Osh Guesthouse

A popular backpacker crash pad with the only dorms in town. It can get very cramped when full; you'll either love it or hate it. Pluses include a hot shower, laundry service, meals and internet access. The owner, Daniyar Abdurahmanov, is a fount of knowledge. Solo travellers with the view of sharing transport to the Irkeshtam Pass often meet here. The apartment can be hard to find.

Take the alley by a row of kiosks, take a diagonal right by the rubbish dump and turn left at the second apartment building; it's the third entrance on the left, top floor.