TSUM Department Store Bishkek - low-angle photography of beige concrete building under blue sky
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TSUM Department Store Bishkek

4.3
·16k reviews·Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Bishkek's premier shopping center, offering a curated selection of Kyrgyz souvenirs, diverse dining, and modern amenities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
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TSUM Department Store Bishkek - low-angle photography of beige concrete building under blue sky

TSUM Department Store Bishkek

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bishkek's premier shopping center, offering a curated selection of Kyrgyz souvenirs, diverse dining, and modern amenities.

4.3
(16k reviews)

"A great shopping destination offering a nice mix of modern stores and traditional Kyrgyz souvenirs."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Souvenir Central

Head to the 4th floor for the best selection of local souvenirs. Many vendors accept cards!

📱 SIM Card Deals

Need a local SIM? The 1st floor has numerous vendors with competitive prices.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kyrgyz Souvenir Haven

Kyrgyz Souvenir Haven

4th Floor

Discover a treasure trove of locally made crafts, traditional dresses, and unique gifts. Perfect for finding authentic mementos.

Vibrant Food Court

Vibrant Food Court

5th Floor

A cozy spot to sample delicious Kyrgyz cuisine, including Lagman and Beshbarmak. Great for a quick and tasty meal.

Modern Shopping Experience

Modern Shopping Experience

Multiple Floors

Explore a wide range of tech stores, clothing boutiques, and more in a clean, spacious, and welcoming environment.

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Planning Your Visit

Souvenir Shopping Strategy

TSUM is your go-to for souvenirs, especially on the 4th floor. Unlike Osh Bazaar, you'll find a curated selection of locally made items here. Many vendors speak English and accept credit cards, making your gift-buying smooth and hassle-free.

Dining Delights

Beyond shopping, TSUM offers a diverse culinary experience. From the 5th-floor food court to the 6th-floor restaurant, you can savor traditional Kyrgyz dishes like Beshbarmak and Lagman. It's a great spot to refuel after exploring the city.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining options
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Souvenir Central

Head to the 4th floor for the best selection of local souvenirs. Many vendors accept cards! Reddit

📱 SIM Card Deals

Need a local SIM? The 1st floor has numerous vendors with competitive prices. Reddit

🍽️ Taste of Kyrgyzstan

Don't miss the food court on the 5th floor for authentic local dishes. Reddit

💳 Payment Options

Most souvenir shops accept credit cards, but having local currency is also useful. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Souvenir Central

Head to the 4th floor for the best selection of local souvenirs. Many vendors accept cards! Reddit

📱 SIM Card Deals

Need a local SIM? The 1st floor has numerous vendors with competitive prices. Reddit

🍽️ Taste of Kyrgyzstan

Don't miss the food court on the 5th floor for authentic local dishes. Reddit

💳 Payment Options

Most souvenir shops accept credit cards, but having local currency is also useful. Reddit

☕ Coffee Break

Enjoy a relaxing coffee at Yahya cafe after your shopping spree. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(16k reviews)

Reviews Summary

TSUM Department Store is a popular and convenient shopping destination in Bishkek, praised for its wide selection of souvenirs on the 4th floor and diverse dining options on the 5th and 6th floors. Visitors appreciate the clean, modern interior, the ease of finding local crafts, and the availability of credit card payments. While generally positive, some may find it less authentic than traditional bazaars.

"Tsum Shopping Center is one of the famous places in Bishkek. It’s located just opposite the Victory Square. Many levels, nice interior, beautiful elevators and escalators. The food court is very cozy. Many souvenir shops with nice stalls. Try traditional dresses and Kyrgyzstan desserts. After a good walk, had our coffee at Yahya cafe."

Abu Firas

"Came here with the sole purpose to buy souvenirs as I couldn’t find them in Osh bazaar. On the ground floor you’ll find mobile phone shops and the Kyrgyz souvenirs are on the second floor. There are many vendors selling a wide range of souvenirs. Most can speak English and credit card is widely accepted."

Ling

"A great shopping destination in Bishkek! The mall offers a nice mix of modern stores and traditional Kyrgyz souvenirs, making it perfect for both shopping and exploring local culture. The food court and restaurants are excellent… especially if you want to try traditional dishes like Beshbarmak or Lagman. The atmosphere is clean, spacious, and welcoming, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Highly recommended for tourists and locals alike!"

Savas C.

What People Like

Excellent souvenir selection
Convenient food court
Clean and modern interior

What People Dislike

Less authentic than bazaars

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

TSUM is conveniently located opposite Victory Square in Bishkek. You can easily reach it by taxi or public transport. Many locals consider it a central landmark, making it easy to find. Reddit

Yes, TSUM is a well-known landmark in Bishkek, situated directly across from Victory Square. It's a prominent building that's hard to miss. Reddit

Various bus and marshrutka (minibus) routes stop near Victory Square, providing easy access to TSUM. Check local transport apps for the most up-to-date routes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to enter TSUM Department Store. It's a public shopping center. Reddit

TSUM generally operates from morning until late evening. Specific hours can vary slightly, but it's typically open daily. Reddit

No advance booking is required to visit TSUM. You can walk in anytime during their operating hours. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

