2025 Issyk-Kul Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

I visited Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan in September 24th. I visited this place that is not easy to visit. This country's famous tourist destination, the Alps of Central Asia, the snow-capped mountains in the distance seem close enough to touch, but they say they are very far away~ I had a happy time taking it in with my eyes^^ #Issyk-Kul #Kyrgyzstan

This iconic lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world, stretches over 170 km in length and 70 km in width, drawing crowds from all over the world. Issyk-Kul, meaning "warm lake" in the local language, was named as such because it never freezes over during the winter. Issyk-Kul Lake, with a length of 180 km and a width of 60 km, is the second-largest high-mountain lake in the world. From the lake’s shore, you can observe all significant landscapes, ranging from subtropical to tundra, in an azonal order. The fauna of the reserve is characterized by high species diversity, though it is unevenly distributed across different landscapes. Popular activities at Issyk-Kul include fishing and taking boat tours around the lake. #favouriteitinerary #travel #naturalwonders #myitinerary #thingstodo

Barskoon Gorge is located on the southern shore of Lake Issyk Kul, 80 km from Karakol. The valley stretches for about 30 km. At the entrance to the gorge is the village of Barskaun (formerly known as "Barshan"). In the past, Barskhan was the headquarters of a Khan who lived in a castle. The towns of Veliky Barskhan and Nizhny Barskhan were located nearby. The gorge extends over 30 km in length, with a road passing through it that connects the Issyk-Kul hollow to the elevated plains of the Syrts in the Inner and Central Tien Shan, via the Barskaun Pass (3,819 m). This gorge also served as part of the ancient Silk Road, with one of its routes passing through the Bedel Pass (4,284 m) into China. The most popular activity here is hiking, as most tourists come to hike up the gorge. The scenery is so beautiful, and when we're not hiking, we just picnic and walk around the gorge. During the rainy season, the road leading to this place can be slippery. At that time, we were almost involved in an accident, but Alhamdulillah, our guide efficiently controlled the car. #favouriteitinerary #travel #naturalwonders #thingstodo #myitinerary

Escape to the breathtaking Issyk-Kul Lake, the pearl of Kyrgyzstan! 🌊🏔️ Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this stunning alpine lake offers crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, and a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Whether you’re into swimming, hiking, or just relaxing by the shore, Issyk-Kul is a must-visit destination! 📍 Tip: Visit in summer for the best weather, and don’t miss the nearby hot springs and cultural sites like the ancient petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata! #IssykKul #Kyrgyzstan #NatureLovers #TravelDiaries #HiddenGem #MountainEscape #AdventureAwaits #ExploreMore #VisitKyrgyzstan

June 23, Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan. It was early summer, but it was great to swim in the hot sun. I want to go again. #Kyrgyzstan #Issyk-Kul Lake