Panfilov Park

One of the most popular sites in Bishkek, historic Panfilov Park has lots of things to do and you'll find locals gathering here most days to relax. When you visit, a good place to start might be the Friendship Monument. This monument is a classic example of Soviet-era art that is meant to represent the unbreakable bond that was created when Kyrgyzstan became a part of the USSR.

Further into the park, visitors will find another remnant of history located in front of the State History Museum - a statue of Lenin, the founder of the Russian Communist Party. Panfilov Park was originally built in the shape of a star and in the centre of the park lies a monument of Ivan Panfilov, immortalised in stone with a star-shaped statue base.

These days, the heritage monuments are just that - a reminder of the past. For most of the locals who come here, it's all about recreation. Now, the main attraction of Panfilov Park is the small amusement park located in the centre. You can enjoy sweeping views of Bishkek from the top of the ferris wheel, zoom down the roller coaster, and then cool down with ice cream cones.