Bishkek buying snow

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Bishkek buying snow

The first time I heard about this country, I had to search for it on the map. I had no clue where it was, and I definitely had no clue of the Kyrgyz culture, their traditions, or its mountains. Back in , I crossed the border from Bolivia to Chile and started meeting more bikepackers compared to the other countries I had cycled through in South America. I was happy to swap adventure stories as well as exchange ideas for new places to explore and find new tools and gear that makes a day on the bike a little easier. He started in Australia, crossed Asia to Europe, and arrived in Brazil on a sailboat. Many stories were shared over the dining table during my stay. I was quiet and took in the details about his ride through Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia. Listening to his adventures, I realized those countries have a lot of similarities with Mongolia, a country I had dreamed of visiting since I was young. As an animal lover, I remember looking at the massive Mongolian plateau on a map I had in my bedroom. Countless times I imagined myself galloping on a horse visiting the nomads of the Altai Range. Kyrgyzstan was presented to me as a wild country with amazing mountains and a variety of different landscapes where nomads live during their short summers. I soaked up his tales while eating a big bowl of pasta with a basic tomato sauce, my usual diet for that year. So many ideas rushed to my mind during those conversations, and inevitably, Central Asia and especially Kyrgyzstan were added to my list of countries to visit soon. As I continued crossing the Andes, I knew that Asia would be my next long bikepacking route. I considered the option of traveling for a year to cross the continent and explore the mountains and the ancient roads of Central Asia. At that time, I was enjoying traveling alone across Latin America Patagonia to Mexico and also Asia Iran, Armenia, and Georgia , and getting to know myself in a deeper way. The people of each country welcomed me and treated me like a member of their family. When the world opened up and allowed for travel once again, my life was a bit different. From the beginning of my relationship, Diego knew that bikepacking through Kyrgyzstan was my next goal. The winter before the trip, I gifted him some bikepacking coffee table books with great storytelling and awesome photography. I thought it would be the best way to introduce him to an unknown country and hoped it would spark his curiosity. My plan worked — Diego became engrossed with learning more about Kyrgyzstan and decided he wanted to join the adventure. We acted quickly and bought tickets for July , and Diego invested in a bikepacking rig for the trip. As it was his first time riding outside Spain, he chose to stay three weeks while I planned to stay for almost two months. I recall Diego telling me how exhausted he felt in just one day due to the different encounters with the locals and the riding itself in the ever-changing weather. A day traveling on a bike feels like a week of a normal life, and a month can really be like a year. The day we landed in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, we were equally excited and tired from the long flights. Our bikes, bags, and equipment arrived safely and were ready to mount. We managed to get our luggage sorted out quickly, got settled into our accommodations, and went to explore the nearby area. The Osh Bazaar, the main market of the city, was about five minutes from our doorstep. The main goal was to buy groceries for the following eight days. Kegety Pass, the first and highest pass of the route, was due on the third day and we had to get ready physically and mentally. We always carry food for two extra days as you never know what can happen in a remote area where you cannot find more than a few shepherds, wild animals, and herds. The bazaar was surprisingly quiet, and the prices were fixed. This was a surprise as I imagined the city to be like Tehran or Istanbul, just as chaotic as any capital. This is exactly why I travel, to learn and experience firsthand other ways of life. Our first morning was spent devouring three bags of nuts, a heap of noodles with vegetables, and a huge watermelon in less than 20 minutes. These mountains became the backdrop to a walk we shared with Nico, an Italian friend I connected with when we both were cycling through Europe a few years earlier. A typical Kyrgyz tombola helped us to disconnect from our tiredness and share in laughter with a friend. After a big breakfast the following morning, we were eager to leave the city and start cycling toward Kegety Pass. Diego had read a lot of blogs about this pass at 3, meters 12, feet. The truth is, he had memorized the whole way and the Kyrgyzstan map in case we got lost and had no battery in our devices. After three long days of climbing this pass on our heavy bikes, we finally reached the top. During the first day, we had encounters with people from the capital spending time in nature. As we gained more ground in the second stage, we were closer to the glaciers and found ourselves alone in the empty green valley. It was hard to continually ride at altitude, and the landscape was progressively more beautiful and we stopped frequently to take photos. Herds of wild horses, long waterfalls, glaciers in the background, and endless green slopes were all we saw during the second day. While wild camping, we joked about how lucky we were with the weather. I guess we had tempted fate because we woke up greeted by dense fog and light rain, which followed us to the top of the pass. We crossed paths with two shepherds on horseback; trying to communicate with each other was interesting as we did not share a common language. This exchange was the opposite of the next one, when we met a French bikepacker cycling down the Kegety who told us there were more than horses blocking the narrow path on