Arslanbob
Discover Arslanbob
Arslanbob is known for its walnuts. It balances effortlessly between pastoral life and a tourist destination, nestled in a beautiful valley; it has been popular with Kyrgyz and Uzbek families for some time. Arslanbob was named after Arslanbob-ata, an 11th century figure. The village is known for its export of walnuts, walnut oil, and lumber from the 11,000 hectares (27,000 acres) walnut forest nearby. There is a seasonal harvest in September, lend a hand!
What to Experience in Arslanbob
Taste of Arslanbob...
There are several local restaurants and grill shops near the center, hygiene varies. They are all shut around 20:00. Guesthouses usually have good dinner options (though overpriced). Beer can be purchased in stores, hard liquor isn't sold openly but the underground store has some. Respect local customs and do not drink in public, and ask your hosts before bringing alcohol into their homes. CBT is probably your best contact, with a very well organised guesthouse network. Apparently none have WiFi but most have hot showers. Guesthouses here are much better quality than elsewhere in Kyrgyzstan, "number 12" has fantastic views and is 550 som/night, with a wonderful old lady who cooks. Locals often rent out a country house for their extended family, and some Uzbek tourists sleep outside in the guesthouse pagoda. Try negotiating.
Essential Information
Getting There
Multiple OptionsThe center, bazaar, and guesthouses are within walking distance. Small trucks and jeeps serve as public transport/taxis, and take you further out of the village. The roads are rough so watch your head! There are some small stores in the center with basic goods. The CBT has an office in town with many tour options. There are several local restaurants and grill shops near the center, hygiene varies. They are all shut around 20:00. Guesthouses usually have good dinner options (though overpriced). Beer can be purchased in stores, hard liquor isn't sold openly but the underground store has some. Respect local customs and do not drink in public, and ask your hosts before bringing alcohol into their homes. CBT is probably your best contact, with a very well organised guesthouse network. Apparently none have WiFi but most have hot showers....
Getting Around & Staying
Getting Around
The center, bazaar, and guesthouses are within walking distance. Small trucks and jeeps serve as public transport/taxis, and take you further out of the village. The roads are rough so watch your head! There are some small stores in the center with basic goods. The CBT has an office in town with many tour options. There are several local restaurants and grill shops near the center, hygiene varies. They are all shut around 20:00. Guesthouses usually have good dinner options (though overpriced). Beer can be purchased in stores, hard liquor isn't sold openly but the underground store has some. Respect local customs and do not drink in public, and ask your hosts before bringing alcohol into their homes. CBT is probably your best contact, with a very well organised guesthouse network. Apparently none have WiFi but most have hot showers.
Where to Stay
CBT is probably your best contact, with a very well organised guesthouse network. Apparently none have WiFi but most have hot showers. Guesthouses here are much better quality than elsewhere in Kyrgyzstan, "number 12" has fantastic views and is 550 som/night, with a wonderful old lady who cooks. Locals often rent out a country house for their extended family, and some Uzbek tourists sleep outside in the guesthouse pagoda. Try negotiating.
Money & Budget
There are some small stores in the center with basic goods. The CBT has an office in town with many tour options. There are several local restaurants and grill shops near the center, hygiene varies. They are all shut around 20:00. Guesthouses usually have good dinner options (though overpriced). Beer can be purchased in stores, hard liquor isn't sold openly but the underground store has some. Respect local customs and do not drink in public, and ask your hosts before bringing alcohol into their homes. CBT is probably your best contact, with a very well organised guesthouse network. Apparently none have WiFi but most have hot showers.