🇰🇿🇰🇬🇺🇿 Conquer the 3 Stans in 9 Days: Ultimate Budget Itinerary Under ₹90k

🗺️ What’s Inside This Itinerary

This guide is your one-stop plan for an unforgettable Vietnam trip — especially if you're short on time and big on experiences! The accommodation and activity costs are calculated separately from daily expenses, as these typically need to be paid in advance before your trip. Here's what you'll find:

• 🛏️ Budget-Friendly Accommodations (with twin-share options)

• 🎯 Top Activities & Must-Do Experiences

• 📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary to help you make the most of every hour

• 🎒 Packing Checklist with practical tips

• 🛂 E-Visa Information made easy

• 🗣️ Quick Language Guide with local phrases & pronunciations

• 📲 Useful Apps & Navigation Tips

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a weekend wanderer — this itinerary is built for you!

🗓️ Best Time to Visit the Stans

Exploring Central Asia’s Silk Road trio is a dream — but timing it right makes all the difference.

• 🌤️ Shoulder Season (April to June & September to mid-October):
  Ideal weather across the region — not too hot, not too cold. Expect blooming valleys in Kyrgyzstan, pleasant strolls through Samarkand, and fewer tourists. Best time for both nature and cities.

• ☀️ Peak Season (July & August):
  Great for mountain adventures in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. However, Uzbekistan can get scorching (40°C+), especially in cities like Bukhara or Khiva. Pack light clothes and stay hydrated.

• ❄️ Months to Avoid (November to March):
  Cold winters can make travel tricky, especially in mountain areas. Some rural roads close due to snow. Urban travel is still doable, but you’ll miss out on the region’s natural beauty.

• 🔥 Special Note – March (Navruz Festival):
  A spring celebration across all three countries with music, dance, local food, and vibrant street scenes. A cultural treat!

🌍 Top Attractions:

• Kazakhstan: Charyn Canyon, Almaty’s mountains, Big Almaty Lake

• Kyrgyzstan: Issyk-Kul Lake, Song-Kul Yurt Stay, Ala Archa National Park

• Uzbekistan: Samarkand’s Registan, Bukhara’s Old Town, Khiva’s Ichan Kala, Tashkent’s metro

🍽️ Food Scene:
Plov (spiced rice & lamb), Lagman noodles, Manti dumplings, Samsa, and endless fresh breads from clay ovens. Central Asian cuisine is hearty, aromatic, and surprisingly affordable!

🛂 E-Visa & Entry Essentials for the Stans

Visiting the Stans is surprisingly visa-friendly — especially if you’ve got an Indian, US, UK, or EU passport. Here’s a quick lowdown:

✅ Visa Rules (as of 2025):

• Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 – Visa-free for atleast 12 days for most major nationalities including India, US, UK, EU

• Kyrgyzstan 🇰🇬 – Visa-free for 60 days for many, or easy e-visa for others

• Uzbekistan 🇺🇿 – Visa-free for 30 days for most of Europe, and e-visa for others

🌐 Where to Apply (if needed):

• Kazakhstan: www.vmp.gov.kz (₹5200)

• Kyrgyzstan: www.evisa.e-gov.kg (Sapar visa-₹4500 + Cover letter (
  Chat with +996 553 280 881 for cover letter to get it for ₹3500)

• Uzbekistan: e-visa.gov.uz (₹4800)

📄 Travel Tips:

• Apply 7–10 days in advance, just in case there are public holidays in the country.

• Always carry a printed copy of your e-visa or exemption proof

• Passport should be valid for 6+ months from your entry date

• Have your hotel booking and return flight handy (some immigration checks ask!)

🎯 Top Activities on This Trip

From surreal lakes to snow-capped mountains and Silk Road cities — this itinerary packs adventure, beauty, and culture in every stop:

🌄 6-Spot Day Tour: Charyn Canyon, Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes (~₹3600)
An epic road trip from Almaty covering Kazakhstan’s “Grand Canyon,” crystal lakes, and pine forests. A nature lover’s dream!

🏔️ Almaty City Tour + Shymbulak, Medeu & Kok Tobe (~₹3600)
From the world’s highest skating rink to a scenic cable car ride and sweeping city views — this is Almaty’s greatest hits in one go.

🌊 Big Almaty Lake + Apple Orchards (~₹5900)
Drive to this turquoise alpine lake and visit an orchard to taste the OG apples in the city where they were born.

⛰️ Ala Archa & Alamudun Gorge – Kyrgyzstan (~₹18000)
Hike through glaciers, pine-filled valleys, and rivers — the perfect escape just outside Bishkek.

