Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan? If you're planning to go to Issyk Kul, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Issyk Kul
- Important essentials for Issyk Kul
- Activities for Issyk Kul
- Issyk Kul in January: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in February: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in March: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in April: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in May: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in June: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in July: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in August: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in September: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in October: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in November: weather and what to pack
- Issyk Kul in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Based on the climate and weather in Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Issyk Kul, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan by month
January
Traveling to Issyk Kul in January, you will notice that it is biting cold. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) 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
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Heated gloves
Goggles for eye protection
our pickHeated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestInsulated boots
The best value
Night cap
It's a good idea to wear a cap at night in this weather like this
Coveralls
We like:
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisTravel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Neck warmer/cold weather mask
Thick pajamas
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Issyk Kul, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.Ski accessories
Issyk Kul has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul. 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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A good option 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. Be careful to choose the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
February
February is beyond freezing. Temperatures average in the single digits F (10+ below zero C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost nearly every day this month. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Goggles for eye protection
our pickLip balm
Our pick: this one
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Heated gloves
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestInsulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisFleece for under jacket
Neck warmer/ski mask
Coveralls
We pick:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Thick pajamas
Night cap
It's important to wear a head protector at night here like this
Insulated boots
The best value
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Issyk Kul, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Issyk Kul has some good skiing If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul. 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. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
March
If you go to Issyk Kul in March, you will notice that it is very cold. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Sweaters
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best option: here
Pajamas
Extreme cold weather gloves
Fleece for under jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Issyk Kul, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Issyk Kul has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul. 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. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like 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
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
April
If you go to Issyk Kul in April, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. 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
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 things recently, 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 Issyk Kul. 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 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
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply 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 appropriate for most places.
May
May in Issyk Kul is cold. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some 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
Safety + Security
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. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
If you are traveling to Issyk Kul in June, you will notice that it is relatively cool. 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
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
July here is relatively cool. 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
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
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 airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can 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 stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul. 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. It's important that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just 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 places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
August
August in Issyk Kul is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can locate 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
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 adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
September
September here is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost occasionally. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
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.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage 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 Issyk Kul. 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
October
Traveling to Issyk Kul in October, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb 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 wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul. 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
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
If you are traveling to Issyk Kul in November, you will notice that it is freezing. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost almost every day of the month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Fleece for under jacket
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Pajamas
Sweaters
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Issyk Kul, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Issyk Kul has some famous ski areas If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
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.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Issyk Kul. 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 constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
December
Traveling to Issyk Kul in December, you will notice that it is beyond freezing. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). There is frost nearly every day this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Night cap
It's suggested to wear a cap at night here like this
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisGoggles for eye protection
our pickThick pajamas
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Neck warmer/ski mask
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Heated gloves
Insulated boots
The best value
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestFleece for under jacket
Coveralls
We love:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Issyk Kul, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Issyk Kul has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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. 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Kyrgyzstan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
What to do in Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Issyk Kul is a huge alpine lake located in the northern region of Kyrgyzstan, at the crossroads of the Central Asian States. This stunning lake is one of the most visited attractions in Kyrgyzstan with a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance that has captured the imaginations of travelers from all around the world.
The lake, which is 182 kilometers long and 60 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, is surrounded by impressive snow-capped mountains, including the Terskey Alatau range. The lake’s warm, saline water is said to have therapeutic properties and is known to have healing effects for many ailments.
Below are some of the top tourist attractions that one can enjoy while exploring Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan:
1. Karakol City - Located on the eastern end of the lake, Karakol City is a charming historic town that’s home to several architectural masterpieces. Visitors can explore the Russian Orthodox Church, the Dungan Mosque, the local bazaar, and the Prince Old Castle. It is also an excellent base for adventure activities like hiking, skiing, and horse trekking.
2. Jeti-Oguz Rocks - Jeti-Oguz Rocks are a set of reddish rock formations located near the town of Karakol. These impressive rocks are surrounded by scenic forests and are one of the most visited places in the region. Visitors can climb the rocks and enjoy panoramic views of Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan.
3. Cholpon-Ata Town - Cholpon-Ata is a small town on the northern shore of Issyk Kul, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear water. The town is also home to several cultural landmarks, such as the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center, the Museum of Petroglyphs, and the Cholpon-Ata Open-Air Museum.
4. Barskoon Waterfall - The Barskoon Waterfall is a beautiful cascading waterfall located about 80 kilometers from Karakol. The waterfall flows down from towering mountains and offers a stunning backdrop for photography lovers.
5. Bokonbaevo Village - Bokonbaevo is a small village located on the southern shore of the lake, famous for its eagle-hunting tradition. Visitors can witness eagle hunting demonstrations, learn about the customs and traditions of the local Kyrgyz people, and purchase traditional handicrafts.
In conclusion, Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, history, and culture. With so much to explore, including charming towns, stunning landscapes, and cultural landmarks, there is always something for everyone in Issyk Kul. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape, an adventure-packed vacation, or a cultural experience, you won't want to miss out on this enchanting region of 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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