An active and cultural day trip to the East part of the Chuy Oblast
The Burana tower, along with grave markers, some earthworks and the remnants of a castle and three mausoleums, is all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun, which was established by the Karakhanids at the end of the 9th century. An external staircase and steep, winding stairway inside the tower enables visitors to climb to the top.
The tower was originally 45 m (148 ft) high. However, over the centuries a number of earthquakes caused significant damage to the structure. The last major earthquake in the 15th century destroyed the top half of the tower, reducing it to its current height of 25m (82 ft). A renovation project was carried out in the 1970s to restore its foundation and repair the west-facing side of the tower, which was in danger of collapse.
The entire site, including the mausoleums, castle foundations and grave markers, now functions as museum and there is a small building on the site containing historical information as well as artifacts found at the site and in the surrounding region.
A small Creek canyon!
The main valley named Konorchek, and the small canyon starting from the train bridge named Kyzyl Terek can be visited in 2 hours walk.
1 Day • Discovery tours • Kyrgyzstan
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1 people: $113
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2 people: $72
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3 people: $58
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4 people: $51
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5 people: $47
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6 people: $44
Program
Hike in Konorchek red canyon and visit of historical site of Balasagun and its minaret "Burana"
8:30 Depart from Bishkek 11:00 Arrival to the Kurgon Terek red’s canyon (part of the great valley of Konorchek), walking in the canyon (to reach the amazing part of the canyon, it takes around 45-60 min. 12:00 Picnic in the canyon 13:00 Depart to Burana tower: visit of the museum, petroglyphs fiels and the tower 15:00 Transfer to Bishkek 16:00 Arrival in Bishkek
We booked a 8 day tour with Nomad's Land, with the main part of the trip a six-day trek in the mountains near Issyk-Kul lake. From the first contact with Nomad's Land they were really responsive, taking time to understand our needs and suggesting a trip that would work for us. As we were travelling quite early in the trekking season (mid-late May), the team made sure that our itinerary would be possible, making adjustments as required. Bakyt organised our trip and was really helpful all the way through the process. On arrival at the airport in Bishkek we were met by our guide Mikel and assistant guide Ivan, and were driven down to the lake by our excellent driver Shakir. The whole team were really welcoming. We spent the first night at Bel Tam Yurt camp which was lovely. Really relaxing and the food was amazing. The next day we started our trek which was incredible! We met our horseman, Ermek, and the two horses that carried all our equipment. This was really helpful so we didn't have too much to carry each day! On the first day the weather was lovely but the next morning we were greeted by a lot of snow! Because of this Mikel took the decision to change our route, which was definitely the right decision as going high in the snow might have been dangerous (and certainly very cold). The whole of the rest of the trip Mikel, Ivan and Ermek took the time to make sure what we were doing was the right thing for the weather conditions, and when we had to change plans they made sure we were consulted and agreed. The food Mikel prepared was really good, and the tents were comfortable, warm and waterproof. We had a great time in the mountains. After our trek ended we spent a day exploring the lake region, including visiting an eagle hunter and a yurt-making business, and on the final day we got to see a little of Bishkek. It was the perfect end to a great trip. Overall I would highly recommend Nomad's Land and the great service from all the team. Thank you!
It is more than a typical trip, it is an unforgettable life experience: the kindness and hospitality of the Kyrgyz people, the spectacular scenery, their peace ... and not least the company of our guide Mikel, a man of character excellence, kind, with experience in the field, able to solve any setback, with him I and my group of friends felt cared for and calm, we knew that everything would turn out well or better, and so it was.Thank you Mikel for everything and that Life takes care of you I hope that many travelers enjoy your company and your knowledge.
On your way
Konorchek canyon KG
A small Creek canyon! But you can walk two days around the red cliffs. The main valley named Konorchek, and the small canyon starting from the train bridge named Kyzyl Terek can be visited in 2 hours walk. A good option on the way to Issyk Kul lake.
Burana Tower KG
Burana Tower is seven km. far from the city of Tokmok. It is an 11th century minaret, and one of the first buildings of such type in Central Asia. The original height of minaret was 45 meters. Today the tower is 24.6 meters high, the remaining part came down during an earthquake in the 15th century. In the 10th to 12th centuries, Karakhanids khanate was a great feudal state of Central Asia and Kazakhstan.
The founders, "karakhans", chigil tribes by birth, lived in the Tien-Shan and for a short time of the second half of the 10th century they conquered a large territory. One of the capitals of this state was Balasagun. In Karakhanids' time new towns and settlements were developing, the centers of big cities were improved and Moslem religious buildings were built in the town of Balasagun. Burana tower, mausoleums and other buildings found after archeological excavations are the witnesses of that build up. The town's life declined slowly, people left it, the buildings fell apart and finally in the 15th century it ceased to exit.
Info
What is included
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All transportation in a private vehicle
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All airport transfers
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Accommodation as described in the program
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Meals (3 per day)
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Bottled water (when possible) & tea
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English-speaking trekking guide
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Pack horses with saddle bags & horsemen
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Camping & cooking equipment (tents, mats, gas, stove, etc)
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All the activities listed in the program
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Entry fees at national parks and/or border zones listed in the program
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Entry fees at museums and historical sites listed in the program
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Domestic flights mentioned in the program
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A contribution to our sustainable development projects
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Organisation of the trip & local taxes
What is not included
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International flights
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International banking fees (PayPal, ...)
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Travel & repatriation insurance
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Visas / LOI (if applicable)
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Alcoholic and soft drinks
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Personal expenses
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Personal equipment (sleeping bag, headlight, personal medication, etc)
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Additional costs due to unexpected personal events (health, loss of luggage, ...)
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Tips for guide & driver (always optional, always appreciated)
Ready to go?
Book your tour today.
May we help you?
Our trip designers are at your disposal for building your dream! Feel free to contact us.
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- Postal address
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Nezhinsky lane 27
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
- Phone number
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Looking for a taylor-made experience? Check our trip planner.
Ecotourism projects
Through various ecotourism projects and initiatives, Nomad's Land aims to increase awareness of ecotourism and responsible travel, for a sustainable development of the tourism sector.
Rural development in Nepal
The Nepalko Sathi association leads its actions in favor of the Sherpas of Khembalung in the Arun valley (Province of Koshi).
From Tumlingtar airport we reach by jeep the small town of Kahandbari where we are greeted by Kibutie and his family. From there, we climb to the small village of Gontala, in the heart of the actions of Nepalko Sathi (three days of walking), then we go up to Saissima, where Tendi Sherpa is rehabilitating the hamlet of his childhood. From Saissima it is possible to continue and make a loop towards Makalu and the impressive surrounding peaks (under tent).
Samuel Maret
