Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan? If you're planning to go to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan
  2. Important essentials for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan
  3. Activities for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan
  4. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan

Based on the climate and weather in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan by month

January

Traveling to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in January, you will notice that it is beyond freezing. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • 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 Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you are traveling to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in February, you will notice that it is unbearably cold. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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 airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

March

March here is freezing. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

April

If you are traveling to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in April, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

May

If you go to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in May, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • 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 Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice 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. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

June

Traveling to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in June, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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 airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require 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

July

If you go to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in July, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

August

August for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

September

If you are traveling to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in September, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

October

October in this region can be brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

November

November here can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost nearly every day this month. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December is beyond freezing. Temperatures average in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

What to do in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan

Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan is a true hidden gem, standing out as a magical country with a plethora of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The Tian Shan mountain range and the Issyk Kul lake, in particular, have become two of the most sought-after tourist attractions in the country. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in Kyrgyzstan.

1. Issyk Kul Lake: Known as the "Pearl of Central Asia," Issyk Kul Lake is the second-largest alpine lake in the world, with crystal clear waters and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is also home to many charming villages like Cholpon-Ata, famous for its petroglyphs and historical ruins.

2. Jeti-Oguz: A beautiful mountain valley located just a few kilometers from the town of Karakol, Jeti-Oguz is known for its towering red-rock cliffs, including the famous "Seven Bulls" and "Broken Heart" formations. It is also home to numerous hiking trails and natural hot springs.

3. Ala Archa National Park: Located on the outskirts of Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, this stunning national park is a must-visit for anyone who loves hiking and mountaineering. The park is home to several peaks, including the highest mountain in the Tian Shan range, Peak Lenin.

4. Burana Tower: Located near Tokmok, in the north of the country, the Burana Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 11th century. It is an ancient minaret that stands as a remnant of the Karakhanid Empire, and it is surrounded by several historical monuments and museums that provide a glimpse of Kyrgyzstan's rich cultural heritage.

5. Skazka Canyon (Fairy Tale Canyon): Also known as the "Canyon of Wonders," Skazka Canyon is an otherworldly landscape of colorful rock formations that are said to resemble legendary creatures, famous heroes, and fairy tales characters.

6. Tash Rabat: This 15th-century caravanserai, located in the remote At-Bashi district of Naryn, is a historic landmark and the perfect spot for anyone wanting to experience the allure of the Silk Road. It was once a vital stopover for travelers journeying between China and Europe.

7. Son-Kul Lake: The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Son-Kul Lake is its vast grassy plains that are dotted with yurts and herds of sheep and horses grazing on the fields. It's a perfect spot for anyone looking for a serene break amid natural beauty.

There is an endless array of tourist attractions in Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan Mountains in Kyrgyzstan, making it hard to choose which ones to see first. With the breath-taking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it is evident that Kyrgyzstan remains one of the most fascinating destinations in Central Asia.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Măcin Mountains National Park, Romania, San Joaquin County, California, United States of America, Alicante, Spain, Arcadia, Florida, United States of America, West Virginia, West Virginia, United States of America, Ullapool, Scotland, United Kingdom, Vienna, Virginia, United States of America, North Hempstead, New York, United States of America, Ashbourne, England, United Kingdom, Leeuwarden, Netherlands, and La Ceiba, Honduras.