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Kyrgyzstan
©Ҿڴڱڱ/ܳٳٱٴdz
Overview
Kyrgyzstan (Кыргызстан) is a nation defined by its natural beauty. Joyously unspoilt mountainscapes, stark craggy ridges and rolling jailoos (summer pastures) are brought to life by semi-nomadic, yurt-dwelling shepherds. Add to this a well-developed network of homestays and visa-free travel, and it's easy to see why Kyrgyzstan (officially the Kyrgyz Republic), is the gateway of choice for many travelers in Central Asia.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Kyrgyzstan
Remote even by Kyrgyzstan standards, magnificent ö-ܳ lake stretches over 10km through a sheer mountain gorge that reaches nearly to the Chinese border…
Bishkek
Collections of Kyrgyz embroidery and felt rugs, a splendid variety of paintings, and rotating exhibitions of local and international touring works all…
Kyrgyzstan
Winding 10km up a dirt road off the Kazarman–Chaek highway, brilliant -ö lake reflecting the surrounding peaks and the village beyond are a real…
Kyrgyzstan
This turquoise-hued glacial lake is one of the most beautiful in Chuy oblast, and the surrounding peaks and verdant pastures certainly don't do anything…
Kyrgyzstan
Though the full Unesco Biosphere Reserve includes seven mountain lakes and numerous rare flora and fauna, the star attraction for most visitors is the…
Kyrgyzstan
Burana is a popular side-trip when driving between Issyk-Köl and Bishkek. In the fields south of Tokmok, the Burana Tower is the 24m-high stump of a huge…
Bishkek
This modest museum forms a concrete shell around the thatched cottage that was allegedly the birthplace of Mikhail Vasilievich Frunze (1885–1925), for…
Bishkek
Surveyed by a triumphant statue of Айкол Манас (Mighty Manas), Bishkek's nominal centre is architecturally neobrutalist in style but has a photogenic…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
A visit to Kyrgyzstan evokes the rugged spirit of Silk Road exploration - fuel your dream adventure with these cultural, culinary and mountain experiences.
Read articleBest Places to Visit
From valleys to mountains, take your pick of the best of Kyrgyzstan with our guide to the top places to visit.
Read articleBest Time to Visit
From trekking through mountain passes in summer to skiing and festivals in winter, this is what Kyrgyzstan has to offer year-round.
Read articleThings to Know
From logistical concerns to social mores to personal safety, here’s what you need to know before you next trip to Kyrgyzstan.
Read articleArticles
Latest stories from Kyrgyzstan
Filter by interest:
Destination PracticalitiesEverything you need to know about your first trip to KyrgyzstanMay 24, 2024 • 7 min read
ActivitiesUzbekistan vs Kyrgyzstan: which Central Asian country should you explore?Mar 20, 2024 • 7 min read
Sustainable TravelHow artificial intelligence is helping these companies protect the world's wildlifeSep 30, 2020 • 6 min read
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