The 30km taxi ride from Manas International airport to Bishkek town was quick and easy. Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is a pleasant city to wander around. With numerous leafy parks, tall trees, peppered by Soviet era statues and monuments, the city can comfortably be ‘done’ in a day (or two if visiting the suburban markets).
The capital is also a gateway to the Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountains and Ala Archa National Park, with glaciers and wildlife trails.
Ala-Too Square
Ala-Too Square is located in the center of Bishkek. Ala-Too in Kyrgyz means “great mountain”, symbolizing the mountainous terrain and nature of the country. It is a place where you can take a nice stroll, take pictures and in the evening, enjoy musical fountain show.
Sakura Guesthouse
We stayed at Sakura guesthouse which is run by a friendly Kyrgyz-Japanese family. We paid USD19 per person for a twin room. The guesthouse has a nice garden and a terrace. The accommodation provides a shared kitchen and free WiFi.
Osh Bazaar
Osh Bazaar is the main market place in Bishkek. It is a large iconic bazaar selling food, clothing, carpets, wooden trunks, bread, spices, seeds, souvenirs & more.