top. Snow covered the ground as we reached the herd. Finally, I was able to live out one of my childhood dreams, challenging my inner shepherdess to move the herd to create a path for us. The two shepherds we met a few hours earlier appeared in search of the herd and led them to the other side of the valley. This moment felt dreamlike and straight out of a movie: misty fog, two shepherds wearing large capes on horseback while guiding the herd, and the two of us trailing at the back, pushing our bikes. Knowing the southern face of the pass would be much harder than the north, we searched for the easiest singletrack down toward the next valley. We had to push our bikes down for some parts and got lost in others. Despite this, we kept our motivation high as Diego managed his first big pass really well. After the thousand-meter descent, we had the pleasure of exploring the new valley. A crystal-clear river, stunning green slopes, horses, cows and sheep grazing peacefully, and a handful of yurts scattered across the landscape. Some Kyrgyz people continue to live a nomadic lifestyle, with many people from the lower land villages still living nomadically during the summer season. The summer is short in Kyrgyzstan, and snow can start covering the higher lands from September. Depending on the snowfall in winter, they can set up their camps as early as mid-spring. Members of these nomadic families who settled in the valley waved at us as we cycled by and invited us into their yurt, which are traditional homes built with removable wooden frames and felt covers. Each family member has a specific role and task: the women are responsible for collecting cattle droppings and drying them in the sun to serve as fuel for the long winter ahead, and the men are responsible for taking the cattle to higher land for the more fertile pastures. This allows the milk of the mares, sheep, and cows to transform into two types of butter. One type has a liquid consistency and the other solid, but both are equally delicious in our opinion. With the sun shining, we were able to take a refreshing dip in one of the freezing cold rivers Kyrgyzstan has to offer. This pass was stunning and we were unsure why nobody had mentioned it to us beforehand. Big slopes took us to the west and closer to a new part of the Tian Shan Range. Cycling on the black, rocky terrain made a magnificent contrast to the snowcapped mountains and glaciers in the background. Karakol Pass gave us not only a stunning view but a great learning experience. The weather at altitude can be very unpredictable. We were awakened by a shepherd who curiously approached our campsite. He had a bottle of vodka in his hand and a cigarette hanging out of his mouth. I added some other phrases to the few I still remembered from my time cycling through the Southern Caucasus: bike, tent, camping, food, supermarket … just the easiest and most useful words when you do not share a common language. A storm was coming toward us, and we had to try to escape it. Luckily, we packed our belongings quickly and started cycling under the gray sky. One hour later and we were soaked — the animal shelter we found did not protect us from the pouring rain. We had no other choice but to knock at the door of a yurt where we were welcomed in with hot coffee and biscuits. It makes me wonder about the differences between us. These families settle there to survive, and we were on vacation. As I shared our route, the questions asked of us were different compared to my previous solo trips and related to our age, where our children were, and the idea of having a family in the near future. The yurt was filled with laughter and warmth. Having dried, Diego and I continued discovering new passes and another great valley. After riding along lush, green fields, we came across the village of Suusamyr, allowing us the chance to stop for a couple of days. We needed to recover our energy levels, refuel, and contact our family and friends. That was the point when we realized that life in the villages was similar to the life of the nomads. During the winter, both at high altitude and in the lower towns, they all have the same needs for getting fuel to burn or picking the vegetables of the season such as carrots or cucumbers to survive the rest of the year. From Suusamyr on, the landscape changed from the high mountains and white glaciers to reddish-brown valleys. It took us mentally back to our visit to Utah or northern Argentina. Big canyons along a blue river accompanied us, as well as three Spanish cyclists we met on the way. The views from above were nothing but unique. Everywhere we went, we saw the different layers of the landscape, from the rock formations of the valley to the fresh snow on the high mountains. We could reach Song-Kol, the second largest alpine lake in the country, within two days. It felt like a sea despite Kyrgyzstan being landlocked and far from the ocean. Food was in abundance during the time we spent with a family, who treated us to generous servings of local cuisine. Laghman noodles with meat and paloo rice with beef are the most typical dishes. With the weather constantly changing, we were thankful to have a roof over us as we watched snow fall. As soon as we left this corner of the country, we were able to enjoy another type of landscape. It was time to descend through a completely different scenery of tree-lined slopes that appeared out of the blue. We removed layers as we descended toward a valley in the Naryn region, the highest part of the country. The last 40 kilometers before we reached the city proved to be the most difficult stretch for me and was the point where we split paths with the other bikepackers. Staying in the city of Naryn helped me to make a speedy recovery while Diego prepared to fly home as his time in the country had come to an end. I prepared to head out alone once again and cycle the passes of the Tian Shan until the city of Karakol. However, I shared the journey with two fellow