We visited Kyoto twice during cherry blossom season, and the second time we fell even more in love with the city. If you’ve ever been to Tokyo, it feels like quite the contrast. It’s almost like you’re stepping back in time since so much of the city is preserved. Even if you’re not a history buff, the scenery around every bend makes it beautiful city to sightsee, not to mention a photographer’s playground.

Kyoto is considered the cultural capital of Japan with numerous temples and shrines. If you wanted to visit a new temple or shrine every day, it would take you over 4 years to get to them all. Also, if you’re into visiting UNESCO sites, Kyoto has 17 of them.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024

−−Content Menu

• Best Things to Do in Kyoto
• More Experiences in Kyoto
• Map of the Best Things to Do in Kyoto
• How to Get to Kyoto
• Where to Stay
• Temples & Shrines in Kyoto
• Parks & Gardens in Kyoto
• Museums in Kyoto
• Festivals in Kyoto
• Best Places to Eat in Kyoto
• Essential Tips for First Timers
• Planning Checklist
• More Resources

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha →

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, map

I hate early mornings but we made an exception for two places in Kyoto, and Fushimi Inari shrine was one of them. We arrived before dark and waited at the entrance of the torii (gates) until sunrise with a handful of others hoping to take the same iconic shot without people in it.

The hike to the top is 4 km and typically takes 2-3 hours round trip. Since we had a full day planned, we only made it to the halfway point where we could enjoy some views before heading back.

If you prefer, you can explore Fushimi Inari Taisha with a guide.

Getting Here: JR Inari Station on the JR Nara Line or the Fushimi Inari Station on the Keihan Main Line

Local Tip: If it’s crowded where you are, head deeper into the shrine. The further you go, the less people there are. There are 10,000 torii (gates) and 12,000 steps, so plenty of spots to find small moments of solitude.

2. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove →

Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0000, map

The Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama is one of the most popular spots in Kyoto. This was the second spot we woke up absurdly early for.

Again, we took the first train out so that we could arrive before sunrise. There were others on the same early morning train, and we thought surely there aren’t that many dedicated people who go before the sun rises. Wrong. As soon as the train doors opened, we saw everyone pick up the pace, starting the unofficial race to the bamboo forest.

There were 8-10 other people already there shooting. Since it’s a single walkway, we became friends with the other photographers taking turns getting the shots we wanted. It was a polite crowd. If we wanted to be in a shot, we asked and made sure everyone was happy with their shots. Though from time to time, someone would set up their tripod in front of the row of photographers.

If you’re in Arashiyama in the spring, also visit near the Togetsukyo Bridge. We found many cherry trees planted at Nakanoshima Park along the river.

Book a tour of the Arashiyama area here or a bike tour if you like riding.

Getting Here: Saga-Arashiyama Station on the JR Sanin Line or Keifuku Arashiyama Line on the Keifuku Line

Local Tip: It’s worth the effort to get there before sunrise. Within an hour, it started to get crowded. If you go early, keep in mind the town doesn’t really open until much later. Pack some snacks and water in case you get hangry.

3. Gion →

祇園 Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, map

Gion is the geisha district where you’ll spot geisha at the restaurants and boutiques on Hanamikoji Street. During our visit, we didn’t see many but the one time we did was because we noticed a few tourists running after one. Because it has become so popular, real geishas are usually only spotted running to and from work. If you want to photograph a geisha, it’s important to be respectful and stay out of their way.

The best experience is to head to a local ochaya (teahouse) where you’ll be entertained by a Geisha while dining, but this will cost you (think minimum 1000 USD). Many of these shops are exclusive and only speak Japanese, but since there are so many tourists, there are some companies that will help you book the experiences. If you’re unable to do this, head to Gion Corner where they have a cultural show every day.

You can do a guided tour of the Gion area or even book a tour guided by a local.

Be sure to check out Yasaka-no-to Pagoda or Hokan-ji Temple in the neighboring Southern Higashiyama district. The beautiful 46-meter pagoda that towers over everything and is hard to miss if you’re walking the area.

Getting Here: Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line or Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line

Local Tip: You’re more likely to spot a geisha if you visit the area around 5:45 pm, right before their evening engagements. Also, ‘Geiko’ is the Kyoto dialect for geisha and ‘maiko’ means a geiko apprentice.

There are experiences where you dress up like a Geisha for a day and even have a photographer follow you. It’s quite popular, which means you’re more likely to run into a dressed up tourist than an actual geisha.

4. Daikaku-ji Temple

4 Sagaosawacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8411, map
Admission: 500 yen (temple) / 200 yen (garden around Osawa Pond)

In contrast to many of the other temples and shrines, Daikaku-ji felt much more serene. We didn’t go inside the temple but spent an hour wandering the beautiful gardens and walking the path around the lake.

The temple was built in the early 800s as a getaway for the emperor, and 30 years after the emperor’s death it was converted from a palace to a Buddhist temple. One of the most important treasures is a copy of the Heart Sutra handwritten by Emperor Saga, which is now stored in the Heart Sutra Hall. It’s only displayed to the public once every 60 years.

Getting Here: 15 minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or 25 minute walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station

See More: 15 Coolest Things to Do in Tokyo

5. Kiyomizu-Dera Temple →

294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, map
Admission: 400 yen

Kiyomizu-dera, which translates to Pure Water Temple, is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most popular temples in Japan. We didn’t visit during our last visit because it was undergoing renovations so the main hall has been covered up, but they started dismantling the scaffolding as of January 2020 and is scheduled to be done by March.

The temple is best known for its wooden balcony connected to the main hall. It floats above the hillside below giving you a great view of cherry and maple trees below, which are brightly colored in the spring and fall. The grounds have roughly 1,500 cherry blossoms and 1,000 trees that turn in the fall making it one of the best destinations in the city for both sakura and fall foliage season. Also, don’t miss the Otowa Waterfall and pay attention to the construction of the main hall as it was built without the use of nails.

Book a tour of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple here.

Getting Here: 20 minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Railway Line

6. Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion)

1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, map
Admission: 400 yen

If you love everything that glitters, you need to check out this temple appropriately named for its top two floors covered in gold leaf. Like many of our favorite temples, it overlooks a pond making it really picturesque.

Each floor of the temple calls back to a different style of architecture calling by to the extravagant Kitayama culture. While you’re there, you can check out the head priest’s former living quarters (hojo), the temple’s gardens, and the Sekkatei Teahouse.

The temple has been burned down multiple times. Twice during the Onin War, a civil war that did a ton of damage in Kyoto, and once in 1950. The current structure you see was rebuilt in 1955.

Getting Here: Kitaoji Station on the Karasuma Subway Line then Bus Number 101, 102, 204, or 205 to Kinkaku-ji

7. Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) →

2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402, map
Admission: 500 yen

Ginkaku-ji, officially named Higashiyama Jisho-ji or commonly called Silver Pavilion, is not covered in silver like you would expect if you’ve visited the Golden Pavilion. The scenery is still very beautiful with the pond and reflection when the pond is still.

During your visit, don’t miss the Kannon Hall, sand garden, Hondo, Todugo, and moss garden. You can also climb a small hill behind the buildings to get an overhead view of the entire grounds and the city behind it. 

There are a few theories on how it earned its nickname. The first is to contrast it with the Golden Pavilion. The second, which I like better, is that the building used to be covered in black lacquer and when the moonlight reflected off of it, it looked silvery. Which do you think it is?

Getting Here: Bus 5, 17, or 100 from Kyoto Station. 

Self guided or book a tour here.

8. Nishiki Market

609番地 Nishidaimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8054, map

Did someone say food? I’m always down. We loved walking the narrow streets of the Nishiki Market lined with hundreds of food shops and restaurants. I couldn’t help but stop at every few stalls to try every type of food on a stick.

The entire market runs five blocks and you can find fresh seafood, seasonal and local specialties, knives, cookware, and more. Each spot usually specializes in one type of food and there are plenty of options.

Getting Here: Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line or Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line

Local Tip: Make sure you have cash with you! Also, be sure to avoid walking and eating or eating on local trains, since it’s frowned upon.

9. Kyoto Tower →

721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, map
Admission: 800 yen

In a city mostly known for its ancient temples and preserved streets, Kyoto Tower stands towering above all the other buildings like something from the future. It’s the city’s tallest structure and there is a viewing platform 100 meters above ground giving you a 360 view of the city.

Pick up tickets ahead of time here.

Getting Here: Kyoto Station

Local Tip: On clear days, you can see as far as Osaka.

11. Kamo River – Bike or Picnic Here

Kamo River, map

The Kamo River (or Kamo-gawa in Japanese) is a popular spot for locals. If you visit in the morning, you’ll see people walking their dogs or going for a morning jog. Later in the day, you’ll see picnickers getting some vitamin D. My favorite time to visit was during the evening, since the lanterns light up the streets. When the water is calm you can see reflections.

It’s also a very popular place to visit during spring since many cherry trees are planted along the river.

