Kyrgyzstan Manas Heritage Tour

Our tour begins with the legend of Manas, who, since childhood, loved horses and often participated in horse races. 

We will head to Burana Tower, where we will try our hand at horseback riding, just like the young Manas did. Here, we will also learn to play Kok Boru, one of his favorite games that he played with his 40 warriors (choro). 

After an exciting day, we will travel to the Chon Kemin Gorge, where we will be welcomed by the locals. In the evening, we will hear the story of Manas’s first encounter with Khan Koshoi.  They met and held competitions in national games like Kuresh. Dinner and accommodation in a yurt camp.

190 km / 4 hours 
Altitude: 1100 m
Meal: D
Accommodation: Yurt camp or guesthouse

The next day, our journey continues as we immerse ourselves in the nomadic lifestyle. In the morning, like true nomads, you’ll have the chance to try milking cows. After breakfast, the route takes us to Karkyra Valley.

Upon arrival, the experience deepens with the traditional preparations for “Ash,” just like in the epic of Khan Koketey. Participants can join in making boorsoks and help prepare a traditional dinner.

300 km / 7 hours 
Altitude: 2200 m
Meal B,D
Accommodation: Yurt camp 

This day will be dedicated to games and competitions. We will learn about the contests held in honor of Koketey and try our hand at various jailoo games, such as toguz korgool, ordo, and traditional activities typical of nomadic life.
 
Meal: B,L,D
Accommodation: Yurt camp 

After an eventful day in Karkyra, the journey continues to Karakol. Upon arrival, an exciting boat ride awaits, where you’ll hear the fascinating tale of how Manas drew his strength from Lake Issyk-Kul.

Following the boat ride, a warm welcome from a Manaschi, a traditional storyteller, will provide the opportunity to learn how to recite the epic “Manas” and discover its most important moments.

120 km / 2,5 hours 
Altitude: 1800 m
Meal B
Accommodation: Green yard 3* / Matsunoki 3* / Hotel 78 – 3*

Today, we will visit a place where Manas and his mighty warriors prepared for battle. Our first stop will be Jeti Oguz, where we will put on traditional warrior costumes. Next, at Fairy Tale Canyon, we will encounter a symbolic throne, which we will attempt to “conquer.” We will also test our skills in archery and witness a demonstration of eagle hunting, adding to the feeling of being part of a real military campaign.

In the evening, after a long day, we will settle into a yurt camp and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

250 km / 6 hours/ 1740 m
Meal: B,D
Accommodation: Yurt camp / guesthouse

On the final day of the tour, we will discuss the migration of Manas and his people to Talas. In the village of Kyzyl Tuu, stop to assemble a yurt, just as the nomads did. In Bokonbaevo, we discover the secrets of making shyrdaks, the traditional felt carpets used in yurts. After this enriching experience, we will return to Bishkek.

200 km / 5 hours Altitude: 800 m
Meal: B
Accommodation: Yurt camp / Guesthouse