Shymkent to Toktogul

Shymkent to Toktogul

Shymkent is a city in southern Kazakhstan, while Toktogul is a town in Jalal-Abad Province, Kyrgyzstan. The distance between the two cities is approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles).

Language

The official language of Kazakhstan is Kazakh, while the official language of Kyrgyzstan is Kyrgyz. However, Russian is also widely spoken in both countries.

Currency

The official currency of Kazakhstan is the tenge (KZT), while the official currency of Kyrgyzstan is the som (KGS). As of August 2022, 1 KZT is equal to approximately 0.23 KGS.

Distance

The distance between Shymkent and Toktogul is approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Toktogul from Shymkent:

• By car: The drive from Shymkent to Toktogul takes approximately 8 hours.
• By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Shymkent and Toktogul. The journey takes approximately 10 hours.
• By train: There is no direct train connection between Shymkent and Toktogul. However, you can take a train from Shymkent to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Toktogul.
• By plane: There are no direct flights between Shymkent and Toktogul. However, you can fly from Shymkent to Bishkek and then transfer to a domestic flight to Toktogul.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from Shymkent to Toktogul will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. However, here are some approximate costs:

• By car: The cost of fuel will vary depending on the type of car you drive and the current fuel prices. However, you can expect to pay around 20,000 KZT (50 USD) for fuel.
• By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Shymkent to Toktogul is around 5,000 KZT (12 USD).
• By train: The cost of a train ticket from Shymkent to Bishkek is around 10,000 KZT (25 USD). The cost of a bus or taxi from Bishkek to Toktogul is around 2,000 KZT (5 USD).
• By plane: The cost of a flight from Shymkent to Bishkek is around 15,000 KZT (38 USD). The cost of a domestic flight from Bishkek to Toktogul is around 5,000 KZT (12 USD).

Best time to go

The best time to visit Toktogul is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, it is important to note that the summer months can also be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

What to Eat

Toktogul has a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of dishes, including traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, as well as international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Beshbarmak: This is a traditional Kyrgyz dish made with boiled meat, noodles, and vegetables.
• Lagman: This is a noodle soup dish that is popular in Central Asia.
• Plov: This is a rice dish that is made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
• Manty: These are steamed dumplings that are filled with meat or vegetables.

Where to Go

Toktogul is a small town, but there are a few places that you can visit:

• Toktogul Reservoir: This is a large reservoir that is located near Toktogul. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
• Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Station: This is a large hydroelectric power station that is located on the Naryn River. The power station is one of the largest in Central Asia.
• Toktogul Museum: This museum tells the history of Toktogul and the surrounding area.

FAQ

Can I get a visa for Kyrgyzstan at the border?

Yes, you can get a visa for Kyrgyzstan at the border. However, you must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months and you must pay a fee.

What is the currency exchange rate between KZT and KGS?

As of August 2022, 1 KZT is equal to approximately 0.23 KGS.

How long does it take to get from Shymkent to Toktogul?

The journey from Shymkent to Toktogul takes approximately 8 hours by car, 10 hours by bus, and 12 hours by train.

What is the best way to get from Shymkent to Toktogul?

The best way to get from Shymkent to Toktogul depends on your budget and travel preferences. If you are on a tight budget, then taking the bus is the most affordable option. However, if you are looking for a more comfortable journey, then taking the car or train is a better option.