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Bishkek

Bishkek is the capital and largest city of Kyrgyzstan, situated near the border with Kazakhstan. Once known as Pishpek and later Frunze during the Soviet era, this dynamic Central Asian capital blends history, culture, and modern development.

Photo: Aitenir (CC0)

Quick facts

Population
Currency
Kyrgyzstani som (KGS)
Language
Kyrgyz, Russian
Timezone
+06 (UTC+6)
Local time now
23:17:17

Hotels in Bishkek

Bishkek offers a range of hotel options for visitors exploring Kyrgyzstan's capital. From Park Hotel to Нават Отель and other established accommodations, you'll find places to suit your travel needs. See all hotels →

Семетей
563 m from centre
АГУПКР
583 m from centre
Park Hotel
593 m from centre

Airports in Bishkek

We're still gathering airports listings for Bishkek — check back soon.

Car Hire in Bishkek

Bishkek offers several car hire options for visitors and residents looking for flexible transportation. Local providers including EASY RENT, Аренда авто Компас, daniyar, Русская тройка, and Прокат авто Nomad offer vehicle rental services throughout the city. See all car hire →

Things to Do in Bishkek

We're still gathering things to do listings for Bishkek — check back soon.

Restaurants in Bishkek

Bishkek offers a variety of dining establishments reflecting both local and international cuisine. Popular restaurant options in the city include Concord, Изюм, Buhara Assorti, Song Kol Gold, and Hua Zeng, providing visitors and locals with diverse choices for meals throughout the capital. See all restaurants →

Concord
127 m from centre
Изюм
regional · 219 m from centre
Buhara Assorti
asian · 294 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Bishkek

Bishkek offers several swimming pool facilities for residents and visitors, including options such as Максимум, Бассейн 69, Дениз, Открытый бассейн, and Бассейн Прадо. Whether you're looking for recreational swimming or competitive facilities, these pools serve the city's aquatic needs. See all swimming pools →

Максимум
1.5 km from centre
Бассейн 69
1.9 km from centre
Дениз
1.9 km from centre

Spas in Bishkek

We're still gathering spas listings for Bishkek — check back soon.

Nightlife in Bishkek

Bishkek offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars and venues to suit different tastes. From Boho City Bar to Metro Pub, the city provides plenty of options for an evening out after dark. See all nightlife →

Boho City Bar
261 m from centre
Ailan
271 m from centre
Leon
1.5 km from centre

Bars in Bishkek

Bishkek offers a variety of bars where you can enjoy drinks and social gatherings. From Craft Bar to Wine Бар #1 and Zolden, the city has options for different tastes and atmospheres. See all bars →

Craft Bar
savory_pancakes;chicken;american;italian;sausage;sandwich;coffee_shop;ice_cream;local;deli;friture;burger;steak_house;pa · 203 m from centre
Ала Тоо кинотеатр
311 m from centre
Temple Bar
321 m from centre

Cafes in Bishkek

We're still gathering cafes listings for Bishkek — check back soon.

Shopping in Bishkek

Bishkek offers a variety of shopping destinations for visitors and locals alike. From modern shopping centers such as Gold Bishkek and Caravan to established retail hubs like ЦУМ «Айчүрөк», the city provides diverse options for everything from everyday goods to specialty items. See all shopping →

Gold Bishkek
734 m from centre
центр МОТО
736 m from centre
Берен Голд
769 m from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Bishkek

Bishkek offers several parks and gardens where visitors can experience nature within the city. From Панфилов атындагы сейилбак to Парк имени Чынгыза Айтматова and the botanical gardens at Таттыбүбү атындагы гүл бакча, these green spaces provide peaceful retreats in the heart of the capital. See all nature & wildlife →

Борбордук сквери
270 m from centre
Парк имени Чынгыза Айтматова
323 m from centre
Таттыбүбү атындагы гүл бакча
449 m from centre
Панфилов атындагы сейилбак
473 m from centre
Сквер Театральный
918 m from centre
сквер имени Максима Горького
919 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Bishkek experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, while summers are warm and generally dry, making spring and autumn pleasant times to visit.

Interesting Facts About Bishkek — Weird & Wonderful

  • Bishkek was formerly called Pishpek before being renamed Frunze in 1926 during the Soviet period, and took its current name in 1991.
  • The city is home to around 1,200,000 people as of 2024, making it Kyrgyzstan's largest urban centre.
  • Bishkek serves as the capital of both Kyrgyzstan and the Chüy Region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bishkek

What is the population of Bishkek?

Bishkek has a population of around 1,200,000 people as of 2024, making it the largest city in Kyrgyzstan.

What is Bishkek's location in Kyrgyzstan?

Bishkek is situated near the border with Kazakhstan and serves as the capital of the Chüy Region.

What was Bishkek called before?

The city was formerly known as Pishpek, and then renamed Frunze from 1926 to 1991, before taking its current name.

Is Bishkek the capital of Kyrgyzstan?

Yes, Bishkek is the capital and largest urban city of Kyrgyzstan.

Map of Bishkek

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