bikepackers, Martuki and Johnny, who were great companions through passes like Arabel and the Burkhan Valley. This remote area gave us a new perspective of the Tian Shan Range. The green pastures that I first appreciated with Diego during July were no longer shining as the sun beat down over it. August brought a brown hue to the environment, making these pastures worse for the cattle. Encounters with the nomads of this region were more frequent as winter was just around the corner and storms were more noticeable. Being invited to join a funeral to share a celebration of life with family members and the time we spent with a solo man in his campsite were the highlights of the last few days cycling through this part of the Tian Shan. Approaching the border with China, we were given the most incredible gift of magnificent glaciers and stunning landscapes. The city of Karakol, located in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, is based at the crossroads of Central Asia and is a fascinating playground for nature lovers and a great place to visit the second largest saline lake in the world: Issyk-Kul. Remembering that this city was a stop on the Silk Road and a popular area during the Soviet Union because of health resorts and hot mineral springs, it was the perfect place for my last stage of the Tian Shan traverse. Undoubtedly, this is a country made for bikepacking. It offers you tons of adventures, awesome places for wild camping, beautiful traditions, and multiple paths to get lost through its untouched nature. Skip to content Search:. Newsletters Magazine Podcast. Routes Maps App Updates U. Bicycle Route System Short Routes. Gear Maps Apparel Specials. Join Give Get Involved. Kyrgyzstan, the Wild Land. Ana Zamorano. A storm was coming when packing up our campsite. A curious shepherd came to ask us if there was a problem. The lush and green landscape with a wide gravel path after Kegety Pass was more than stunning. This big family was celebrating a funeral in a yurt. Tons of food, a guitar, and some bottles of vodka were the main ingredients. This teen is quite famous among bikepackers, as his family lives in a yurt near a famous pass. We were happy to meet him and his siblings. The photographer: One of his sisters. This man from a yurt wanted Diego to wear his kalpak , the Kyrgyz traditional hat. Crashing Into The Party. Chris Walker. Taneika Duhaney. Road Test: Tumbleweed Stargazer. Ally Mabry.

Kyrgyzstan

Bishkek buying snow

Bishkek is the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, a landlocked country located in central Asia. Kyrgyzstan, officially called the Kyrgyz Republic, borders China, Kazahkstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan and is a very mountainous country with not much flat land. It is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise, with complex mountain ranges, high lakes, and waterfalls. Eighty percent of Kyrgyzstan is covered by the Tian Shan mountainous region. Bishkek is located meters 2, feet above sea level on the fringe of the Ala-Too mountain range and is home to around , people. The city was given its name after the collapse of the Soviet Union. If you want to spend some time in central Asia, then Bishkek is a great base as it is easily accessible by train and it is possible to travel to surrounding countries, and there is so much on its doorstep. The train network can take you to Russia, other parts of Central Asia, or even to China. Police : Ambulance : Firefighter : Cooltra is the mobility app for renting motorcycles and electric scooters as well as a motosharing service in 6 cities. If you knew eCooltra, we now offer daily and monthly motorcycle rental so you can ride whenever and wherever you want. If you are looking for a home, our team has analysed the experiences of our millions of users to provide the best property search engine possible. One click, and you will have of all information about Cascais. Do you want to visit a museum, a garden or just go to the beach? With Agenda Cascais you can find out everything about these spaces, from their location to their description. I have been fortunate enough to have visited Bishkek twice over the past few years, and it is a wonderful city. Located in the North of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek is the capital city with a vibrant atmosphere and lots going on. Both times that I have been, I have had my own vehicle with me as I drove over from Europe; however, it is possible to rent your own car or camper whilst there. Whilst in Bishkek, I stayed in two different hostels. The first no longer exists, and the second was Apple hostel, which is a nice modern hostel where many backpackers travel to. It has a canteen and good communal spaces for guests, and it is in a good location. Within the city, there is a good amount of things to do, and one of my favorite pastimes was to visit the markets. There is a huge market that is entirely built from shipping containers. I found it fun to walk around, and people watch as trade deals happened and people went about their daily life. There is also a great market which is a little touristy which focuses more on food and handmade crafts. I also enjoyed going out for dinner and trying the local cuisine. It is very affordable in Bishkek, so eating out is easy to do most nights without spending too much. I also made the most of their spas as again they were very affordable, and both times I was there, I had driven from Europe, so it was nice to have a pamper after the long road trip. As the city is fairly small, I found that I wanted to see more of the countryside to learn more about the country. I took the time to visit surrounding areas and hike in the mountains. I stayed at Lake Issykul in a yurt which I highly recommend as a beautiful and authentic experience. I also visited surrounding countries, taking a trip to Almaty in Kazakhstan and across to Uzbekistan too. Although I had my car, there are public transport options which make travel