Great things to see and do in Bishkek

At first glance, Bishkek does not seem like the most interesting city but you would be foolish to not take some time to see the city. Look closer and you will find many interesting things to sustain your interest and stay in the Kyrgyz capital.

Culture, art, history, scenic nature, friendly people, beautiful good local craft beer and food – you can find it all here.

 Here are some recommended things you can see and do in Bishkek.

There are many points of interests and landmark near Oak Park so it makes for a relaxing pit stop to chill out and/or have lunch.

Moderate in size, Oak Park is nice to walk around to get some fresh air while in the city centre.

What makes it stand out from other parks in the area is that it has an open-air sculpture exhibition with around 90 sculptures, some going as far back as 1984.

Dordoi bazaar is one of Asia’s largest markets with a massive range of goods that include clothing, accessories, perfumes, shoes, toys, furniture, electronics, automotive supplies, building materials, and so much more.

If you need something for your travel adventures, there’s a good chance you’ll find it here – That is if you don’t get overwhelmed or lost in the market first!

Operating as both a wholesale and retail market, Dordoi is beyond one kilometre in length and the bulk of the shops are built from shipping containers that are double-stacked.

There are estimated to be between 6,000 and 7,000 shipping containers! It can be an overwhelming and busy place, especially around the entrances – Watch out for workers walking around with a wide trolley load of goods!

Dordoi bazaar is on the outskirts of Bishkek but you can still easily get there via public transport (use 2GIS app to find a mashtruka).

This market gives you a good opportunity to get amongst the locals and sample or buy some local delicacies like a local. Food here (especially fruit and vegetables) can be cheaper than supermarkets so buy them here if you want. You can find cheap and fresh bread (naan) here as well – the most common type being ‘lepyoshka’, the circular bread that is typically baked in a tandoor oven.

Word of caution: People can often push past you – don’t take it personally!

Note: Be careful with your personal things here as there can be pickpockets around.

It’s a juxtaposition having a drab and grey Soviet-era building to house some of the most beautiful art ever made!

First opened in 1935 originally in St. Nicholas Church in Oak Park before moving to the current premise in 1974, the National Museum of Fine Arts features international and Kyrgyz art from the Soviet era and also contemporary. Important and fascinating cultural artwork and crafts are also here for you to discover. The museum’s art collection is over 17,500 so there is a lot to see and admire.

Brewster is an unassuming bar where you should go to taste some exceptional locally produced craft beer.

While the range is moderate, there is still quite a good selection of affordable craft beers varying in taste, bitterness, colour, and alcohol percentage.

The manager who runs the place knows the nuisances of all the beers on offer so feel free to ask him anything about them – he speaks great English.

This cosy bar is also perfect for meet ups for casual drinks (where you can hear each other!) with other travellers or locals.

Get a tantalising taste of Kyrgyz food at Café Faiza, whether its Kyrgyz classics such as lagman, manty, plov, or shashlik – you’ll find them here.

You’ll find immense value for food here where you may end up ordering more because the food is so delicious and affordable. Not surprisingly, it is busy with locals and travellers alike, but thankfully there is a lot of seating so there’s no need for an advanced booking.

If you only have time or money to eat out at one place only in Bishkek, Café Faiza would be it.

Note: There are limited vegetarian options here.

Bishkek is a past Soviet city and you will be reminded of it through the numerous and unique Soviet-era architecture and artwork scattered throughout the capital. It’s worth going on a self-guided walking tour to see all the different and interesting architecture while seeing more of the city.

If you’re in Kyrgyzstan for a short period, you must experience its stunning and renown nature, even if it’s for one day.

Established in 1976, Ala Archa National Park is only around an hour away via car and makes for the perfect day trip where you can go in the morning and come back in the evening in time for dinner at Cafe Faiza. There are accommodation and camping options if you want to stay the night.

At this national park, there are multiple hiking trails where you will be treated to pristine natural formations – mountain and valley views, pristine rivers, forests, waterfalls, and glaciers.

I recommend experiencing Ala Archa National Park – it is a great way to escape the montony of the grey concrete jungle!

Bishkek can be an enjoyable place if you take the time to explore the city, along with chatting to locals – you might discover more interesting things to see or do!

Been to Bishkek and found some other interesting things to see or do? Let other travellers and myself know in the comments below.

If you know someone who is planning to go Bishkek or is already there, share this helpful post to help them make the most of Bishkek.