🎿 Amirsoy Resort + Chimgan Mountains + Charvak Lake (~₹4350)
Ride a gondola into the Uzbek mountains, play in snow (or sun), and chill at a lake that looks like Switzerland.

🏛️ Samarkand Day Tour – Uzbekistan (Train Tickets~₹3030+ Guided Tour~ ₹2600)
Step into history with blue domes, majestic madrasas, and a time capsule of Silk Road grandeur — all in one magical day.

🛌 Stays That Balance Comfort & Cost

Your cozy crash pads across Central Asia — all budget-friendly and strategically
located:

• Almaty:
  🏨 Golden Palace hotel ( 4 nights)=~₹8660 per person split

• Bishkek:
  🏨 Inter Hotel Bishkek (2 nights)=~₹2860 per person split

• Tashkent:
  🛏️ StayInn City Center (3 nights)=~₹5550 per person split

🗣️ Quick Local Phrases (🇰🇿 🇰🇬 🇺🇿)

A few friendly words go a long way in Central Asia!

👋 Hello – Salam / Salom
(pronounced: "Sah-lahm") – universally used across all three countries

🌞 Good Morning

• Kazakh: Qayırlı tañ (pronounced: Khai-yer-luh tahng)

• Kyrgyz: Kutman tañ (pronounced: Koot-mahn tahng)

• Uzbek: Xayrli tong (pronounced: Khai-rlee tong)

🙏 Thank You – Rakhmet / Raxmat
(pronounced: "Rahkh-met" / "Rahkh-maht") – understood in all three languages

🧠 Local Tips You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner – Central Asia Edition

💳 ATMs Work, But Fees Add Up
Use cards like Niyo, Wise, or Revolut, and always choose “Without conversion” when withdrawing to avoid extra forex charges.

💵 Cash is King
In markets, taxis, and even some cafes, cash (preferably local currency) works better. Some places may not accept cards at all — especially outside big cities.

📱 SIM Cards Are Cheap & Handy
Grab a local SIM (like Beeline, Ucell, or MegaCom) for easy Google Maps, Grab/Uber equivalents, and translation on the go.

🧼 Carry Tissues , Hand Sanitizer & Portable Bidets
Public restrooms can be basic — better to come prepared!

🚦 Getting Around & Must-Have Apps

Exploring Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan is smooth — if you’ve got these essentials on your phone:

🚕 Yandex Go

Reliable for taxis in cities like Almaty, Bishkek & Tashkent. No haggling, fixed prices, and available in English. (Download for Android / iOS)

🗺️ Yandex Maps

Works better than Google Maps in many areas. Offline navigation is solid, and it shows exact bus routes too! (Download for Android / iOS)

🗣️ Google Translate

Perfect for translating signs, menus, or even casual chats. Download Russian and Uzbek/Kazakh/Kyrgyz offline packs before arrival. (Download for Android / iOS)

🧳 What to Pack for Central Asia (9-to-5 Traveler Edition)

Packing smart means you’re ready for mountain trails, bazaars, city streets, and chilly evenings — all in one suitcase:

☀️ Clothing

• Layer up – Weather can shift fast, especially in mountain regions; bring light layers + a warm fleece or jacket

• Comfortable walking shoes – Essential for cobbled streets, trails, and city strolls

• Modest attire – In Uzbekistan and rural areas, covering knees and shoulders is appreciated

• Swimwear – For resort stays or spas like Charvak Lake or hot springs

• Scarf or shawl – Useful for sun, wind, or religious site visits

🌦️ Weather Essentials

• Sunscreen & Sunglasses – High-altitude sun can be harsh

• Compact umbrella or rain jacket – Spring & autumn can bring surprise showers

• Hat or cap – Great for sun protection during hikes or city tours

🧼 Toiletries & Health

• Bug spray – Especially for lake or gorge visits in summer

• Basic meds – Paracetamol, cold meds, motion sickness pills

• Hand sanitizer & wet wipes – Bathrooms may not always have soap

• Mini first aid kit – Band-aids, antiseptic, etc., if you're hiking Ala Archa or Charyn Canyon

📱 Tech & Docs

• Power adapter – Plug types C & F (220V, 50Hz)

• Portable charger – For long day trips without outlets

• Offline Yandex Maps & Translate – Super helpful in rural areas with patchy signal

• Passport + 2 photocopies – Many places may ask for ID

• E-visa printout or screenshots – Immigration officers may ask for proof even if it's digital

💰 Money & Cards

• Local currency – Keep about 100–150 USD worth in Tenge, Som, or Soms in cash

• Forex card (Wise, Niyo, etc.) – Accepted in major cities but cash is king in bazaars

• Split your cash – Keep small notes handy for taxis, tips, and souvenirs

Now Let's Dive into the day-wise iterinary
Disclaimer: Costs for activties and hotel bookings are calculated separately here and not included in daily costs

Day 1: Salam Almaty!!!

