Nestled at the foot of the majestic Baba-Ata Mountains, Arslanbob is a village that feels like a step into a fairytale. Sitting 1,600 meters above sea level, it’s famous for being home to the largest walnut forest in the world! These ancient trees can live up to 1,000 years, grow to enormous sizes, and produce walnuts in such abundance that it feels like nature’s generosity at its best.
Arriving in Arslanbob
We arrived in Arslanbob on a bus from Bazar-Korgon (a budget-friendly 50 som per person). The bus dropped us off at the village center, where we found ourselves looking around, slightly bewildered. We had no plan, no contacts, and no idea where to go. But this is Arslanbob, a place where hospitality flows as freely as the mountain streams.
Before long, Rahmat appeared, a local man with an easy smile and a knack for spotting confused travelers. He worked with the Community-Based Tourism (CBT) program and offered to take us to their office. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, we followed him on a short walk through the village.
At the CBT office, we were greeted by Hayat, a warm and knowledgeable guide who made us feel right at home. He enthusiastically shared all the activities Arslanbob has to offer, and soon we were sold on a two-day trek. We asked for the easiest overnight option—our legs were still recovering from the long journey and a previous adventure at Sary Chelek.
Homestay in the Hills
With our trek planned for the next day, Hayat helped us choose a homestay. The village has around 16 CBT-managed homestays, each offering a unique slice of local life. I can’t quite remember if we ended up in House No. 12 or 16, but whichever it was, it felt like a little slice of heaven.
The homestay featured a spacious, comfortable room, but the real gem was the outdoor dining area perched on the hillside. From there, we had an unobstructed view of the surrounding mountains—a panorama that made every meal feel like a feast for the soul. At just 550 som per night, it was an absolute steal.
A Village to Linger In
Arslanbob is a small, charming village where life moves at a slower pace. The central hub is modest, featuring a mosque, a few shops, and a small bazaar. The bazaar, though small, is a delightful place to explore. You’ll find locals selling fresh produce, homemade dairy products, and an assortment of everyday essentials. Don’t be surprised if a friendly vendor insists on letting you sample some dried walnuts or fresh apricots—it’s their way of sharing the region’s famous bounty.
The people in Arslanbob are as warm and accommodating as the village itself. Whether it’s a shopkeeper helping you pick out a souvenir or a passerby pointing you toward the best hiking trail, their kindness leaves a lasting impression. The bazaar may be modest, but it’s a vibrant reflection of the community’s heart—a place where smiles are as abundant as the walnuts.
Something about Arslanbob makes it hard to leave. The tranquility of the surroundings, the warmth of the people, and the sheer beauty of the landscapes will tempt you to stretch your stay by another day—or two, or three. It’s a village that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left, and if you’re planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan, skipping Arslanbob would be a mistake.
