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Maestro Jrnys

Meenakshi's Kyrgyzstan

Winter Self drive

LED BY

Meenakshi Arvind

TRIP DATES

28 Nov 25 - 06 Dec 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 2,750

SELFDRIVE

OFF-BEAT

ADVENTURE

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Bookings Closed

Meenakshi's Kyrgyzstan: Winter Self drive

TRIP DATES

28 Nov 25-06 Dec 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 2,750

Bookings Closed

About this Jrny

Kyrgyzstan in winter is like stepping into a snow-dusted fairytale, and we’re taking the wheel on this epic self-drive adventure through its stunning, remote landscapes. This Jrny is curated by expedition leader Meenakshi, founder of XPD India & Beyond. From driving the Trans-Siberian Highway to embarking on an extraordinary road trip from Coimbatore to London, and navigating winter drives through Spiti Valley, Meenakshi has led expeditions through 30 countries.

Experience thrilling Kok-Boru horse games, cross the dramatic Too-Ashu Pass, and navigate rugged Khan-Salyk canyons. Walk on Kel-Suu's frozen lake, witness golden eagles soaring in Bokonbaevo, and savour home-cooked meals with local families. Explore Bishkek's vibrant bazaars, visit the historic Burana Tower, and enjoy captivating folklore shows. Drive through alpine valleys, traverse snow-laced passes, and discover the Suusamyr Valley's vast expanse.

This journey is a thrilling blend of culture, adventure, and unforgettable winter scenery—come along and drive into the heart of Kyrgyzstan.

Highlights

Drive a powerful 4x4 across Kyrgyzstan's unexplored routes
Savour Bishkek's welcome dinner and explore the city with markets and museums
Cross the Too-Ashu Pass, discover Suusamyr Valley, & witness Kok-Boru horse games in Kyzyl-Oi
Navigate Naryn's scenic drive via Kökömeren River and Khan-Salyk canyons
Trek through Ak-Say Valley to the frozen alpine Kel-Suu Lake
Watch an eagle hunting demonstration and share lunch with a local family at Bokonbaevo
Explore Burana Tower, an ancient Silk Road landmark en route to Bishkek
Attend a folklore show and farewell dinner in Bishkek

Led by Jrny Maestro

Meenakshi Arvind

Crafted for the open road, an overlander with a legacy of over a million miles.

5 Jrnys

Overview

Dates

28Nov’25 - 6Dec’25

Suggested Ages

21+

Duration

9 days

Activity Level

moderate

Group Size

6 - 14

Travel Style

comfort

Price per person

$2,750

Itinerary

Fri 28 Nov

Arrive in Bishkek

Sat 29 Nov

Bishkek to Kyzyl-Oi

Sun 30 Nov

Kyzyl-Oi to Naryn

Mon 01 Dec

Naryn to Kel-Suu

Tue 02 Dec

Kel-Suu Lake & Back to Naryn

Wed 03 Dec

Naryn to Bokonbaevo

Thu 04 Dec

Bokonbaevo to Bishkek

Fri 05 Dec

Bishkek City Tour

Sat 06 Dec

Depart Bishkek

Stay

CHECK IN 28 Nov

1 N

CHECK OUT 29 Nov

Olive Hotel Bishkek

Bishkek

CHECK IN 29 Nov

1 N

CHECK OUT 30 Nov

Damira guesthouse

Kyzyl-Oi

CHECK IN 30 Nov

1 N

CHECK OUT 01 Dec

Hotel Khan Grand Tengri

Naryn

CHECK IN 01 Dec

1 N

CHECK OUT 02 Dec

CBT Kel-Suu Yurt Camp

Kel-Suu

CHECK IN 02 Dec

1 N

CHECK OUT 03 Dec

Hotel Khan Grand Tengri

Naryn

CHECK IN 03 Dec

1 N

CHECK OUT 04 Dec

Guest House Semetei

Bokonbaevo

CHECK IN 04 Dec

2 N

CHECK OUT 06 Dec

Olive Hotel Bishkek

Bishkek

Your Daily Itinerary

Fri 28 Nov

Arrive in Bishkek

Arrive in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan's vibrant capital, where crisp mountain air greets you upon arrival. Settle into your hotel before heading for a special welcome dinner showcasing traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, music, and warm hospitality.

Unwind and soak in the local culture as city lights twinkle around you. Experience the gentle buzz of this charming Central Asian capital whilst enjoying authentic flavours and sounds. Your first night in Bishkek offers a glimpse into the adventures ahead. Rest and prepare for the epic self-drive journey through Kyrgyzstan's stunning landscapes that awaits you.

