Karakol, located in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, is a picturesque city surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It’s the fourth-largest city in Kyrgyzstan and considered as the administrative center of Issyk-Kul region. Karakol, which is also known as Przhevalsk, is named after the Russian explorer, Nikolai Mikhaylovich Przhevalsky, who died performing his research in Asia. Kyrgyzstan's rich cultural heritage can be seen in the city, with traditional yurts dotting the landscape and locals still practicing traditional customs. While Karakol may be off the beaten path for most tourists, it serves as a popular jumping-off point for those eager to explore the stunning surroundings of the Tian Shan Mountains.
Tips for expats in Karakol
Visa requirements
A visa is required for foreigners to stay in Kyrgyzstan for more than 60 days. The type of visa required depends on the intended length of stay. It’s best to check the embassy website for the latest visa requirements and the application process.
Language resources
Englsih is widely spoken in Karakol, but some locals, particularly the elderly, may only speak Kyrgyz. Learning a few Kyrgyz words can go a long way in gaining credibility and goodwill among the local community.
Cost of living for expats in Karakol
Housing
Accommodations in Karakol are relatively affordable. A room in a shared house costs around $100 - $200 USD per month, while a one -bed apartment ranges from $200 - $400 USD per month, and a two -bed apartment averages around $400 - $700 USD per month. Families looking for a three plus -bedroom house will pay approximately $800 - $1200 USD per month.
Groceries
The cost of groceries in Karakol is lower than that of Bishkek, the capital city. Spending around $50 - $100 USD per month on groceries for a family is easy to accomplish, particularly if you shop at local markets.
Transportation
Transportation in Karakol is cheap and convenient. Locals get around primarily by walking or taking a shared taxi. Communal taxis, called marshrutkas, cost around 15 KGS (about $2 USD) per trip, while a private taxi will cost around 400 KGS (about $5 USD).
Climate in Karakol
Karakol's climate is continental, with long, extremely cold winters and short, cool summers. Temperatures in winter routinely drop below -20°C (-4°F) and can last up to six months, while summers average a pleasant 20°C (68°F), making it a perfect escape from the heat.
Job market in Karakol
Karakol’s economy is primarily driven by tourism and the mining industry. Many expats find jobs working in resorts, hotels, and guesthouses; local language requirements are minimal as English is widely spoken. The mining industry is also thriving in Karakol, and there are job opportunities in engineering and general management.
Healthcare in Karakol
The healthcare system in Karakol is relatively basic, with few private facilities available to expats. The primary hospital, Karakol Regional Hospital, offers basic medical care but may not meet the standards of Western hospitals. It’s best to bring any necessary medications from home and be prepared to travel to Bishkek, the nearest major city, for any extensive medical treatment.
Transport in Karakol
Transportation in Karakol is primarily by foot, bicycle, or shared taxi. Private taxis are also available, but they’re more expensive than shared taxis. Trolleybuses are no longer in service in Karakol, but the new BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system provides a modern and reliable form of transportation through the city.
Safety in Karakol
Karakol is considered a relatively safe city, but petty theft does occur in crowded areas. It’s best to avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in public spaces. Credit cards are accepted in most establishments, but it’s recommended to carry cash to avoid being overcharged.
Neighborhoods in Karakol
Anano
Located in the heart of Karakol, Anano is the city's main neighborhood. It's bustling with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Jety-Oguz
Known for its impressive canyon and waterfalls, Jety-Oguz is a nature lover's paradise. This neighborhood is located around 45 kilometers south of Karakol and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Karakol City
Karakol City is a newly built neighborhood located in the center of town. It offers a variety of modern amenities including supermarkets, shops, and restaurants.
Cholpon-Ata
Located approximately 60 kilometers south of Karakol, Cholpon-Ata is situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. Known for its famous petroglyphs, this neighborhood offers a peaceful escape from city life.
Attractions in Karakol
Przhevalsky Museum
The Przhevalsky Museum showcases the life and works of Nikolai Przhevalsky, a Russian explorer and scientist who dedicated his life to exploring Asia. The museum features a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits related to Przhevalsky's achievements.
Dungan Mosque
The colorful Dungan Mosque is a unique architectural masterpiece. Built by the descendants of Chinese soldiers who transferred their faith to Islam during the Russian conquest of Central Asia, the mosque’s design blends Islamic and Chinese styles.
Jeti-Oguz Valley
Located about 80 kilometers south of Karakol, Jeti-Oguz Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful region. The narrow valley contains towering rock formations, lush green trees, and turquoise rivers that feed into beautiful waterfalls. It’s best visited during the summer when the snow has melted away.
International Schools in Karakol
British International School of Kyrgyzstan
Located in the heart of Bishkek, this international school offers the National Curriculum of England and Wales to students from KG1 to Year 13. There is also a facility in Bishkek's Dostuk neighborhood.
The school's curriculum employs a traditional teaching approach to help children develop essential schooling skills. It offers notable teaching staff, with many of its instructors possessing degrees from reputed universities. The school provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, arts, and weekend camps designed to pave the path for overall development in students.
International School of Karakol
Located in the center of Karakol, this international school offers an American curriculum to students ages 3-16.
The school follows the learning methodology devised by the Common Core State Standards Initiative. The school's infrastructure comprises an array of facilities, with commendable learning resources, a plethora of study materials, and experiment sets that keep the students engaged and motivated in their learning journey.
Centennial High International School
Located in Bishkek, this school offers the British Curriculum to students from ages 3-18.
The curriculum incorporates a play-based learning approach for younger students. This methodology has been found effective by experts in learning and development. As students advance their academic pursuits, the curriculum increasingly focuses on academic and extracurricular growth.
