Things To Do
in Shamaldy-Say
Shamaldy-Say is a beautiful village located in the northern part of Kyrgyzstan. It is known for its stunning mountain scenery and lush green pastures. The village is a popular destination for adventure seekers looking to hike, horseback ride, and explore the surrounding nature.
Shamaldy-Say offers a peaceful and tranquil retreat for those seeking a break from city life.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Rakhmat" - Thank you
- "Kandai?" - How are you?
- "Iyir oo" - Goodbye
- "Kechiriniz" - Excuse me / I am sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the beautiful mountains. Enjoy the stunning views as you breathe in the fresh air.
Visit the local market to try traditional Kyrgyz food and buy handmade crafts. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their culture.
Relax by the riverside as you watch the sunset over the mountains. End your day with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.
Head to Alay Valley for an invigorating trek in the scenic landscapes. Capture photos of the pristine nature surrounding you.
Enjoy a picnic with local delicacies while surrounded by rolling hills. Explore nearby waterfalls and take a refreshing dip.
Return to Shamaldy-Say and unwind with traditional music played by locals. Savor a hearty meal that highlights Kyrgyz cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes with mountains and lakes, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and photography.
- Rich cultural heritage with opportunities to experience traditional Kyrgyz lifestyle and hospitality.
- Less touristy compared to other regions, allowing for a more authentic experience.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure, which may be challenging for some travelers.
- Language barriers, as English may not be widely spoken among locals.
- Seasonal weather variations can affect travel plans, with harsh winters and limited access during certain months.
Best Activities in Shamaldy-Say
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore breathtaking trails with stunning views of the Tien Shan mountains and pristine nature.
Engage in rock climbing adventures on the rugged cliffs and boulders in and around Shamaldy-Say.
Experience the scenic landscapes of Kyrgyzstan on horseback, with guided tours available in the region.
Enjoy a peaceful day fishing in the crystal-clear rivers, where you might catch trout and other local fish.
Set up camp in the picturesque surroundings, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy stargazing.
Learn about the traditional Kyrgyz lifestyle by visiting local yurts and experiencing local hospitality.
Capture the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife through photography tours led by local experts.
Join in local cultural events and festivals that celebrate Kyrgyz traditions, music, and dance.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shamaldy-Say with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shamaldy-Say
Visit one of these nice places.
A sacred mountain offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding region and the city of Osh. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and perfect for photography at sunrise and sunset.
A vibrant local market where you can capture the essence of Kyrgyz culture and the daily life of its people. The colorful stalls provide a great backdrop for candid shots.
The largest walnut forest in the world, this location features lush greenery and waterfalls, offering a picturesque setting for nature photography.
A beautiful and tranquil gorge with striking rock formations and clear waters. Great for capturing the natural beauty of the Kyrgyz landscape.
Though a bit of a drive, Lake Issyk-Kul offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the lake's shimmering waters, an ideal spot for stunning sunset photographs.
Known for its picturesque landscapes and historical significance. The valley offers opportunities to capture dramatic mountain vistas and traditional Kyrgyz yurts.
This museum not only showcases the culture of Kyrgyzstan but is set in a stunning building that provides a unique architectural backdrop for photos.
Famous for its stunning natural scenery including hot springs, mountains, and valleys, providing plenty of opportunities for landscape photography.
Food in Shamaldy-Say
Shamaldy-Say Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A celebrated Kyrgyz dish consisting of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over thin, hand-cut noodles and accompanied by an assortment of savory accompaniments. Experience the authentic flavors of Beshbarmak at local yurt camps.
Must-Try!
Samsa, a popular pastry filled with savory ingredients such as minced meat, onions, and spices, is a staple snack found across Shamaldy-Say. Look for street vendors or local bakeries for a taste of this delectable delight.
Laghman features thick, hand-pulled noodles generously layered with stir-fried meat, assorted vegetables, and a flavorsome broth. Visit one of the bustling bazaars for a steaming bowl of this local specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Osh Bazaar, a bustling market where you can sample an array of fresh produce, dried fruits, nuts, and local snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to savor authentic street food such as shashlik (grilled meat skewers) and monti (dumplings) from the bustling street food stalls.
Dive into the lively Dordoi Bazaar, known for its diverse selection of food vendors offering everything from regional delicacies to international flavors. Indulge in freshly baked breads, regional cheeses, and a variety of dried and pickled fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Shamaldy-Say, it is customary to greet them with a handshake. Men typically shake hands with other men, while women often greet other women with a handshake or a friendly nod. It's important to maintain eye contact during greetings to convey respect.
