All in One Day Konorchek Canyon Issyk Kul Lake and Burana Tower

Your tour begins with a morning pickup in Bishkek, heading east toward the historic Burana Tower. The drive takes you through a mix of city outskirts, open fields, and small villages, offering a glimpse of local life beyond the capital. As we follow the road along the Kazakhstan border, you’ll have the chance to admire the stunning Tien Shan mountains on the horizon, weather permitting. Along the way, we’ll pass through Tokmok, a former Soviet industrial hub, where traces of its past can still be seen in old monuments and architecture. Moving further into the countryside, the landscape becomes more scenic, with rolling hills and vast open spaces leading to the ancient minaret of Burana, a fascinating remnant of the once-thriving Karakhanid civilization.

At Burana Tower, our guests will have the opportunity to explore the historical 11th-century minaret, once part of the ancient city of Balasagun on the Silk Road. Climbing to the top of the 25-meter tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Chüy Valley and the distant Tian Shan mountains. Surrounding the tower, guests will find ancient balbal stone statues—Turkic gravestones with intricate carvings that are over 1,000 years old. Guests can also admire prehistoric petroglyphs, featuring rock carvings of animals and symbols. A small archaeological museum on-site displays artifacts such as pottery, coins, and tools from the ancient city, providing a deeper insight into Kyrgyzstan’s rich cultural heritage.

The Konorchek Canyon hike begins near the Red Bridge in Boom Gorge. From here, you’ll follow a dried riverbed into a surreal landscape of towering red sandstone cliffs and narrow gorges. The trail takes about one hour one way and includes a few rocky barriers that add a touch of adventure—exciting but manageable for active travelers. Along the way, you’ll pass through twisting paths and sculpted formations, eventually reaching the famous Eolian Castles, where the wind has carved dramatic spires and shapes into the canyon walls. At the top, a panoramic plateau offers breathtaking views of the canyons and distant mountains. If the wind picks up, you might hear the natural “singing rocks,” a unique sound created by the wind moving through narrow gaps in the cliffs. This short but rewarding hike is one of the most impressive natural sights in Kyrgyzstan.

Boom Gorge is a breathtaking canyon that connects the Chuy and Issyk-Kul regions of Kyrgyzstan. Carved by the powerful Chu River, it features dramatic rock formations, steep cliffs, and stunning landscapes shaped over millions of years. The gorge has long been an important passage for travelers, including ancient Silk Road traders. Today, it serves as a key route between Bishkek and Issyk-Kul, offering incredible scenery along the way. Our guests will pass through this stunning landscape and take a break for lunch at a local restaurant. They will enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the views of the surrounding mountains and river. After lunch, our guests will continue their journey to Balykchy, the gateway to Issyk-Kul, where they will get their first glimpse of the beautiful alpine lake.

In Balykchy, our guests will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this city located on the western shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, surrounded by stunning mountain views. As a gateway to the lake, Balykchy offers easy access to nearby beaches and attractions, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the region. The city also features Soviet-era architecture and monuments, offering a glimpse into its historical past. Whether guests are relaxing by the lake or admiring the landscape, Balykchy provides a serene and scenic experience.

After an unforgettable adventure in Balykchy, our guests will journey back to Bishkek, reflecting on the beauty of Issyk-Kul’s shores and the vibrant local culture. The scenic drive offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and savor the memories before returning to the capital. Whether it’s the fresh mountain air, the sparkling lake views, or the stories shared along the way, the return to Bishkek will be just as magical as the journey itself.