12. Ryoan-ji Temple

13 Ryoanji Goryonoshitacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, map

This temple is a UNESCO world heritage site and best known for its rock garden. It’s the most famous one in Japan. Little is known about its construction and history, but maybe that’s why it’s so interesting.

Head to the Hojo, or head priest’s former residence, for the best views. Also, take the time to walk around the park and pond below the main buildings. There’s even a restaurant there that specializes in Yudofu (boiled tofu).

Getting Here: Ryoanji-michi Station on the Keifuku Kitano Line or via a JR bus from Kyoto Station.

Local Tip: You may notice that at any given vantage point, at least one rock is hidden from your view. Try it!

14. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji

2-5 Sagatoriimoto Fukatanicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8439, map
Admission: 300 yen

This was our favorite temple and a bit of a gem because of its remote location. Hidden in the hills of Arashiyama, we walked up here after visiting the bamboo forest and had the whole place to ourselves among 1200 Rakan statues.

The statues are relatively new, added between 1981 and 1991, but look much older since the moss covers them. Each one represents Buddha’s disciples and was actually carved by different visitors under the guidance of the priest.

Getting Here: Otagi Dear Mae Bus Stop on Bus 64, 74, 84, or 94 from Kyoto Station.

Local Tip: Pay close attention to each individual statue. They are truly whimsical and some hold items like sake, a tennis racket, or a cassette player. You might also be able to find your doppleganger. 

15. Kurama-dera

1074番地 Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1111, map
Admission: 300 yen

If you’re a nature lover, less than an hour from the city, Kurama is a small rural town known for its temple and hot spring. The Kurama-dera temple is set on a mountainside and the climb takes 30-45 minutes. There’s also a cablecar that gets you about halfway up for 200 yen.

The Kurama Onsen is one of the easiest to access from Kyoto and has outdoor and indoor baths. Guests staying there can use it for free, or you can pay 2500 yen to access them for the day.

Getting Here: Kurama Station on the Eizan Railway

Planning Checklist

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

The post 15 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto for First Timers appeared first on Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide.

Visiting Tokyo? Don’t miss these awesome things to do!

Here at Local Adventurer, we want to build more of a community of people who are passionate about exploring both near and far. Our friend, Pete, has been to Japan seven times and has experienced a lot of exciting things that we hope to do on our next trip! Today, he’s sharing his guide to Tokyo.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024

−−Content Menu

• 15 Coolest Things Things to Do in Tokyo
• More Things to Do in Tokyo
• Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo According to Tripadvisor
• Essential Tips
• How to Get to Tokyo
• Where to Stay
• Planning Checklist
• More Resources

1. Ride Go-Karts in Akiba →

4 Chome-12-9 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, 101-0021, map

Race through the streets of Tokyo dressed as your favorite characters and learn how to drive on the left-hand side of the road while dodging real-life traffic. No guides, no helmets… probably one of the coolest things you can do in life (GPS not included).

You do need an international drivers license, and if you prefer to have a guide take you to all the highlights, that’s an option as well. Now, the only question left is which character will you dress up as?

2. Shinjuku Robot Restaurant →

1 Chome-7-1 Kabukicho | B2f, Kabukicho, Shinjuku 160-0021, map

Witness Taiko Drumming and laser beams on acid, flashing lights, freaking laser beams and giant, radio-controlled, robots battling to the death. Basically, everything you would come to expect from a trip to Tokyo.

The restaurant is extremely popular and it is very unlikely that you’ll get a seat if you walk up. Be sure to reserve your tickets ahead of time.

3. Snack on a CrÊpe in Harajuku →

Harajuku Neighborhood, map

While walking down the bustling, pedestrian-friendly, roads of Harajuku make sure to peek your head into one of the many crêpe stands along the way. An instant-energy-pick-me-up. And sugar. There are also some interesting shops scattered along the walkway and endless Instagrammable foods to check out.

Note: If you are a first timer and want to explore more cool places in Harajuku, check out this Harajuku Fashion & Pop-culture tour with MagicalTrip.

4. Grab Starbucks at Shibuya Crossing for an Unforgettable View →

2 Chome-2-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, 150-0043, map

While I would prefer to plug a local coffee shop or a small eatery, the second floor of the Starbucks at Shibuya crossing offers an unparalleled viewing experience of Shibuya Crossing. Witness one of the most heavily pedestrian trafficked areas in the world (if not THE most heavily pedestrian trafficked area) with roughly half a million people passing through daily.

The area has also become an unofficial place for street celebrations for young people. The most notable is on Halloween when thousands of people in costumes come to roam the streets.

Pro Tip: If you prefer to have a guide, check out this Shibuya tour, where they will take you around to iconic spots, including Starbucks, and tell you more about the history.

5. Write a Prayer at Meiji-Jingu Shrine →

1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, 151-8557, map

While visiting Harajuku in the Shibuya District, save enough time to write a prayer at the Meiji-Jingu Shrine. The tranquil setting, towering greenery, and wide-open gravel walking paths are a short-distance escape from the meticulously controlled chaos urban landscape that surrounds it.

You can even take a tour from a National Licensed Guide, and if you love sushi, combine it with Tsukiji Sushi Making.

Local Tip: There is an Inner Garden that is extra quiet and oftentimes missed.

6. Go to Tokyo’s Skytree →

1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, 131-0045, map

The second tallest building in the world is open to the public and has amazing views. The elevator ride is a trip, too. Go at least twice (once during the day and once during the night).

Local Tip: Skip the lines by picking up a ticket ahead of time.

See More: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto Japan for Your First Visit

7. Check out a Maid Cafe in Akihabara →

1 Chome -11-4 Sotokanda | Mitsuwa Bldg. 3-7F, Chiyoda 101-0021, map

Looking to induce a quick culture shock fever? Try a Maid Café. Originally created to service the male otaku fetishes, it quickly expanded to attract a wide array of different customers. Just let one of the many girls on the street soliciting their services guide you down a seedy alleyway to an elevator that takes you up to one of the many different themed cafés. 

The one we visited was @home cafe. It sounds as weird as it is. Totally worth it. Keep in mind that photos aren’t allowed unless you pay for them. We noticed some regular patrons had books where they collected photos with the maids.

Note: If you are a first timer, I recommend you to join this Akihabara tour with a local guide to experience Akihabara culture, must-visit maid cafes, and other gaming spots.

8. Experience a Taito Game Station →

〒101-0021 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Sotokanda, 4 Chome−2−2 貴三ビル, map

They are scattered all over Tokyo and they all offer a really good time. Win an anime figurine in a claw game or wow your friends with your dancing skills. Just be warned that the locals are better than you. Like, a lot better.

If you want a guide to help you navigate the Akihabara area, check out this tour that will take you to all the must-do activities.

9. Enjoy an Onsen →

Looking for a day in Tokyo where you can just unwind and do nothing? Go to a traditional Onsen to enjoy natural volcanic hot spring water pumped from deep underground. You can even go to an Onsen with a view of Mount Fuji. Here are some popular onsen in and near Tokyo:

• Heiwajima Natural Hot Spring, South Tokyo
• Nagomi no Yu, West Tokyo
• Niwa no Yu, North Tokyo
• Oedo Onsen Monogatari, Central Tokyo
• Teikoku-yu, East Tokyo

Note: If you have a tattoo, many onsen will not allow you in because of their association with the yakuza (Japanese organized crime). Before your visit, double check the rules. If you have a small tattoo, you can cover them up with patches you buy at Donquiote.

Otherwise, some tattoo-friendly onsen include:

• Akazawa Higaeri Onsenkan
• Mikoku Yu, East Tokyo
• Tenzan
• Yamato no Yu

11. Walk Along the Beach at Night in Odaiba

1 Chome-4 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo 135-0091, map

With a view of Rainbow Bridge and no open container laws, you can play in the sand along the waterfront for an epic date night. If that’s the sorta thing you’re looking for.

Note: Get a taste of NYC with Odaiba’s replica of the Statue of Liberty.

13. Rely on Vending Machines and Cafes for snacks

Tired of shopping in Shibuya or recovering from a late night out in Roppongi? Grab a Pocari Sweat from a vending machine and then hit up a café for some fancy drip coffee and a slice of heaven.

While the US has the most vending machines overall, Japan has the greatest density of vending machines in the world. You can buy the most random things from vending machines here. Some of the strangest ones sold vegetables, fruit, eggs, rice, hot meals, and canned clothes.

15. Check out the Pokemon Mega Center and the Aquarium in Ikebukuro

〒170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3 Chome−1−2 サンシャインシティ 専門店街アルパ 2F, map

Remember to bring your Nintendo DS because everyone is maxing out their Street Pass. The aquarium (complete with sharks) is located on the roof of the Sunshine City mall.

Bonus: Use the Smart Toilet

It might be intimidating at first, but it will change your life and your butt will thank you. And then you will miss it when you come back to the States.

More Things to Do in Tokyo Japan

If you come back for a second visit, here are some more ideas for your next trip.

