Issyk-Kul Holiday 2026: Horse Tours, Ashlyan-Fu, Safety. Complete Guide and Prices.

Why is Issyk-Kul called the pearl of Kyrgyzstan? Learn how to choose between the resort-like North and the wild South Shore. All about Kok Boru, Karakol’s Ashlyan-Fu, TON FEST, and essential safety tips.

Introduction: The Ever-Warm Lake

Imagine a lake the size of a sea, framed by eternal snowy peaks. This is Issyk-Kul—the second largest high-altitude lake in the world (after Titicaca). Situated at an altitude of 1,608 meters, it boasts a unique microclimate that has attracted travelers and nomads for centuries. Thanks to its high salinity and immense depth (up to 668 meters), its water never freezes, even in the harshest winters, which is how it earned its name, translating to “warm lake.” Issyk-Kul is more than just a beach resort; it is the heart of Kyrgyzstan, a place where a thousand-year-old nomadic culture comes alive.

North Shore vs South Shore: Two Types of Holidays

As experienced tour operators, we always emphasize: Issyk-Kul offers two completely different travel experiences. Your choice of shore will define your journey.

North Shore: Comfort, Events, and Infrastructure

• Main Centers: Cholpon-Ata and Bosteri.
• Character: The center of resort life. Most hotels, guesthouses, historic sanatoriums, and modern accommodations are concentrated here. The beaches are generally sandy, clean, and well-equipped (umbrellas, loungers, cafes, water sports).
• Ideal for: Families with children, lovers of comfortable beach holidays, and those seeking developed nightlife, restaurants, and clubs.

South Shore: Wild Nature, Ecotourism, and Authenticity

• Main Centers: Bokonbaevo, Kadji-Sai.
• Character: Considered “wilder” and more untouched. Beaches may be pebbly, but the surrounding nature is more contrasting and photogenic. Infrastructure includes yurt camps, small family guesthouses, and trekking bases.

• Ideal for: Adventure seekers, trekkers, horse tour enthusiasts, and admirers of nomadic traditions. This provides easy access to the region’s main natural wonders.

Natural Attractions and Trekking

A trip to the South Shore grants you access to unique landscapes that draw visitors to Kyrgyzstan.

• “Skazka” Canyon (Fairy Tale): This geological marvel is located near the village of Kadji-Sai. The red and yellow sandstone formations resemble towers, animal figures, and mythical characters. The canyon is particularly popular as a venue for the TON FEST festival.
• Jeti-Oguz Gorge: The name translates to “Seven Bulls.” These iconic red rock formations, seemingly sculpted by the wind, and the famous “Broken Heart” rock are Issyk-Kul’s calling cards. The gorge is rich in alpine meadows and waterfalls, making it an excellent starting point for trekking.

❄️ Issyk-Kul in Winter: Solitude and Contrasting Retreat

Many tourists are unaware of how magnificent Issyk-Kul is during the winter. If you seek solitude and a unique contrast, the winter season is an ideal choice.

• Contrasting Landscapes: It’s a meditative spectacle: steam rises above the unfrozen lake while snow blankets the silent surroundings. The snow-capped Tian Shan peaks reflected in the water create incredibly photogenic scenes.
• Thermal Relaxation: The main winter activity is bathing in open-air hot thermal springs near the lake (e.g., Ak-Suu or Keremet-Suu). Imagine sitting in warm water while watching the snowy mountains! This is an excellent opportunity for stress relief and general relaxation.
• Low Season: Enjoy the tranquility, slow walks, and authentic cuisine without the summer crowds.

☀️ Issyk-Kul in Summer: Activities and Festivals

In summer, Issyk-Kul becomes the epicenter of tourism and cultural events.

Horse Tours and Deep Dive into Nomadic Life

We offer a complete immersion into nomadic culture.

• Horse Tours: Ranging from one-day rides to multi-day treks with overnight stays in yurts on high-altitude jailoo (summer pastures). This is the best way to experience the mountains and gain unforgettable memories.
• Nomadic Games: We organize demonstrations and even workshops on ancient nomadic games. The central event is the spectacular Kok Boru (dead goat polo), a highly skilled and adrenaline-filled equestrian game.

• Ethno-Shows: Private ethno-musical shows (komuz performance, throat singing) and introductions to golden eagle hunting traditions can be arranged upon request.

Major Summer Festivals of Issyk-Kul

Summer is the time for vibrant and diverse festivals that we recommend including in your tours:

• Music and Art Events (North): Major international festivals “Meykin Asia” and “Rukh Sanat”.
• Ethno-Culture and Nature (South): TON FEST (in the “Skazka” Canyon), KOLFEST, and ethnocultural events like “Salbuurun“ and “Yurt Fest,” which showcase falconry/eagle hunting, Jigitovka (equestrian stunts), crafts markets, and national cuisine.

Culinary Journey: What to Try in Issyk-Kul

Kyrgyz cuisine is an integral part of the nomadic culture, based on meat, dairy products, and bread.

• The Cult Karakol Ashlyan-Fu: This dish is the culinary signature of Karakol! Ashlyan-Fu is a cold, spicy, sweet-and-sour soup featuring two types of noodles (starch and wheat), vegetables, and slices of fried egg (omelet). Originating from Dungan cuisine, it is the perfect dish for a hot summer day and a must-try at small Karakol cafes specializing in it.
• Meat Hits: The foundation of any celebratory meal includes Beshbarmak (meat with homemade noodles), Manty (steamed dumplings), Lagman (homemade noodles with meat and vegetables), and Plov. In yurt camps, you might be offered the traditional Kuurdak (fried meat with onions).
• Drinks: Be sure to try Kymyz (fermented mare’s milk)—the traditional nomadic drink—as well as Maksym (a grain-based beverage).

⚠️ Safety and Health: Tips for Tourists

Your safety is our priority. Kyrgyzstan is considered a relatively safe country, but it is important to remember the high altitude and local specifics.

• Altitude and Sun: The lake is situated at 1,608 meters. Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) as UV radiation is more aggressive here than at sea level. Avoid excessive physical strain during the first few days.
• Water: It is recommended to drink only bottled water. While trekking, drink water from mountain streams only after ensuring no grazing livestock are upstream.
• Communication: Connectivity is excellent in major resorts (Cholpon-Ata). In gorges, on the South Shore, and in mountain areas (like Jeti-Oguz Gorge), mobile signal may be absent. We provide satellite phones for emergency communication on multi-day tours.
• Medical: Basic travel insurance is mandatory. While hospitals exist in Karakol and Cholpon-Ata, complex cases may require transportation to Bishkek.

Logistics: Arranging Transfers and the Route

The journey from Bishkek to the lake takes only 3.5–4 hours (approx. 260 km). We arrange comfortable and quick transfers. We also provide car rental services or organize charter transportation around the entire perimeter of the lake.

Conclusion

Issyk-Kul is the soul of Kyrgyzstan. Its energy soothes and invigorates. An activity-packed program, including nomadic games, mountain horse trekking, world festivals, and a taste of unique cuisine, with Ashlyan-Fu as a mandatory highlight, will make your visit unforgettable.