Meals Included: Dinner

Activities

Meet and Greet in Bishkek

09:00 - 12:00

Arrive at Manas international airport (airport code: FRU). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs. Look for aJrnyOn representative holding a placard with the JrnyOn logo at the exit. Transfer to your hotel in Bishkek

Duration: 40 minutes
Distance: 31 kms / 19 miles

Welcome Dinner, Bishkek

18:00 - 21:00

Enjoy a warm welcome dinner in Bishkek, where traditional Kyrgyz hospitality meets rich culinary flavors. Savour local dishes like beshbarmak and manti, accompanied by folk music and dance, offering a delightful introduction to the culture and charm of Kyrgyzstan.

Sat 29 Nov

Bishkek to Kyzyl-Oi

Depart from Bishkek and journey through the dramatic Too-Ashu Pass, where winding mountain roads unveil the vast, windswept Suusamyr Valley. Surrounded by alpine beauty, continue towards Kyzyl-Oi, a secluded village nestled between rugged hills and deep gorges.

Immerse yourself in authentic village life upon arrival and witness a captivating demonstration of Kok-Boru—a traditional Kyrgyz horse game showcasing incredible speed, strength, and skill. Watch as riders thunder across the landscape in this thrilling spectacle that embodies centuries of nomadic tradition.

As the sun sets behind the mountains, settle into this peaceful village for the night. Experience the warmth of genuine Kyrgyz hospitality whilst the spirit of nomadic heritage lingers in the crisp mountain air. Rest in comfortable accommodation and prepare for tomorrow's adventures through some of Central Asia's most spectacular and remote landscapes.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities

Drive to Kyzyl-Oi Village via Too-Ashu Pass

08:00 - 12:00

Journey to Kyzyl-Oi village takes you through the majestic Too-Ashu Pass, rising over 3,000 metres. The drive offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and winding mountain roads, leading to a peaceful valley where traditional Kyrgyz life thrives.

Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 191 kms / 118 miles

Suusamyr Valley

12:00 - 13:00

Suusamyr Valley, nestled at 2,000–3,200 meters in Kyrgyzstan's Tien Shan Mountains, is a pristine alpine basin renowned for its lush summer pastures, vibrant wildflowers, and nomadic traditions. In winter, it transforms into a haven for skiing and paragliding enthusiasts.

Traditional Kyrgyz Horse Game

13:00 - 16:00

Experience the thrill of Kok-Boru, a traditional Kyrgyz horse game where fearless riders compete to score with a goat carcass. This high-energy demo showcases skill, strategy, and horsemanship, offering a vivid glimpse into Kyrgyz nomadic culture and its warrior spirit.

Sun 30 Nov

Kyzyl-Oi to Naryn

Journey from Kyzyl-Oi to Naryn along a breathtaking route through Kyrgyzstan's heart. Travel alongside the wild Kökömeren River, where the path winds through dramatic gorges and vast alpine meadows. The Khan-Salyk Canyons carve striking formations into the landscape with red rock faces glowing in brilliant sunlight.

Continue ascending the remote Toguz-Toro Pass, revealing sweeping views over untamed ridges and valleys. This lesser-travelled passage connects hidden corners of the country, blending rugged natural beauty with profound stillness. Experience a route rich in contrast, solitude, and raw Central Asian splendour.

Drive through landscapes that few travellers witness, immersing yourself in the untamed wilderness of this remarkable region. Navigate winding mountain roads that reveal new vistas at every turn, from rushing rivers to towering peaks. Spent the night in Naryn before continuing your journey through Kyrgyzstan.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities

Kyzyl-Oi to Naryn via the Kökömeren River

08:00 - 11:00

The journey from Kyzyl-Oi to Naryn via the Kökömeren River is a captivating traverse through Kyrgyzstan's diverse terrains. The route follows the dynamic Kökömeren River, presenting opportunities for rafting and scenic stops. As you progress, the landscape transitions from rugged gorges to expansive alpine meadows, culminating in Naryn—a town rich in nomadic culture and a gateway to the Tien Shan Mountains. This drive seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural immersion.

Khan-Salyk Canyons

11:00 - 14:00

Khan-Salyk Canyons captivate with dramatic cliffs, layered rock formations, and narrow gorges shaped by wind and water. Tucked in Turkmenistan's Kopet Dag range, the area is ruggedly beautiful with rich geological textures, and a haven for hikers and nature lovers seeking solitude and wonder.