• B-Pump Akihabara (map) – go indoor rock climbing.
• Cooking Class – Make sushi, ramen, udon, and more.
• Ghibli Museum, Mitaka (map)
• Hedgehog Cafe & Pet Store HARRY Harajuku (map)
• teamLab Borderless, Palette Town (map)
• Izakaya Alley – grab a drink here
• National Museum of Western Art, Ueno Park (map) – UNESCO site. Also take a swan boat ride in Shinobazu Pond.
• Senso-ji, Asakusa (map) – oldest temple in Tokyo.
• Sumo Wrestling – get a morning practice tour
• Tea Ceremony – taste the best matcha.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku (map) – great views from the observation decks and free to enter.
• Tokyo Tower (map)
• Toyosu Market (map) – formerly Tsukiji Fish Market and where they relocated to.
• Yayoi Kusama Museum, Shinjuku (map)

How to Get to Tokyo

• By Plane – Fly in Narita Airport in Chiba or Haneda Airport. We typically fly into Narita Airport and take the Narita Express into town. It typically takes 50-60 minutes.
  • Pick up a JR Pass if you’re planning on exploring other parts of Japan. Although, once you use it, it starts your days.
  • If you plan on staying in Tokyo a few days before leaving, just get a single ticket on the Narita Express and save the JR Pass for when you leave Tokyo.
  • If you’re unsure of where to go, just look for an information counter and they can help you out.
  • Other alternatives are:
    • Skyliner – Train but only has access to the eastern part of Tokyo
    • Express Bus – cheapest way
    • Local Trains – also a cheaper option
    • Taxi – pricey since it’s so far away
    • Limousine Bus – some hotels and resorts offer this service
• By Train – The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the easiest way to get around from other parts of Japan to Tokyo. Most of the time, we visit other parts of Japan but start and end our trip in Tokyo.
• By Bus – For a cheaper option to explore other parts of Japan, check out the long-distance express buses. They typically have outlets and reclining chairs making it a comfortable ride.

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Peter

Peter Kitch is an active entrepreneur and artist currently living in Los Angeles. He is passionate about health, travel, music, and photography and seeks to promote a happy, healthy, adventurous lifestyle through example.

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The post 15 Coolest Things to Do in Tokyo Japan appeared first on Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide.

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO HIKING TO LAKE ALAKOL

Lake Alakol is one of the most popular destinations in Kyrgyzstan. I’ve never seen a turquoise lake quite like this before. It reminded me of the glacial lakes in the Pacific Northwest, but it was somehow even more vibrant. The lake is nestled amongst the jagged peaks of the Ala-Too Mountain Range, and it almost feels like you’ve discovered a secret spot.

IS IT ALAKOL, ALAKUL, ALA-KOL, OR ALA-KUL?

We’ve seen it spelled Alakol online, but when we were there, maps had it written as Ala-Kul. We’ve seen locals use any and all of these spellings interchangeably with spaces, no spaces, and dashes. This is pretty common in Kyrgyzstan and what makes traveling here confusing. Spellings aren’t always consistent and sometimes there are places named the same or similar names. We met another traveler who ended up at Jyrgalan (a building in another city), and then Jergalan (pretty much the same pronunciation), before making it to his correct destination, Jyrgalan (the village).

Since Alakol Lake is one of the most popular landmarks, you shouldn’t have any issues when referencing it.

WAYS TO GET THERE

There are multiple ways to get to Lake Alakol, but all of them take some effort.

1. The most popular route is a 3-4 day trek starting in Karakol and ending in Aksu, where you can get a cab back to Karakol.
2. The alternative is to start in Aksu and head to Altyn Arashan first, then hike to Lake Alakol (generally 2 days) or go on horseback for a day trip.

We came in from the other side since we hiked to Boz-Uchuk Lakes. After arriving in Altyn Arashan, we rode to the bottom of the Alakol pass on horseback, then finished the last climb on foot.

OUR EXPERIENCE & THE EASIEST WAY TO GET THERE

During our visit to Kyrgyzstan, we had the chance to do a more undiscovered hike to Boz-Uchuk Lakes and then on to Altyn Arashan. From Altyn Arashan, it’s easy to add a day trip to Alakol on horseback, or add a couple days to hike to Alakol. If you’re very quick, you might be able to hike it in a day if you wake up really early and during the summer when the days are longer.

For those of you looking for the least amount of effort to get to Alakol, you can hire an off-road vehicle to take you from Aksu to Altyn Arashan. It’s extremely bumpy off-road terrain, so a regular cab won’t take you. We asked the Destination Karakol folks how much it normally is, and they said it can cost between 10,000-13,000 som for a car to drop you off and pick you up when you’re done.

Total Distance: 10.4 km by horse + 2 km walk
Pass: Ala-Kul North Pass (3900 m)

From Altyn Arashan, you can ride a horse to the base of the Alakol North Pass. Along the way, you’ll cross rivers, and hop over to a perpendicular valley.

If you’re using this as a photo guide, the photo below is actually us on the way back from Alakol.

Once you reach the base of the pass, you will leave your horse at the bottom and finish the 1 km to the top on foot. The last kilometer is EXTREMELY steep. The path is made up of loose shale, which makes it slippery. Each step you take, the rocks start sliding down. If you have trouble with heights this makes for a scary jaunt. There was even a portion where Jacob sat down paralyzed with fear. Of course, our guide had no issue and was running and hopping around all over the place.

That’s me at the bottom, but do you see the tiny person in blue on the trail?

We spent our time on top of the pass taking photos and eating lunch. I’m sure you can also make it down to the lake if you want, but be sure to talk to your guide about it to confirm. We were short on time, so we headed back after.

DIRECTIONS FOR THE TRADITIONAL + MOST POPULAR ROUTE

Marshrutka #101 will take you directly to the trailhead for 8 som. It takes roughly 20 mins. You can catch it almost anywhere along Toktogol St. which is where most of the guest houses are. You’ll want to take it to the last stop which is near the gates of the park, the Marshrutka will turn around and the driver will probably shoo you out.

Day 1: Karakol to Sirota Campsite
Distance: 22 km
Time: 5-6 hours

The first day starts off easy. You will primarily be walking alongside a river, so you shouldn’t get lost as long as you don’t veer off onto one of the smaller paths. Eventually, you will see a bridge over the river to your left with huge pine trees on either side. Cross the bridge, then head straight up.

More paths will appear, but just be sure you continue heading east into the valley. There will be some trail markers every so often (usually red-paint on rocks), but if you focus on staying on the most obvious trail, you should get to the campsite with no problem. After about an hour and a half, you’ll come across a small river. Follow this up to the wooden cabin on the left side of the valley.

Day 2: Sirota Campsite to Alakol Lake

Distance: 4 km
Time: 2-3 hours

Head up the trail with the river to your right. There should be plenty of markers, and you’ll know you’re on the right track when you come across a waterfall at the top of the valley.

Follow the cairns until the summit, where you’ll get the first look of the beautiful lake. If you plan on staying the night near the lake, you have plenty of time to summit one of the surrounding peaks.

A lot of people don’t bother staying at Lake Alakol, but if we visited again, we would absolutely camp here. It’s so beautiful and it gives you the chance to have a sunset and sunrise at the lake. If you don’t want to camp here, combine day 2 and 3, but be sure to start early.

You can also see Heart Lake from a distance. It only looks like a heart from this perspective, not if you get closer.

Day 3: Ala-Kul Lake to Altyn Arashan

Distance: 15 km
Time: 4-5 hours

Follow the trail leading up to the pass on the northeast side of the lake. It’s a tough climb, so be sure to mentally prepare yourself. Once you’re at the top, turn around to get your last looks at the lake, and then comes the scary part.

This connects to our experience so you know how sketchy it is to head down. From here, follow the valley and the most obvious path. You will eventually run into a large river, where you’ll stay to the left of it. Follow the river down staying as close to it as possible (you should never veer off more than a few meters away) and you’ll find yourself at Altyn Arashan, where there is a bridge to take you to the other side.

Day 4: Altyn Arashan to Aksu

Distance: 16km
Time: 4-5 hours

I personally would hire a driver to take you out to Aksu. It’s a rough and bumpy ride but saves you a lot of time. If you do decide to walk it, the road is very obvious. If you ever feel lost, just say “Aksu” to any of the locals and they will point you in the right direction.

Once you arrive back in Aksu, you can grab a taxi back to Karakol for roughly 400 som. It will take about 25-30 minutes.

BEST TIME TO HIKE TO ALAKOL

The best time to be in the mountains in Kyrgyzstan is between July and September. The weather is nicer, the days are longer, and you get a chance to catch the wildflowers.

This is one of the most popular hikes in the country, so if you prefer to avoid people on the trails, visit during the shoulder seasons. You can go between May and June or September and mid-October. The weather will be less predictable though and there may be snow at higher elevations.

SHOULD I HIRE A GUIDE & PORTERS

It really depends on how comfortable you are in the backcountry. There are a few things to consider when making this decision.

