Scenic Kol Tor Lake Hike & Burana Tower in 1 Day

Bishkek , Kyrgyzstan

Scenic Kol Tor Lake Hike & Burana Tower in 1 Day

Active

(11 reviews)

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Looking for a scenic hike not far from Bishkek? This one-day adventure is perfect for nature lovers and curious travelers! We’ll start with a visit to the ancient Burana Tower, where your guide will share stories from the Silk Road era. Then we’ll drive through the stunning landscapes of the Chuy Valley and begin our hike to Kol Tor Lake—one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the region. Surrounded by the Tien Shan Mountains, the lake’s turquoise waters and peaceful setting make the effort more than worth it. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch out in nature. This tour is a great mix of history, hiking, and mountain magic—all in just one day!

Available options

Scenic Kol Tor Lake Hike & Burana Tower in 1 Day

Pickup included

What's included

Trekking poles

Professional English-speaking guide

Air-conditioned vehicle with a driver(hotel pick-up and drop-off included)

Bottled water

Admission tickets to Burana Tower

Detailed itinerary

Your adventure starts with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Bishkek. We'll drive directly to Kol Tor Lake, passing through the beautiful landscapes of Kyrgyzstan. The journey to the lake is as picturesque as the destination itself, offering a glimpse into the country's natural beauty. Get ready for a day full of exploration and breathtaking sights!

Before embarking on our hike, we'll delve into the rich history of the region with a visit to the Burana Tower, located in the ancient city of Balasagun. This historic tower, a significant part of the Silk Road, offers a gateway to the past. Our guide will lead you through the local archaeology museum, where artifacts from the Silk Road era vividly illustrate the region's historical significance. Outside, encounter the mysterious balbals – stone markers inscribed with ancient texts and images, echoing voices from the past. Climbing the tower, you're rewarded with panoramic views of the sprawling Chui Valley and the majestic Tien-Shan mountains – a perfect backdrop for introspection and memorable photos.

Embarking on our trek towards Kol Tor Lake, we'll navigate a trail that offers a true glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Kyrgyz landscape. This moderately challenging trek spans approximately 4-5 hours and takes us through a diverse terrain that tests both our endurance and rewards our senses. As we ascend, the path weaves through dense forests, alpine meadows, and rocky inclines, each offering a unique perspective of the Tien-Shan range. The trail is not just a physical journey but an opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of the region. Upon reaching our destination, the serene Kol Tor Lake, we'll take a well-earned break to enjoy our lunch amidst the peaceful mountain environment. After relishing the tranquility and capturing the moment, we'll begin our descent, carrying with us the sense of achievement and the beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s natural landscape.

As our day comes to a close, we return to the starting point of our hike, where our vehicle awaits to take you back to Bishkek. The drive back is a time for relaxation and reflection on the day's adventures. Once we reach your hotel, we'll say our goodbyes, leaving you with lasting memories of Kyrgyzstan's natural and historical wonders.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Lunch(we recommend to take your own food)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Bishkek

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is a vibrant city nestled at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains. Known for its wide boulevards, Soviet-era architecture, and lush green parks, it offers a unique blend of modern and traditional experiences. The city is a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan, making it an ideal destination for both urban explorers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Ala-Too Square

Ala-Too Square is the central square of Bishkek and a symbol of the city. It features a monument to independence and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free

Osh Bazaar

Osh Bazaar is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Bishkek, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and souvenirs.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Burana Tower

Burana Tower is a 11th-century minaret located near the village of Tokmok, about 80 km from Bishkek. It is a remnant of the ancient city of Balasagun and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Historical Half day Moderate (entry fee around $2-3)

Ala-Archa National Park

Ala-Archa National Park is a stunning natural reserve located just 40 km from Bishkek. It offers breathtaking mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities like camping and horseback riding.

Nature Full day Moderate (entry fee around $3-5)

Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre

The Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre is a cultural gem in Bishkek, offering performances of traditional Kyrgyz music, dance, and opera.

Cultural 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ticket prices vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kyrgyz dish made with boiled horse meat, noodles, and a rich broth. It is often served with a side of horse milk or cream.

Main Course Contains meat, gluten (from noodles)

Manty

Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, typically lamb or beef. They are a popular street food and can be found in many local eateries.

Main Course Contains meat, gluten (from dough)

Kumis

A traditional Kyrgyz drink made from fermented mare's milk. It has a slightly tangy flavor and is often served chilled.

Drink Contains dairy, alcohol (low content)

Samsa

A type of baked pastry filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. It is a popular street food and can be found in many bakeries and markets.

Snack Contains meat, gluten (from dough)

Popular Activities

Hiking Horseback riding Mountain biking Paragliding Tea tasting Spa and wellness Picnicking in parks Shopping

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Bishkek as the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings. It's also the peak tourist season with numerous festivals and outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Kyrgyz, Russian
Widely spoken: Russian, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS)

Time Zone

GMT+6

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bishkek is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of aggressive vendors and scams
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Manas International Airport • 25 km from city center

By train

Bishkek Railway Station

By bus

Western Bus Terminal, Eastern Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi, Bishkek Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown (City Center) Osh Bazaar Area Dzerzhinsky District Orto-Say District

Day trips

Issyk-Kul Lake

200 km from Bishkek • Full day to overnight

Issyk-Kul Lake is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by mountains, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and horseback riding.

Son-Kul Lake

300 km from Bishkek • Overnight to multi-day

Son-Kul Lake is a high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains and grasslands, offering a unique and remote experience for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Burana Tower and Tokmok

80 km from Bishkek • Half day

Burana Tower is a 11th-century minaret located near the village of Tokmok, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Festivals

World Nomad Games • September (every two years) Kyrgyz New Year (Noel) • March 21-23 Victory Day • May 9

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Kyrgyz or Russian to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Hire a local guide for a more informative and enriching experience, especially when exploring historical and cultural sites
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and between seasons
Carry small change for markets, street food, and tips, as many vendors and services may not accept large bills or cards
Be prepared for aggressive vendors and scams, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots