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Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Almaty, Almaty City from $6: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
to
Almaty, Kazakhstan

How to Get from Bishkek to Almaty: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$6 by busBest price
239 kmDistance
2h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bishkek to Almaty with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Kyrgyz Avtobeketi
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$6-6
Recommended
Company
Kyrgyz Avtobeketi
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$6-6
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 239 km
Duration: 2h 23m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$17-26
Company
Kyrgyz Railways (КТЖ) and Kazakhstan Railways (КТЖ)
Train
Average Duration
15h  55m
Estimated price
$23-42
Company
Bex
Drive
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$65-65
Company
Air Astana
Plane
Average Duration
2h  23m
Estimated price
$69-225
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Traveling From Bishkek to Almaty

The journey from Bishkek to Almaty offers a fascinating contrast between Bishkek's authentic Kyrgyz culture and Almaty's modern urban vibe.

Best Neighbourhoods in Almaty

Almaty boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience for visitors.

Medeu
• Home to the famous Medeu Ice Rink.
• Surrounded by picturesque mountain views.
Pavlodar
• Known for its lively street art scene.
• Features trendy cafes and boutiques.
Zenkov
• Hosts the iconic Zenkov Cathedral.
• Offers beautiful parks perfect for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Almaty's Attractions

Visiting Almaty's attractions at the right time can elevate your experience.

Medeu Ice Rink
Visit early morning or weekdays for fewer crowds and smoother skating.
Kok Tobe Hill
Sunset hours offer stunning views and a more tranquil atmosphere.
Zenkov Cathedral
Weekday mornings are quieter, allowing for a peaceful visit.

Almaty Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Almaty experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and autumn the ideal seasons for travelers. Understanding the weather patterns can significantly enhance your travel plans, as mild temperatures during these times allow for comfortable exploration of the city and its surroundings.

Dining Recommendation

While Bishkek offers hearty Kyrgyz fare, Almaty shines with its vibrant restaurant scene, making it a great place to enjoy 'Beshbarmak' at 'Kizhi,' where the dish is prepared with finely chosen local meats and fresh herbs. The contemporary ambiance combined with a focus on diverse flavors transforms your dining experience into a lively culinary adventure.

Bishkek - Almaty operators

Explore transport companies operating between Bishkek and Almaty, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
0312 64-23-27
Website
https://avtovokzal.kg/

Bus from Bishkek Zapadnyi Avtovokzal to Almaty Sayran Bus Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$6-6
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+996 (312) 30 02 09
Website
http://kjd.kg

Train from Bischkek 2 to Almaty 1

Average Duration
15h 55m
Estimated price
$23-42
Plane Show flights
Website
airastana.com

Plane from Manas (FRU) to Almaty (ALA)

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
$69-225
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+996706663399
Website
https://bex.kg/

Other from Bishkek to Almaty

Average Duration
3h 1m
Estimated price
$65-65

Bishkek to Almaty: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Bishkek and Almaty offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Bishkek to Almaty, covering 148 miles of picturesque landscapes and rolling hills. The 3-hour drive offers a perfect opportunity to witness the beauty of Central Asia unfold before your eyes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of budget-friendly options, with car travel costs ranging from $17 to $26 for the Bishkek to Almaty route. Experience the freedom of the open road as you make your way across the border to Kazakhstan.
Average price
$17 - $26
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Bishkek to Almaty! Although there is no direct train route, you can catch a service from Bischkek 2 station to Almaty 1 station with a total travel time of approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes. 💰 Prices for the train ride between Bishkek and Almaty range from $23 to $42, offering a budget-friendly transportation option for travelers looking to experience the charm of Central Asia by rail. Sit back, relax, and soak in the cultural richness as you journey from one vibrant city to another.
Departure Point
Bischkek 2 station
Arrival Point
Almaty 1 station
🛫 Experience a swift journey from Bishkek to Almaty with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 1 minute, offered by Air Astana from Manas Airport to Almaty Airport. 🌄 Enjoy the scenic views as you cover the distance of 2 hours and 23 minutes between the picturesque cities of Bishkek and Almaty by plane. 💸 Prices for flights between Almaty and Bishkek typically range from $69 to $225, providing budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore these vibrant Central Asian destinations.
Departure Point
Manas Airport
Arrival Point
Almaty Airport
🌄 Enjoy a scenic 5-hour ride through the beautiful landscapes of Central Asia as you make your way to Almaty Sayran Bus Station in Kazakhstan. 💰 With ticket prices as low as $6, this bus trip is not only efficient but also budget-friendly, providing a hassle-free way to travel between these two neighboring countries.
Departure Point
Bishkek Zapadnyi Avtovokzal station
Arrival Point
Almaty Sayran Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, as the Kyrgyz Avtobeketi service from Bishkek Zapadnyi Avtovokzal to Almaty Sayran Bus Station tends to fill up quickly; you can book online at their official website Kyrgyz Avtobeketi.
• When passing through border control between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, ensure you have your passport ready and be prepared for a short wait; it’s advisable to carry a small snack, as there may not be food options at the border.
• Upon arrival at Almaty Sayran Bus Station, look for the nearby taxi stand if you need a ride; it's also a good idea to download the Yandex Go app beforehand for convenient ride-hailing options and to avoid language barriers.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bishkek to Almaty.

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The distance between Bishkek and Almaty is approximately 121 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 148.2 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 15 hours and 31 minutes to reach Almaty from Bishkek. By plane, the travel time is significantly shorter, taking around 3 hours and 47 minutes. If you prefer to travel by car, it takes about 3 hours and 1 minute to reach Bishkek from Almaty. Lastly, by bus, the journey from Bishkek to Almaty takes around 5 hours.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Bishkek to Almaty is by bus, which takes about 5 hours and costs $6. This is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, if you prefer a quicker option, driving is the fastest way to reach Almaty, taking approximately 3 hours and costing around $17 to $26. Both options provide convenient and affordable means of transportation between the two cities.
The prices for traveling from Bishkek to Almaty vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking the train between these two cities can range from $22 to $40. On the other hand, the bus fare from Almaty to Bishkek is $6. It's important to note that these prices can fluctuate and it's always advisable to check with the relevant transportation providers for the most up-to-date fares.
To travel from Bishkek to Almaty without using public transportation, you can opt for a private car or taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 148 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 1 minute to reach Almaty by car. Prices for hiring a car or taxi for this journey range from $17 to $26, depending on the service provider and vehicle type.
To travel from Bishkek to Almaty without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and costs $6. Another option is to take a train, which takes around 15 hours and 31 minutes and costs between $22 and $40. If you prefer a faster option, you can also choose to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 47 minutes and costs between $65 and $190.
There is no direct train from Bishkek to Almaty, however, there are train services available. These services depart from Bischkek 2 station and arrive at Almaty 1 station, with a transfer at Almaty 2 station. The journey takes approximately 15h 31m. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service that departs from Bishkek Zapadnyi Avtovokzal and arrives at Almaty Sayran Bus Station. The bus operates four times a day and the journey takes approximately 5 hours.
The flight duration between Bishkek and Almaty is typically around 50 minutes for a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $65 to $190. It's recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to get the best price for your desired travel dates.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Almaty. With over 1,044 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Almaty start at $38 per night, making it accessible for travelers with different budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, visitors can find a suitable place to stay in this vibrant city.

Trips from Bishkek