Bishkek

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, is a green city of wide avenues, parks and Soviet architecture at the foot of the snowy Kyrgyz Ala-Too — the starting point of almost every trip.

The city grew from Pishpek, a small fortress of the Kokand khanate built in 1825. From 1926 to 1991 it was called Frunze, after the Red Army commander born here. Today it is home to well over a million people.

• Ala-Too Square with the Manas monument and the changing of the guard.
• The State History Museum and the Fine Arts Museum.
• Osh Bazaar — spices, dried fruit, felt and everyday life.
• Oak Park and the leafy boulevards of Erkindik and Chui.
• Day trips to Ala-Archa, Burana Tower and Alamedin.

• Airport: Manas International, about 30 minutes from the centre
• Altitude: about 800 m
• Best time: April to October

Read our full Bishkek city guide.