Toguz-Toro Pass

14:00 - 18:00

Toguz-Toro Pass, nestled in Kyrgyzstan’s rugged mountains, offers a breathtaking alpine crossing with sweeping views of valleys, winding rivers, and remote pastures. A haven for adventurers, it showcases the raw beauty and isolation of the Central Tien Shan range.

Mon 01 Dec

Naryn to Kel-Suu

Your road from Naryn to the remote splendour of Kel-Suu Lake begins along the Torugart Highway, a dramatic route weaving through vast high-altitude plains and rugged mountain scenery. Turn off into the hauntingly beautiful Ak-Say Valley, where landscapes grow wilder with sweeping vistas and isolated yurt camps dotting the horizon.

Pause for a scenic picnic lunch amidst Kyrgyzstan's untouched nature—crisp mountain air, profound silence, and sweeping panoramas serve as your backdrop. Navigate increasingly remote terrain as you approach one of Central Asia's most extraordinary destinations.

This route offers a gradual transition from civilization to the raw, surreal beauty of the borderlands, setting the stage for Kel-Suu’s hidden alpine wonder.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities

Drive via Torugart highway and Ak-Say valley

09:00 - 12:00

Embark on an adventurous journey from Naryn to Kel-Suu Lake via the Torugart Highway and Ak-Say Valley. This route traverses the expansive At-Bashi Valley and ascends the remote Ak-Say Plateau, leading to the Kok-Kiya Valley. The path offers breathtaking landscapes, encounters with nomadic herders, and a glimpse into Kyrgyzstan's rugged beauty.

Picnic Lunch Enroute

13:00 - 15:00

Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch enroute, surrounded by nature’s charm. Whether by a riverside, in a shaded grove, or a scenic hilltop, savour local flavours in the open air.

Tue 02 Dec

Kel-Suu Lake & Back to Naryn

Venture deep into Kyrgyzstan’s remote southeastern highlands with a drive to the hidden gem of Kel-Suu Lake in the Naryn region. Depart from Bishkek and cross the dramatic Too-Ashu Pass, where winding mountain roads reveal the vast Suusamyr Valley.

Continue through alpine meadows and high plains to the rugged borderlands near China. Kel-Suu, often frozen and encircled by jagged cliffs, captivates with its surreal turquoise ice, eerie silence, and haunting beauty. Walk the shoreline, photograph towering rock walls, or simply absorb the stillness.

Heading back to Naryn, choosing between the gentler route through Ak-Sai for steady access and the rougher Kyndy Pass—steep, narrow, and unforgettable, with sweeping views and hairpin descents that deliver a jolt of adrenaline.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kel-Suu Lake & Back to Naryn - Day 5 image

Activities

Drive to Kel-Suu Lake

08:00 - 10:00

Embarking on a journey to Kel-Suu Lake in Kyrgyzstan is an adventure into one of Central Asia's most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Situated at an altitude of 3,514 meters in the Kok-Kiya Valley near the Chinese border, this alpine lake is renowned for its vivid turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and serene isolation.

Duration: 4-6 hours
Distance: 150–280 kms

Frozen Kel-Suu Lake

10:00 - 12:00

Discover the remote beauty of frozen Kel-Suu Lake, nestled in Kyrgyzstan's rugged Tian Shan mountains. Surrounded by towering cliffs and icy silence, the lake's surreal turquoise hue beneath the ice offers a breathtaking, otherworldly escape into unspoiled wilderness.

Return to Naryn

13:00 - 18:00

Return through the adventurous Kyndy Pass for panoramic mountain views and a thrilling finale, or choose the safer route—gentler and more reliable, perfect for a calm descent. Both offer distinct experiences to suit your spirit and energy on the journey back.

Duration: 4-6 hours
Distance: 150–280 kms

Wed 03 Dec

Naryn to Bokonbaevo

Set off from Naryn and drive through the wild beauty of Jaichy Valley, where sweeping alpine meadows and rugged peaks frame every turn. The route winds past high pastures and remote grazing lands, with chances to stop and take in the raw scale of the landscape.

Pull over for an eagle hunting demonstration—a traditional Kyrgyz practice passed down for centuries, offering a powerful glimpse into nomadic heritage. Continue to a nearby village for a warm, home-cooked lunch with a local family. Expect hearty dishes, homemade bread, and strong tea, all served with genuine hospitality.

Back on the road, follow the scenic track west to Bokonbaevo, a peaceful village near the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. Arrive by late afternoon and settle in, surrounded by lakeside calm and the slower pace of Kyrgyz rural life.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities

Drive via Jaichy Valley

09:00 - 12:00

Embark on a scenic drive through Jaichy Valley, where winding roads cut through lush greenery, misty hills, and charming hamlets. The route offers panoramic views, tranquil streams, and photo-worthy landscapes—perfect for nature lovers and those craving peaceful escapes.

