Nowruz and culinary tour Kyrgyzstan 8 days

Join our Nowruz and Culinary Tour of Kyrgyzstan — an unforgettable 8-day journey into the heart of Kyrgyz culture and traditions.

Tour Dates: 21 – 28 March 2022

During this tour, you will experience the rich flavors of Kyrgyz cuisine, take part in Nowruz celebrations at Ala-Too Square in Bishkek, and discover the fascinating contrast between nomadic heritage and modern life in Kyrgyzstan.

Come and celebrate spring, renewal, and friendship with the warm-hearted people of Kyrgyzstan!

Day 1 – Nowruz Celebration in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Upon arrival at Bishkek Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your 3-star hotel in Bishkek. After check-in, start your Bishkek city tour, visiting popular landmarks such as Ala-Too Square, Panfilov Park, Oak Park, and the bustling Osh Bazaar.

Experience the vibrant Nowruz celebration in Kyrgyzstan, the traditional Kyrgyz New Year, at Ala-Too Square. Enjoy traditional Kyrgyz dances, costumes, music, and cultural performances, and immerse yourself in the rich Kyrgyz traditions and festive atmosphere.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Bishkek
Meals: Lunch, Dinner (LD)

Day 2 – Burana Tower & Culinary Experience in Chon Kemin, Kyrgyzstan

After breakfast, we will drive to Chon Kemin Nature Park, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way. On the route, we will visit the Burana Tower, an ancient minaret with fascinating history and legends. Nearby, explore the Balbal Stones Museum, an open-air site with ancient petroglyphs and stone sculptures.

Upon arrival in Chon Kemin, enjoy a culinary experience preparing and tasting Besh Barmak, the signature Kyrgyz dish. “Besh Barmak” translates as “five fingers”, as it is traditionally eaten with hands rather than cutlery.

In the afternoon, take a walking tour in Chon Kemin Nature Park, experiencing its stunning natural beauty.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Chon Kemin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (BLD)

Day 3 – Issyk Kul Lake & Culinary Experience in Cholpon Ata, Kyrgyzstan

Today we continue our journey to the north shore of Issyk Kul Lake, settling at a resort in Cholpon Ata. After check-in, we will visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Complex, a unique site where you can explore five different religious temples and learn about their significance. “Ruh Ordo” translates from Kyrgyz as the “Center of the Soul.”

In the afternoon, enjoy a culinary show featuring traditional Kyrgyz dishes. Watch the preparation of Samsy, a baked pastry filled with minced meat and herbs, and Lazy, a flavorful dish served with spicy sauce made of peppers, tomatoes, and garlic. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Kyrgyz cuisine firsthand.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Cholpon Ata
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (BLD)

Day 4 – Karakol City Tour & Jyrgalan Valley, Kyrgyzstan

Today we continue our journey to Karakol, known as the city of youth, a popular ski resort, and the administrative center of the Issyk Kul region. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a Karakol city tour, visiting key landmarks such as the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Dungan Mosque — famously built without any nails — and the vibrant Bugu Bazaar street market. During the tour, we will also have the opportunity to taste Ash-Lyam-Fu, a local Kyrgyz specialty.

In the afternoon, we will drive to the Jyrgalan Valley, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Jyrgalan Valley
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (BLD)

Day 5 – Culinary Experience of “Chak-Chak” & Hot Springs in Jyrgalan Valley, Kyrgyzstan

Today we will enjoy a culinary day in Jyrgalan Valley, featuring a traditional cooking show of “Chak-Chak”, the famous Kyrgyz sweet dessert. After lunch at the guesthouse, we will visit the hot springs in Jyrgalan Valley for a relaxing swim. The mineral waters are known for their health benefits, promoting well-being and relieving fatigue.

After the hot springs, we will have a transfer back to Karakol, and in the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner with a local Dungan family, experiencing authentic Dungan hospitality and cuisine.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Karakol
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (BLD)

Day 6 – Jeti-Oguz Valley, Skazka Canyon & Eagle Show in Bokonbaevo, Kyrgyzstan

Today we will explore the stunning Jeti-Oguz Valley, famous for its Maiden’s Braid Waterfall and the Jeti-Oguz Rocks (Seven Bulls) along with the Broken Heart Rock, while learning about their fascinating legends. We will also cross several scenic bridges along the river.

Next, we will visit the Skazka Canyon (Fairy Tale Canyon) on the south shore of Issyk Kul Lake, known for its dramatic red rock formations and breathtaking landscapes.

Later, we will continue to Bokonbaevo village to enjoy a traditional Kyrgyz eagle hunting demonstration, a unique cultural experience showcasing the ancient nomadic skill of hunting with trained eagles.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Bokonbaevo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (BLD)

Day 7 – Yurt Assembly Show & Culinary Experience of “Oromo” in Kyzyl Tuu, Kyrgyzstan

Today we will visit Kyzyl Tuu village to witness a traditional nomadic yurt assembly demonstration, learning how Kyrgyz families set up their portable homes. This is a unique insight into the nomadic lifestyle and traditions of Kyrgyzstan.

Afterwards, enjoy a culinary experience preparing “Oromo”, a traditional Kyrgyz dish made from dough, meat, and local spices, followed by tasting the dishes you help prepare. This hands-on activity offers a fun and authentic Kyrgyz cooking experience.

In the evening, we will transfer back to Bishkek, where you will have free time to relax or explore the city.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (BLD)

Day 8 – Departure & Airport Transfer, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

On the final day of your Kyrgyzstan Nowruz and Culinary Tour, after breakfast at your hotel in Bishkek, our team will provide a transfer to Bishkek International Airport for your departure.

We hope you leave with wonderful memories of Kyrgyz culture, traditions, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes experienced throughout your 8-day journey.

Meals: Breakfast (B)