Issyk-Kul

Issyk-Kul is a natural attraction in Kyrgyzstan. Issyk-Kul is the world's second largest alpine lake, 182 kilometres long and slightly saline, which keeps it from freezing despite sitting at 1,600 metres.

Last updated: 18 September 2026. How we calculate costs

KyrgyzstanFree entry · Paid extras available
Nature

Issyk-Kul is the world's second largest alpine lake, 182 kilometres long and slightly saline, which keeps it from freezing despite sitting at 1,600 metres. The northern shore holds beach resorts used by Central Asian holidaymakers; the southern shore is quieter, with canyons, petroglyph fields and access to the mountains. A road circles the whole lake.

Lakes
Road trip
Nature
Beaches

How to get to Issyk-Kul

Issyk-Kul sits in Kyrgyzstan. It pairs well with Dungan Mosque, Altyn Arashan, Song-Köl, so you can group them on the same day.

Tickets and time needed

Entry to Issyk-Kul is free, but some extras on site are paid.

Issyk-Kul FAQ

How much does it cost to visit Issyk-Kul?

Entry to Issyk-Kul is free, but some extras on site are paid.

Where is Issyk-Kul?

Issyk-Kul is in Kyrgyzstan.

What is near Issyk-Kul?

Nearby places include Dungan Mosque, Altyn Arashan, Song-Köl, Skazka Canyon.

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