population: 0.12 million

extension: 67.00 square kilometers

Museums

If you're interested in museums and you're in Cholpon-Ata, a great place to visit is the Historical Museum of Issyk-Kul. It's within walking distance of the city center and features exhibits on the history and culture of the region, including artifacts from ancient civilizations that once thrived around Lake Issyk-Kul.

If you're looking for other museums in the area, the Kyrgyzstan State Historical Museum in Bishkek is a good option to explore more about the country's past. Additionally, the State Museum of Fine Arts and the Gapar Aitiev Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts are also located in Bishkek and offer a glimpse into the country's art scene.

Food

There are several delicious and popular dishes that you can try in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan. Here are a few of the most recommended and typical dishes according to local people:

1. Beshbarmak - This is the national dish of Kyrgyzstan and is made with boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) served over handmade noodles and topped with onion sauce.

2. Lagman - A hearty soup made with handmade noodles, meat (beef or lamb), vegetables, and herbs. It's flavorful and filling.

3. Manti - Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef) and onions. They're often served with sour cream or tomato sauce.

4. Kuurdak - A traditional dish made with fried pieces of lamb or beef with onions, potatoes, and spices. It's usually served hot and goes well with bread or rice.

5. Shashlyk - Grilled meat skewers (lamb, beef, or chicken) marinated in spices and served with fresh vegetables and bread.

These dishes are readily available at local restaurants and cafes in Cholpon-Ata, so be sure to give them a try when you visit!

Activities

In Cholpon-Ata, some fun activities that locals enjoy include:

1. Swimming and sunbathing at the beach: The city is situated on the shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, which is the second-largest alpine lake in the world. During the summer months, many locals can be found swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying watersports at the lake's beaches.

2. Visiting the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center: This center showcases the cultural diversity of Kyrgyzstan and features exhibits on religion, music, and art. Visitors can also attend concerts, festivals, and other cultural events held at the center throughout the year.

3. Exploring the petroglyphs at Cholpon-Ata: This area is home to a collection of ancient rock carvings that date back over 2,500 years. Locals often hike or bike to the site to see these fascinating and historic carvings.

4. Trying local cuisine: Kyrgyz cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, including meat-filled dumplings (manti), savory pastries (samsa), and traditional noodle soup (lagman). Many local restaurants and cafes serve these dishes, and it's a great way to sample the flavors of the region.

5. Attending a yurt camp: Yurts are traditional nomadic dwellings that are still used by many Kyrgyz people today. Visitors can stay in a yurt camp for a night or two to experience traditional Kyrgyz hospitality, food, and culture firsthand.