How in shape are you? We’re not hardcore hikers, but we thought we were in decent shape going into these hikes. We were wrong! A lot of the elevation changes happen quickly and steeply. We barely made it through and we only had to carry a daypack. I’m not sure if we would have made it with full packs. Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country and these guys live in the mountains. Expect what they call moderate hikes to be difficult hikes and difficult hikes to be mountaineering.

Do you get altitude sickness? You don’t really get a chance to acclimate to the elevation. If altitude sickness is a worry, it’s nice to have a guide who can help assist with that. We found ourselves with our hands on our knees trying to catch our breath A LOT.

How good are you at navigating and dealing with getting lost? The trails in Kyrgyzstan can be really confusing. Since the locals bring livestock into the mountains, there are trails everywhere! Markers are also uncommon on most trails. The good thing is if you’re going in the summer, there will be plenty of people on the trail that you can ask.

What is your budget? Guides can cost between 1200-2500 KGS per day. In addition to that, you should plan on tipping your guides $6 USD per person per day and any porters/cooks $3 USD per person per day. If you are doing it on your own, the entrance fee is 250 KGS per person. You will also pay rangers an additional 150 KGS per tent.

If we were to do it again, we would still hire a guide, but we saw a ton of people doing it on their own. All those people, however, also asked our guide for directions.

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR HIKE

If you hire a guide, talk to them beforehand about what they will provide. If you’re doing it on your own, be sure that you are prepared. We had a guide and porters, but these are still some of the items we would recommend.

• Backpack: Jacob used the Lowepro Whistler Bag, since he was carrying the camera gear, but it was a huge mistake. He should have brought his backpacking pack. I used the Osprey Ace 50 Pack.
• Down Jacket: Depending on the time of year it can get cold at night. We went during shoulder season so we really needed them.
• Hiking Pants: I had these Columbia convertible pants which would work in the summer as well. Jacob had the Mountain Hardwear Dragon Pants which were great for shoulder season but would probably be too hot in the summer.
• Waterproof Jacket: You never know when it will rain, so it’s always to better to be prepared. Our Arc’teryx Beta SL Jackets (Hers + His) were perfect for this.
• Hat, Buff and/or Balaclava: You should absolutely bring a hat to shade you from the sun. If you’re going in colder weather, a buff or balaclava is nice to keep you warm.
• Waterproof Hiking Boots: There will be times you’ll need to cross shallow creeks or puddles. We both love our Danner Mountain 600 (Hers + His) hiking boots.
• Down Booties: Do you get cold feet at night? These down booties are the BEST to keep you warm (we also use these shoe bags to pack them)!
• Sleeping Bag: We went in colder weather so Esther brought her Feathered Friends Murre Ex 0 Degree Bag. Jacob used one they provided and brought his Sea to Summit Liner for extra warmth.
• Sleeping Pad: We love our sleeping pads because they’re really light but still comfortable.
• Water Bladder: The Platypus Big Zip ones are our favorite. They are easy to fill and clean and having a bladder makes water easily accessible.
• Water Filter: Locals don’t bother with filtering the water, but we prefer to be safe. This one is super light and works well.
• Headlamp: Always good to have for early mornings and after the sun goes down.
• Quick-Dry Towel: Whether you want a cushier travel towel or light version to save space and weight, it’s good to have one handy.
• Personal Toiletries and Meds: Just bring what you need. These Lewis N Clark Travel Pouches are great and lightweight.
• Ziplock Bags: We always travel with a few of them. You can use them to carry out garbage or protect your phone/passport when it rains.
• Toilet Paper: We rolled some up and put it in a ziplock bag.
• Trekking Poles: REI Flash Carbon Trekking Poles ware lightweight and fit in our packs when we travel.
• Phone Charger: Keep your phone on airplane mode to conserve battery since there isn’t any service in the mountains, and bring a phone charger if you’re out there for a few days.
• Map: Buy a map in town for around 150 KGS.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

• Best time of day to shoot: Because the lake sits in a deep valley, the best time to shoot the lake is either dawn or dusk. In this case, it may not be as brilliant of a blue. The middle of a sunny day will give you the best brightest blue color of the lake.
• Drones: If you’re flying a drone, be careful since it can get really windy up there. We had the DJI Spark with us and there were moments I was nervous the wind would take it away.
• Our gear and lenses: We brought our Canon 5D Mark III for photos and Sony RX100 Mark IV for video. We also had a 35mm for wide shots and 70-200mm for tight shots.
• Your camera is only useful if it’s easily accessible. We used the BlackRapid Backpack Sling with the Tripod Plate to keep ours out and available.
• We brought a lightweight tripod with us but didn’t end up using it. Although if you’re camping, you may want one to shoot stars at night.

Don’t forget to spend some time in Karakol exploring the city before or after the hike! What’s the last hike you’ve done?

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The post Heart Lake and Lake Alakol Hike – The Most Popular Trek in Kyrgyzstan appeared first on Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide.

This post is brought to you in partnership with Vision Global WiFi. All opinions are always our own.
Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

We were halfway through our drive from Atlanta to NYC when I decided it was time to shut off the road trip playlist and get some work done. I actually love that the drive never feels like a waste of time when I can always stay connected using our wifi device. We use it all the time when traveling, but it was even so helpful at our new apartment in NYC since took a few days for the provider to hook up our internet. Gotta do what you gotta do.

NOTE: We are currently doing a giveaway! Scroll to the bottom to enter.

THE BEST WAY TO STAY CONNECTED WITH VISION GLOBAL WIFI

WHY YOUR OWN WIFI

When traveling within the states, most cheaper and mid-level hotels will have free wifi. If you’re staying at a higher end hotel, they usually have an additional charge. From our experience, it’s a mixed bag overseas. Even places that claim to have wifi, don’t necessarily have working wifi. Having your own device will help you guarantee you can stay connected, whether it’s for work, personal, or just keeping up-to-date on Instagram.

In addition to that, having your own wifi will help you stay secure. Did you know that anytime you’re using a public wifi, you are prone to cyber hacking? We’ve been a lot more paranoid about that recently after it happened to one of our friends.

WHY VISION GLOBAL WIFI?

With so much information available online, one of the easiest ways to travel is having access to the internet. Whether you’re trying to stay connected for work, checking out information on blogs, using Google Maps to navigate, or just trying to update your Instagram stories with all your adventures, a wifi device is one of the best solutions!

More and more companies are popping up offering wifi devices, so why Vision Global WiFi? From our recent experience with them, they offer some unique services that help them stand out from their competitors.

First off, most only allow up to 5 devices to be connected, whereas Vision Global WiFi can be shared with up to 10 devices. Just between Esther and I, we usually try to connect 4 devices when we’re on the road – one phone and laptop each. If we’re traveling with friends or family, this gives us the flexibility to keep them connected as well. We’ll get into some of the other differences below.

EASY DELIVERY OR PICKUP

After ordering your device, you will receive them in the mail along with a stamped return envelope. That way, once you are done, it’s as easy as dropping it off anywhere that USPS picks up. Keep in mind that you should place your order by noon, 4 days before you leave to give them time to get you the device.

For those of you flying through LAX or Major Airports from Japan, you can also pick up or drop off at the airport!

THE RIGHT DEVICE FOR THE RIGHT COUNTRY

We’ve tried a couple other wifi services now, and a unique aspect of what they offer is making sure you get the best service possible. Right now, Vision Global WiFi has different devices depending on where you are traveling to. In the future, that may change as the devices get better, but you know that they are always looking out for you.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

My favorite part of the ordering process is how many options you have when it comes to ordering the service. Other wifi devices have a flat rate per day with a data cap. With Vision Global WiFi, you can select from different plans based on what you need.

If you know that you only need to check your email, you can get a more limited data plan, and if you don’t want to worry about speeds slowing down, you can get the unlimited data plans (only available in certain countries).

To ensure they can offer the best price, prices vary based on the country. For long-term travelers (over 30 days), you get a discounted daily rate. If you’re traveling to multiple countries, it’s no problem as well. Just select all the countries during your reservation and discounted rates will show up.

Check out their easy-to-use slider to see all the options here.

WHAT COUNTRIES DO THEY SERVE?

They currently serve over 120 countries:

Africa: Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Western Sahara, Zambia

Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, China, Christmas Island, Cambodia, Cyrus, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Kuwait, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Yemen

Europe: Austria, Azores, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Principality of Andorra, Romania, San Marino, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Vatican

North America: Alaska, Aruba, Canada, Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Hawaii, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, The Bahamas, USA

South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela

Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Guam, New Zealand, Saipan, Tahiti

ADDITIONAL DEVICES

For those of you guys who don’t want to connect multiple devices, you can also get buy SIM cards from them.

They also rent Portable External Batteries, International Adapters, and if you’ve ever been interested in checking out 360˚ cameras, you can rent the Richo Theta S.

Pro Tip: If you have a ton of devices to keep charged, get yourself one of these. You can plug in multiple devices so you never have to worry about not having enough outlets, and it’s and adapter and converter.

BOOK YOUR DEVICE NOW

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post The Best Way to Stay Connected While Traveling + Giveaway appeared first on Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide.

 This post and trip were made possible by Discover Kyrgyzstan and the support of the American people through USAID (United States Agency for International Development). As always, all opinions are our own and do not reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Our eyes grew wide as they placed dish after dish of food on our table. We spent all morning walking around and exploring Karakol and had worked up quite the appetite. For our Dungan dinner, we had 9 courses, but some dinners can have up to 150!

Karakol is the largest town in the Issyk Kul region. It’s at the eastern edge of Issyk Kul Lake and foot of Terskey Ala-Too Mountain range. If you’re in Kyrgyzstan to explore the mountains, you will most likely pass through Karakol, so you should do yourself a favor and spend a few days in the town learning more about the culture (and eating of course).

21 UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN KARAKOL KYRGYZSTAN

1. The Holy Trinity Cathedral

This beautiful Russian Orthodox Church is scheduled to be painted in late 2017. Peek inside to find a number of icons, including some saved from Svetly Mys and a copy of one of Saint Troitzy by Andrei Rublev, a famous Russian painter. You are allowed inside and women are required to wear a head covering that is provided. (Map)

2. The Dungan Mosque

The Dungan Mosque is a unique mosque in that it was designed and constructed by Chinese artisans. It was completed in 1910 and is still used to this day. You can stop by to see the colorful wooden structure that was initially constructed without any nails. Women will be required to put on a head covering provided by the mosque. (Map)

3. Antique Shop

We’ve been to antique shops before, but this one was one of the most impressive we’ve seen. It was almost a museum with all the items they had. You can find pins, patches, postcards, uniforms, and more from the Soviet Era, but what caught our attention the most was the old cameras. I almost walked out of there with ten of them cameras, and we were told all of them still work. How I’m going to find the film is another story. (Map)

4. Take a City Walking Tour (It’s Free!)

A great way to see the city is by exploring it on foot. Destination Karakol leads walking tours where they take you to the Holy Trinity Church, Dungan Mosque, Tatar Mosque, the antique shop, plus a few more historical sites with insights from a local perspective.

5. Karakol Food Tour

One of the best ways to get to know a city is to eat your way through on a food tour. Try the different local cuisines and see if you can find a favorite.

They make stops at Bugu Bazaar to try Ashlyan-Fu, Zarina Cafe for Laghman, Kaynar Cafe for Azuu, Kochevnik Cafe for Oromo, and Fat Cat Karakol for desserts. Hungry yet?

6. Karakol River Park

Enjoy the benches, grills, and a small stage where concerts are held along the Karakol River. You can enter near the intersection of Shapak Batyr and Ishakov.

7. Happy Nomad Yurt Camp

Go glamping these beautiful yurts right amidst a garden. It’s a great place to base yourself while exploring the city. They have wifi, warm water, and kept their bathrooms very clean. (Coordinates, 30 min walk / 5 min drive from City Center)

8. Fat Cat Cafe – Have Coffee and Hang with the Cats

This is one of the most popular cafes in town. It’s also right next to the Destination Karakol office, so you can get more info and knock out two birds with one. Grab a bite to eat or enjoy a pastry. You can wash it all down with beer, coffee, or liquor. It’s not a cat cafe, but there were several friendly strays that like to hang around.

Your purchases also go towards giving back to the local community by helping the homeless, low-income families, and victims of abuse. See photos of how they’ve been helping their local community here.

You can also check out Karakol Coffee, Lighthouse Coffee, and Vista Coffee.

9. Karakol History Museum

Located in a typical Russian home from the 1880s, this museum has artifacts, local tools, and musical instruments. Unfortunately, the only portion of the museum that is in English, is an area exhibiting the photography of Swiss explorer Ella Maillart. Ella visited in 1932 and gives a unique look into that time period.

10. Sunday Karakol Animal Market / Livestock Market

Early each Sunday morning, you’ll find one of Kyrgyzstan’s biggest animal markets in Karakol. It’s an amazing site to see and you can even try to purchase, sell, or barter for livestock with the Kyrgyz people. Read more about the animal market here.

There is also a used car market near the Animal Market. It is open every day from 6AM to 1PM but is most crowded on Sundays since people head over here after the Animal Market.

11. Dungan Family Dinner

If you’re a foodie, you need to experience the Dungan Family Dinner. They have a unique cuisine that is different than other local dishes and you get a chance to hear about the history of the Dungan people and how they ended up in Kyrgyzstan. After a visit to the museum, you get to make your own Ashlan Fu (everything is prepped, you just mix the ingredients into your own bowl) and enjoy it along with all the other dishes.

Book a dinner with the folks at Destination Karakol. The experience lasts roughly 3 hours.

12. Dungan Museum

If you don’t have time do the Dungan Family Dinner, but still want to learn more about their history, check out the Dungan Museum. When you book your Dungan Family Dinner, you stop by the Dungan Museum first. (Map)

13. Przhevalsky Museum

Nikolay Przhervalsky was a famous Russian explorer that made several journeys in Central Asia. The garden and museum are dedicated to his travels. A lot of the exhibits are in English but you’ll need a guide if you want to get a full understanding.

14. Victory Park and Victory Monument

When you enter the park, be sure to check out the monument to the right. It is an interesting monument to the victims of Stalinist repression.

15. Laghman Noodle Pulling Class

Get the full experience of shopping for your ingredients, learning how to make noodles, and chowing down on delicious Laghman. You can also get an abbreviated experience with just a noodle pulling demonstration with lunch or simply lunch.

Book an experience through the folks at Destination Karakol.

16. Visit the Local Markets

If you want to hang out with the locals, go to the local market where they shop for food, clothes, and everyday items. Ak Tilek Bazaar is the big bazaar where the locals go and is 10 minutes from the town’s center.

There are also small bazaars like Bugu Bazaar, Makish Bazaar, and Center Bazaar. Center Bazaar is a great spot to find a little bit of everything.

If you’re looking specifically for souvenirs, check out Kork Souvenier Shop (Map) or Tsum, which is located on the first floor of Central (Map).

Local Tip: Pick up and try some fried fava beans. They’re addicting. We didn’t get to try the large egg-shaped melons, but we kept hearing they are the best-tasting melons in the world.

17. Banya Bathhouse

A banya is a traditional Russian bathhouse. Take a long soak and enjoy a beer… naked. Or be a tourist and wear your towel.

18. Craft Classes with One Village, One Product

Located on Toktogula Street, “One Village, One Product” is a great spot to shop for local souvenirs. You can even take classes to understand the intricate work that goes into each carpet, handicraft, or jam. You can contact them to organize visits and even partake in soap or felt workshops. Check out their facebook page for more info.

19. Issyk Kul Sunset Cruise

See Issyk-Kul Lake from the water by taking a sunset cruise. It’s a great way to spend the evening relaxed and with a great view.

Book a cruise with the folks at Destination Karakol.

20. Bugu-Ene Zoo

This is the only zoo in Kyrgyzstan and is located close to the center of town. It’s relatively small but they have bears, wolfs, fox, lama, yak, eagles, and more. We didn’t go ourselves and read reviews that they may not have the best conditions for the animals.

21. Jolgolot Viewpoint Hike

The majority of the hike reminded us of Southern California or Nevada. From Jolgolot, a suburb of Karakol, the hike is between an hour or two to the viewpoint. From here you can see Mount Przhevalsky and the Karakol Ski Lodge that brings visitors in the winter.

If you’ve already spent time in the mountains, it doesn’t have the most impressive views, but if you haven’t, you should definitely do this easy hike.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

1. Seven Bulls / Jeti Oguz / Djety Oguz

22.5 km / 25 min West of Karakol

If you look at postcards of the Karakol area, then you’ll probably see these red rock formations. Located 25km SW of the town, you’ll find the Seven Bulls landmark and Broken Heart Rock. Each has its own set of legends.

We were disappointed to see power lines crisscrossing in front of the rock formations from the road, but climb the hill across Seven Bulls to get a clear view or you can send your drone up for photos.

2. Karakol Ski Base / База “Каракол”

11.3 km / 27 min South of Karakol

Winter time brings a new flock of adventurers who are looking to hit the slopes on skis or snowboards. You can even paraglide during the winter!

3. Karakol Gorge

9.9 km / 23 min South of Karakol

Near the ski base, is Karakol gorge. It is adjacent to the Terskey Ala-Too ridge and runs 40 km. Find wildlife, beautiful views, meadows, forest, and more.

4. Barskoon Waterfall and Barskoon Valley

102 km / 1 h 36 min Southwest of Karakol

The main cascade of Barskoon Waterfall is 24 meters and a beautiful site to see. There are several other falls in the valley as well.

5. Skazka Canyon / Fairy Tale Canyon

101 km / 1 h 30 min West of Karakol

This area is full of unique rock formations shooting up from the ground. Some of them look like walls, others like dragons, and even ones that look like full-on castles. If you climb up to higher views, you can see beautiful panoramic views with Issyk Kul Lake in the background.