Visitors should be mindful of their attire, especially in rural areas like Shamaldy-Say. Dressing modestly is appreciated; women are advised to wear skirts or dresses that cover the knees and tops with sleeves, while men should avoid overly casual clothing. This shows respect for local customs and traditions.
Kyrgyz culture places a high value on hospitality. If you are invited to someone’s home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruits. When offered food or drink, it is considered respectful to accept, even if just a small amount, as it is a sign of gratitude and appreciation for the host's hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Shamaldy-Say
Ensure a smooth experience
In Shamaldy-Say, Kyrgyzstan, tipping is common in the service industry, especially in restaurants and cafes. A tip of around 10% is appreciated for good service, although it's not mandatory. In more informal settings or smaller establishments, rounding up the bill is also a common practice. Tipping is seen as a gesture of appreciation for the service provided.
Payment practices in Shamaldy-Say rely heavily on cash transactions, especially in smaller shops and markets. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some larger businesses and hotels, but cash is preferred overall. Locals often use the Kyrgyz Som as the primary currency for daily transactions. In recent years, mobile payment options have gained popularity, especially among younger residents.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Shamaldy-Say as the temperatures begin to warm up, with daytime highs ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The landscape comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. It's a great time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty, although occasional rain showers may occur.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Shamaldy-Say, with warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This is ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and exploring the surrounding mountains. However, it can also be crowded with tourists. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons.
Autumn (September to November) offers crisp air and stunning fall foliage, especially in September and early October. Temperatures begin to cool down, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day. This season is perfect for hiking without the summer crowds, and the weather is generally stable, making it ideal for enjoying the outdoors.
Winter (December to February) in Shamaldy-Say can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially at night. However, this season offers a unique experience for winter sports enthusiasts, including skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains. The landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, making it picturesque but necessitating warm clothing and gear.
Shamaldy-Say at Night
Hiking in Shamaldy-Say
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 40 km from Bishkek, Ala-Archa National Park offers stunning mountain scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and various hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
Famous for its striking red rock formations and natural beauty, Jeti-Oguz provides several hiking trails with picturesque views, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
A high-altitude lake offering breathtaking views and a unique landscape. There are various hiking opportunities around the lake and nearby mountains, known for their wildlife and nomadic culture.
This mountain range features multiple hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. It's ideal for those seeking both day hikes and multi-day trekking adventures.
Located near the town of Karakol, this valley offers several hiking options with stunning views of peaks and glaciers, particularly suitable for those interested in trekking and exploring.
Aiports
How to reach Shamaldy-Say by plane.
The largest international airport in Kyrgyzstan, located approximately 25 km northwest of Bishkek. It serves as the major hub for international flights.
Located in the city of Osh, this is the second-largest airport in Kyrgyzstan, providing both domestic and international flights.
Based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, approximately 210 km from Shamaldy-Say, it's one of the biggest international airports in Central Asia.
Located in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, around 280 km from Shamaldy-Say, it is the largest airport in Uzbekistan and serves as a hub for flights in and out of Central Asia.
While primarily serving as Manas International Airport's alternate name, 'Bishkek Airport' is sometimes referenced, functioning as the most significant airport serving the capital city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Kyrgyzstan, comprising a significant majority of the population in Shamaldy-Say.
The second-largest ethnic group, with a notable presence in the southern regions of Kyrgyzstan, including Shamaldy-Say.
A smaller demographic group that maintains a presence in various regions, including Shamaldy-Say.
Includes smaller groups such as Ukrainians, Tatars, and others that make up the diverse population in Shamaldy-Say.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Shamaldy-Say, with local teams participating in regional leagues and tournaments.
Traditional wrestling, known as 'kyrgyz kuresh,' holds cultural significance and attracts many participants and spectators.
Basketball has gained a following among the youth, with various courts available for recreational and competitive play.
Equestrian sports, including traditional kirgiz horse games like 'kok-boru,' are important cultural activities in the region.
Volleyball is a widely played sport in schools and communities, offering both recreational and competitive opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shamaldy-Say.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat holds a significant place in traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, many local eateries provide vegetarian-friendly options such as fresh salads, vegetable-stuffed pastries, and lentil-based dishes. Look for restaurants that cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free alternatives like rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and dairy products. It's advisable to communicate your dietary requirements clearly when dining out to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.