around central Asia easy. Living in Bishkek is very affordable as it is still developing, so you can eat and live for a very small cost. However, with this comes a lack of facilities, but if you can live with that, then Bishkek is a great place to be. Bishkek is an up-and-coming city for digital nomads, and there are a surprising amount of coworking spaces popping up across the city. This is no surprise as Bishkek is located in the heart of central Asia and has been attracting tourists for many years. This alternative destination is becoming more tourist and digital nomad friendly as the years go on, and I have seen this change in the time between my visits. There are many business centers and corporate offices to rent, but there are also lots of Coworking spaces. The average internet speed in Bishkek varies across the city, with the highest upload speed of around It is not the fastest, but it is average. You will also find that phone coverage is only available in cities or large built-up areas, and much of the countryside will have zero phone service. Beeline is one of the best phone companies in Kyrgyzstan, and they work in other countries across Central Asia. This is probably one of the better coworking spaces in Bishkek. It is an arts center, event space, and coworking venue. They have two locations in Bishkek with a variety of conference rooms, office space, and even creative studios too for filming purposes. Coworking Space Sabi is a smaller space but is clean, quiet, comfortable, and spread over three floors and a basement. The staff is friendly and will do their best to find solutions to any problems you may encounter. Most Coffee shops in Bishkek are chain-like, but there are a few that make for great workspaces. Hygge Coffee is located below Ololohaus coworking, and it offers some of the best coffee in Bishkek. Other coffee shops with lots of space and nice working areas are Owl Coffee and Social Coffee. They serve delicious coffee and create an excellent workspace if you like working from a coffee shop. Bishkek is a relatively small city, so choosing where to stay is quite simple. Personally I always stay where the hostels are, which can be anywhere in the city. Kyrgyzstan has only recently opened up to tourism, so the infrastructure is still in the making. This is great because you get a true and immersive experience, which I think is what makes central Asia so great. One of the most popular areas to stay in is the City Center near Ala-Too square as it is the central part of the city, and pretty much everything is within walking distance. Located on the northwest of the city, this is where you will find a few hostels, and it is the more residential part of the city. This is generally where I have stayed as Apple Hostel is located on the outskirts, and it is only a short ride or 45 minutes to one hour walk into the city center. I like it because it is quieter and next to Apple Hostel is a military base, so it is very quiet. This is located a little distance from the city center just to the southeast. It is also a lot cheaper. There are areas of the city that are better avoided, so always stay in recognized hostels or hotels unless you are there with a local. Some areas are more industrial and less pedestrian-friendly. While crime rates are very low in Bishkek, there are some areas that are more unpleasant to stay in due to their surroundings. In the East of the city is the industrial district, which can be noisy, dusty, and unpleasant to stay in. It is best to stay as close to the city center as possible as you will most likely have a better time as everything is on your doorstep. Finding an apartment in Bishkek is quite challenging as it is still an up-and-coming city, so things such as Airbnb are not commonly used within the city. The concept of sites such as Airbnb is becoming more recognized in Bishkek, so you will notice the market is adapting to the demand. There are other ways of finding an apartment and some websites that are very popular in Bishkek, which are listed below. The prices vary dramatically whether you want to be in the city center or on the outskirts. This is a great option if you are unsure of whether you will make your destination. This is a great website for finding a rental; however, the selection is minimal. Expats in Bishkek Facebook page is a good place to look for apartments as you can directly message those who are already on the ground who can advise you. This is a great way of gauging the average cost you should expect to be paying for accommodation for one month. There are lots of hostels that offer private rooms, and this might be a good way of finding somewhere to live. Essentially you still have your own private space, but you have communal areas where you can meet like-minded people. If you are on a low-end budget, then hostels are the best accommodation in Bishkek because they have great facilities and are generally really well located. Here are some of the best hostels in Bishkek. This is where I stayed on my last visit, and I think it is a great place to stay. I like Apple Hostel because they have free parking and good communal areas. This is a great option if you are happy to stay in a shared room as Koisha Hostel is centrally located and has a cute garden area. If you are in Bishkek in the summer, then this is a good option for accommodation. Entering Kyrgyzstan is fairly simple for most passport holders as Kyrgyzstan is trying to encourage tourism. You will need to check the length of stay for your country as this varies dramatically. Some of the 69 nations can stay indefinitely; others have a maximum stay of 90 days, some 60 days, and some 30 days. You will still be stamped in to mark your time in the country. If you are not from one of the visa-free countries, then you will need to obtain an e-visa before your arrival. This can be done online and is a simple process costing very little. Make sure to do it before your planned trip, as it can take a few days to process. It is also possible if you have a visa for Kazakhstan to visit some areas of Kyrgyzstan. Some passport holders with Kazakh visas can cross into Kyrgyzstan and visit the border districts of Issyk-Kul, Talas, and Chui regions. If you are in Bishkek and want to extend your stay, then you can visit an immigration office in Bishkek for an extension. You may need to provide evidence of sufficient funds and a reason for your stay. Kyrgyzstan has a number of traditional dishes, and cuisine is a huge part of Kyrgyz culture. Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country with harsh winters, so many dishes are based around hearty ingredients that provide proteins and fat for survival during the subzero winters. Being from a nomadic background, the majority of traditional food is centered around meats and produce from animals. There are many places to enjoy some of the best Kyrgyz cuisines in Bishkek, as well as try something new. There is a huge interest in American culture, so this is often reflected in many of the fast-food chains or diner-type restaurants. The youth of Bishkek is also experimenting with new fusions of traditional Kyrgyz dishes and other cuisines from around the world. My favorite restaurant for trying Kyrgyz cuisine was Navat. The food was a little more expensive here, but it was still very affordable, and it was fantastic. The restaurant has a traditional atmosphere and is welcoming with its brightly colored and funky decorations. Other great traditional restaurants include Faiza and Bukhara. Some of the best street food can be found in the Osh market. In the food section, you will see many locals selling their homemade pickled vegetables as well as cooked local delights. You will see many stands selling local bread, pastries, homemade honey, and dried fruits. It is a great place to pick up a snack and to see how the locals live. Kheshteg Lagman was one of my favorite takeaway spots as it served great Laghman for a very affordable price. Along the street where Kheshteg Lagman is located, you will find many small local fast food places to eat, and it is a great street for picking up a quick bite to eat. Traditional Kyrgyz food is very heavily meat-based; however, as Bishkek develops and is influenced by global cuisine, there are many restaurants that are adapting their menus to suit dietary needs. You may also find that soups and other dishes may still be cooked using animal broths, and it is quite hard to escape eating meat at restaurants that are more for locals. Bishkek is a bustling youthful city with a lively nightlife scene. There is a great selection of bars, nightclubs, karaoke venues offering a variety of nighttime experiences. There is a slight obsession with Western culture, in particular, American dining and drinking culture, so you will find many bars and restaurants with American themes. Karaoke is a popular evening activity in Bishkek, and there are many karaoke bars across the city. Prices can vary between venues, and they depend on whether you order food, book private rooms, and the size of your group. It is best to ask around when you get to Bishkek to find out what the prices are, as there are so many variables. Retro-Metro is probably the most popular nightclub in Bishkek, and it is one of the biggest in the city. They offer live music events from both their resident DJs and guest Dis too. Metro Pub, and Promzona are all alternative live music venues playing mostly music from the 70s 80s and a mix of Russian rock. They are all slightly smaller venues, but they have so much life, and you can have a great night at one of these if you prefer something different. There is a huge bar culture in Bishkek, from casual bars to some specializing in specific drinks and cocktails. You will certainly find a bar that suits your vibe. If you enjoy craft beers, then you need to check these places out as they have a great selection of craft beers from a variety of countries. While Bishkek is a relatively small city, there is plenty to do; from eating out to visiting museums and enjoying the markets. There will always be something to keep you curious, and if you find that you have visited everything in Bishkek, then why not explore more of the countryside on an excursion or even take a trip to a neighboring country. This was my favorite Bazar and marketplace to visit. Although it was a little touristy, it was still super authentic. Not many people speak English, so it is best to learn simple words and numbers as it really helps with haggling here. You will find food, textiles, clothes, and crafts here. It is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs and gifts, as well as produce if you want to cook. Things are very cheap in Bishkek, and it is common to haggle at markets if you are buying multiple items. Just remember to be respectful and never make a ridiculous offer that might offend. I recommend trying some of the pickled goods that are similar to the South Korean kimchee. You will see endless market stalls selling variations, and it is delicious! I also recommend checking out textiles made with camel wool and hand-crafted items. Always be vigilant at busy markets as this is a popular place for pickpocketers. This is located slightly north of the city center, and you will need to take a bus out to it. This is where the locals go to buy and trade, and it is incredible. The market is built entirely with shipping containers and is around a kilometer wide. Always be vigilant at busy markets at this is a popular place for pickpocketers. If you want to explore a bit more of Kyrgyzstan, then you should look at renting a camper van from UAZ Buhanka Rentals. Prices vary depending on the equipment you require and the length of your trip. Prices can also go up if you require additional extras in the vehicle. If you are into history, then there are a few museums in Bishkek that might be of interest. As for monuments, you will find many that are left from the Soviet Union as well as