6. Salty Lake / Tuz-Kol / Myortvoye Ozero

164 km / 3hrs West of Karakol

Known as the “Dead Sea of Kyrgyzstan”, the water in the lake is so salty, you float on the surface. The road to get there isn’t very developed so it takes over 3 hours to get there.

7. Jyrgalan Valley

46.8 km / 50 minutes East of Karakol

Located an hour away from Karakol, the Jyrgalan Valley is the perfect spot for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors. Take a horse ride, hike, or get a jeep tour of the beautiful landscape.

8. Ak Orgo Yurt Building Experience

84.8 km / 1 h 19 min Southwest of Karakol

Ever wanted to learn, see, or try to build a yurt on your own? The Ak Orgo Yurt Building Experience is a great way to see how intricate these structures are. You can also make a custom felt carpet at this workshop. Check out our video showing how we constructed one. (97 Lenin St Barskoon Village 722005 Issyk Kul Oblast; 996-39-26-96-754)

9. Altyn Arashan

29.5 km / 51 minutes SE of Karakol

A popular stop for people hiking in the backcountry, Altyn Arashan is an area with natural hot springs. There are a few places to stay here and you can get access to private hot spring rooms.

10. Lake Alakol or Ala-Kul Hike

22.7 km South of Karakol

Alakol Lake is probably the most recognizable hike and natural feature in Kyrgyzstan. The spectacularly blue lake is worth the multi-day hike to get there.

Travel Tips for Every Trip

• Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits.
• Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.

MORE RESOURCES

• Kyrgyzstan: Mountains, Horses, but No Borat – Written by a Local
• Lonely Planet: Central Asia Guide
• Kyrgyzstan: A Climber’s Map & Guide (not as well rated, but the only one available)
• 15 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Kyrgyzstan

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The post 21 Unique Things to Do in Karakol Kyrgyzstan + Nearby Excursions appeared first on Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide.

Want to hike to Boz Uchuk Lakes? Here’s everything you need to know.

I put my hands on my knees huffing and puffing each step I took. As I raised my head, I saw that I was close, so I mustered up the rest of my strength to make it over the ridge. Just as I was about to celebrate, I realized it was a false summit. NOOOOO!!!!! I took a seat on a rock a bit defeated, but as I looked back at the amazing views, I had to keep climbing.

This post and trip were made possible by Discover Kyrgyzstan and the support of the American people through USAID (United States Agency for International Development). As always, all opinions are our own and do not reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: November 23, 2024

−−Content Menu

• Best Time to Visit
• What You Need to Know Before Your Hike
• Day by Day Breakdown of the Hike + Map
• Porters, Guides, Tipping
• Altitude Sickness
• Toilets + Toilet Paper
• Eating on the Trail
• Water: How Much to Bring + Is it Safe to Drink On the Trail?
• Can You Leave Bags Behind?
• Photography Tips
• What to Pack
• Planning Checklist
• More Resources

Day 1: Terim-tor Bulak to Boz-Uchuk Lakes

Distance: 5.59 miles / 9 km
Estimated Time: 6 hours
What You See: 1 Pass, Boz Uchuk Lakes, Deep Valleys, Open Meadows
Pass: Boz Uchuk Ashuu (3364 m)
Overnight: Boz Uchuk Lakes

We started our hike by getting dropped off in Turgon Valley (2400 m) where we met our guide, porters, and cook. From there, we hiked over a “small” mountain, then through a slowly inclining valley until we reached our first pass, Boz Uchuk Ashuu. I don’t know if it was the fact that we hadn’t acclimated to higher elevations or if we were just out of shape, but we were struuuuggling.

After stopping for lunch, we headed down from the pass. We climbed up and down yet another small mountain, and then could see our first destination in the distance. From where we were standing, there were large boulders along the edge of a steep drop. The lakes were on top of that.

We slowly made our way up, then saw the first of two lakes. Some of the porters had already arrived and started setting up camp. We eagerly dropped our bags and roamed around to take photos. After a short break for tea and snacks, we hiked roughly 100 meters up to the second Boz Uchuk lake. This was our favorite of the two.

After returning to camp, we had dinner, then cozied up for some well-earned rest.

Day 2: Boz-Uchuk Lakes to Ak-su Almaluu Valley

Distance: 10.56 miles / 17 km
Estimated Time: 10 hours
What You See: 2 Passes, Alpine Lakes, Deep Valleys, Glacial Rivers, Open Fields
Passes: Unnamed or “Jyrgyz” Pass (3460m), Aylanysh Pass (3515m)
Overnight: Ak-Su Almaluu Valley

Now that we realized what we were dealing with, we tried to prep ourselves better mentally. We knew we had two passes to cross. After breakfast, we climbed up a bit more from our campsite before dropping into another valley. We climbed up and down a smaller mountain, then across a wide valley before reaching the next incline.

We handled this climb a bit better, but it was still a TON of work. We took each switch back slowly until we made it to the top. This pass is unnamed, but our guide called it Jyrgyz Pass. From this pass, you could see Aylanysh Lakes in the distance.

After snapping a few photos, and grabbing a quick snack, we started to make our way down into the valley. As we started to climb again, we stopped at Aylanysh Lake for lunch. Afterwards, we continued onwards to the next pass. There were a couple of smaller lakes along the way that were beautifully clear. The last incline to Aylanysh Pass was the steepest yet.

We took 10-15 steps, then took a break, then took another 10-15 steps, and so and so forth until we made it to the top. We took a few more photos at the top and started our way down. The backside of this mountain was made of very loose rock. After finishing the steepest part, we stopped at a stream for tea and snacks. We then continued downwards, and it felt like forever until we reached the following site. Every time we reached what I thought was close to the end, we would see an expansive valley just below that we would have to descend into.

Our second night was spent right next to a babbling brook, which made for a peaceful night’s rest.

Day 3: Ak-Su Almaluu Valley to Arashan Hot Springs

Distance: 8.07 miles / 13 km
Estimated Time: 7 hours
What You See: 1 Pass, Valleys, Rocky Mountainsides, Valleys, 1 Pass, Natural Hot Springs
Pass: Ortok Pass (3606 m)
Overnight: Arashan Hot Springs

This was the hardest day for us. Firstly, as you start to tackle the first mountain, you reach a point that looks like the pass. Little did we know, it was a false summit! After making that last push, we thought we were done, so learning that we still had more to go was really demoralizing. After mustering up what strength we could, we continued slowly until we reached the top.

Secondly, we both had some gnarly blisters forming. Every downhill step we took on day three made each one that much worse. We had to go down really slow, but when we finally reached the hot springs, we were rewarded with some relaxation.

Day 4: Arashan Hot Springs to Ala-Kul North Pass →

Distance: 10.4 km by horse + 2 km walk
Pass: Ala-Kul North Pass (3900 m)
Overnight: Arashan Hot Springs

We couldn’t leave without seeing Ala-Kul Lake, so we spent the last day hopping on a horse to save time. We rode to the bottom of the Ala-Kul North Pass and then finished the final portion on foot.

We still hadn’t learned by now, but climbing up to the pass was the steepest and scariest of all. It was extremely steep, loose rocks that felt like you were sliding down every step you took. On the way up, Jacob even got paralyzed for a moment and sat down, thinking he’d fall off the mountain and die.

See More: Heart Lake and Lake Alakol Hike – The Most Popular Trek in Kyrgystan

Planning Checklist

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

The post How to Hike to Boz Uchuk Lakes Kyrgyzstan appeared first on Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide.

Visiting Kyrgyzstan? Here is what you need to know when you’re planning your trip.

Our flight to Kyrgyzstan was finally booked! As we looked over our itinerary, we were eager to glimpse all the destinations, but after digging through the web for 20 minutes, we didn’t come up with much. For the first time, we’d be going in blind, unsure of what to expect of our trip. It was going to be a true adventure.

Kyrgyzstan is still growing as a tourist location, especially for Americans. It’s currently more popular amongst Russians, Europeans, and Japanese tourists.

This post and trip were made possible by Discover Kyrgyzstan and the support of the American people through USAID (United States Agency for International Development). This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: February 7, 2024

−−Content Menu

• Best Time to Visit
• Visa Requirements
• Safety Concerns + Scams
• The Language + Basic Phrases
• Currency
• Budget + Tipping
• Packing + What to Wear
• Transportation
• Is the Water Safe?
• Foods to Try
• Converter
• Toilets
• Hiking
• Souvenirs to Bring Home
• Where to Stay
• Recap Video
• Planning Checklist
• More Resources

7. Packing + How to Dress (For Women)

We will put together an in-depth packing list, but here are a few things to consider. Being a woman visiting a Muslim country, I thought I would have to dress much more conservatively, but people were very lax, especially in the cities of Bishkek and Karakol. We saw people wearing tees and tank tops, similar to how we would back in the States.

