Got a winter trip planned to Kyrgyzstan? Kyrgyzstan can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 37°F (that's 3°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?
First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Kyrgyzstan in winter—whether you're visiting Lake Issyk-Kul, hiking in the Tian Shan mountains, exploring the ancient city of Osh, or visiting Son-Kul Lake.
What should women wear in Kyrgyzstan in winter?
Kyrgyzstan in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: hat and scarf, long skirts, jeans, cardigans, and thermal baselayers. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Kyrgyzstan has to offer. Keep in mind that Kyrgyzstan is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.
Hat and scarf
A trip to Kyrgyzstan in winter can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Long skirts
Many women pack skirts as a staple for their travel wardrobe, but often overlook the long skirt. Though less popular than their shorter counterparts, long skirts offer a number of advantages that make them ideal for travel. For one, they tend to be more versatile than short skirts, as they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. They also offer more coverage, which can be important in hot weather or when exploring more conservative cultures like Kyrgyzstan. And don't forget, long skirts are often more comfortable than shorter styles, as they are not going to ride up or constrict movement.
If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:
Jeans
You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Kyrgyzstan, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.
Why not treat yourself before you go:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Kyrgyzstan in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.
Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:
Thermal baselayers
As Kyrgyzstan in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Kyrgyzstan trip despite the cold weather.
Here's a few ideas to get you started:
What should men wear in Kyrgyzstan in winter?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: sweaters, heavy coat, jeans or khakis, hat and scarf, and button-down shirts or polos. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Kyrgyzstan in comfort and style. While you won't need to be quite so covered as the ladies, it's still a good idea to respect cultural norms and not wear anything that would draw too much attention.
Sweaters
Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Kyrgyzstan. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.
These options are both stylish and comfy:
Heavy coat
You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Kyrgyzstan, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.
Any of these should work:
Jeans or khakis
Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.
I found these which would all work great:
Hat and scarf
A trip to Kyrgyzstan in winter can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.
I found these which would all work great:
Button-down shirts or polos
Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.
Here are some options I'd recommend:
FAQs
Is winter a good time to go to Kyrgyzstan?
Winter is not the best time to go to Kyrgyzstan because the weather is very cold and the roads are often icy. Peak tourist season is in the summer.
How do people typically dress in Kyrgyzstan in winter?
Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, so the climate there can be very cold in the winter. People typically dress in warm, layered clothing to protect themselves from the cold weather. They may also wear traditional Kyrgyz clothing.
What should you NOT wear in Kyrgyzstan in winter?
Kyrgyzstan is culturally conservative, so you'll want to dress modestly to stay respectful. This generally means you should avoid wearing anything too revealing, at least outside of tourist resorts. And as Kyrgyzstan is a majority Muslim country, women should be prepared to cover their heads when necessary. As a general rule, take your cue from the locals: if people around you are mostly covered, you should cover up too.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Kyrgyzstan will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Kyrgyzstan has to offer!