✈️ Arrive at Almaty airport. Grab taxi to the hotel. (Make sure not to haggle with the drivers at the airport and book through the app directly)

🧭 Explore the nearby Almaty center , explore Cafe's and local supermarkets

🍻 Night: Have an early night off since you have to wake up early morning next day

💸 Daily Cost: ~₹1610
₹610 (Taxi in total) + approx ₹1000 (Food -based on what you eat)

Day 2: Charyn, Kolsai & Kaindy: 3 Lakes + 2 Canyons in 1 Day

📍 4:30 AM – Pickup from RENION ZYLIHA (Baitursynova 104)
🚌 5:20 AM – Depart Almaty

🧱 8:30 AM – Arrive at Charyn Canyon
🥾 Hike the Valley of Castles & enjoy Charyn River views

🖤 11:30 AM – Quick stop at Black Canyon

🌲 1:30 PM – Arrive at Kolsai Lake
📸 Scenic lake surrounded by pine forests

💧 4:00 PM – Explore Kaindy Lake
Famous for its eerie sunken forest

🚌 7:00 PM – Depart for Almaty
🏙️ 10:30–11:30 PM – Drop-off at Baitursynova 100

💸 Approx Cost: ~₹1200(Food + entry fees)
Tip: Carry cash for local vendors

Day 3: Issyk Lake & Apple Orchards (Seasonal)

🌄 Morning – Head out early to visit the stunning Big Almaty lake or Issyk Lake, nestled in the Tian Shan mountains.

⚠️ Note: Almaty Lake may be closed due to seasonal government restrictions (it was during our trip, so we had to instead switch for Issyk Lake).

🍎 Optional – Visit a local apple orchard if you're traveling in harvest season (Aug–Oct).

🕒 Evening – Free time to explore Almaty’s cafés, parks, or local bazaars at your own pace.

💸 Estimated Daily Cost: ~₹1000

(Mostly for meals — varies based on what you eat)

Day 4: Almaty City Highlights: Mountains, Markets & More

📍 8:00 AM – Start your day with a pickup from Baitursynova 100 — get your camera and comfy shoes ready!

⛸️ 9:00 AM – Medeu Ice Rink

Nestled in the mountains, this is the world’s highest-altitude speed skating rink. Great for a quick photo stop and fresh air.

🚠 10:00 AM – Shymbulak Ski Resort

Take a cable car ride to breathtaking mountain views. Even if you're not skiing, the scenery alone is worth it!

🎡 12:30 PM – Kok Tobe Hill

Hop on a funicular to Almaty's famous hilltop. Stroll through the park, spot the Beatles monument, and soak in panoramic views of the city.

🛍️ 3:30 PM – Green Bazaar

Wander through one of Almaty's most vibrant local markets. Great spot for souvenirs, dried fruits, and street eats.

🌳 5:00 PM – Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen

End your day with a peaceful walk through this historic park featuring war memorials and the stunning Zenkov Cathedral.

💸 Estimated Daily Cost: ~₹1500

(Includes snacks, Kok Tobe cable car, and market purchases)

Day 5: Salom Bishkek !

🛌 Morning – Relax and take it slow. Pack up and check out from your stay.

🚕 12:30 PM – Leave for the bus station with enough time to check in comfortably. (Tickets available here)

🏨 Evening – Arrive in Bishkek, check into your hotel, and head out to explore nearby cafés, parks, or the local vibe around Ala-Too Square if time allows.
💸 Daily Cost: ~₹4807

[₹430(Taxi) + ₹3377(Bus)+ approx ₹1000 (Food -based on what you eat)

Day 6: Ala-Archa Reserve & Alamedin Gorge Adventure

A full-day escape into Kyrgyzstan’s alpine beauty — ideal for fresh air, mountain walks, and waterfalls.

