Kyrgyzstan trekking

In the heart of Central Asia, on the route of the ancient Silk Road and part of the Soviet Bloc until independence in 1991, Kyrgyzstan has an intriguing blend of cultures and historical heritage. It is also a country of scenic splendour with nearly 80% of the land covered by soaring mountain peaks; the Tien Shan, the Pamir Alay and Kyrgyz Alatau are the ranges that dominate the landscape in this relatively small country. However, the highest mountains of all can be found just across the border in neighbouring China where K2 stands as the loftiest and most foreboding of all the peaks in the region. Our South Inylchek Glacier to Khan Tengri trek is undoubtedly one of the best ways to enjoy the full majesty of this mountain landscape.

The journey to China from Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, follows both the ancient trading road and the route taken by explorers such as Younghusband and Shipton as they travelled east across high passes before reaching the foot of K2. In fact, the area was first explored in depth and mapped by Eric Shipton on his 1937 ‘Blank on the Map’ expedition. Even a hardened traveller like Shipton was overwhelmed by the scenery when her wrote “the cliffs and ridges of K2 rose out of the glacier in one stupendous sweep to the summit of the mountain 12,000ft above. The sight was beyond my comprehension and I sat gazing at it with a kind of timid fascination...”

Today, the region remains remote and little travelled offering a superb challenge to trekkers looking for something away from the well-trodden paths of the Himalaya yet with equally stunning scenery and breathtaking views. The trek to the impressive peak of Khan Tengri with a thrilling helicopter flight from the Inylchek Base Camp is undoubtedly the best trekking holiday in Kyrgyzstan to discover the region's scenic splendours. Combine this with the traditional welcome of the semi-nomadic Kyrgyz people and the historic interest of Bishkek and the Silk Road, and you will find that a trekking holiday to Kyrgyzstan and its neighbouring lands, provides an unforgettable experience.

On our Five Stans Tour of Central Asia you can experience traditional Kyryz culture with visits to villages on the shores of beautiful Lake Issyk-Kul. Here you learn about the artisan crafts and nomadic way of life of the local people and see a demonstration of hunting with golden eagles. You can also enjoy more of the scenic attractions of Kyrgyzstan with a stroll at the 'Fairytale' red-rock canyons at Jety-Oguz Gorge.

• Capital city: Bishkek
• Population: 6,000,000 (2015 est)
• Size of country: 199,900 sq km
• Currency: Som
• Power supply: 220-240v
• Sockets: 2 pin round (standard European)
• Language: Russian and Kyrgyz are both official languages
• Time difference: GMT +6 hours
• Visas: British nationals do not need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan
• Religion: 80% Muslim, 17% Russian Orthodox, 3% others
• Popular dishes: Mutton and horse meat are the traditional mainstays of Kyrgyz cooking. The Kyrgyz national dish is Beshbamark – meat boiled in broth and served over noodles.
• Popular drinks: Kymyz is a favourite drink of the Kyrgyz people – it’s a slightly alcoholic drink made by fermenting mare’s milk.
• Did you know: The walnut-fruit forests of Kyrgyzstan are amongst the largest natural walnut forests in the world.
• FCDO advice: FCDO travel advice

When is the best time to travel to Kyrgyzstan?

Our climate charts will give you an idea of the weather conditions in Kyrgyzstan.

Winters (November to February) are long and icy cold, particularly in the mountains. If you want to go trekking, then the best months to visit Kyrgyzstan are July, August and September. The summer is generally warm, dry and bright.

If you can't make the dates of our group departures, then take a private departure on dates to suit you, or we can create a Tailor Made holiday to Kyrgyzstan, especially for you and your family or friends.