The Magic of Issyk-Kul: A Winter Adventure

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Manas Airport, where the fresh winter air of Kyrgyzstan is filled with the scent of snow and the anticipation of adventure. A company representative greets you with a welcoming smile and accompanies you to a comfortable transfer. The way to the hotel gives you the first views of the majestic mountains on the horizon: the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan sparkle in the winter sun, snow-white fields stretch to infinity. Accommodation in a cozy hotel: warm rooms with views of the snowy surroundings, soft carpets underfoot, a hot shower after a cold journey. Relax and adapt to the mountain climate with a cup of fragrant tea. At 21:00 - an exquisite welcome dinner -an introduction to the oriental flavor restaurant. Meeting with the guide and the tour participants at a richly set table. Delicious dishes of local cuisine immerse you in a colorful culture: steaming pilaf with cumin flavor, hot manti with juicy filling, fragrant tea in national bowls. The rich aromas and tastes of the East immediately transport you to the wonderful world of Central Asia. Plans for magical days at the winter lake

After a delicious breakfast, we set off on a trip along the Southern shore of Issyk-Kul. The road along the ice-free lake: the blue surface contrasts with the white shores. Visit to the historical Burana complex: the ancient minaret of the XI century looks especially majestic against the background of snow-covered fields. A museum with an exhibition of artifacts: cool halls keep the warmth of history, ancient coins and ceramics tell about the caravans of the Silk Road. Climb the tower to view the surroundings: a narrow spiral staircase, cold stone walls, breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-white Chuya Valley and mountains. Amazing Fairy Tale Canyon: colorful rock formations against a background of white snow create fantastic landscapes. The red and yellow rocks resemble castles, animals, and mythical creatures. Walk among the stone sculptures with the crunching of snow underfoot. An exciting golden eagle show is an introduction to the ancient art of hunting with an eagle: majestic birds demonstrate their flying skills, the whistling of their wings cleaves the frosty air. A golden eagle hunter in a traditional costume talks about age-old traditions. Landing a huge bird on your arm is an unforgettable feeling of tenacious claws and piercing gaze. In the evening, there will be an interesting folklore show over a delicious dinner: local artists in national costumes perform traditional dances. The melodies of Komuz warm the soul, rhythmic movements fascinate, the legends of the akyns are transferred to the world of Kyrgyz legends.

After a delicious breakfast, we embark on a tour of the fascinating gorges with centuries-old huge coniferous forests. The Barskoon gorge is greeted by frozen waterfalls: ice cascades create an incredible sight, icicles hang like crystal curtains, the sun plays in ice crystals. A walk through the coniferous forest in snow coats: the air is filled with the aromas of firs and pines, the creaking of snow underfoot, the silence of the winter forest is disturbed only by the snow falling from the branches. The tracks of forest animals on the white cover tell about the hidden life of the winter forest. The Jety-Oguz gorge with the legendary red rocks "Seven Bulls": dramatic red giants contrast with the white snow, the wind howls between the rocks. The guide tells the legends of the seven brothers who were turned into stone - the story sounds especially mysterious in the winter atmosphere. A comfortable horseback ride to the waterfall: getting to know horses - warm breath from the nostrils in the frosty air, velvety muzzles under mittens. The clatter of hooves on a snow-covered trail, swaying in the saddle, incredible landscapes of winter gorges. Transfer to Karakol: accommodation in a cozy hotel in the center of the ski resort. Small city sightseeing tour: The Dungan mosque with carved wooden elements, the Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity with the smell of incense in the frosty air. Delicious dinner at a local restaurant: hot dishes warm you up after a frosty day, local delicacies introduce you to the cuisine of the region. Relax in warm rooms with the anticipation of ski adventures.

Early breakfast at the hotel and departure to the famous Karakol ski resort, one of the best resorts in Central Asia. The morning sun plays on the snowy slopes, the frosty air invigorates, the anticipation of adrenaline from downhill skiing. A lot of excitement and emotions awaits on the slopes: skiing or snowboarding on trails of varying difficulty - from green for beginners to black for professionals. Instructors help you master the technique, and equipment rental provides high-quality skis and boards. The adrenaline from downhill skiing: wind in the face, snow splashing from under the skis, the feeling of flying on snow-white slopes. Falls in soft snow cause laughter, successful descents cause euphoria. Hot mulled wine in a cafe near the slopes warms up between descents. Ice skating on an outdoor ice rink among beautiful forests and mountains: sliding on smooth ice, the fabulous coniferous forest around creates the atmosphere of a winter fairy tale. Romantic couples circle under the winter sun, children learn to keep their balance with squeals of delight. Snowmobiles for extreme sports enthusiasts: the roar of engines in the silence of the mountains, speed through untouched snow, splashes of snow dust. Climb to the panoramic platform on the cable car to view the majestic mountains and lakes - breathtaking views of the Issyk-Kul basin. In the evening, dinner and swimming in hot springs: outdoor thermal pools among snow-capped mountains. The contrast of hot water (+38°C) and frosty air (-15°C) creates an unforgettable experience. Relaxation of all muscles in mineral water after an active day.

In the morning, a delicious breakfast and continued fun at the ski base: skiing/snowboarding in the morning along perfectly prepared trails. Morning snow creaks under skis, the sun has not yet melted the evening ice on the slopes. A walk through the beautiful coniferous forest and the resort area: snow-covered paths between century-old fir trees, the air is crystal clear, the scent of pine needles invigorates. The resort's cafes and restaurants offer hot drinks and local delicacies. Recreation at the ski base: a terrace with a view of the slopes, hot tea in thermoses, exchange of impressions with other skiers. Recent photos against the background of snow-capped mountains, saying goodbye to the slopes. Moving to the Northern shore of Issyk-Kul: the road along the ice-free lake opens up new views. The Northern coast differs from the Southern one: more gentle slopes, sandy beaches under snow, resort towns with developed infrastructure. Accommodation in a comfortable hotel. Walking along the embankment in the evening light, dinner at a restaurant with local fish and traditional dishes.

Delicious breakfast and free time to relax: walking along the snowy embankment, breathing fresh lake air, watching wintering birds on the ice-free lake. Bathing in hot springs to experience all the healing properties of thermal waters: mineral water restores strength, relaxes the body after active rest. Various pools with different temperatures, outdoor jacuzzis, juniper-scented saunas. The contrast of sensations: the hot water of the springs and the frosty air are invigorating, steam rises from the pools, snow flakes melt on the heated skin. Relaxing on deck chairs with hot tea, contemplating the winter landscapes. After lunch, an informative trip to the Petroglyph Museum: guided tour of ancient rock paintings in the open air. The drawings, which are more than 2,000 years old, tell about the life and beliefs of ancient tribes, and look especially mysterious under a layer of snow. Packing up and returning to Bishkek: last glimpses of Lake Issyk-Kul, farewell to the hospitable hosts of the hotels. The road to the capital gives you time to digest the impressions of six days of a winter fairy tale at the pearl of the Tien Shan. Arrival in Bishkek: transfer to the airport or hotel completes an unforgettable winter adventure. There are not only souvenirs in the luggage, but also priceless memories: snow-covered gorges, hot springs, the adrenaline of ski slopes, the warmth of Kyrgyz hospitality.