Bokonbayevo

Bokonbayevo is the largest settlement on the quieter southern shore of Issyk-Kul, a working town rather than a resort, and it has become the centre of the region's community tourism: homestays and yurt camps are organised here, felt-making workshops show shyrdak carpet production, and several families keep golden eagles and give hunting demonstrations on the hillsides above the lake. Falconry with eagles is a genuine inherited tradition in this area rather than an invention for visitors, though the demonstrations themselves are staged. The shore nearby has beaches and the Tuz-Köl salt lake, and gorges run south into the Terskey range. An annual festival at Barskoon or Bokonbayevo brings together eagle hunters, horse games and craft.

What you actually see

• Eagle hunters - golden eagles flown in demonstrations above the lake.
• Felt workshops - shyrdak carpets made by hand.
• Community homestays - family accommodation organised through the town.
• Southern shore beaches - the quieter side of Issyk-Kul.

When to go

May to September; the shore is warmest in July and August. Eagle hunting demonstrations run through the season, and the traditional hunting itself is a winter activity. Autumn festivals bring the biggest gatherings.

Honest expectations

Eagle demonstrations are staged for visitors and the birds are kept tethered between them, which some find uncomfortable. Homestays are simple with shared facilities. The town is plain and services are limited. Prices for demonstrations and workshops are negotiated and vary.

Nearby

Tuz-Köl lies east; Juuku and Barskoon gorges are further along the shore.