Eagle Hunting Demo

12:00 - 13:00

Witness the ancient Kyrgyz tradition of eagle hunting as skilled berkutchi showcase their bond with majestic golden eagles. Set against sweeping mountain backdrops, this gripping demo reveals a centuries-old nomadic art form of falconry passed down through generations.

Lunch with a Local Family

13:00 - 15:00

Sharing lunch with a local family in Kyrgyzstan offers an authentic glimpse into the country’s warm hospitality and nomadic traditions. Enjoy home-cooked dishes like beshbarmak, lagman, manti, and freshly baked bread, often served in a traditional yurt or village home. Guests are welcomed with tea, sweets, and stories, creating a heartfelt cultural exchange that goes far beyond a typical restaurant meal. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Kyrgyz culture and experience daily life through the eyes of local hosts.

Onward Drive to Bokonbaevo

15:00 - 19:00

Continue your drive to Bokonbaevo, a charming village nestled by Lake Issyk-Kul. Surrounded by sweeping steppe and distant mountains, it's known for traditional Kyrgyz hospitality and serene lakeside views that offer a deep sense of local culture and calm.

Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 168 km/ 104 miles

Thu 04 Dec

Bokonbaevo to Bishkek

Depart Bokonbaevo and follow a scenic highway through wide-open steppe and rolling foothills, with towering mountains on the horizon and the occasional herd of horses crossing your path. The road leads north towards Tokmok—stop here for lunch with a local family, sharing traditional dishes, fresh bread, and stories of daily life in the Chuy Valley.

After the meal, explore the ancient Burana Tower, a 9th-century minaret that once guided Silk Road traders across Central Asia. Climb to the top for sweeping views and wander among the weathered stone balbals scattered nearby. Continue the drive west towards Bishkek, arriving by late afternoon.

Settle into your hotel and return the rental car. In the evening, sit down for a celebration dinner in the city—celebrate the journey with local cuisine, raise a glass, and reflect on the road behind you.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities

Scenic Route to Bishkek

09:00 - 12:00

Leaving Bokonbaevo, follow the highway as it winds through sweeping valleys and past shimmering lakes, with snow-capped peaks in the distance. The road leads you back to Bishkek, where the bustle of the city contrasts with the tranquillity of Kyrgyzstan’s wild, open landscapes.

Lunch in Tokmok with Local Family

12:00 - 13:00

Enjoy a heartwarming lunch in Tokmok with a welcoming local family. Savour traditional Kyrgyz dishes, share stories over homemade bread and tea, and experience authentic hospitality in a cosy home setting that offers a true taste of local life and culture.

Burana Tower Visit

13:00 - 15:00

Discover the ancient Burana Tower, a historic minaret rising from the windswept plains near Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan. Surrounded by the remnants of the ancient city of Balasagun, this architectural relic offers sweeping views and a glimpse into the region’s Silk Road legacy.

Onward Drive to Bishkek

15:00 - 17:00

Continue your journey to Bishkek, where the city’s vibrant blend of culture and nature awaits. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, a comfortable base for exploring the capital. Return your rental car today evening.

Celebration Dinner in Bishkek

18:00 - 19:00

As the sun sets over Bishkek, a celebration dinner unfolds in a cosy local restaurant.Gather around a table adorned with traditional Kyrgyz dishes, sharing stories and laughter. The warm, inviting atmosphere captures the essence of the city

Fri 05 Dec

Bishkek City Tour

Spend the day exploring Bishkek, a city where broad boulevards, Soviet-era monuments, and tree-lined parks blend with the warmth of Central Asian life. Explore key landmarks like Ala-Too Square, Victory Monument, and the State History Museum. Stop at Osh Bazaar or Dordoi for a dive into local life—rows of stalls overflowing with spices, wool felt, embroidered textiles, and everyday bustle.

Grab a snack from a street vendor or try fresh samsa straight from a tandoor oven. As evening sets in, head to Supara, a yurt-style restaurant tucked in the nearby hills. For your last night, dine on traditional Kyrgyz dishes under carved wooden beams, and enjoy a folklore show of music, dance, and storytelling that celebrates nomadic heritage and hospitality.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Activities

Sightseeing by Mini-bus

09:00 - 12:00

Discover Bishkek’s vibrant heart on a guided mini-bus tour. Explore bustling markets and traditional bazaars, where local life thrives. Visit fascinating museums that offer a glimpse into Kyrgyz culture and history. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this unique city.