We spent most of our time in the Issyk-Kul province, but if you head to more conservative parts of the country, like Osh, be prepared to dress accordingly. For us, the only places we needed to dress more conservatively in the Issyk-Kul province were at mosques and churches, and they had scarves or cloaks available at the front. When I’m unsure of the dress code, I always bring this with me. I usually wear it as a light layer or scarf when it gets cold, but it can be worn 6+ different ways, including a headscarf.

Our main advice is to dress for your activities (hiking, skiing, swimming, etc) and bring layers since it can be hot and cold on the same day. We went in late September, and it was warm in Bishkek and Karakol but cold in the mountains. Otherwise, here are a few things you should have with you wherever you go:

• Hand Sanitizer – it’s a tossup when you’ll find soap in bathrooms.
• Shampoo, Body Wash, etc – there weren’t any in some of our accommodations
• Toilet Paper – most places had toilet paper, but every once in a while, we ran into issues where there wasn’t any.
• Travel Towel – you’ll need your own outside the big cities. We use a PackTowl, since they dry quickly and pack down smaller.
• Converter
• Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits.
• Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.

8. Kyrgyzstan Transportation / How to Get Around

Though we’re huge fans of road-tripping, we don’t recommend road-tripping on your own. The roads are very rough (although many roads have improved), and the rules are not always followed. Most of the people we met were traveling via bus or hired guide and driver.

Types of Public Transportation

• Buses – If you do your research ahead of time, you should have no problem getting around. Keep in mind that sometimes there are multiple locations named the same thing or have slight variations in spelling. We met a Dutch traveler who knew what bus to get onto for the Jyrgalan Valley, but when an earlier bus came, he asked if it went to Jyrgalan. The driver said yes, but he learned that there were was also Jergalan and another Jyrgalan. There was a lot of waiting around and backtracking involved before getting to the correct destination.
• Marshrutka (Minibuses) – For travel from Bishkek to Karakol, there are minibusses at the main bus station. The difference between this option and regular buses, is that regular buses have predetermined stops. Marshrutkas have a start and end point, but you can request a specific stop in between.
• Taxis are available for travel between Bishkek and Karakol or Osh. Within the city, taxis are cheap. You can use apps like Namba Taxi or Tez Taxi to call the cabs, although you do still need to pay cash.
• Flights are available from BIshkek to Osh.

There isn’t any good resource to find bus routes, but you can check out bus.kg for info on trolleybuses, buses and marshrutkas. Also keep in mind that drives can take longer than expected, especially out in the rural regions. You may run into “traffic” consisting of cattle, sheep, or horses that will hold you up for a while.

10. Food to Try

We noticed that in Kyrgyzstan, they eat a lot of meat and drink a lot of tea. There aren’t as many vegetable options because they are traditionally a nomadic people. If you have any dietary restrictions, it’s really important to let your hosts know ahead of time since they generally would not make vegetarian or gluten-free options.

Here are some common traditional dishes in case you want to try ordering them on your own.

• Laghman (pictured above) – Meat, vegetables, and noodles served in broth. There are over hundreds of local Laghman varieties. The typical dish is in soup, which was how I liked it, but Jacob liked the Boso Laghman (fried noodles). If you want to try making your own, here’s a recipe.
• Borsok – Dough is cut into little squares and then fried. The result is airy deliciousness. It’s the local donut… or more of a beignet. We dipped them in jam and sometimes Nutella.
• Monty – A meat, onion, and fat-filled dumplings. Usually, this is a steamed dish, but you can also order them fried.
• Plov – This is a tasty meat dish. Spiced rice with fried onions and carrots mixed in is topped with chunks of tender, boiled meat.
• Samsy – I like to refer to these as the local hot pocket. Meat, onions, and fat inside of a breaded pocket.
• Ashlyan-Fuu – A common cheap noodle dish that college kids love. This is a Dungan Dish, so it’s not as commonly found.
• Kumyss – Fermented horse milk.
• Black or Green Tea – The Kyrgyz people have tea with every meal. I rarely see them drink water. Local Tip: Traditionally, they will pour the tea back into the pot three times before serving to ensure it’s well mixed and steeped. They also mix jams into their teas.

13. Hiking (Think Thai Hot Scale)

Kyrgyzstan is the hiker’s dream. There are mountains and alpine lakes, and you can hike in two amazing mountain ranges: Tien Shan and Pamir. The country is very mountainous. 90% of the country is over 1500 meters (4921 feet), and 41% is over 3000 meters (9842 feet).

We went to Kyrgyzstan thinking we were doing some moderate hiking, but instead, we did some of the most difficult hikes of our lives. If you’re talking to any local there about hiking, think about it like the Thai hot scale since they live in the mountains. When they say it’s moderate, it’s difficult, and if they say it’s difficult, it starts getting into mountaineering.

Also, trails in Kyrgyzstan are not marked, and because of all the cattle, there are trails everywhere. We highly suggest hiring a guide. I don’t think we would have found our way through alone. You can contact Daniyar at Daniyaralymbekov@gmail.com, who was our guide.

14. Souvenirs to Bring home

We usually try to avoid bringing home souvenirs. When we do, we try to bring back something edible or at least practical. We ended up bringing back a custom-made felt carpet.

• Honey – Kyrgyzstan has been well known for its honey since the Silk Road times.
• Kurut – stinky dried yogurt balls.
• Shirdak – traditional felt rug used by Kyrgyz nomads to cover the floors of their yurt. These are beautiful and useful.
• Kalpak – traditional Kyrgyz hat for men.
• Tea Bowls make great souvenirs since it’s practical, and you end up drinking so much tea when you’re in Kyrgyzstan.
• Yurt – We hope to order a mini one and get it custom-made for our cats!
• DIY Felt Carpet – We made one at Ak-Orgo Ltd, which was an experience + souvenir to take home.

Remember that souvenir shopping isn’t easy in Kyrgyzstan, like other popular tourist destinations. You will need to be much more intentional. If you’re on a tour, they will usually stop at a souvenir shop near the end of your trip, but if you’re traveling on your own, try to shop where the locals go.

Planning Checklist

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

The post 15 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Kyrgyzstan appeared first on Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide.

There is so much to see and do in Beijing that if you are visiting this city for the first time or the even the tenth time, it can feel overwhelming (and we mean that in the best of ways). The city is a constant whirl of motion, and it is in the midst of an intense period of growth.

Prepare to have your tastebuds delighted with the most delicious food you have ever tasted (don’t be afraid to try something new!). Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for amazing architecture, both old and new. And brace yourself for a cacophony of unfamiliar sounds and smells that fill this bustling, hustling city that will make you realize, happily, that you are truly halfway around the world.

This post contains affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: Jan 16, 2019

The Ultimate Beijing Bucket List - 101 Things to do in Beijing China

Tourist Attractions + Local Attractions

1. Bathe at Shuang Xing Tang

The last remaining traditional bath in the city.

2. Experience a tui na massage

Rigorous massage technique with over 5,000 years of history.

3. Beijing National Stadium

Aka the Bird’ Nest from the 2008 Summer Olympics.

4. Watch the Beijing Tigers 

The most successful team in the Chinese Baseball League.

5. Cuandixia Village

Historic village from the Ming dynasty about 2-3 hours outside of the city.

6. Dance in Sanlitun

Best nightlife district in Beijing.

7. Pick Grapes at Beijing’s Vineyard

Best time to go: September to late October.

8. 798 Arts district

Former military factories turned into creative spaces, showcasing Chinese artists.

9. Dongzhimen Hospital

Learn about ancient and modern Chinese medicine. You can also try acupunture here.

10. Beijing Ocean Park

Six huge halls with various marine life and interactive exhibits.

11. Lugou Bridge

(Marco Polo Bridge) Well liked by the Venetian traveler, Marco Polo, when he visited in the 13th century.

12. Beijing Zoo

See rare animals such as giant pandas, milu deer, golden monkeys, and more.

13. Ride in a tuk tuk

Cheap motorized rickshaw rides around town.

14. Silk Market

Trendy clothes, bags, and other gifts. Be prepared to haggle!

15. Cherry Lane Movies

Movies with English subtitles on Friday nights.

16. Beijing Jinyufengshan Spa Resort

Beautifully landscaped, affordable hot springs.

17. Shichahai skating rink

Rent ice bicycles.

18. Beijing Antique City

Don’t miss the very large crystal (4600 kg).

19. Water Cube

The National Aquatics Center at the Olympic Green. See it lit up at night.

20. Peking University

Ranked in the top 60 in the world.

21. Ancient Cliff House

The largest site of an ancient cliff residence community in China.

22. SoReal VR Experience

Immersive VR games that you can play as a single player or in a group.

23. Happy Magic Water Cube

Different than the one above! A waterpark inside the Water Cube, great for kids and families.

24. Central Train Station

Opened in 1959, the largest train station in China at the time.

Memorials + Museums

27. Chairman Mao Memorial Hall

(aka Mausoleum of Mao Zedong)

28. Beijing Dragon Land Superior Jade Gallery

Learn about how jade is carved and its place in Chinese culture.

