Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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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
- When to go to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan
- Important essentials for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan
- Activities for Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in January: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in February: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in March: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in April: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in May: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in June: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in July: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in August: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in September: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in October: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan in November: weather and what to pack
- 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
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisHeated gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Neck gaiter/ski mask
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Goggles for eye protection
our pickThick pajamas
Night cap
It's vital to wear a head warmer at night in this weather like this
Coveralls
We like:
Insulated boots
The best value
Fleece for under jacket
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestWaterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect option.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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
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.
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
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
Coveralls
We pick:
Thick pajamas
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Goggles for eye protection
our pickInsulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisHeated gloves
Insulated boots
The best value
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestNeck gaiter/ski mask
Night cap
It's important to wear something on your head at night in this climate like this
Fleece for under jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
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.
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
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
Pajamas
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteCoveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Fleece inner layer
Heavy sweaters
Extreme cold weather gloves
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
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 have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
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
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
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe 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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
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 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
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-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 unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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.
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. 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
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have 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 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.
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. 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
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
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
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.
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
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
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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.
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. 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
Lip balm
The best pick: this
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Heavy sweaters
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Pajamas
Fleece inner layer
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a great option.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
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
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
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisFleece for under jacket
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestThick pajamas
Heated gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Goggles for eye protection
our pickNight cap
It's suggested to wear a head warmer at night here like this
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Insulated boots
The best value
Neck warmer/ski mask
Coveralls
We like:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Issyk Kul and the Tian Shan, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
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.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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.
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