Lonely Planet Central Asia

Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime in this latest edition of our guide to Central Asia.

Discover Central Asia's most popular experiences and best kept secrets — from haggling for nuts and spices at the huge Soviet-era Panjshanbe Bazaar, to taking on an ambitious multiday hike over high passes in the stunning Fan Mountains, and feeling the Earth shake as you watch a rocket blast into space from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet's Central Asia travel guide. This classic guidebook format contains the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips, with an all-new structure and design that's easy to use so you can navigate Central Asia effortlessly. Exciting itineraries help you create your perfect adventure with suggestions for extended journeys, day trips, walking tours and activity-led excursions. You'll find expert local recommendations on eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, festivals, when to go and more, plus vibrant photography and maps throughout.

Get fresh takes on must-visit sights from Ala-Archa National Park to Son Köl and Alay Valley, along with an essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving, transport, local etiquette, using money, LGBTIQ+ travel advice, useful words and phrases, accessibility and responsible travel. Connect with Central Asian culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history and traditions across Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Create a trip that's uniquely yours and get to the heart of this extraordinary part of the world.