Visiting Bishkek with your family? Although the city is small, it offers numerous opportunities to share unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Here are some ideas for activities to enjoy in Kyrgyzstan's capital with your children.

Strolling Through Panfilov Park

Did you know that during the Soviet era, Bishkek was considered the greenest city in the region? In fact, the city doesn't really look like a capital: you can appreciate the impressive mountains of the Ala-Too range as a backdrop while strolling through one of the city's many parks.

As a family, head to Panfilov Park. It is located in downtown Bishkek, just above the central Ala-Too square. It's therefore an ideal destination to have fun while visiting the key sights of Kyrgyzstan's capital.

Panfilov Park is a cherished place of relaxation for Bishkek's residents. Here, you'll find numerous attractions, admittedly Soviet-era and somewhat rustic, but at minimal prices to treat your children. There are rides for all ages, and for the youngest, you can rent remote-controlled cars or small bicycles for part of your walk. Above all, don't miss the Ferris wheel, which was rebuilt in 2017 for Bishkek's anniversary. It stands at an impressive height of 50 meters, with heated cabins, and offers a breathtaking view of the city and landscape.

Having Fun in Shopping Centers

In recent years, Kyrgyzstan's capital has continued to grow. Among the new constructions are numerous shopping centers. These offer far more than just shops and cafés: they are veritable playgrounds for children. On the top floor, you'll find large play parks for kids, with high courses, slides, trampolines, planes, zip-lines and more. Right next door you'll always find arcade games, ranging from classic ice hockey to virtual reality skiing simulations. In short, children can easily spend the whole day there!

Horseback Riding

Head to the «Hyde Park» center, south of Bishkek, for a pleasant horseback ride with your children. It's the only place in the city that offers horse rides. You can saddle up in the arena, or venture out for a few hours for a mountain excursion.

It's a place that always appeals to children, as, in addition to horseback riding, they'll get to discover a small farm.

Jumping on Trampolines

If your children are sporty and need to burn off energy, take them to one of Bishkek's two new sports complexes, «Smile» or «On the Wake». These large warehouses offer trampoline jumping, trampoline games, small climbing walls, acrobatic courses and many other sports activities for young and old adventurers. You can ask to be supervised by an instructor if needed.

Swimming at a Water Park

Kyrgyzstan's capital is home to a few water parks where you can relax with your children. To name a few: «Ala Too», «Kalypso» or «Royal Fish». Enjoy their pools, water jets and slides: your children will never be bored!

Attending Cultural, Art or Cooking Workshops

If your children are artistic, why not enroll them in a workshop? It will allow them to learn more about Kyrgyz culture while having fun. Several art studios offer creative workshops, such as painting, sewing classes, or, to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, felt-making.

You can also enroll your children in a komuz lesson, the national Kyrgyz instrument. A small three-stringed guitar made of apricot wood, it is played by all Kyrgyz children in schools. Another idea: a traditional dance class.

Finally, you'll also find cooking classes, ranging from classic pizza to traditional Kyrgyz dishes like lagman or plov. A pleasant family activity, perfect to complement your stay in Kyrgyzstan.