Embark on a 3-day adventure from the Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan border to China, filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. This Silk Road Adventure: Osh to Irkeshtam tour is perfect for travelers transitioning between Uzbekistan and China, offering a memorable immersion into Kyrgyzstan’s history, nature, and rural life.
Start your journey with a visit to Osh, Kyrgyzstan’s second-largest city, steeped in the legacy of the Great Silk Road. Explore the famous Osh Bazaar, vibrant and lively, where local goods and exotic spices create a bustling atmosphere. Don’t miss Suleiman Mountain, a revered pilgrimage site often referred to as “Little Mecca.” Its historical and spiritual significance makes it one of Central Asia’s holiest places.
On Day 2, journey to the mountainous village of Sary-Tash, passing through breathtaking landscapes. The road takes you across the Taldyk Pass, where panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and green valleys stretch for miles. In Sary-Tash, experience authentic Kyrgyz rural life, dine on local cuisine, and enjoy the simple beauty of village life in a guesthouse.
Finally, on Day 3, make your way to the Irkeshtam border. The stunning Pamir mountain range, draped in snow and glaciers, provides a dramatic backdrop as you head towards China. The spectacular natural beauty and the serene atmosphere make this leg of the journey unforgettable.
This unique tour offers the best of both Kyrgyzstan’s vibrant urban culture and its majestic natural beauty, making it the ideal choice for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching experience en route to China.
Your adventure begins at the Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan border crossing. Upon meeting your guide at the Dostuk border point, you’ll be transferred to Osh, just 14 kilometers away. Osh, the second-largest and one of the oldest cities in Kyrgyzstan, has been a major hub along the Great Silk Road for centuries.
Once in Osh, settle into your guesthouse before heading out to explore this historical city. Your first stop will be the famous Osh Bazaar, one of the most colorful and bustling markets in the country, where merchants sell everything from fresh produce and spices to handcrafted souvenirs. After lunch at a local café, you’ll visit Suleiman-Too (Suleiman Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred places in Central Asia. Known as “Little Mecca,” this mountain has long been a pilgrimage site for the faithful and offers panoramic views of the city. After a full day of exploration, return to your guesthouse for a restful night.
Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Sary-Tash, a village nestled in the mountains, 220 kilometers from Osh. As you travel, the scenery transforms from tree-lined valleys to steep mountain slopes. Along the way, you’ll cross the Taldyk Pass, which rises to an elevation of 3,615 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. You’ll stop for a picnic lunch amid this awe-inspiring landscape.
Upon arrival in Sary-Tash, you’ll get a glimpse of authentic Kyrgyz rural life. The village, surrounded by high mountain ranges, provides a peaceful retreat. Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and spend the night in a local guesthouse, immersing yourself in the simple yet hospitable lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people.
Your final day begins early with a transfer to the Irkeshtam border, the gateway to China, located 80 kilometers from Sary-Tash. The road to Irkeshtam winds through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Kyrgyzstan, with the towering Pamir Mountain range on one side, covered in snow and glaciers, and rolling hills dotted with summer pastures on the other. The breathtaking contrast between the rugged Pamirs and the serene green hills creates a scenic masterpiece.
Upon reaching the Irkeshtam Pass, situated at 2,000 meters above sea level, you’ll complete your border formalities and be greeted by your Chinese tour company for the next leg of your journey. This tour concludes at the border, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Kyrgyzstan’s historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and majestic landscapes.
All transportation throughout the tour English speaking guide & Sightseeing program in Osh Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Meals – for the groups of 1-5 people – only breakfast included; For the groups of 6-10 people – full board
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Chinese and Kyrgyzstan visa support, and Chinese permission to cross Irkeshtam border Horse riding