29. Temple of Heaven

UNESCO World Heritage Site built between 1406 and 1420.

30. Ming Tombs

There are 13 of them.

31. Memorial of Jiaozhuanghu Tunnel Warfare Site

Make sure you bring your passport for free admission.

32. National Museum of China

Learn about the history of China.

33. Zhangfang Ancient Battle Tunnel

Only known underground military facility in Beijing.

34. Museum of West Zhou Yandu Relics

Several exhibition halls with cultural relics on display, as well as two groups of preserved Yandu graves.

35. The Antiquarium of The Palace Museum

See antique treasures that belonged to several emperors. We loved the clocks gallery.

36. Meridian Gate

The highest building in the Forbidden City.

37. Treasure Hall in the Forbidden City

See gold, silver, jade, special ceremonial utensils, imperial robe, and the phoenix crown from the Qing Dynasty.

38. Confucius Temple

See ancient stone tablets.

39. Poly Art Museum

We loved the 3,000 yr. old bronze pieces.

40. Tian’anmen Square

Top ten largest city squares in the world and also the site of many important events in Chinese history.

41. The Ancient Coins Museum

Small museum. You can probably walk through the space within an hour.

42. Summer Palace

See how exmperors lived in luxury.

43. Museum of Chinese Medicine

Rent ice bicycles.

44. Imperial College

(Guozijian) Check out the second largest Confucius temple in all of China.

Shopping

74. Shengxifu Hatter Shop

One of Beijing’s most famous shops.

75. Taikoo Li Sanlitun

(Guanyuan Shichang) Formerly Sanlitun Village, this shopping center carries several world known brands.

76. Panjiayuan Antique Market

Flea market with gifts of all sorts.

77. Shop in Wangfujing

Popular shopping district with streets full of trendy and modern fashion as well as local snacks.

78. Shop on Nanluoguxiang Street

Young people love to shop here.

79. Sanlian Taofen Bookstore

Open 24 hours.

80. Qianmen Food Streets

Come here for popular street food. We liked the soybean cakes.

81. Window shop on Nanluogu Lane

Historic half mile stretch of specialty shops and distinctive foods.

82. The Place

Mega malls, tech savvy decor, trendy chain stores.

83. The Bookworm

A coffee shop, library, and restaurant all in one place.

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THE WEATHER

Before we get into what we packed, let’s talk weather! Turkey is a big country and weather will vary from area to area. For our trip, we visited Istanbul and Cappadocia. The winter months there are December, January, and February, but November, March, and April are cold too!

Istanbul:

• Temperatures – Average in the mid to high 40s during the day, and low 30s at night.
• Rainfall – You will get on average 12 days of rain each month.
• Sunshine – You’ll only be getting on average 3-4 hours of sunshine a day.
• Humidity – During the winter, the humidity is typically between 70-80%

Cappadocia:

• Temperatures – Average in the 40s during the day, and lows in the 30s at night.
• Rainfall – You will get on average 7 days of rain each month. Snow will be common during winter but typically won’t stick until late December.
• Sunshine – On average, you get 6-7 hours of sunlight a day.
• Humidity – Humidity hovers around 60% all year.
• Wind – Just wanted to note that winds are very calm in the area, hence why it’s so good for hot air ballooning year round!

WHAT TO PACK FOR ISTANBUL TURKEY (+ CAPPADOCIA)

LUGGAGE AND BAGS

• Samsonite Lumo Carry on 18″ x 7.5″ x 13.5″ – Not currently available anywhere. I’ve been looking for a smaller carry on for a couple years, and my friend gifted me one that she found in Switzerland. Typical carry-on sizes are 22″ x 9″ x 14″. I will try to link one once we find something similar.
• Travel Backpack
• Duffel Bag for this trip, but Jacob recently replaced his duffel for this spinner.
• Tumi Toiletry Kit

HER PACKING LIST

• White Isadora Tank
• White V-neck Tee
• Black Reversible Halter Top (wear 2 ways, wrinkle-free)
• Fleece Convertible Cardigan (wear it 4+ ways, perfect blanket on the plane)
• City Slick Jacket (breathable, waterproof, wore it a lot in Istanbul)
• Nano Storm Jacket (doesn’t look like a rainjacket)
• Maroon Henley Dress
• Skinny Skyler Pants (best travel pants ever!)
• Capilene Bottoms x2 (layered under pants)
• Navy Heattech Legging Pants
• Brown Marjorie Legging Pants (so comfortable it’s my go-to airport pants)
• Gray Comfy Shawlette (wear it 7+ ways, I used it as a cardigan, scarf, and headscarf)
• Chalk Omni-Heat Beanie
• Grey Converse Chuck Taylors
• Bras x3 (2 strapless)
• Quick Dry Underwear x5 (these are pricey but especially great for travel)
• Black Ballet Flats
• Makeup and Toiletries

Lesson Learned: If you’re going out for sunrise photos or going on a hot air balloon ride during sunrise, it’s extremely cold. My toes felt like they were about to be frostbitten. I would suggest bringing some shoes that are thicker than my flimsy converses.

HIS PACKING LIST

• Button Down Shirts x3
• Midlayer Hoodie
• Sweat Wicking T-shirts x3
• Nano Storm Jacket (insulated, waterproof)
• Performance Jeans (good for being active too!)
• Pants
• Sweat Wicking Shorts
• Travel Underwear x3
• Heattech Long Underwear
• Smartwool Socks x5
• Kodiak Magog Boots (waterproof)
• Casual Shoes

PHOTO GEAR + ELECTRONICS

• Vlogging Camera (Sony RX100 Mark IV)
• Full Frame DSLR (Canon 5D Mark III)
• Wide Fixed Lens (Canon 35 mm / 1.4L)
• Long Zoom Lens (70-200mm / 2.8L)
• MeFoto Tripod
• Gorilla Pod
• Travel Converter Power Strip
• iPhones + Current case
• MacBook

RELATED: Ultimate Camera Gear Guide for Bloggers

• Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits.
• Carry on essentials to improve your next flight.

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Have you done much winter travel? What are some of your winter essentials?

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Visiting Langkawi Malaysia? Here’s what you need to check out.

As a child whose parents were born and raised in Malaysia, I grew up flying to the tiny island of Penang almost every summer to visit family. Malaysia is like a second home to me – the food, the language, the culture (did I mention the food??).

I’d heard of the beaches and natural beauty of Langkawi for years but never made it a priority to see it for myself until my fiancé Garrick suggested we add it to our itinerary. There were so many exciting activities to enjoy, and we had an amazing time! I want to take all my friends on a jet ski tour when we return to Malaysia next year.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: June 2, 2025

−−Content Menu

• 9 Unique Things to Do in Langkawi Malaysia
• Where to Stay
• Planning Checklist

9 Unique Things to DO in Langkawi Malaysia

1. Ride the Langkawi Cable Car

Enjoy breathtaking rainforest and ocean views as you ride the gondola up to the summit. For an additional 50 RM, you can choose to ride in a gondola with a transparent glass floor.

Local Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds. If you visit during peak hours, you can also purchase an express lane ticket to cut down on your wait time.

2. Walk Across the Langkawi Sky Bridge

A short walk from the highest cable car station takes you to the longest curved suspension bridge in the world. Some lucky visitors even catch a glimpse of local eagles flying above.

Local Tip: Bring a light jacket! The cool breeze at the top of the mountain can be refreshing in the tropical heat, but also chilly.

4. Kayak through Mangrove Trees in Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Get a closer look at Langkawi’s ecological beauty by taking a guided kayak tour through the mangroves. Our guide from Dev’s Adventure Tours was extremely knowledgeable and informative – we learned so much about the plants and animals that inhabit the island. Be sure to check out their other tours too!

Local Tip: If you want to bring your phone along without worrying about getting it wet, consider bringing along a sealed waterproof case like this one.

6. Explore Surrounding Islands by Jet Ski

The highlight of our trip by far was the 5-hour jet ski tour we booked with Mega Watersports. We sped across the ocean from island to island, taking in the gorgeous limestone formations and stopping every once in a while for a swim. At one point during the tour, we were given free reign to jet around as we pleased!

Local Tip: Bring a cheap pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun and the incoming waves.

7. Hand Feed Animals and Birds at the Langkawi Wildlife Park

The small but highly interactive Langkawi Wildlife Park is among the top attractions for visitors with young children. You can feed and pet ostriches, emus, parrots, rabbits, porcupines, raccoons, mouse deer, flamingos, and more.

Bonus: Keep Your Eyes out for Flying Lemurs at the Berjaya Langkawi Resort

The unique and spacious Berjaya Langkawi Resort offers guests the option of staying in chalets built on stilts over the ocean or within the rainforest. You may spot some flying lemurs if you keep your eye out toward the trees!

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FERN

Fern is a wedding and portrait photographer with an adventurous spirit and a mega sweet tooth. Her preferred travel style is staying in one place and living like a local. When she’s not exploring new cities, you can find her frolicking at the happiest place on earth or at home in her pajamas, catching up on social media.

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