Day trip to Burana and Chon-Kemin

Leave the bustle of Bishkek behind and travel across to Kyrgyzstan to the incredible Chon Kemin Valley, a protected region which is home to some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the country. Its landscapes vary from semi-deserts to towering glaciers and the region is home to snow leopards, red deer and golden eagles. Chon Kemin is a unique natural reserve with beautifully preserved alpine landscape. Steep glaciers are fringed with green coniferous forests and the valley is surrounded on all sides by towering mountain peaks. After the rainy season, the valley blooms with wildflowers which spread as far as the eye can see.

On the way, stop to visit Burana Historical Tower, one of the few historical buildings in Kyrgyzstan and a remnant of an old Silk Road Town. The tower is part of the minaret of the town of Balasagun that was the capital of the Karahanid Dynasty in the 11th century. In 1974 the tower was restored and now you can climb up through the inside the tower and enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. Around the tower you find Balbals (stone warriors) from between the 6th and 10th centuries. The small museum contains more artifacts collected in this area. 

Continue on to the Chon-Kemin Valley and arrive to a family run guesthouse in the village of Tarsuu. The beautiful steep-sided Chon (Big) Kemin Valley runs parallel to the border of Kazakhstan between two mountain ranges. The valley’s population is mostly Kyrgyz, of the Sary Bagysh tribe, and many traditions are still practiced here.

After a short rest, enjoy a home-cooked lunch at the guesthouse terrace with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and village.
After lunch horseback riding tour (1-2 hours).
Before heading back to Bishkek, take a gentle stroll around the village and glean a fascinating insight into rural Kyrgyz life, meet with locals. 

This program can be prolonged upon client's request