Karakol Travel Guide: Top 15 Things to Do in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

Are you ready to uncover one of the hidden gems of Central Asia? Karakol is a city that might not be on every traveler’s radar. But it should be. Karakol offers a unique adventure for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Come check out our Karakol travel guide for some unique things to do in the city!

Last year I had the privilege of visiting Kyrgyzstan for the first time. I attended the World Nomad Games, got a taste of adventure travel around Song Kol and briefly visited Karakol. We then lingered for while in the capital city of Bishkek. In many ways, it was the perfect introduction to the country. However, I left wanting more.

 
Source: From Our Travel Channel Samuel and Audrey covering things to do in Karakol

Having the chance to revisit Kyrgyzstan and come back to Karakol for a few days (I had previously just done a day trip). This allowed me to experience this part of the country more in depth. I got to really appreciate all it has to offer.

Sitting on the eastern shores of Issyk Kul, Karakol is considered the adventure capital of Kyrgyzstan.

Travellers come here to arrange hikes, horse treks and camping adventures. However, the town also warrants considerable exploration. Especially, when it comes to culture and local cuisine.

Why Visit Karakol?

Visiting Karakol is similar to visiting Bishkek. It rewards those who linger.

You can enjoy the laidback pace of life, discover its unusual attractions, do a bit of cafe hopping, and come to appreciate its many quirky charms.

Karakol is merely a stone’s throw away from some of the most dramatic landscapes in Central Asia. Whether it’s hiking through the rugged Tien Shan mountains or relaxing by the vast Lake Issyk-Kul, you’ve got options galore.

Are you a culture vulture? With its eclectic mix of Russian, Kyrgyz, Dungan, and Uighur influences, you’ll have opportunities to visit attractions such as a Dungan mosque and Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

Moreover, Karakol’s food scene is as diverse as its people. You can easily indulge in authentic Kyrgyz dishes. Enrich your tastebuds by sampling Dungan delicacies, or treat yourself to Uighur cuisine. Local markets brim with fresh produce and vibrant spices. Make your own Silk Road dreams become reality.

So, welcome to our Karakol travel guide—the base camp for your next big adventure!

With this in mind, let’s discover 15 things you can do while visiting Karakol.

source: Our YouTube travel channel Samuel and Audrey visiting Karakol

15 Things to Do in Karakol Travel Guide

1) Karakol Walking Tour

Looking for an authentic way to explore Karakol? Jump on a free walking tour! It’s a casual yet informative experience.

As a first-time visitor, one of the best ways to get acquainted with Karakol, is to take one of the free walking tours. These tip-based tours are put on by the tourist office and run three times a week.

Free walking tours are led by guides who actually live in Karakol. They know these streets like the back of their hands. And can tell you not just the history, but also the stories behind the places you visit.

It’s a great way to get a feel for the town while checking out some of the major landmarks. You’ll discover quirky attractions you wouldn’t have found on your own.

Plus you have a local guide who can answer any questions you may have about the place. They’ll offer suggestions on other things to do. More information here: https://destinationkarakol.com/tours/karakol-walking-tour

2) Dungan Mosque

Our first stop of the walking tour was the Dungan Mosque. This architecturally-unique mosque looks a lot like a Buddhist temple. This is because it was built by the Dungan community, an ethnically Chinese people group who follow Islam. But they incorporated architectural elements from their own culture.

Hence, this vibrant building bursts with color and intricate design. A reflection of a fascinating blend of Chinese and Islamic architectural styles.

Built in 1910 by Dungan (Chinese Muslim) immigrants, its colorful timber features and pagoda-style roof make it a must visit attraction for photographers. It’s a harmonious blend of Islamic practices with Chinese aesthetics.

The mosque’s history is as compelling as its architecture. The Dungan people fled China in the late 19th century to escape persecution. Thus, the mosque is not just a place of worship, but a symbol of resilience and cultural fusion. It represents the Dungan community’s successful integration into Karakol society while preserving their unique identity.

As a fun fact: apparently this mosque was built without the use of nails (though some nails have been spotted from modern-day repairs). Further information: https://destinationkarakol.com/what-to-do/attractions-museums/

3) Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church

Another iconic place of worship in Karakol (Каракол) is the Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church. This is a traditional Russian wooden cathedral complete with onion domes.

Built in 1895, the Holy Trinity Church is a prime example of traditional Russian Orthodox architecture. It was constructed from wood; yet it stands firm over a century later. Its iconic blue dome, topped with a golden cross offers a picturesque view against the mountainous backdrop.

The church’s history is nothing short of fascinating. Over the years, ( especially during Soviet times, when many religious buildings were repurposed or destroyed) it has been used as a sports hall, school, theatre, coal shop and dance hall, just to name a few!

