Kadji-sai

Introducing Kadji-sai

Surrounded by low, wind-and-water–carved canyons, Kadji-Sai makes for a convenient midway point between Bishkek and Karakol. In 1947 Kadji-Sai became somewhat of a ‘Soviet secret’ when uranium was mined here by Soviet Russia; at that time the town had no official name but was simply referred to as Frunze (after the capital) 10. The uranium, however, was of poor quality and the mine closed three years later.

The town is set 3km back from the main road that runs the length of Issyk-Köl. Minibuses will drop you near the petrol station, cafés and TIC on the main road; from here it is a 10som taxi ride up to the village.

The second TIC (9 25 61; asan-77@mail.ru; Ozernaya 1; 9am-5pm Mon-Sat, closed Jan) to open in Kyrgyzstan does an excellent job putting travellers in touch with yurt camps, homestays, eagle hunters and local guides to local sights. It also sells a 1:200,000 Russian topographical map (300som) of the region.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009