Understand

Discover the gateway to Issyk Kul, as you venture into the town of Balykchy, situated on the western bank of this majestic lake. While formerly known as Ribachie, which means "fisherman's" in Russian, the town was later renamed with a Kyrgyz word after gaining independence. Balykchy was once renowned as the center of the lake's fishing fleet, yet sadly experienced a decline following the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, Balykchy still serves as a vital stop along the path to the lake's enchanting tourist sites, despite being often overlooked. Explore the micro-climates of Issyk Kul, particularly around Balykchy, where the landscape unveils its mystical beauty, with lush greenery and snow-capped peaks captivating your senses at every turn.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Kyrgyzstan's national dish is called "Plov," also known as "Osh." It is a hearty traditional rice pilaf made with marinated beef, chickpeas, and various vegetables such as carrots, onions, and garlic. The ingredients are cooked together in a large pot until the rice is tender and fully absorbed the flavors of the other components. Plov is often served with additional meat on the side.

Another popular dish in Kyrgyzstan is "Kumis." This alcoholic beverage is made by fermenting horse milk and is typically consumed during special occasions or festivals. Kumis has a slightly sour taste and can vary in alcohol content depending on how long it has been fermented.

A favorite snack among Kyrgyz people is "Et Uch", which translates to "raw meat salad." This dish consists of finely minced raw beef seasoned with spices such as garlic, onion, and pepper. The meat mixture is then accompanied by diced onions, tomatoes, and peppers, which provide a vibrant medley of colors and textures alongside the meat. Et Uch is traditionally eaten with a type of flatbread called "non."

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing