Naryn

Nestled into the foothills of Naryn-Too, Naryn city is home to around 40,000 people, as well as museums, institutes, and several administrative buildings. The city was once a small fortification on a trade route running from Kashgar to Central Asia, and it didn't actually become a city until the 19th century. Being just slightly over 100 miles from the Chinese border, Naryn is an important trade center and a free economic zone.

Naryn is known for being a scenic city, with the Naryn river - the longest in the country - running through it, surrounded by majestic mountains. It is, however, quite cold, with temperatures reaching as low as -104 degrees fahrenheit (-40 degrees celsius). Still, it is a popular stopping point for travelers on their way to and from Kashgar.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Horseback Riding

As in many popular Kyrgyzstan spots, horseback riding is a must-do in Naryn. The best routes plod along the banks of the mighty Naryn river, making light weight of what would be a long, challenging route on foot.

Local Encounters

The vast majority of Naryn’s populace is made up of Kyrgyz, known for their friendly, welcoming nature. Though it may be necessary to have a guide translate - since most speak only Kyrgyz and Russian - having a chat with some of these locals will provide visitors with wonderful insight into their local culture.

Rafting

Rafting down the Naryn river is an exhilarating experience. This river is formed by the congruence of the Smaller and Greater Naryn, and although a large portion of the river has flat and tranquil waters, the lower gorges have quick and bouncy rapids. The canyon also boasts breathtaking scenery, making it a popular location for white-water rafting.

Son-Kul Lake

Just 56 miles from Naryn, Son-Kul Lake dominates as the second-largest lake in Kyrgyzstan. It boasts some wonderful natural beauty, while also being home to many rare animals and birds. As such, it is a popular destination both with locals and visitors.

Soviet Architecture

Due to the fact that Naryn was founded over a century ago as a Russian garrison town, much of the town contains post-war Soviet-style architecture. Visitors can spend some time taking in this unique style, learning about the history of the town.

Trekking

People come from far and wide to explore the unspoiled lands of Naryn, in the Central Tian Shan. Here, it’s possible to see a variety of wildlife, for those intrepid hikers wanting to truly explore, they can search for the caves near Naryn town where early settlements have been found, suggesting the town is much older than originally thought.

Kyrgyzstan Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Naryn Itineraries

Skiing in At-Bashy Valley

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,500
See Itinerary

Living with the Nomads of Naryn & Kol-Ukok Lake, Kyrgyzstan

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
See Itinerary
Celestial Mountains Guesthouse

Celestial Mountains Guesthouse

Naryn, Kyrgyzstan


In the pretty Kyrgyz town of Naryn, at the quiet, eastern end, guests bed down in the comfortable Celestial Mountains Guesthouse. Surrounded on all sides with breathtakingly dramatic scenery, from snow-peaked mountains to the flowing Naryn River, the town is a great base from which to explore the nearby areas. While Celestial Mountains Guesthouse may have a functional-looking exterior, inside it’s cozy with homey decor and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can choose from double, twin or triple rooms or, in the summer months, opt to stay in a traditional yurt. Every effort is made to make guests feel at home, with a comfortable television room stocked with movies to enjoy on lazy days; the guesthouse restaurant serves up breakfast and dinner every day and picnic lunches are available on request - perfect for day-trips in the country. What’s more,  traditional performances and craft demonstrations can be arranged for a taste of the local culture.  


Khan Tengri Hotel

Khan Tengri Hotel

Naryn, Kyrgyzstan


A stay in the Khan Tengri Hotel is an experience of traditional Kyrgyz hospitality and style coupled with modern conveniences and features. In a safe and friendly district in quiet and pretty Naryn, the small, comfortable hotel enjoys sweeping views of the soaring mountains beyond. Guests can choose from double, twin or triple rooms, all of which are equipped with television and hair dryer, with en-suite bathrooms. The hotel has a sunny terrace on the second floor to take in the view and has ample parking for guests with vehicles, using Naryn as a base to explore the surrounding area. Business guests can book the conference hall which can accommodate up to 35 delegates. There’s a pleasant cafe/restaurant which serves up delicious local dishes as well as international cuisine and seminars or demonstrations of local culture and traditions can be arranged by the friendly, English-speaking staff.


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