others that celebrate the traditions of Kyrgyz culture. It contains a mix of contemporary fine arts from the region and in general from the world. If you want to admire some sculptures, then make sure to check out the Sculpture Museum Park. There is a viewpoint in Bishkek located south of the city. Bishkek is a great place to be based for activities and excursions further afield. The rich mountainous region allows for many activities that are perfect, either for a long weekend or for a day trip. Here are some suggestions of things just outside of Bishkek. Located a short drive outside Bishkek is the Burana Tower. This tall tower that sites alone is a marker to what was one the ancient city of Balasagun. It was originally 45 meters tall, but legend tells many tales of how the tower was reduced to 25 meters. It is most likely due to earthquakes, but legend speaks of tragedy and loss. Its deepest point goes as far as meters 2, feet. The lake has a few settlements around it, with Issyk being the largest, and it used to be a popular vacation destination during Soviet Union times. It is around a 6-hour drive from Bishkek, but there are endless amounts of hiking to do in the area, and this is the best place to rent a yurt for the night. Horses are a huge part of Kyrgyz culture, so why not go on a horse trekking excursion. For centuries horses have been a valuable mode of transport in central Asia, to move nomads from place to place and for carrying goods. There are set tours where you can go on a mountains trek by horseback and even stay in a yurt or in the mountains. Just a minute drive from Bishkek is the Ala-Archa national park. Kashka-Suu ski resort is another attraction popular with tourists as it is close to Bishkek, beautiful, and affordable. So if you are visiting during the winter months, then a ski weekend could be a great way to escape the city. A super useful resource is Caravanistan. They have spent years building a website containing everything about central Asia. The weather in Bishkek varies dramatically depending on the time of year you visit, as the winters can be extremely harsh with subzero temperatures and the summer very hot. The times I have stayed were in September and November; both were quite cold but before the snow arrived in Bishkek. Many mountain passes across the country close in November, so it made travel quite restricted. June is the wettest month, with around 22 days of rainfall out of March and April are the months of spring, where temperatures begin to rise and the snow starts to melt. This is still quite early for those who want to hike and spend time in the mountains. December and January are considered the subzero cold winter months, with February being the last of the cold winter spell. The best months to visit are the summer months between May and September as this is when the weather is at its best. If you want to go to Bishkek, then you are most likely going there for the outdoor qualities, so if you plan on hiking and camping, then summer is better. However, if you want to go there for the snow and the ski season, then December through to February are the best months to visit. Although having said that, if you were to homeschool your children and you like adventure, then maybe it is a good place for you and your family. The best way to find information on Bishkek is to join expat forums and ask as many questions as possible. There are a few international schools in Bishkek, but these will most likely only teach in Russian, so if your child is not bilingual, then it might be challenging for them to integrate. Some hotels may offer a daycare service, or if you can get in contact with one of the universities, it might be a great opportunity to offer some work to a student who might be learning a foreign language. It is common for students to have part-time jobs, so it might be an opportunity for you to employ a student as an au pair. It is also possible to find apartments to rent using some of the websites mentioned in the accommodation section, such as rentberry. In summary, if you have a method of homeschooling and are willing to employ an au pair, then it could be a great city for families. There is so much to experience outside Bishkek, and there are some amazing day trips that the kids will love. Transport within Bishkek is pretty good, there are a few options for getting around the city, and it is very cheap. The main form is bus or taxi, and there are plenty running across the city. It is also fairly easy to navigate as the city has a simple grid system. There are a few ways of ordering a taxi in Bishkek, and taxis, in general, are a very cheap way of getting around the city. The best way to book a taxi is by using taxi apps such as Yandex or Uber. It is best to use these as you will have a fixed price and can choose the pick-up and drop-off locations without having to communicate with the driver. Most taxi drivers will not speak languages other than Kyrgyz or Russian, so it is best to use the app to make your journey as smooth as possible. There are also local taxis which you can hail down but make sure to know how to say where you want to go. The trolleybuses are buses that follow electrical lines and have set routes throughout the city, whereas the diesel buses are more of the traditional bus that makes varying journeys across and around the city. Buses tend to run from around 6 am to 10 pm at night. In Bishkek, it is generally custom to pay when you get on, whereas, in Osh, you pay when you get off. They also only accept cash; there is no system in place for card payments. The city is fairly pedestrian-friendly, with large roads and open spaces. The pollution can become quite bad during certain seasons, as the fumes get stuck in the city, so if you are walking, you may want to wear a mask. It takes just over an hour to walk across the main part of the city. There are a few gyms and fitness centers in Bishkek, however not that many will speak English. You will also find