Approximate Border Location
Border Countries
- 🇰🇬Kyrgyzstan
- 🇺🇿Uzbekistan
Border Cities
- 🇰🇬Kara–Suu
- 🇺🇿Qorasuv
Wait Times
Cars 30-150m; peaks 180-600m bazaar
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Operating Hours
Open 24 hrs (12:00 AM-11:59 PM)
Crossing Types
Ped,cars,buses; heavy local flow
Border Type
Land crossing via motorway (Fergana)
Peak Times
08:00-11:00 AM; 03:00-07:00 PM
Daily Crossings
15,000-60,000/day
Currency Exchange
KGS; UZS on both sides; ATMs common
Safety Information
High congestion; petty theft risk in crowds
Languages Spoken
Uzbek, Kyrgyz, Russian
Accessibility Features
Step-free varies; narrow sidewalks
About Kara–Suu & Qorasuv
The Kara-Suu-Qorasuv border crossing (also spelled Karasu on the Kyrgyz side or Qorasuv/Karasu on the Uzbek side) connects Kyrgyzstan’s Osh region near the town of Kara-Suu to Uzbekistan’s Andijan region at Qorasuv. You consider this point when traveling in the eastern Ferghana Valley, particularly for routes linking Osh city to Andijan or other Uzbek valley spots. Reopened in September 2024 after a 14-year closure, it serves road traffic (and possibly rail in parts) and stands as a secondary option alongside the busier Dostuk/Dustlik crossing farther west. This facility supports improved bilateral ties, focusing on local trade, family visits, and regional movement rather than heavy tourist flows.
Location and Connections
The crossing lies in the densely populated Ferghana Valley, with Kara-Suu town about 20-25 km east of Osh in Kyrgyzstan and Qorasuv roughly similar distance from Andijan in Uzbekistan. From Osh, shared taxis or marshrutkas head east along the highway toward Kara-Suu (30-45 minutes); on the Uzbek side, taxis connect to Andijan markets or onward routes. The area features flat, irrigated farmland, orchards, and busy bazaar vibes in nearby towns. It includes road lanes for vehicles and pedestrians; rail elements exist in the broader corridor but passenger use stays limited. No-man’s-land involves a short drive or walk between posts.
Historical and Geopolitical Background
Soviet-era borders in the Ferghana Valley created a tangled web of lines, enclaves, and disputes that persisted after independence. Kara-Suu-Qorasuv closed around 2010 amid security concerns, ethnic tensions, and water/land issues that flared in the valley. The 2022 delimitation treaty and subsequent agreements eased much friction, enabling the September 2024 reopening as part of broader cooperation. The point ties into local economies: Kara-Suu hosts one of Central Asia’s largest markets, drawing Uzbek traders, while Qorasuv serves as a trade hub. Fun fact: the valley’s borders once split families and villages, with enclaves like Sokh nearby adding complexity until recent deals clarified lines.
Current Status and Operating Hours
By early 2026, the crossing operates actively following its 2024 reopening, with no major reported shutdowns. Hours generally cover daylight (around 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or extended), though some sources note flexibility. It sees local and commercial traffic; peaks occur on weekends, markets days, or holidays. Valley weather includes scorching summers (stay hydrated) and occasional rain muddying approaches. Discussions in February 2026 mentioned potential new checkpoints in Kara-Suu district, but this main point remains the focus. Confirm via Kyrgyz Border Service, Uzbek authorities, or traveler updates, as smaller reopenings can adjust quickly.
Crossing Procedures Step by Step
You clear exit from one country then entry into the other. From Kyrgyzstan to Uzbekistan: at Kyrgyz post near Kara-Suu, get exit stamp (passport check, questions on travel). Drive or walk across short zone to Uzbek immigration at Qorasuv for entry stamp, customs scan, and possible vehicle inspection. Reverse process applies. Procedures stay straightforward with basic security; waits range from 30 minutes to 1-2 hours depending on crowds. Vehicles may face extra checks; pedestrians handle shorter lines. Recent reopenings emphasize smooth processing for eligible travelers.
Visa Requirements for Foreign Visitors
Kyrgyzstan grants visa-free entry or e-visas to most nationalities (up to 60 days for many Western passports). Uzbekistan requires e-visas for nearly all foreigners (apply online ahead, $20-50 USD fee, 2-3 days processing; no visa-on-arrival at land points). Print e-visa confirmation; carry passport copies and photos. Since 2023, Kyrgyz and Uzbek citizens cross with ID cards, but foreigners need full passports. Six-month validity applies; restrictions for certain nationalities persist. Smaller crossings like this scrutinize docs; verify via embassies or portals before attempting.
Transportation Options and Road Details
Shared taxis run from Osh to Kara-Suu post (cheap and frequent); from Uzbek side, taxis to Andijan. Private cars cross if insured and compliant (NOC for financed vehicles if relevant). Roads stay paved on main approaches but rural sections vary. Full Osh-Andijan trip takes 1-2 hours plus border time. No regular buses cross directly; arrange onward transport post-clearance. Daylight preferred for safety and visibility.
Scams and Safety Warnings
Market-heavy areas attract minor hassles: poor exchange rates (change elsewhere), overpriced taxis, or “helpers” pushing services. Stick to official lanes and fees. The valley has stabilized post-agreements, with no recent major incidents at this point, but ethnic or local tensions linger in pockets. Foreigners may draw questions; avoid unofficial paths. Monitor news for any flare-ups, register with embassies, and carry contacts. Low overall risk for cautious travelers.
Nearby Attractions and Practical Tips
Kara-Suu’s massive bazaar offers goods from both countries—great for people-watching or cheap buys. In Uzbekistan, Andijan features historic sites, madrasahs, and markets. Carry USD cash (for fees/exchange), water, snacks, and passport copies. Start early to beat crowds; have backups like Dostuk if queues build. Use apps for local transport.
Final Notes for Planning
Kara-Suu-Qorasuv provides a viable, less-crowded Ferghana Valley option since reopening, ideal for regional hops. Sort e-visas, check status close to travel, and prepare for standard checks. With basics handled, it opens easy access across this historic valley divide. Safe journeys. (Word count: 958)
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