The best place to find souvenirs is on the 4th floor, which offers a wide range of locally made items. Reddit+1

You'll find traditional Kyrgyz dresses, handicrafts, local desserts, and other unique gifts. Reddit

Yes, most souvenir vendors on the 4th floor accept credit cards, though having some local currency is also recommended. Reddit

Prices are generally considered reasonable, especially on the 4th floor, making it a good alternative to bustling bazaars. Reddit

The 1st floor of TSUM has many mobile phone and SIM card stores offering various options. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

TSUM features a food court on the 5th floor and a nice restaurant on the 6th floor, offering both fast food and traditional Kyrgyz dishes. Reddit+1

Absolutely! You can try dishes like Beshbarmak and Lagman at the food court or the restaurant. Reddit

Yes, Yahya cafe is a cozy spot on one of the floors where you can enjoy coffee and light snacks. Reddit

While specific options vary, many food courts offer a variety of dishes, and you can often find vegetable-based meals or sides. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography is allowed in common areas of TSUM for personal use. However, it's always good practice to be discreet and avoid photographing individuals without permission. Reddit

The interior architecture, escalators, and the vibrant food court can make for interesting shots. The souvenir stalls on the 4th floor also offer colorful backdrops. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

TSUM Department Store offers a family-friendly environment with amenities that cater to children. The 5th-floor food court provides a variety of food options that are often appealing to younger palates, and it's a good place for a relaxed meal. Reddit Some reviews mention a children's playground on the upper floors, which can be a great way for kids to burn off energy while parents finish their shopping or enjoy a coffee. Reddit

Navigating the store is easy with spacious aisles and modern elevators, making it manageable with strollers. The clean and bright interior creates a pleasant atmosphere for a family outing. Consider visiting during weekday afternoons to avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

✈️ Travelers Seeking Souvenirs

For travelers looking for authentic Kyrgyz souvenirs, TSUM is a highly recommended destination. The 4th floor is dedicated to a wide array of locally made crafts, traditional clothing, and unique gifts. Reddit+1 Unlike the more intense experience of a bazaar, TSUM offers a more organized and comfortable shopping environment. Many vendors are accustomed to international visitors, speak English, and readily accept credit cards, simplifying the purchasing process. Reddit

This makes TSUM an ideal spot to pick up gifts and mementos without the hassle of extensive bargaining. You can find everything from intricate felt crafts to beautifully embroidered textiles. After your souvenir hunt, you can conveniently grab a meal at the food court or enjoy a coffee. Reddit+1

📱 Tech & Connectivity Seekers

If you're looking to get connected upon arrival in Bishkek, TSUM is your first stop. The 1st floor is packed with numerous mobile phone shops offering a wide selection of SIM cards from various providers. Reddit You'll find competitive prices and helpful staff who can assist you in choosing the best plan for your needs. This makes it incredibly convenient to get a local SIM card shortly after arriving in the city. Reddit

Beyond SIM cards, the store also features electronics and technology vendors on other floors, catering to various gadget needs. The modern infrastructure of TSUM ensures a comfortable and efficient shopping experience for all your connectivity requirements. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating TSUM: A Shopper's Guide

TSUM Department Store is a multi-level shopping hub in Bishkek, offering a diverse range of products and services. The ground floor is primarily dedicated to mobile phone shops and SIM card vendors, making it a convenient stop for travelers needing connectivity. As you ascend, the second floor often features clothing and accessories, while the third floor continues with electronics and more tech-focused stores. Reddit

The fourth floor is a highlight for tourists, as it's where you'll find a concentrated selection of Kyrgyz souvenirs. Unlike the more chaotic Osh Bazaar, TSUM offers a curated environment with many vendors speaking English and accepting credit cards, simplifying the souvenir shopping experience. Reddit+1 The fifth floor houses a popular food court, offering a variety of local and international fast food options, perfect for a quick lunch. For a more relaxed dining experience, the sixth floor boasts a nice restaurant with traditional Kyrgyz dishes like Beshbarmak and Lagman. Reddit+1

Beyond shopping and dining, TSUM also features other amenities, including clothing stores on upper levels and sometimes a children's playground, making it a comprehensive destination for both locals and visitors. The interior is noted for its spaciousness, clean design, and modern elevators and escalators, contributing to a pleasant overall atmosphere. Reddit

Culinary Delights at TSUM

TSUM Department Store is more than just a shopping destination; it's a culinary hotspot offering a taste of Kyrgyzstan. The 5th-floor food court is a bustling hub where you can sample a variety of dishes. It's a great place to try popular Kyrgyz staples like Lagman (hand-pulled noodles) or Beshbarmak (a traditional meat and noodle dish) in a casual setting. Reddit

For those seeking a more refined dining experience, the 6th floor hosts a pleasant restaurant. Here, you can savor authentic Kyrgyz cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere. It's an excellent opportunity to explore the local flavors after a day of shopping or sightseeing. Reddit Additionally, for a lighter bite or a coffee break, Yahya cafe provides a cozy ambiance to relax and recharge. Reddit

The availability of diverse food options within TSUM makes it a convenient stop for travelers looking to experience local gastronomy without venturing too far. The clean and welcoming environment of the dining areas adds to the overall positive experience. Reddit

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