The church’s interior is adorned with religious icons and murals. Here, you can feel a palpable sense of history.

As a pro tip, if you’re wearing a hat be sure to take it off! I made that mistake myself.

4) Antique Shop of Aleksandr Korablev

If you’re an avid souvenir collector then you’ll want to peruse Aleksandr Korablev’s Antique Shop. This little one-room shop is overflowing with treasures from the Soviet era. They have things like old cameras, porcelain sculptures, and even busts of Lenin.

It’s like a portal into the past. The collection is as eclectic as it is eccentric. Believe me when I say this isn’t just any old antique shop. It’s a treasure trove of history, stories, and curiosities. It’ll captivate anyone who steps through its door.

Opening its doors in the early 1990s, shortly after Kyrgyzstan gained independence, Korablev’s collection has grown from a modest hobbyist’s corner to a cultural landmark. This shop isn’t just about buying antiques. It’s about preserving a piece of history that might otherwise be forgotten.

I wanted to purchase many items but due to the lack of space in my suitcase. I only ended up buying a Soviet-Era border guard hat to add to my ever growing collection of hats from around the world. They had quite a few hats to choose from, and we learned that the color of each hat denotes whether it was an official cap for the army, navy, police or border control.

This quirky spot is a must-visit for both serious collectors and curious travelers alike.

5) Karakol’s History Museum

Are you a history buff? If so, be sure to add Karakol’s History Museum to your itinerary. Located in a beautifully preserved old Russian building, this museum offers a journey through time via its collection of artifacts.

So, what makes the museum a top thing to do in Karakol? .

The small museum is home to an impressive taxidermy collection. Its eclectic collection that narrates the town’s history from its early days as a Russian garrison outpost to its current status as a cultural melting pot. You’ll find traditional Kyrgyz clothing, Russian Orthodox religious relics, and artifacts from the Dungan people.

Plus when we visited there was an exhibition of photos by Ella Maillart, a swiss traveler who photographed her travels through Central Asia in the 1930s.

The Karakol History Museum is an essential stop for anyone wanting to fully understand the fabric of this region.

6) Victory Park and World War II Memorial

For a green escape, we also visited Victory Park and World War II Memorial located in the Przhevalsk District. Located amidst towering pine trees, the park offers a quiet retreat from the bustling city life. It’s a place where history and tranquility intersect.

Victory Park, coupled with its World War II Memorial, stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers from the Karakol area who fought in the war. The memorial is prominently featured within the park. Marked by a solemn statue in memory of the fallen.

However, the memorial isn’t just a relic. It’s an active part of the community’s cultural and civic activities. Commemorations and veteran gatherings are held throughout the year.

Everything here, from the many busts to imposing monuments, is done on a grand scale. And if you look closely enough you’ll see how tiny I am on the left of the above picture snapped by Audrey.

7) Fat Cat Karakol for food and drinks

Looking for a cozy spot to eat and drink in Karakol? Our favorite place to spend a lazy afternoon in the city was hands down the Fat Cat Karakol located on the corner of Gagarin and Alybakova. First recommended to us by two Dutch travellers we met at Bel Tam Yurt Camp.

This chill cafe served up some amazing cakes, as well as pizzas and grilled cheese sandwiches paired with craft beers.

What makes this place even more special is that the owner, Zhamila, has used her business to do a lot of good in the community, including organizing projects to raise funds for school supplies and empower women to start their own businesses. This fact alone made including Fat Cat to our Karakol travel guide a must.

Whether you’re starting your morning with a cup of their renowned coffee, stopping by for a leisurely lunch, or ending the day with a cheeky pint, Fat Cat’s welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect any-time-of-day spot. You can make new friends or simply chillax by watching the world go by.

8) Visiting local markets

Meandering through the local markets was another one of our favorite things to do in Karakol. It’s a slice of the town’s culture and daily life.

It’s a place where vibrant colors, enticing smells, and the buzz of daily commotion blend into an unforgettable sensory experience.

Karakol’s markets are treasure troves of local produce, handicrafts, and culinary delights. You’ll find just about everything here ranging from fresh produce to boxing gloves.

And in the food department, you can’t go wrong with a bowl of Ashlyan-fu (or three), but more on that local dish later. Furthermore, don’t miss the chance to try some local specialties like kurut (dried yogurt balls) and beshbarmak (a traditional noodle and meat dish), which are staples.

What makes shopping here unique? It’s the authentic interaction with the locals. This direct trade supports local families and the community. A win-win for everyone.

Moreover, each visit to the market can be a different adventure. You might find yourself sipping on locally brewed kymyz (fermented mare’s milk) one day, and picking out the perfect handmade woolen hat the next.

Out of of all the things to do in Karakol this may be my personal favourite.

9) Dungan 8-course meal

For the culture vulture and foodie interested in Kyrgyz cuisine, arranging an eight course meal with a Dungan family is another must.

What’s on the menu? Dungan cuisine is a delectable fusion of Chinese techniques with Central Asian ingredients. At a typical 8-course meal, you’ll start with laghman (hand-pulled noodles) and progress through dishes like manta (steamed dumplings), shorpo (mutton soup), and various stir-fried vegetables seasoned with local herbs and spices.

So, what makes Dungan food unique? It’s the meticulous preparation and the artful combination of flavors. Cooking methods often involve braising, steaming, and quick-frying—techniques that highlight the freshness of the ingredients.

Dungan cooks use a palette of seasonings. These might be familiar to fans of Chinese food but mixed in ways that surprise and delight.

Before the food was served, we had the opportunity to help prepare Ashlyanfu (Ашлян-фу) – a cold soup featuring different kinds of noodles. Additionally, a vinegar based broth and a combination of bell peppers, garlic, cilantro and tomatoes thrown in for good measure.

The dinner itself was a feast of feasts. According to Dungan tradition no less than 8 different dishes appear at the table. We came with our best intentions to finish everything served.

But we didn’t even come close to accomplishing that.

A meal with a Dungan family in Karakol is more than just a dinner. It’s an immersive cultural experience. It offers deep insight into a unique culinary tradition.

You can book this experience through Destination Karakol: https://destinationkarakol.com/tours/dungan-village-family-dinner/

10) Uyghur Cooking Class

With our love of indulging in local cuisine, another experience we really enjoyed was a cooking class where we learned to make a traditional Uyghur dish: laghman (Лагман). We had Gulya as our guide in the kitchen.

She taught us how to stretch the noodles. Let’s just say I was all thumbs in the kitchen.

The magic of this class? You’ll learn from a Uyghur chef who will teach you the authentic way to pull noodles. Along with balancing the unique spices that give this dish its signature flavor.

But Laghman is more than just noodles. It’s a staple of Uyghur cuisine that has spread across Central Asia. This dish typically features hand-pulled noodles, hearty vegetables, and meat, all simmered in a rich and spicy broth.

After a fun demonstration, we left it to the experts to continue with the recipe. We just watched as they fried the ingredients and worked on the broth.

This cooking class offers an opportunity connect with Karakol’s vibrant Uyghur community. The best part? You get to eat what you make. There’s nothing quite like tasting Laghman that you’ve made with your own hands.

Once again, you can arrange this cooking class through Destination Karakol: https://destinationkarakol.com/food-drink/kyrgyz-food/#karakoldishes

11) Eat a bowl of lagman

Speaking of the dish I just mentioned, lagman (Лагман) is a popular Uyghur dish. A true staple of Kyrgyz cuisine. The hand-pulled noodles can be served either soupy or fried. Coming with plenty of meat and vegetables. It’s another dish that you’ll want to sample in the local restaurants or markets.

What’s in a bowl? Laghman is more than the sum of its parts. But those parts are pretty darn spectacular. Thick, hand-pulled noodles are the star of the dish. They swim in a savory broth alongside chunks of meat (usually beef or lamb) and a medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, onions and carrots. All of that is topped with fresh herbs. It’s such a unique combination of textures and flavors. Hearty noodles, succulent meat, and crisp vegetables makes each spoonful a delight.

If you’re in Karakol, indulging in a bowl of Laghman is a must. This hearty noodle dish isn’t just food; it’s a dive into the rich tapestry of Central Asian culinary traditions. Packed with flavors and history, here’s why enjoying a bowl of Laghman in Karakol is an unforgettable experience for any visitor.

So, when in Karakol, don’t miss the chance to wrap your fork around the steaming strands of this beloved noodle dish. Sit down, tuck in, and let the rich flavors transport you through the history and culture of this fascinating region.

Writing this Karakol travel guide has made me awfully hungry!

12) Sunset Cruise on Lake Issyk-Kul

Picture this! Imagine gliding across the second largest alpine lake in the world as the sun dips below the mountains, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple.

Hence, one of our last activities in Karakol was a sunset cruise on Przhevalsky Bay located on the eastern shores of Lake Issyk Kul (Ысык-Көл).

Surrounded by friends, we enjoyed a spectacular sunset with drinks in hand. With calm waters we marveled at mountains off in the distance.

Lake Issyk-Kul, known as the “Pearl of Kyrgyzstan,” is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan mountains. The lake itself never freezes, thanks to its slight salinity and geothermal activity. Thus, it providing a year-round haven for visitors.

Here you’ll create postcard-worthy images that you’ll want to share with everyone back home. Moreover, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking or sightseeing.

Further information about the cruise: https://destinationkarakol.com/tours/karakol-sunset-cruise/

13) Jeti Oguz Valley for hiking

Our favorite day trip from Karakol was a short 30-minute drive to Jeti-Ögüz.

