Osh Bazaar in Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan, is a bustling and vibrant marketplace that offers a unique shopping experience. Located in the north of the country, Osh Bazaar is the largest bazaar in Central Asia and is home to a variety of goods from food to clothing to souvenirs. With its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of products, Osh Bazaar is the perfect place to explore and experience the culture of Kyrgyzstan. Here are 10 things to do in Osh Bazaar:
1. Sample Local Foods: Osh Bazaar is a great place to sample the local cuisine. The bazaar is home to a variety of food stalls selling traditional Kyrgyz dishes such as beshbarmak (a noodle and meat dish) and laghman (noodle soup). There are also stalls selling snacks such as dried fruits and nuts.
2. Shop for Souvenirs: Osh Bazaar is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs to take home. You can find a variety of items such as traditional Kyrgyz clothing, jewelry, carpets, and pottery.
3. Explore the Stalls: Exploring the stalls at Osh Bazaar is a great way to get a feel for the local culture. There are stalls selling everything from fresh produce to household goods to clothing. You can also find a variety of handicrafts such as wood carvings and paintings.
4. Try Your Hand at Bargaining: Bargaining is a part of the culture at Osh Bazaar and it can be a fun experience. It is important to remember to be polite and friendly when bargaining and to not be too aggressive.
5. Visit the Tea Houses: Osh Bazaar is home to a number of tea houses where you can take a break from shopping and enjoy a cup of tea. The tea houses are a great place to relax and watch the hustle and bustle of the bazaar.
6. Visit the Mosque: The Osh Central Mosque is located near the bazaar and is a great place to explore. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and is a great place to learn more about the local culture and religion.
7. Explore the Surrounding Areas: Osh Bazaar is located in the north of Kyrgyzstan and there are a number of interesting places to explore in the surrounding area. A visit to the nearby Issyk-Kul lake is a must, as well as a trip to the nearby mountains.
8. Visit the Local Markets: Osh Bazaar is surrounded by a number of smaller markets selling everything from food to clothing. Exploring these markets is a great way to get a feel for the local culture and pick up some unique items.
9. Visit the Art Galleries: Osh Bazaar is home to a number of art galleries showcasing the work of local artists. There are also a number of workshops where you can learn more about traditional Kyrgyz craftsmanship.
10. Take a Tour: There are a number of tour companies in Osh Bazaar that offer guided tours of the bazaar and the surrounding area. Taking a tour is a great way to learn more about the local culture and to explore the bazaar in more depth.
Osh Bazaar is a vibrant and exciting place to explore and experience the culture of Kyrgyzstan. Whether you are looking to sample the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, or explore the surrounding areas, Osh Bazaar has something for everyone.