Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan? If you're planning to go to Balykchy, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Balykchy
- Important essentials for Balykchy
- Activities for Balykchy
- Balykchy in January: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in February: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in March: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in April: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in May: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in June: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in July: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in August: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in September: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in October: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in November: weather and what to pack
- Balykchy in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan
Based on the climate and weather in Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Balykchy, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan by month
January
January in Balykchy can be bitter cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). There is frost almost every day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece for under jacket
Coveralls
We love:
Insulated boots
The best value
Night cap
It's vital to wear a cap at night in this weather like this
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestHeated gloves
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Goggles for eye protection
our pickTravel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Neck gaiter/ski mask
Lip balm
Our pick: here
Thick pajamas
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisWaterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Balykchy, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
February can be dangerously cold. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. There is frost most days. It rains or snows a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thick pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Insulated boots
The best value
Lip balm
Our pick: here
Heated gloves
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisExtreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Fleece for under jacket
Goggles for eye protection
our pickHeated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestCoveralls
We like:
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Neck warmer/cold weather mask
Night cap
It's suggested to wear a cap at night in this climate like this
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Balykchy, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
March
March here is very cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains or snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteThermal undergarments
We chose:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Lip balm
The best option: this one
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Pajamas
Sweaters
Fleece for under jacket
Extreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Balykchy, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
April
April can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost sometimes. It rains or snows regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Balykchy, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
May
If you visit Balykchy during May, you will probably see that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
June in Balykchy is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Sandals
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
July
July in Balykchy is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Sandals
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
If you vacation in Balykchy during August, you are likely to notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
September
September in Balykchy is balmy and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
October
October in Balykchy is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy jacket
Gloves
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Lip balm
Our pick is: here
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisWarm pants or jeans
Heavy socks
Such as:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Balykchy, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
November in Balykchy is frigid. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains or snows a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Extreme cold weather gloves
Lip balm
The best pick: here
Pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Fleece for under jacket
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteWaterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Balykchy, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
December
If you are traveling to Balykchy in December, you will notice that it is unbearably cold. Expect it to rain or snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost nearly every day this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heated gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisGoggles for eye protection
our pickLip balm
Our pick: here
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Night cap
It's vital to wear something on your head at night in this climate like this
Fleece for under jacket
Neck warmer/cold weather mask
Thick pajamas
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestInsulated boots
The best value
Coveralls
We like:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Balykchy, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Balykchy. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
What to do in Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan
Balykchy is a small town located on the northeast shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world. In recent years, Balykchy has become a popular tourist destination for its incredible scenery and authentic cultural experiences. Here are the top tourist attractions in Balykchy, Kyrgyzstan.
1. Lake Issyk-Kul
Lake Issyk-Kul is the main attraction in Balykchy, and for good reason. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountains, and its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. Visitors can also take boat tours, go fishing, or just relax on the beach.
2. Barskoon Waterfall
The Barskoon Waterfall is located about 60 kilometers from Balykchy, but it's worth the trip. The waterfall is over 20 meters high and is surrounded by beautiful forest and mountain landscapes. Visitors can take a short hike to the base of the waterfall and enjoy the cool mist and stunning views.
3. Balykchy Bazaar
The Balykchy Bazaar is a vibrant market that offers a glimpse into local life. Visitors can find everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional clothing and handicrafts. The market is especially lively on weekends, and it's a great place to try local snacks and street food.
4. Dungan Mosque
The Dungan Mosque is a unique attraction in Balykchy that reflects the town's multicultural heritage. The mosque was built in the early 20th century by Chinese Muslims who fled to Kyrgyzstan during the Qing dynasty. The mosque's architecture features a blend of Chinese and Islamic styles, and its colorful exterior is an impressive sight.
5. Fairy Tale Canyon
The Fairy Tale Canyon is a stunning geological formation located about 25 kilometers from Balykchy. The canyon is made up of red sandstone, and its unusual shapes and formations have been formed by wind erosion over millions of years. Visitors can hike through the canyon and explore its otherworldly landscape.
Overall, Balykchy offers a diverse range of attractions for travelers who want to experience the beauty and culture of Kyrgyzstan. With its natural wonders and unique cultural heritage, Balykchy is a destination that shouldn't be missed.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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