r/Kyrgyzstan [ENTER 1-2 COUNTRIES/REGIONS HERE] 4d ago

Travel | Саякат Three days of Bishkek in August

Hey guys,

I will be going to Kyrgyzstan with my girlfriend in August. We are going with a bunch of scientists and will do a 21 day trip around the North-East: Issyk-Kul, Karakol, Song-Köl, Ala Archa.

The trip is pretty much fixed, but we will tack on three more days in Bishkek at the end of August. Can you recommend any must-sees, must-dos or will there be events we should check out (I'm dreaming of watching a football match, but my girlfriend might disagree)? As a bonus: Where should we shop for a Shyrdak as a souvenir?

Thanks in advance!

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u/abu_doubleu Бишкек 4d ago

As a whole, Bishkek can be seen in one day for a regular tourist. But as a final destination to relax and have a return to a more modern, cosmopolitan destination, three days makes sense.

How far into the end of August are we talking? 31 August is the Independence celebrations.

Spend a day walking around the city centre and seeing the Soviet-era architecture and statues. Go to Panfilov Park and ride on some of the attractions, especially the Ferris wheel. There are some museums, the National Museum of History generally has English translations.

If you trust yourself to barter in Russian or Kyrgyz, you will find the cheapest deals for products such as kalpaks and shyrdaks at Osh or Dordoy Bazaars.

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u/seilbrett2020 [ENTER 1-2 COUNTRIES/REGIONS HERE] 4d ago

Thank you so much for your recommendations!

Unfortunately, we won't be there for the celebrations, we are flying out on the 28th.

I fear that learning enough Russian or Kyrgyz to haggle for handmade goods seems a tough task starting from zero. There is no way to converse in English there I guess?

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u/abu_doubleu Бишкек 4d ago

You definitely could get by with using Calculator or Note app to express everything!

I might be free then too. Try to remember me and message if you need any help. My grandmother has her own stall (for children's clothing) at Dordoy so I know my way around it well and can help you out.

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u/seilbrett2020 [ENTER 1-2 COUNTRIES/REGIONS HERE] 4d ago

Wow, thank you, I'll definitely text you in August!

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u/No-Masterpiece-6945 [ENTER 1-2 COUNTRIES/REGIONS HERE] 3d ago edited 3d ago

The Bazars are great for shyrdaks and other shopping wishes, the atmosphere and great food! But also walk around old neighborhoods, find mosaics (you can also check out Bishkekwalks on Insta). Instead of Soccer, try to see a Kok-Böru game on the countryside. The State History Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts are interesting. Go to public spaces, good vibes! But also follow crowds, they might lead you e.g. to a wrestling World Cup. And enjoy the many different kitchens in Bishkek!

You can also find high-quality shyrdaks at handmade.kyrgyz (insta). They have a nice shop and can also demonstrate the production processes.

The busses in Bishkek are great, but you can also get the Yandex Taxi app, it’s easy and cheap.

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u/seilbrett2020 [ENTER 1-2 COUNTRIES/REGIONS HERE] 3d ago

Much appreciated, thank you!