Kyrgyzstan is a unique country in Central Asia, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, which is worth a visit for everyone, because there is a lot to see here. Located between China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, it occupies an important geopolitical position in the region. The country's history goes back thousands of years, starting with ancient nomadic tribes. The modern independent state appeared after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Kyrgyzstan's culture is rich and diverse. Here you can find traditional yurts, see national costumes, and enjoy nomadic music played on the komuz, the national stringed instrument. Kyrgyz cuisine is also noteworthy, offering dishes from horse meat, lamb, beef, and fresh vegetables that are definitely worth trying. You can read more about Kyrgyz traditions at the link.
Tourism in the country is developing rapidly. In summer and winter, fans of ecotourism, recreation in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, and mountaineering come here, wishing to explore the magnificent mountain landscapes, including the Tien Shan and Pamir, to look at the incredible bird's-eye view. One of the major natural attractions is Lake Issyk-Kul; it is one of the largest high mountain lakes in the world. The geography includes a variety of landscapes from high peaks to fertile valleys. The country is famous for its mountains, which occupy more than 90% of its territory, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The official language is Kyrgyz, but Russian is also widely used and is considered an official language.
Which transport to choose to get to Kyrgyzstan and how to travel around the country
There are several ways to get to Kyrgyzstan. The most convenient is air travel. Manas International Airport, located near the capital, Bishkek, accepts flights from various parts of the world. You can also fly to Osh International Airport, which serves the southern regions of the country. You can see the cost of tickets on the official websites of tour operators.
If you prefer to travel by land transport, you can use buses or cars, especially in summer. The roads in the country, especially in the highlands, can be difficult to travel, so renting an SUV would be a good choice. From neighboring countries, you can also travel by train, but it will take longer and require transfers.
Within the country, you can get around by buses, shuttles, and cabs. For convenience and to save time, domestic flights between Bishkek and Osh are available.
Best time to travel to Kyrgyzstan
The best time to travel to Kyrgyzstan depends on your preferences and goals. For trekking and hiking, the best time to visit is in the summer — the perfect months to visit are June through September. In summer, the weather is warm, nature is in bloom, and the mountain trails are accessible for trekking. If you plan to ski or snowboard, winter — from December to February — will be the optimal time. Prices for vacations in Kyrgyzstan depend on the season — in high season they are more expensive, in low season they are cheaper.
The best places to see and explore in Kyrgyzstan
The country is rich in attractions, and there is something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular places to visit on a vacation to Kyrgyzstan in summer or any other time of the year:
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Lake Issyk-Kul is one of the country's main natural gems and is definitely worth seeing. This salt lake is surrounded by mountains, and its water stays warm even in winter. You can swim, boat, and enjoy the beautiful views here.
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Bishkek is the capital city. Here you can visit museums, see parks, and explore the local culture. Ala-Too Square, the State Historical Museum, and Panfilov Park are must-see places. Other recommendations on where to go in the city are detailed in another article at the link. In this article, you will also find the coolest restaurants in Bishkek where you can find authentic Kyrgyz cuisine.
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Karakol is a city at the foot of the Tien Shan, known for its ski resorts and unique wooden Dungan Mosque. A detailed guide to Karakol can be found at the link.
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Son-Kul is a high-mountain lake surrounded by pastures. Here you can stay in a yurt, get acquainted with the life of nomads, and enjoy the silence and beauty of Kyrgyzstan's nature.
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Ala-Archa National Park, near Bishkek, is a popular place for trekking and mountaineering. Here you can see majestic mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.
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Osh is an ancient city in the south of the country with a rich history. It is worth visiting the sacred mountain Suleiman-Too, the mosque of Rabat-Abdullah Khan, and the Osh Bazaar. Here is more about tourism in this city.
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Uzgen is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with more than 2000 years of history. In the article, we have compiled a guide to Uzgen.
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Jalal-Abad is the third largest city in Kyrgyzstan, and Jalal-Abad region is rich in beautiful natural places. We tell you what is worth seeing here.
Summer in Kyrgyzstan is the perfect time for traveling and adventures with friends. Here you will find places that are definitely worth visiting to create unique memories.
National currency
The national currency of Kyrgyzstan is the som, KGS. You can exchange money in exchange offices, banks, and hotels. It is best to exchange currency in major cities, as it will be more difficult to find exchangers in remote areas. Credit cards are accepted in major population centers and tourist destinations, but cash is still the main method of payment. Local prices are extremely low and will not make tourists splurge. You can see the current exchange rate on the banks' websites.
How to look for and rent accommodation
How much does a vacation in Kyrgyzstan cost? In Kyrgyzstan, you can find accommodation for every taste and budget. In major cities, hotels, hostels, and apartments are available. For a more authentic experience, you can stay in guest houses or yurts. This way, you will be able to see the life of ancient peoples.
Holidays in Kyrgyzstan, near Issyk-Kul and Karakol, the most famous tourist locations, are quite comfortable. There are many accommodation options here, from luxury hotels to camping sites. On vacation in Kyrgyzstan, prices are different — depending on the desired level of comfort. Viewing the current offers can be found on the websites of tour operators and official resources of local hotels.
Summarizing
Kyrgyzstan is an amazing country with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Everyone will find something to see here: from mountain hiking and swimming in lakes to getting acquainted with local traditions and cuisine. Traveling to Kyrgyzstan will be an unforgettable adventure full of discoveries and impressions. No matter which way you choose to travel and no matter what time of year you choose, the vacation areas in Kyrgyzstan will delight you with their hospitality and unique atmosphere.
