10 Things to Do in Tokmok Bazaar, Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is a small, landlocked country in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. The country is known for its stunning mountain scenery, vibrant culture, and vibrant bazaars. One of the most popular bazaars in Kyrgyzstan is the Tokmok Bazaar, located in the city of Tokmok. Here, visitors can find a variety of goods, from traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts to modern consumer goods. Here are 10 things to do in Tokmok Bazaar.
1. Shop for Traditional Kyrgyz Crafts
The Tokmok Bazaar is a great place to shop for traditional Kyrgyz crafts. From colorful carpets to embroidered felt items, you can find a wide variety of handmade items here. Be sure to haggle with the vendors for the best price!
2. Sample Local Cuisine
The Tokmok Bazaar is also a great place to sample local Kyrgyz cuisine. You can find a variety of delicious dishes, such as plov (rice pilaf), manty (dumplings), and shashlyk (grilled meat skewers).
3. Explore the Local Markets
The Tokmok Bazaar is not just one market, but a complex of markets. Spend some time exploring the various markets to find the best deals and unique items.
4. Visit the Tokmok Mosque
The Tokmok Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Kyrgyzstan, and it is located near the bazaar. The mosque is an important symbol of the city’s Muslim heritage.
5. Try Your Hand at Horseback Riding
Kyrgyzstan is famous for its horses, and the Tokmok Bazaar is a great place to try your hand at horseback riding. You can find a number of horse-riding schools around the bazaar.
6. Buy Kyrgyz Souvenirs
The Tokmok Bazaar is a great place to buy souvenirs to take home. You can find a variety of items, such as traditional felt hats, hand-painted wooden bowls, and Kyrgyz dolls.
7. Enjoy the Street Performances
The Tokmok Bazaar is a great place to enjoy street performances. From traditional Kyrgyz music and dance to jugglers and acrobats, there’s something for everyone.
8. Visit the Local Art Galleries
The Tokmok Bazaar is also home to a number of art galleries. Here you can find a variety of traditional and modern artworks from local Kyrgyz artists.
9. Explore the Surrounding Area
The Tokmok Bazaar is located in the center of Tokmok, so it’s a great place to explore the surrounding area. Take a walk around the city to see the sights and get a feel for the local culture.
10. Relax with a Cup of Tea
After a long day of shopping and exploring, take some time to relax with a cup of tea. There are a number of teahouses around the bazaar, where you can enjoy a cup of hot tea and watch the world go by.
The Tokmok Bazaar is a great place to experience the vibrant culture of Kyrgyzstan. Whether you’re looking to shop for traditional Kyrgyz crafts, sample local cuisine, or just relax with a cup of tea, the Tokmok Bazaar has something for everyone.