Karakol, Mountain city in Issyk-Kul Region, Kyrgyzstan
Description
Karakol is a city at 1690 meters elevation near Lake Issyk-Kul, ringed by snow-covered peaks of the Tian Shan mountains. The mountain ranges frame the settlement on all sides and define its position in the central Tian Shan.
History
The settlement began in 1869 as a Russian military outpost at this strategic location. It later developed into a hub for expeditions that mapped Central Asian territories during the 19th century.
Culture
The city displays a blend of Russian Orthodox and Muslim cultures, visible in the Russian Orthodox Cathedral from 1895 and the Dungan Mosque from 1910 that stand in the cityscape. Visitors encounter residents of various backgrounds who share this mountain valley.
Practical
The Sunday livestock market is a good opportunity to see local life, even though it serves mainly local traders. Visitors should arrive early in the morning to see the most activity and largest variety of animals.
Did you know?
The Bugu-Ene Zoo from 1987 is the country's only zoological park and holds both native and exotic animal species. This collection shows how the city developed its role as an educational center on the edge of nature.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Kyrgyzstan).
Holy Trinity Church, Karakol
339 m
Karakol Dungan Mosque
796 m
Przhevalsky Museum
11 kmWork of art, mural
1.3 kmMural, Work of art
434 mMain Bazaar
990 mМузыкальный драматический театр
273 mМаданият Үйү
5.5 kmГородской пляж
12.1 kmI ❤️ Karakol
148 mКаракол 150
151 mДа здравствует Ленин
11.6 kmМать-олениха
10.9 kmMural, Work of art
897 mЗоопарк Каракол
1.3 kmMural, Work of art
398 mИллюzион
312 mWork of art, mural
1 kmMemorial stone, memorial
1.1 kmStatue, memorial
112 mCommemorative bust, memorial
226 mАшырбай Коенкозов
324 mАкадемик Иса Ахунбаев
219 mMemorial stone, memorial
1.4 kmЫбырай Туман
219 mMemorial stone, memorial
1.4 kmMemorial, memorial stone
10.9 kmКаракол
2.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes