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Bishkek

Welcome to Bishkek, the largest city and capital of Kyrgyzstan, a landlocked country in Central Asia bordering Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the southwest and China to the southeast. The city - once a stop along the ancient Silk Road - sits at the foot of the Tien Shan mountain range, in the Chui Valley, and despite being a relatively new city founded in the 1800s, it is a popular tourist destination on a trip through the mountains or continuing on through Asia.

For visitors making a stop in Bishkek, there are several Soviet-era monuments to see on a walk through town, and the city's nightlife will provide much entertainment after dark. The city's main draw, however, is a comfortable stop on a trek throughout Asia, and one of the best places to pick up tourist visas for surrounding countries. While here, visitors can enjoy a couple of days' worth of sightseeing and activities.

EXPERIENCES

Ala-Too Square

By day, a collective gathering spot, and the site of a military monument with a changing of the guards once an hour; by night, an open-air karaoke bar with a light and sound fountain show: this city’s center is alive and well at all hours, though visitors should make sure they are travelling in pairs or groups after dark.

M Frunze Museum

For a look back at the early Bishkek days when the city was mostly Slavic, visitors can check out the M Frunze Museum. Located in the former home of General Mikhail Frunze, a World War I and civil war general born in Bishkek, the museum showcases many photographs and displays of old Bishkek.

Osh Bazaar

Visitors can head to Osh Bazaar, the city’s best food bazaar, for a true taste of Kyrgyzstan cuisine, such as locally-made Korean pickled salad or shashlik. To pick up some local crafts and clothes, there are smaller markets open just south of the main location.

State Historical Museum

Visitors may learn about the communist era in Kyrgyzstan with the permanent display of Soviet artifacts in the State Historical Museum. The museum also showcases the culture of the Kyrgyz people, as well as housing three seasonal exhibits at any given time.

kyrgyzstan Regions

KYRGYZSTAN Regions

Northeast

Southwest

OSH & THE FERGANA VALLEY

PREFERRED HOTEL

Hyatt Regency Bishkek

This stunning, modern destination in the center of the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek proudly holds the title of the only five-star hotel in the country. Within 35 minutes’ drive from the airport, this luxury hotel is surrounded by all of Bishkek’s sights of interest and history including The Museum of Fine Arts, Dubovy Park and the State Opera. What’s more, within the hotel, the facilities are first class. A range of 178 stylish rooms and suites are fitted with the latest amenities and guests can enjoy 24-hour concierge service for any and all their needs. Food lovers will be delighted by the range of cuisines, from authentic Mediterranean meals to laid-back barbecues by the pool. Meanwhile, the chic lobby bar and Opera Lounge are perfect spots for pre-dinner drinks or a romantic night cap. The comprehensive range of facilities on offer in the health club includes an outdoor pool, a spa with treatment rooms and a well-equipped gym so that guests can enjoy relaxation and reinvigoration during their stay.

Asia Mountains 1

The gorgeous Asia Mountains Hotel in Bishkek boasts a quaint interior design and tranquil garden surroundings. Centrally-located in the city and close to the main mosque, it’s a perfect location for exploring Bishkek or making an excursion to the jaw-dropping mountains which dominate the skyline around you. The hotel was built in 2001 with a vision of creating a homely atmosphere combined with the sophistication of western architecture and eastern philosophy. Guests can enjoy cute and comfortable rooms, which all have natural wood features throughout and offer spectacular views of the Tien-Shan Mountains (ask for a southern facing room for the best view). There’s also free Wi-Fi throughout, an on-site library, bar, restaurant and swimming pool. Guests should note that this hotel company has two ‘Asia Mountains’ hotels, with this Bishkek branch labeled as number one.

Asia Mountains 2

The second in Asia Mountain’s mini-branch of Bishkek hotels is the aptly named ‘Asia Mountains 2’, and this 20-room hotel offers all the charm and comfort of its older brother. Centrally-located, this accommodation is an ideal place to stay - whether your intention is to relax and sightsee in the city or be a little more adventurous and tackle the nearby Tien-Shan Mountains. All the rooms have ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, telephones, WiFi, satellite TV and a refrigerator. As with the nearby ‘Asia Mountains 1’, the running theme of the rooms is that of wood - including both the furniture and floors. Downstairs there is an impressive hall, complete with restaurant, bar and a fireplace, which is lit in the colder months.

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