Bishkek
Overview
Bishkek is a classic modern Soviet-style city with marble buildings and boulevards that seem too large for its population of around 700,000. Among the high rise apartment blocks typical of Soviet times, you'll find Central Asia creeping in again. Farmer markets ( bazaars ) are springing up everywhere and money changing seems to be one of the main industry. Apart from the distinctly communist-style museums and the general open atmosphere, there is not much to keep you in Bishkek, but you will spend quite a bit of time there anyway in all probability, as it is the main travel hub for Kyrgyzstan and the best place to get information or make bookings. Bishkek is not a particularly safe city at night. It is highly recommended against taking an unaccompanied stroll at night. Stay out of the parks at night and avoid walking alone or in small groups at night. At night, stay away from the area around and especially in front of the Dostuk hotel (where Heaven is located). The area is known for prostitution and crime. DO NOT walk from nightclub to nightclub at night. Spend 100 som (about $2.50) for a taxi instead. Criminals wait outside the bars and clubs (especially the ones frequented by ex-pats), follow drunk ex-pats, and then rob them. Above all, be careful in Bishkek. There's a lot of crime and foreigners are targeted. Due to the extremely high...more
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General Sights
Ala-Too square is the main city square. It is the site of frequent political demonstrations and regular festivals. At night many vendors set up photograph and karaoke booths. It is still dangerous at night for foreigners. There is also a military monument with an hourly changing of the guard. National Museum: This museum sits between Ala-Too Square and the Parliament building. On the North Side is an enourmous state of Lenin that was on the south side of the building during the Soviet Era. It is three stories, with the first two about Kyrgyz history and the top floor unchanging since the soviet era highlighting the achievments of communism. Panfilova Park: This entertainment park is between the Parliament building and the White House. While sorely needing upkeep and renovation it harkens back to the old days. Beware, few of the rides lack any safety mechanisms.
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