The red canyon of Boom valley and the Burana Tower

For whom seeks an active and cultural adventure: Discover Kurgan Terek Canyon and Balasagun on a day trip from Bishkek

Embark on a hike through the picturesque Kurgan Terek Canyon, where the Kurgan Terek River has sculpted stunning red rock formations. Navigate narrow paths along the river, occasionally wading through its waters, to experience the canyon's natural beauty up close.

After the hike, explore the remnants of the ancient city of Balasagun, established by the Karakhanids in the 9th century. Highlights include the iconic Burana Tower, grave markers, earthworks, and remnants of a castle and three mausoleums. Visitors can climb the tower using an external staircase and winding stairway to reach its top, once towering at 45 meters (148 feet) but reduced to 25 meters (82 feet) after earthquakes in the 15th century. A 1970s restoration project stabilized the tower and preserved its historical significance, with the entire site now serving as a museum displaying artifacts and providing historical insights into Balasagun's cultural heritage.

Explore Ancient Ruins and Natural Wonders: Bishkek to Kurgan

Immerse yourself in adventure and culture with our day trip from Bishkek to Kurgan Terek Canyon and Balasagun. Experience breathtaking natural beauty and explore ancient ruins, all in one unforgettable journey.

1 DayDiscovery toursKyrgyzstan

  • 1 people: $113

  • 2 people: $72

  • 3 people: $58

  • 4 people: $51

  • 5 people: $47

  • 6 people: $44

  • Starting from

    $44
    USD
    or customize it

    Program

      
                                Bishkek - Bishkek
    A Day of Adventure: Kurgan Terek Canyon and Balasagun from Bishkek
    Bishkek - Bishkek

    Embark on an exciting day trip from Bishkek that combines natural wonders and historical treasures. Begin your adventure with a visit to the stunning Kurgan Terek Canyon. Start from the "Red Bridge" and hike through narrow passages and along the Kurgan Terek River, marveling at the sculpted red rock towers. After soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the canyon, continue your journey to the ancient city of Balasagun.

    Explore the historic ruins and learn about the rich cultural heritage of this once-thriving city. Don't miss the iconic Burana Tower, an ancient minaret that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After a day filled with exploration and discovery, return to Bishkek with unforgettable memories of Kyrgyzstan's natural and historical gems.

    Lunch
    250 km
    04:00
    02:30
    300 m
    300 m

    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!

    Juliet Walton

    We went for a 5 day full board trip with our guide Bakyt, of which 3 days was on horseback. Bakyt was extremely accomodating and serviceoriented throughout the trip. He really did go that extra step to make us comfortable. He offered an unplanned detour at little to no extra cost and he was very good at english. I really recommend Nomads land and especially Bakyt.

    Jacob

    Info

    What is included

    • All transportation in a private vehicle

    • All airport transfers

    • Accommodation as described in the program

    • Meals (3 per day)

    • Bottled water (when possible) & tea

    • English-speaking trekking guide

    • Pack horses with saddle bags & horsemen

    • Camping & cooking equipment (tents, mats, gas, stove, etc)

    • All the activities listed in the program

    • Entry fees at national parks and/or border zones listed in the program

    • Entry fees at museums and historical sites listed in the program

    • Domestic flights mentioned in the program

    • A contribution to our sustainable development projects

    • Organisation of the trip & local taxes

    What is not included

    • International flights

    • International banking fees (PayPal, ...)

    • Travel & repatriation insurance

    • Visas / LOI (if applicable)

    • Alcoholic and soft drinks

    • Personal expenses

    • Personal equipment (sleeping bag, headlight, personal medication, etc)

    • Additional costs due to unexpected personal events (health, loss of luggage, ...)

    • 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.

    Postal address

    Nezhinsky lane 27


    Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
    Phone number

    Looking for a tailor-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.

    Towards Nomadic Land: A Documentary by Lucas Garceau Bédard

    In 2018, Nomad's Land had the pleasure of supporting a group of young Canadian an extraordinary adventure captured in the film "Towards Nomadic Land." This cinematic journey takes us deep into the heart of Kyrgyzstan, where five young adventurers in their twenties embark on a tumultuous expedition of backcountry skiing and cultural exploration.

    Author picture

    Samuel Maret

    29 November 2023 Eco Projects

    Trainings for tourist facilities of Zheti Oguz district 2023

    On November 25-26, 2023 trainings were held in Kyzyl Suu for our owners of homestays and yurt camp from whole district Jeti Oguz

    The main objective was to increase the potential of the district's tourist facilities in order to ensure the criteria of sustainable tourism and promotion of the region. 

    Ayana Zholdoshbek