Train to Issyk-Kul 2026: fares from 150 KGS and timetable

From 5 June, seasonal passenger rail services on the Bishkek–Balykchy route will resume in Kyrgyzstan.

The route provides affordable and convenient travel to Lake Issyk-Kul and will operate until mid-September.

According to the state-owned enterprise ‘Kyrgyz Temir Zholu’, ticket prices depend on the type of carriage and method of payment.

Standard carriages (MO): adults: 150–180 KGS, children (5–10 years): 73–90 KGS.

‘Lux’ carriages: adults: 500–600 KGS, children: 250–300 KGS.

‘VIP’ carriages: adults: 800–1,000 KGS, children: 400–500 KGS.

VIP compartment (per compartment): 6,000–7,200 KGS.

It should be noted that the fare does not depend on the passenger’s boarding or alighting station.

Timetable:

5–21 June — Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

From 26 June to 13 September — daily.

The train departs from Bishkek-2 station at 08:06 and arrives in Balykchy at 12:12. The return journey departs at 18:40 and arrives in Bishkek at 23:11.

Ticket sales begin on 21 May 2026.

Kyrgyz Temir Zholu notes that the train is traditionally in high demand during the summer tourist season, providing a convenient and affordable way to travel to Lake Issyk-Kul.