This lakeside town along Issyk-Kul has ancient rock petroglyphs, traditional bazaars, and sandy beaches. Local yurt camps let visitors experience nomadic culture.
Cholpon-Ata sits on Lake Issyk-Kul's northern shore at 1,633 meters above sea level, where the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains meet crystal-clear waters. You can swim at sandy beaches, explore 2,800-year-old rock carvings of hunters and animals, or watch traditional horse games at the town's massive hippodrome. The town comes alive in summer when locals and visitors gather along the shoreline to enjoy the warm waters and mountain air.
Swimming and Beaches
Lake Issyk-Kul's beaches extend for several kilometers along Cholpon-Ata's shore, with the Tian Shan mountains visible in every direction. You can swim from June through September in the clear waters. Remember to pack strong sun protection - the high altitude intensifies UV exposure. Most beaches rent umbrellas and chairs, and the gradual slope into the water makes swimming safe for children.
Ancient Petroglyphs Site
Walk among 2,000 rock carvings spread across 42 hectares at this open-air museum on the town's outskirts. The stones tell stories through detailed images: snow leopards chase deer across rocks, chariots race through ancient games, and shamanic rituals play out in stone. These carvings date from 800 BC to 1200 AD. Look for the site near the old airport runway - local taxis know the location well.
Rukh Ordo Cultural Center
This lakeside complex contains chapels representing five world religions, plus art collections and displays about Central Asian traditions. Walk through the gardens to find an outdoor amphitheater where musicians and dancers perform during summer evenings. The main pavilion houses traditional Kyrgyz items, including a fully set-up yurt showing nomadic life.
Getting There and Around
Cholpon-Ata lies 265 kilometers from Bishkek. Shared taxis and marshrutkas run regularly, taking 4-5 hours. You can walk to most places in town, though taxis circulate for longer distances. In summer, you can fly to nearby Tamchi airport (15km away) twice weekly from Osh.
Best Time to Visit
Visit between mid-June and September for swimming and clear weather. July and August see the most activity, with visitors from Kazakhstan, Russia, and neighboring countries filling the town. Expect cool mornings and warm afternoons due to the mountain location.
Mountain Valleys
Take day trips to Semenov and Grigoriev gorges, where streams cut through pine forests beneath mountain peaks. You'll find marked hiking trails in both valleys. Local tour companies can arrange transport and guides, or reach the trailheads by taxi. These valleys stay cool even during summer heat.