Dinner at Supara

17:00 - 21:00

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Supara, a unique cultural venue in Bishkek, where the ambiance is enriched by a vibrant folklore show. Traditional Kyrgyz cuisine takes centre stage as live music, dance, and storytelling transport you into the heart of Kyrgyz heritage, creating a memorable evening.

Sat 06 Dec

Depart Bishkek

Today marks the end of your journey. After breakfast, head to Manas International Airport (FRU) for your flight home. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during your time in Kyrgyzstan, from exploring stunning landscapes to immersing yourself in the rich local culture.

Meals included: Breakfast

Activities

Depart Bishkek

00:00 - 23:59

Today your JrnyOn journey comes to an end. Transport will be arranged to get you to the Manas International Airport (Airport Code: FRU) for your flight back home.

Duration: 40 minutes
Distance: 31 kms / 19 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

This Kyrgyzstan Winter Self-Drive trip is perfect for you if you’re craving a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure through dramatic winter landscapes. From driving through snow-capped mountain passes and vast alpine valleys to visiting remote frozen lakes, eagle hunting demonstrations, and traditional villages—this journey is ideal for explorers who love cultural immersion, raw nature, and a sense of independence. If you're looking for a self-driven adventure mixed with authentic Kyrgyz hospitality, this is your trip.

- International and Domestic flights

- Visa fees (if applicable)

- Fuel costs

- Alcoholic beverages

- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, laundry, tips for guides and drivers)

- Camera/video charges during sightseeing

- Tips for guides and drivers

- Additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary

Toyota 4 Runner with 3/4 pax in a car - Trip cost 2750 USD

Toyota 4 Runner with 2 pax in a car - Trip cost 2985 USD

Toyota Land Cruiser 100 with 3/4 pax in a car - Trip cost 3102 USD

Toyota Land Cruiser 100 with 2 pax in a car - Trip cost 3219 USD

Fuel costs are not included.

The tour begins and ends in Bishkek. You should arrive at and depart from Manas International Airport (Code: FRU) in Bishkek.

All foreign travellers will require a valid passport. The passport should have a validity for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. All travellers will require a visa for entry into Kyrgyzstan. It is recommended to check the latest requirements on the official Embassy website. Indian passport holders can apply for evisa - www.evisa.e-gov.kg. Processing time is 3-5 working days and cost is 60USD. Each passenger must be personally responsible for ensuring she/he possesses valid travel documentation. If you would like assistance with your visa, please write to [email protected]

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control. For those looking for an insurance supplier, we can recommend Insurance Nomads. Write to them at [email protected] with your Jrny details for insurance options.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor in case you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. These transfers will be shared with you before your travel.

There are no fixed activities on Day 1 apart from the welcome dinner. Hotel check-in time is 14:00, so plan your arrival accordingly to allow time to rest before the evening.

You can depart anytime. Generally, there are no inclusions on the tour on the last day. The hotel check-out time is usually 1100 hours or 1200 hours.

Absolutely! Solo travellers are more than welcome on this trip. Many of your fellow travellers will be travelling solo, making it a brilliant opportunity to meet like-minded people while discovering destinations together.

Children under 12 are not allowed on this Jrny. Children above 12 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. There are some long walks scheduled. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal.

Yes, several days involve long but scenic drives through mountain passes, valleys, and remote countryside. All drives are self-guided but supported with a vehicle, GPS, and emergency contacts. The longest day on the road is approx. 6–7 hours (including breaks).

Absolutely, a variety of vegetarian meal options will be available. Vegan options may be limited but available.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Kyrgyzstan in winter is stunning but cold. Temperatures in the mountains can drop to -15°C or lower at night, while daytime temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C. Snow is common in higher altitudes. Warm layers, a good winter jacket, gloves, and boots are essential. For updated forecasts, visit weather.com before departure.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking.

The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 50 days before the date of travel

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour:

•⁠ ⁠15% of the trip cost will be charged as cancellation fee if the trip is canceled between 150-89 days of departure.

•⁠ ⁠30 % of the trip cost will be charged as cancellation fee if the trip is canceled between to 89-45 days of departure.

•⁠ ⁠75 % of the trip cost will be charged as cancellation fee if the trip is canceled between 45 to 30 days of departure.

•⁠ ⁠100 % of the trip cost will be charged as cancellation fee if the trip is canceled between 0 to 29 days of departure.

•⁠ ⁠All cancellations must be intimated to us via email.

Interested in Specific Dates or a Private Jrny?

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