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, 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
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. 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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 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.

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
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.

  • 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.

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
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. 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.

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
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 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.

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
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.

  • 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.

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
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.

  • 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.

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
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 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.

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
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. 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.

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
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. 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.

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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