🚐 8:00 AM – Depart from Bishkek and drive ~1 hour to Ala-Archa National Reserve

🌲 9:00–11:00 AM – Explore pine forests, feed birds and squirrels, and soak in the mountain views

🚐 11:00 AM – Head to Alamedin Gorge (2-hour scenic drive)

🏞️ 1:00–5:30 PM – Arrive at Alamedin Gorge
 • Optional hike to Teke-Tor Waterfall (up to 10 km total, flexible pace)

🚐 5:30–6:30 PM – Return drive to Bishkek

💸 Estimated Daily Cost: ~₹1000 (mostly food/snacks)

Day 7: Last Stroll Through Bishkek before Arriving in Tashkent

Take the morning slow and soak in the final vibes of Bishkek. You can explore:

• Ala-Too Square , Osh Bazaar ,Panfilov Park

• Or just wander nearby cafés and local spots at your own pace

🚕 2:30 PM – Transfer to Airport
Make your way to the airport with enough buffer time to breeze through check-in and security.

🛫 5:50 PM – Flight Departs from Bishkek
Catch your evening flight. It’s a short hop, so settle in and enjoy one last glimpse of the Kyrgyz landscape.

🛬 6:10 PM – Arrival at Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Touch down with unforgettable memories of the mountains, canyons, and Central Asian charm.
Night: You can explore the Magic City in central Tashkent

💸 Estimated Daily Cost: ~₹13725
[~₹12125(Flight) +₹600(Cab) +₹1000 (mostly food/snacks)

Day 8: Day Trip from Tashkent: Mountains, Meadows & Alpine Views

🚗 Morning – Depart from Tashkent
Meet your driver and guide at your hotel or airport. Get ready for a scenic mountain escape just a short drive away from the city.

🎿 Late Morning – Amirsoy Resort
Nestled in the Tian Shan range, Amirsoy is Uzbekistan’s premier alpine destination.

• Grab lunch or coffee

• Use rest facilities

• Take in the views or ski (Oct–Apr)
  🎟️ Cable car ride: ~$10–15 USD per person for panoramic mountain views.

🚡 Afternoon – Chimgan Mountains
Ride the famous Chair Lift (~2 km) to about 2,000m above sea level. Weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking vistas and crisp mountain air.

📸 Later – Charvak Reservoir Scenic Stops
On the way back, stop at photo-worthy viewpoints along the Charvak Water Reservoir. The Serpentine Road down offers more dramatic views — keep your camera ready.

🏙️ Evening – Return to Tashkent
Drive back and get dropped off at your hotel after a refreshing day in the mountains.
You can also try the Tashkent Metro system. It is slow, but there are some very beautiful stations.

💸 Estimated Daily Cost: ~₹1000 (mostly food/snacks)

Day 9: Day Trip to Samarkand from Tashkent

Hop on the early Afrosiyob high-speed train (~2 hrs) to explore Uzbekistan’s cultural gem in a day. (tickets can be booked here)

📍 Registan Square – Marvel at the iconic blue-tiled madrasahs that define Central Asian architecture.
🕌 Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum – Visit the grand tomb of Tamerlane, rich in history and detail.
🌟 Bibi-Khanym Mosque – A towering symbol of Samarkand’s past glory.
🏞️ Shah-i-Zinda – Stroll through this stunning necropolis of tiled mausoleums.
🛍️ Siyob Bazaar – Grab some local snacks and soak in the local vibe.

🚄 Return to Tashkent by evening train. A full day of ancient wonders, all in comfort and style.
Night or next day morning: Catch your flight back home.

💸 Estimated Daily Cost: ~₹4630
~ ₹3030(Train)+₹600(Cab) +1000 (mostly food/snacks) =₹4630

🧳 Final Thoughts & Farewell from the 3 Stans(🇰🇿,🇰🇬,🇺🇿)

9 days across three stunning Stans, jaw-dropping canyons, glacier lakes, Silk Road cities, and alpine escapes — all wrapped up in a budget of just ₹80.000 per person with a buffer given of ₹10,000. And yes, that includes every cable car ride, mountain stroll, hearty meal, and scenic road trip (excluding international flights & visas')!

This journey wasn't just about places — it was about moments:
📸 Watching the sun pour into Charyn Canyon,
🌿 Breathing in crisp alpine air at Ala Archa,
🏙️ Wandering the lively streets of Almaty and Bishkek,
🏰 And standing still in awe at Registan Square, frozen in time.

Central Asia is still off the radar for many, which is what makes it magical. It's raw, welcoming, and endlessly photogenic — a region where every day felt like a new discovery, and every stop was a new story.

So, as you pack your bags and zip up those souvenirs, know that you’re leaving with more than memories — you’re taking a little piece of the Silk Road spirit with you.

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