Burana tower  - Historical and archaeological complex
Burana tower

Historical and archaeological complex

Burana tower
(Historical and archaeological complex)

It will take us about one and a half of hour to get to the tower. On the place of the Burana Tower there existed Balasagyn settlement until the XIV-XV centuries. At that time, it had already lost its former meaning. Life in the town was slowly fading away and the inhabitants gradually left it. In the XV century the buildings of the town turned into ruins. The former capital of the Karakhanids Kingdom disappeared from the face of the Earth. Even the name was forgotten. The texts of the gravestone epitaphs of local Nestorian Christians, as well as the gravestones of the Kairaki with Arabic text indicate that the inhabitants of Balasagyn died from the plague that raged here in the 30th of the XIV century. Currently, only the remains of the fortress and a huge tower silently indicate the existence of the once capital of the Karakhanids. The initial height of the tower was 40 meters and now it is about 21 meters.

You will be able to stroll through the settlement, where there are also tombstones, balbals, ancient millstones and other objects of household culture, climb the tower and take stunning photos. It is especially beautiful here in spring, when everything starts to burn from poppy blossoming. It incredibly contrasts with the whiteness of the snow-capped Kyrgyz Ridge.

Available Dates

  • April 2024 | 10 places Book
  • May 2024 | 10 places Book
  • June 2024 | 10 places Book
  • July 2024 | 10 places Book
  • *Individual dates are also available.
  • Trip details

    Intensity Level 1
    Season All season
    Begins in Bishkek
    Ends in Bishkek
    Airport Аэропорт Манас (FRU)
    Airport out Airport Manas (FRU)
    Wildlife Marmots, Birds, Predator birds, Rodents, Snakes

    Price:

    Great for Individuals Families Couples

    The Burana Tower is located 84 kilometers away from Bishkek. Scientists consider that the construction dates back to the X — XI century. Now the height of the tower is 21 meters, although initially it was about 40 meters, but collapsed as a result of an earthquake. You can climb the narrow stairs of the tower and get onto the view site. The panorama of the valley and the Kyrgyz Ridge with its snow-white peaks can be seen from here. Next to the tower is the open-air museum, which presents balbals (ancient tombstones), ancient millstones and stones with petroglyphs. The Burana Tower is an archaeological and architectural complex and is under special state protection. Also, in the complex you can visit the historical museum. It contains ancient findings: ceramics, jewelry, dishes, coins and much more.

    What's Included:

    • Transfer
    • Entrance fee
    • Guide

    What's not included:

    • Lunch box (on request)
    • Personal expenses
    • Alcohol drinks
    • Any changes to the program
    • Other excursions not included in the program
    • Insurance
    Day
    1

    One day trip. Our tour will start from Bishkek city.

    9:00-10:00 Departure from Bishkek

    10:30-11:30 Arriving at the place.

    10:30-12:00 / 11:30-13:00 Excursion.

    12-13:00 / 13-14:00 Picnic.

    13:00-14:00 Departure to Bishkek.

    You will be able to stroll through the settlement, where you can see tomb stones, balbals, ancient millstones and other objects of everyday culture, climb the tower and make stunning photos. It is especially beautiful here in spring, when everything starts to burn from poppy blossoming and that contrasts beautifully with the whiteness of snow on the tops of the Kyrgyz ridge.

    You will also visit a small museum on the territory of the settlement and listen to the guide. After that, we will have an open-air picnic, if the weather permits. Then you will return to Bishkek with new impressions and knowledge about the ancient history of Balasagyn.

    Got questions?

    We thought you might. We've prepared some answers to our most commomly asked questions about this trip.

    What to pack?

    Download this helpful list of suggestions and recommendations for gear for this trip.

    Logistics

    Get detailed information about how to get here, reservation policies, trip insurance and more.

    Need more information? We promptly answer all Your questions!

    Trip Gallery

    Need more information? We promptly answer all Your questions!

    Related adventures

    Кёль-Тор высокогорное озеро

    Kegety gorge - Hiking to Kol-Tor lake

    1 Day
    Level 2
    Spring, Summer, Autumn

    Blog «Asia Mountains»

    See more blog from «Asia Mountains»

    Gear Rental

    Travelling to Kyrgyzstan, but short a few items on your gear list? We offer the «must have» items for rent at reasonable prices.

    The best food

    Our healthy, flavorful, filling, and nutritious Gourmet Backcountry Cuisine has won multiple awards!

    Find your level

    Are you ready for one of our amazing trips? Choose the adventure that is right for your activity level.

    Follow us:
    «Asia Mountains»
    720021, Kyrgyzstan
    Bishkek, Lineinaya str. 1a