Bishkek (Airport) to Almaty – How to Get There?

Kyrgyzstan

Last Post by makzimus1980 12 months ago

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AKA

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Topic starter 25.12.2024 18:44

Hi everyone! Has anyone recently tried traveling between Bishkek and Almaty using public transport in 2024?

We’re planning to leave Almaty in the morning and catch a 3:00 PM flight from Bishkek. Is this doable? And if so, how risky would it be in terms of timing?

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StranNickII

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25.12.2024 18:44

Last year, we traveled by bus from the Sayran Bus Station in Almaty, and it worked out perfectly. To our surprise, it was even more comfortable than taking a private taxi, which we had done earlier when traveling from Bishkek to Almaty. The buses are decent, mostly older Mercedes models.

At that time, there were some roadworks along the route, but I’m not sure if they’ve been completed now. It’s best to check with locals. I’m from Russia, so I don’t think much has changed in a year.

Here’s the location of the bus station: Sayran Bus Station Location.
And here’s their official website with the timetable: Sayran Bus Station Website.

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Daxmaut

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25.12.2024 18:48

In february 2023 we arrived at the Western Bus Terminal in Bishkek (but as far as I know it was closed and there is a new bus terminal now, but not sure about the address) around 9:00 AM. There were no lines, and we easily bought two tickets for 500 Kyrgyz som each for the 10:00 AM departure.

Shortly after a clean and comfortable bus left the terminal, and in about 40 minutes, we reached the border. Crossing to the other side took around 40 minutes as well. By 4:00 PM, we were at the Sayran Bus Station in Almaty.

After arriving, we stopped by a nearby mobile service shop and got Beeline SIM cards. Buses run every two hours from 8:00 AM, so the schedule is pretty convenient.

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makzimus1980

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25.12.2024 18:50

Previously, all international and intercity routes departed from the Western Bus Station (Zapadniy Avtovokzal) in Bishkek. However, in the fall of 2024, this station was permanently closed.

All routes previously handled by this station have now been reassigned to the newly established Bishkek Bus Terminal Enterprise (BBTE). This terminal now manages international, intercity, regional, and suburban routes.

For passengers traveling eastward (e.g., Issyk-Kul or eastern regions): Head to the new bus terminal located at Alma-Atinskaya Street, 1/1.
For westward destinations (e.g., Talas, Osh, or even Almaty): The designated departure point is on Frunze Street, 209, right behind the "RIOM Auto" car market.

Hope this helps! Safe travels, everyone!

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