Translated, it means ‘seven bulls.’ It was named so for the seven plus hills (vibrant red sandstone cliffs) that make up the formation. These iconic formations are a stunning backdrop to a network of trails that wind through lush meadows and pine forests.

The best part? Panoramic views of the snow-capped Terskey Alatau mountains in the distance.

This is hiking and horse-trekking paradise.

Trails range from short loops that offer easy walks to longer, more demanding routes that lead up to higher elevations like the stunning Eagle’s Nest viewpoint.

However, Jeti Oguz isn’t just famous for its natural beauty. It’s steeped in local folklore. The most famous being the tale of the “Broken Heart,” a rock that is said to represent the heart of a beautiful woman torn between two suitors.

Pack a picnic lunch like a Kyrgyz visitor. Or stay longer in one of the yurt camps.

What to bring? Make sure to pack plenty of water, some snacks, and suitable clothing for variable weather. Don’t forget your camera. A pair of binoculars for bird watching and wildlife spotting is ace.

Hiking information: https://destinationkarakol.com/what-to-do/trekking/

14) Barskoon Gorge

To extend the day trip a little longer, we continued on to the nearby Barskoon Gorge.

You’ll find numerous waterfalls here along with some great hiking trails. Known locally by names such as “Tears of the Snow Leopard”, these cascading waters are accessible via well-marked trails.

You can reach some of the smaller waterfalls within 15 minutes of hiking. But the main one is 1.5 to 2 hours away on foot.

You’ll also discover a bust of Yuri Gagarin! his is a nod to space exploration. Yuri was the first cosmonaut who apparently had a particular fondness for this area.

It’s a popular spot for photos. And a moment of reflection on the feats of exploration – both terrestrial and celestial.

Preparation is key for this day trip. Pack suitable hiking gear, plenty of water, snacks, and don’t forget your camera. Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.

15) Karakol Day Hike

Lastly, we couldn’t visit the adventure capital of Kyrgyzstan without doing at least one hike! So, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails! Karakol is renowned for its spectacular natural surroundings. And a day hike here offers not just exercise but an immersive nature experience. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the town from above and the serene beauty of alpine landscapes.

How did we do it? With a local guide from Eco-Trek and a dog friend in tow, we set off on a scenic journey starting from the village of Jorgolot. With highlights including panoramic views of Karakol. We also enjoyed a great picnic in the valley. And a walk through the forest trails to finish off.

Of course, far more ambitious hikes, horse-treks and yurt stays are best arranged from Karakol. However, a day hike is a good option.

You’ve got options galore. Whether you’re short on time or need a little help deciding whether you want to commit to something more challenging or not. Trust me. It’s worth it.

How to Arrange Your Hike

Planning your day hike in Karakol is easy. You can book a guided tour through a local travel agency or organize a self-guided walk. Here’s how you can arrange it:

• Guided Tours: Local tour operators offer a variety of guided hikes that include transport, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes even meals. This is a great option if you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer a more structured experience.
• Self-Guided Adventures: For those who prefer to explore on their own, Karakol’s trails are well-marked. Grab a map from the local tourist office or download one from a reliable outdoor app, and you’re good to go.

Preparation Tips:

• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for mountain weather, which can change rapidly.
• Pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Start early to maximize daylight and enjoy the tranquility of morning trails.

Karakol Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

Well, that’s it from me! That’s our travel guide to Karakol. I hope this guide offered some worthwhile suggestions of things you can do in and around Karakol! As well as day trips to some nearby attractions.

It’s clear that this charming town is more than just a base for exploring the natural wonders of Kyrgyzstan. Whether you came for the epic hikes, the vibrant local markets, or the tranquil beauty of Lake Issyk-Kul, Karakol offers a unique slice of Central Asia.

A highlight for us – the culinary delights of Dungan and Uyghur cuisine. And how could I forget the quirky museums and local shops.

Many travelers find that one visit to Karakol isn’t enough. Us included. There is always more to explore. You’ve got more trails to hike, more local dishes to try, and more markets to meander through. It’s just a matter of finding time to return for more adventures.

This trip is in partnership with Discover Kyrgyzstan. As always, all opinions expressed here are my own.

More Of Our Videos from Kyrgyzstan:

World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan

Adventure Travel in Kyrgyzstan | Horse Trekking and Hiking Trip

Yurt Tour in Kyrgyzstan by Issyk-Kul Lake

Kyrgyzstan Travel: Horse Trekking and Yurt Stay adventure to Song Köl

Glamping in Kyrgyzstan | Luxury Yurt Tour

What else should we have included in our Karakol travel guide?
Are the things to do in Karakol that we missed out on?
Let us know in the comments below.