that many people choose to exercise through running, walking, hiking, and being outdoors rather than through gyms. Many gyms use a directory website called , which displays business information and sometimes rates. If you are a confident gym goer and are just looking for equipment and not a personal trainer, then all the above are great options. It might be more difficult if you are looking for a personal trainer as not many trainers will speak English. The best way to find out if there are English-speaking coaches or personal trainers is via forums and Facebook expat groups in Bishkek. You can also buy monthly memberships or bulk buy classes to save a few dollars. You will also find many boxing gyms and places to practice martial arts; however, these will most likely only be taught in Kyrgyz or Russian. Finally, there is Smile sports complex, which has around 30 trampolines, a bouldering wall, and an adventure park. Their prices vary depending on how long you want to use the space, what you want to use, and if you are attending a class. Kyrgyzstan was once home to some of the Turkic ethnic groups. The Turkic peoples were a collection of ethnic groups that lived mostly in Central Asia as well as Europe, North and West Asia, and they are thought to have migrated from the East. Most Kyrgyz people are religious, and they are Muslim, following the Hanafi Sunni school. Islam was first introduced to Kyrzgstan via the Silk Road. In Bishkek, you will find most of the youth of the country, as this is the best place to be for education and for jobs. It is a young city, with a vibrant nightlife scene and lots going on. The youthful vibe is shaping Bishkek into a popular place with digital nomads, as there are many events, bars, restaurants, and things to do that appeal to a younger audience. Many of the older generations follow tradition, and the younger are becoming more westernized. With exchange programs and opportunities to learn foreign languages, the capital is shaping into a more multicultural city. The older generations in Bishkek generally only speak Kyrgyz or Russian, whereas the younger generations speak both Kyrgyz and another foreign language such as English or German. This progression is also applicable to religion; the older generations tend to be more religious and follow the religious rule, whereas the youth are becoming more open-minded and independent. The kalpak symbolizes the mountains and has four sides, each representing an element. It is always advised to have both insurances for medical and for your belongings, and this is a must for Kyrgyzstan. Healthcare in Kyrgyzstan is minimal and not easily available; while the doctors in Kyrgyzstan are knowledgeable, they lack equipment and modern healthcare technology. Being in Bishkek is the best place in the country as it is the capital city, so you will have access to the best care in the country; however, this care is still very basic and not to a high level when compared with Western Europe. It is highly unlikely to come across medical staff who speak English, so it is advised to always take a translator with you. Equipment is dated or, in some cases, nonexistent, which may require you to be taken to a neighboring country for care, depending on how severe the medical issue is. This is why it is advised to have insurance because if you do get into an accident and need advanced treatment, then you may be flown to another country which can be very expensive. Medical evacuation is very common in Bishkek, and usually, you will visit a medical center where a decision will be made to fly you to either Istanbul or Western Europe. It is advised to take your own medical kit with you, containing basic items such as paracetamol or equivalent, as well as the usual basic first aid kit items. This is just because it is sometimes difficult to get hold of healthcare items in Kyrgyzstan, so it is better to be prepared, but always check customs rules to see if any medication is banned. Make sure you are fully covered by reading our full Digital Nomad Travel Insurance guide. Finding a job in Bishkek may be challenging unless you can speak either Kyrgyz or Russian. However, there is an increasing demand for English teachers, so if you are a native English speaker, then you might be in luck. The best place to look for an English teaching job in Bishkek is via websites such as teachaway. On these websites, you will find many jobs advertised and many institutes in Bishkek that are looking for teachers. It is also possible to find teaching work when you are there. A common form of extra income in Bishkek is to offer private English language tuition. You can charge more for this than what you will be paid for teaching a class; however, it is a good idea to get a teaching job first to get potential clients. Another way to approach teaching is to contact schools and universities before you arrive and see if any positions are available or if they would advertise your private tuition classes. Other than teaching languages, it will be difficult to find work in Bishkek as the average wage is very low, and there is not much work available unless you have a unique skill. The expected cost of living in Bishkek is quite low, but it can quickly add up if you want to take excursions outside of Bishkek. If you are happy to sleep in a dorm room in a hostel, eat from markets, street food, and cook, then it is possible to keep your costs very low. You must be logged in to post a comment. Forgot Password? Forgot your password? Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive mail with link to set new password. Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete. Home » City Guide » Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Becca May 20, Nomad Friendly. Value for Money. Quality of Living. Emergency Numbers Police : Ambulance : Firefighter : Air Quality. Vaccinations None Required — —. Money Handling. Useful Apps. Home Renting. Average Rainfall. Average Rain Days. Daily Sunshine Hours. Digital Nomad Personal Experience in Bishkek I have been fortunate enough to have visited Bishkek twice over the past few years, and it is a wonderful city. Work in Bishkek Bishkek is an up-and-coming city for digital nomads, and there are a surprising amount of coworking spaces popping up across the city. Coworking Space Sabi Coworking Space Sabi is a smaller space but is clean, quiet, comfortable, and spread over three floors and a basement. Coffee shops Most Coffee shops in Bishkek are chain-like, but there are a few that make for great workspaces. Ala-Too Square One of the most popular areas to stay in is the City Center near Ala-Too square as it is the central part of the city, and pretty much everything is within walking distance. Birinchi May District Located on the northwest of the city, this is where you will find a few hostels, and it is the more residential part of the city. Oktyabr District This is located a little distance from the city center just to the southeast. Find an Apartment in Bishkek Finding an apartment in Bishkek is quite challenging as it is still an up-and-coming city, so things such as Airbnb are not commonly used within the city. Rent Berry Rentberry. Hostels There are lots of hostels that offer private rooms, and this might be a good way of finding somewhere to live. Apple Hostel This is where I stayed on my last visit, and I think it is a great place to stay. Similar Digital Nomad Destinations. Compare Bishkek with other Destinations. Bishkek Visa Entering Kyrgyzstan is fairly simple for most passport holders as Kyrgyzstan is trying to encourage tourism. Culture and Food in Bishkek Kyrgyzstan has a number of traditional dishes, and cuisine is a huge part of Kyrgyz culture. Street Food Some of the best street food can be found in the Osh market. Vegan and Vegetarian Traditional Kyrgyz food is very heavily meat-based; however, as Bishkek develops and is influenced by global cuisine, there are many restaurants that are adapting their menus to suit dietary needs. Bishkek Nightlife Bishkek is a bustling youthful city with a lively nightlife scene. Karaoke Karaoke is a popular evening activity in Bishkek, and there are many karaoke bars across the city. Nightclubs Retro-Metro is probably the most popular nightclub in Bishkek, and it is one of the biggest in the city. Alternative Bars Metro Pub, and Promzona are all alternative live music venues playing mostly music from the 70s 80s and a mix of Russian rock. Bars There is a huge bar culture in Bishkek, from casual bars to some specializing in specific drinks and cocktails. Things to do in Bishkek While Bishkek is a relatively small city, there is plenty to do; from eating out to visiting museums and enjoying the markets. Osh Bazar This was my favorite Bazar and marketplace to visit. Dordoy Bazar This is located slightly north of the city center, and you will need to take a bus out to it. Museums and Monuments If you are into history, then there are a few museums in Bishkek that might be of interest. Viewpoint There is a viewpoint in Bishkek located south of the city. Horse riding Horses are a huge part of Kyrgyz culture, so why not go on a horse trekking excursion. Skiing Kashka-Suu ski resort is another attraction popular with tourists as it is close to Bishkek, beautiful, and affordable. Best Time to Visit Bishkek The weather in Bishkek varies dramatically depending on the time of year you visit, as the winters can be extremely harsh with subzero temperatures and the summer very hot. Living in Bishkek Bishkek Transportation Transport within Bishkek is pretty good, there are a few options for getting around the city, and it is very cheap. Taxi There are a few ways of ordering a taxi in Bishkek, and taxis, in general, are a very cheap way of getting around the city. Trolleybuses and Diesel Busses The trolleybuses are buses that follow electrical lines and have set routes throughout the city, whereas the diesel buses are more of the traditional bus that makes varying journeys across and around the city. Walking The city is fairly pedestrian-friendly, with large roads and open spaces. Fitness and Health There are a few gyms and fitness centers in Bishkek, however not that many will speak English. Bishkek People Kyrgyzstan was once home to some of the Turkic ethnic groups. Bishkek Insurance and Medical Care It is always advised to have both insurances for medical and for your belongings, and this is a must for Kyrgyzstan. Jobs in Bishkek Finding a job in Bishkek may be challenging unless you can speak either Kyrgyz or Russian. Cost of Living Bishkek The expected cost of living in Bishkek is quite low, but it can quickly add up if you want to take excursions outside of Bishkek. Help us keep the rating accurate This contact form is available only for logged in users. Related Articles. Nicki Silvanus December 8, Guadalupe Araoz September 9, Guadalupe Araoz January 4, Responses You must be logged in to post a comment. Remember me. Log in. Don't have an account yet? Create account. Have an account already? Reset password. Your compare list. Remove All Compare. There was a problem reporting this post. Harassment Harassment or bullying behavior. Inappropriate Contains mature or sensitive content. Misinformation Contains misleading or false information. Offensive Contains abusive or derogatory content. Suspicious Contains spam, fake content or potential malware. Report note. Please confirm you want to block this member. You will no longer be able to: See blocked member's posts Mention this member in posts Invite this member to groups Message this member Add this member as a connection Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. You have already reported this. Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant. Domestic Beer 1 pint draught. Cappuccino regular. Loaf of Fresh White Bread 1 lb. Water 1. One-way Ticket Local Transport. Basic Utilities Monthly. Fitness Club Monthly. Apartment 1 bedroom in City Centre.

Bishkek buying snow