Bishkek and the Northwest, Kyrgyzstan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Bishkek and the Northwest, Kyrgyzstan? If you're planning to go to Bishkek and the Northwest, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Bishkek and the Northwest
- Important essentials for Bishkek and the Northwest
- Activities for Bishkek and the Northwest
- Bishkek and the Northwest in January: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in February: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in March: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in April: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in May: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in June: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in July: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in August: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in September: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in October: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in November: weather and what to pack
- Bishkek and the Northwest in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Bishkek and the Northwest, Kyrgyzstan
Based on the climate and weather in Bishkek and the Northwest, Kyrgyzstan, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Bishkek and the Northwest, Kyrgyzstan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Bishkek and the Northwest, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Bishkek and the Northwest, Kyrgyzstan by month
January
If you go to Bishkek and the Northwest in January, you will notice that it is freezing. Expect it to snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Sweaters
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite
Pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Fleece for under jacket
Lip balm
The best pick: this
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Bishkek and the Northwest, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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 first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
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 Bishkek and the Northwest. 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 belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate 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
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just 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 areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
February
If you are traveling to Bishkek and the Northwest in February, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain sometimes and snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Fleece for under jacket
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Sweaters
Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Lip balm
The best is: this one
Extreme cold weather gloves
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Bishkek and the Northwest, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bishkek and the Northwest. 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 airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
March
March in Bishkek and the Northwest is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows once in a while. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Bishkek and the Northwest, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 Bishkek and the Northwest. 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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
In April, Bishkek and the Northwest is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Bishkek and the Northwest, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 50%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bishkek and the Northwest. 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
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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
May
In May, Bishkek and the Northwest is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Bishkek and the Northwest, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 50%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health
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 potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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 Bishkek and the Northwest. 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
June
If you visit Bishkek and the Northwest during June, you are likely to notice that it is pretty consistently hot, somewhat rainy and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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 Bishkek and the Northwest. 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 nowadays, 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
July
In July, Bishkek and the Northwest can be sweltering, somewhat rainy and very dry. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Bishkek and the Northwest, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 30%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters contaminants:
thisA rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Bishkek and the Northwest. 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.
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 top rated pillow is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
August
August for Bishkek and the Northwest is hot and very dry. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bishkek and the Northwest. 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
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
Travel neck pillow
A good option 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. It's important that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
September
If you go to Bishkek and the Northwest in September, you will notice that it is warm and very dry. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bishkek and the Northwest. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
October
Traveling to Bishkek and the Northwest in October, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
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 a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
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.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bishkek and the Northwest. 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
Traveling to Bishkek and the Northwest in November, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy jacket
Sweaters
Gloves
Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
this
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Bishkek and the Northwest, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural 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 good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bishkek and the Northwest. 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 pillow
What we like is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
December
If you go to Bishkek and the Northwest in December, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain sometimes and snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisLip balm
Our choice: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy socks
Such as:
Sweaters
Heavy jacket
Gloves
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Bishkek and the Northwest, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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 Bishkek and the Northwest. 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 frequently losing things 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
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to do in Bishkek and the Northwest, Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek and the Northwest of Kyrgyzstan offer visitors a wealth of cultural and natural experiences. From stunning mountain ranges to bustling city markets, there are a variety of destinations worth exploring. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the area:
1. Ala Archa National Park - Located only 30km from Bishkek, this national park offers visitors a chance to escape the city and explore the Kyrgyz Alatau Mountain Range. With hiking trails for all levels, including a challenging hike to the summit of Peak Uchitel, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
2. Osh Bazaar - Located in the heart of Bishkek, Osh Bazaar is a vibrant marketplace where locals and tourists can shop for everything from fresh produce to traditional clothing. Visitors can sample local snacks like samsas and shashlik while browsing the colorful stalls.
3. Burana Tower - This historic minaret, located in Tokmok, dates back to the 11th century and is one of the few remaining structures of the ancient city of Balasagun. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Issyk-Kul Lake - Located in the Northeast of Kyrgyzstan, this vast lake is the second-largest alpine lake in the world. The lake's stunning blue waters are surrounded by towering mountains, and visitors can relax on the beaches or explore the nearby fishing villages.
5. Sulayman Mountain - This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Osh is a sacred site for both Muslims and Buddhists, who believe that the prophet Solomon once meditated on the mountain. Visitors can climb to the top to see the stunning views of the surrounding valley.
6. Tash Rabat - This ancient stone caravanserai is located in the remote mountains of the Naryn region, and is believed to date back to the 15th century. Visitors can explore the ancient rooms and learn about the history of this important trade route stopover.
7. Jeti-Oguz - This picturesque mountain range, located near the town of Karakol, features seven rugged peaks that resemble charging bulls. Visitors can explore the stunning landscape and soak in the nearby mineral springs.
From natural wonders to historic sites, Bishkek and the Northwest of Kyrgyzstan offer a variety of experiences for tourists. Whether you're interested in hiking, shopping, or exploring ancient ruins, there's something for everyone in this fascinating region.
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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