Canyon. It is both grand and rugged, not to mention accessible. Numerous walking and hiking trails lead to the gorge, offering different vantage points each time. Since the canyon is within a state nature park, there are many more sights nearby such as glaciers and peaks. The Upper Ala-Archa Mountain Ski Base is a great starting point when heading for Ala-Archa Canyon and provides skiing opportunities even on winter.

Lake Issyk-Kul is also one of the top tourist attractions in Kyrgyzstan. It has an unmatched ambience with some thermal springs and spas close by. Few of the best hiking trails in Central Asia are within the area and start from the town of Karakol. Mountain animals such as wild cats, bears, wild boars, and ibex may be spotted in the area too.

Of course, nature isn’t the only thing this country has to offer. It can also provide tourists with historical and cultural attractions. One of which is the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Karakol. The original church was built after the town was founded. It was replaced by a stone church which got destroyed by an 1890 earthquake. By 1895, a wooden church featuring five onion domes took its place but it was destroyed and turned into a club by the Bolsheviks in the 1930s. The Holy Trinity Cathedral that stands today was reconstructed in 1961 and is one of the top tourist attractions in Kyrgyzstan.

The Russian Orthodox, Holy Trinity Cathedral in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan.

The country’s Animal Markets is a sight to see during your trip to the country. One of the best is Kasghar’s Sunday Market. Livestock like sheep, goats, horses, and cattle are sold here. Sometimes, you might even see a camel up for sale.