Issyk-Kul is the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan. It ranks 7th among the 25 largest lakes in the world and 7th in the list of the deepest lakes. It is located in the north-east of the republic, in the Northern Tien-Shan mountain range: between Kungei Ala-Too and Teskei Ala-Too, at an altitude of 1609 meters above sea level. The water does not flow back from it, but it is relatively small, about 80 streams and rivers flow into it. The largest of them are Tup and Jirgalan rivers flowing from the east. From the west, the Chu River flows very close to the lake, 6 km from Balykchy, and it merges slightly during spring floods. The water level in Issyk-Kul changes according to cycles (sometimes it rises, sometimes it falls). The cycle changes over several decades. The water is salty (water mineralization — 5.90%).
The volume of water is 1738 km³, the surface of the lake is 6236 km², the circumference of the shore is 688 km, the average depth is 278 m, the deepest part is almost 2.5 times, equal to 702 meters. The length of Issyk-Kul is 182 km from west to east, and 58 km from south to north. Issyk-Kul is the second most transparent lake in the world after Baikal.
Getting to Issyk-Kol Lake is straightforward and offers multiple options to suit different budgets and travel styles. Whether you’re looking for comfort, speed, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a way for everyone to reach this beautiful destination.
Issyk-Kul Lake is relatively accessible, 400km until Karakol city and there are several ways to reach it from Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan:
1. By Car
-Drive Time: 3-4 hours
— Route: From Bishkek, take the highway (A363) toward Cholpon-Ata or Balykchy, which leads to the northern or southern shore of Issyk-Kul.
— Advantages: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Issyk-Kul and other attractions around the lake at your own pace.
— Rental: Car rentals are available in Bishkek. For extra comfort and scenic views, consider hiring a driver.
2. By Shared Taxi
— Departure Point: Western Bus Station in Bishkek.
— Cost: Roughly $5-10 USD per person.
— Availability: Shared taxis leave when full, generally departing frequently due to high demand.
— Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours to Cholpon-Ata.
— Advantages: Faster than a bus or marshrutka and reasonably priced.
3. By Marshrutka (Minibus)
— Departure Point: Western Bus Station in Bishkek.
— Cost: Roughly $3-5 USD per person.
— Travel Time: Around 4-5 hours.
— Advantages: Economical and reliable, though it may be crowded, especially in summer.
— Note: Marshrutkas typically run to both Cholpon-Ata (north shore) and Karakol (east shore) and stop at various villages along the way.
4. By Bus
— Departure Point: Bishkek’s Western Bus Station.
— Cost: Similar to marshrutkas, around $3-5 USD.
— Travel Time: Around 5-6 hours due to stops.
— Advantages: Comfortable option, though slower. Buses also allow you to stretch and enjoy the views during stops.
5. Private Tour or Driver
— Availability: Numerous tour companies in Bishkek offer day trips or multi-day tours to Issyk-Kul Lake.
-Cost: Prices vary depending on tour inclusions, but expect to pay around $50-100 USD per day for a private tour.
Advantages: Includes convenient transportation, a guide, and usually stops at interesting sights along the way.
6. Cycling
— For adventurous travelers, cycling to Issyk-Kul is possible, especially for those interested in exploring more remote areas around the lake.
— Route: The northern part is a wider asphalted road and drive many cars in the season. But developed towns, beach places like Tamchy, Cholpon-Ata and other several beach villages are located along the lake.
Through the southern part of Ysykul there is also a good way for cycles, and on this road you can visit a more beautiful nature as Jeti -uguz (seven-Bulls), Skazka (fairy tale) and many attractions
— Duration: Plan for a multi-day trip with stops along the way.
Useful Tips
— Best Route: The northern shore is the most popular route, especially to Cholpon-Ata, due to its resorts and infrastructure. The southern shore, while quieter, is ideal for nature lovers.
— Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, and resorts are available around Issyk-Kul, especially in Cholpon-Ata, Balykchy, and Karakol.
— Peak Season: Summer is the busiest season. For a quieter experience, visit in early autumn or late spring.
7. Flight Information
- Airlines: Kyrgyz airlines like Air Manas and TezJet often operate seasonal flights between Bishkek’s Manas International Airport and Issyk-Kul International Airport in Tamchy.
- Flight Duration: About 30-40 minutes.
- Seasonality: Flights are typically available during the summer months (June to September) when tourism is at its peak. Off-season flights are less frequent or may not operate.
- Frequency: During summer, flights usually operate a few times per week.
Booking Tickets
- Online: Tickets can often be booked through airline websites or local travel platforms, although they may fill up quickly in peak season.
- In Person: Alternatively, tickets can be bought at the airport or through travel agencies in Bishkek and Osh.
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