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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.
Hit the slopes of beautiful At-Bashy Valley in Kyrgyzstan’s rugged, mountainous central region. You will need fat powder skis for this eight-day adventure that takes you from Bishkek to Naryn and into the snowy backcountry to ski, snowboard and sleep in a traditional yurt.
From urban centers to rugged wilderness, Kyrgyzstan is full of extremes. On this nine-day adventure through this Central Asian country, you will travel from the capital of Bishkek to the beautiful Köl-Ükök Lake, the Naryn River, and several small villages, meeting local people and experiencing their way of life.
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.
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.
Multi-Country Specialists
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.
Our guide in Uzbekistan seemed to know everyone wherever we went which made us feel like locals.
