Karakol, Kyrgyzstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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

Ready to pack for Karakol, Kyrgyzstan? If you're planning to go to Karakol, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

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

What to wear/what to pack for Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Karakol, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Karakol, Kyrgyzstan by month

January

January can be bitter cold. Temperatures average in the single digits F (10+ below zero C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day of the month. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

February in Karakol can be bitter cold. Temperatures average in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

March in this region is frosty. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day of the 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

Traveling to Karakol in April, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. It's important that you choose the right type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

Traveling to Karakol in May, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. 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

  • 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. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy 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 appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July here is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. 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 repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

August in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

September in this region can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost sometimes. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, 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 Karakol. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

October here can be brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Karakol. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. Most 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 get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

If you are traveling to Karakol in November, you will notice that it can be extremely cold. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 Karakol. 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 pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

Traveling to Karakol in December, you will notice that it is biting cold. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 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 Karakol. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the beautiful Dungan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; you should check with the Karakol tourism authority.

If you go to the Karakol Regional Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you want to visit Barskoon Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

Karakol, a charming city in Kyrgyzstan, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Although it is considered a relatively small city, it has a plethora of stunning natural wonders and cultural attractions that attract thousands of tourists every year. In this article, we will explore some of the top tourist attractions in Karakol that are definitely worth a visit.

1. Karakol Historical Museum

The Karakol Historical Museum is one of the most interesting cultural attractions in the city. It houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of the Kyrgyz people. Some of the most notable displays include the ancient nomadic way of life, cultural heritage, and traditional costumes.

2. Issyk-Kul Lake

Issyk-Kul Lake is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Karakol. The lake, the second-largest saltwater lake in the world, is surrounded by majestic mountains and features crystalline waters that provide endless recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and hiking around the lake, and experience the breathtaking scenery of the Kyrgyz mountains.

3. Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral

The Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral is one of the most significant religious sites in Karakol. Built-in the 19th century, the church showcases Russian architecture and is home to some interesting historical and religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the stunning interior of the cathedral and learn about the history of Christianity in Kyrgyzstan.

4. Dungan Mosque

The Dungan Mosque is another notable religious site in the city. This mosque is a unique example of Chinese architecture, featuring a traditional pagoda-style roof and eye-catching decorations. The mosque, constructed in the early 20th century, is considered one of the most significant mosques in Kyrgyzstan, attracting visitors from all over the world.

5. Karakol Ski Base

Karakol Ski Base is a popular winter sports destination in Kyrgyzstan. The base is situated on the slopes of the Terskey Ala-Too mountain range, providing visitors with excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. The ski base features well-maintained slopes, top-notch facilities, and picturesque scenery.

6. Jeti-Oguz

Jeti-Oguz is a stunning natural landmark located near Karakol. The area is characterized by seven red sandstone rock formations, which are said to resemble the head of a bull. Jeti-Oguz is considered one of the most scenic spots in Kyrgyzstan, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

In conclusion, Karakol is home to some of the most amazing tourist attractions in Kyrgyzstan. From historical and cultural landmarks to stunning natural scenery, the city has something to offer visitors of all interests. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities, religious and cultural sites, or simply exploring the local history, Karakol is definitely worth a visit.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Sebring, Florida, United States of America, Chisago City, Minnesota, United States of America, New Brunswick, New Brunswick, Canada, Heredia, Costa Rica, Rostock, Germany, West Zealand, Denmark, Salamanca, Spain, Taxco, Guerrero, Mexico, Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States of America, Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire, and Baška, Croatia.