How To Reach CholponAta Petroglyphs (Cholpon Ata) In 2026 - 2027
Welcome to Cholpon Ata Petroglyphs, Kyrgyzstan
Located on the northern shore of the Issyk-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan, the Cholpon Ata Petroglyphs are a magnificent outdoor gallery of rock carvings dating back to between 800 BC and 1200 AD. Here's how you can reach this fascinating historic site:
By Air
The nearest airport to Cholpon Ata is the Manas International Airport located near the capital city, Bishkek. From Bishkek, visitors can:
- Take a domestic flight to the Tamchy Airport, which is about 30km west of Cholpon Ata. From Tamchy, tourists can hire a taxi or take a local minibus (marshrutka) to reach the petroglyphs.
By Road
To visit the petroglyphs by road, there are several options:
- Rent a car in Bishkek and drive approximately 250 kilometers to the east, following signs for the A363 highway directly to Cholpon Ata.
- Take a bus or minibus (marshrutka) from the Bishkek Western Bus Station (Avtovokzal Zapadny) directly to Cholpon Ata. The journey takes about 4-6 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.
By Train
There are no direct train services to Chol Chepon Ata; however, you can:
- Take a train to Balykchy, which is at the western end of Issyk-Kul. From there, you will need to take a bus or a taxi to Cholpon Ata.
Additional Tips
- Travel Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary visas and permits for travel in Kyrgyzstan.
- Local Currency: Ensure you have some Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS), as you might need cash for transport, entrance fees, and other expenses.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to explore the petroglyphs is during the summer months when the weather is warm and dry.
Once you arrive in Cholpon Ata, the petroglyphs can be found just to the north of town. They are within walking distance from the city center, or a short taxi ride away. At the site, visitors can wander through the open-air museum and marvel at the ancient rock art depicting animals, hunting scenes, and rituals that have stood the test of time.
