Kyrgyzstan is a country of mountains. Nestled between China, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan , the country is located in the high mountains of Tian Shan and thus mostly over 1500 meters above sea level. Almost a third of the country is covered by ice and snow. It is home to the snow leopard, which is called the “spirit of the mountains” by natives. Part of today’s Silk Road also runs through Kyrgyzstan.
In Kyrgyzstan, also called Kyrgyzstan, the nomadic culture has survived to this day. Thus, the country is shaped by their traditions and allows a unique insight into this old way of life. Because of this deep-rooted history, travelers are able to join a trekking tour and explore the country on horseback. The night is traditionally spent in yurts run by long-established families who share their meals and way of life with their visitors. An incomparable opportunity to get closer to the culture and the country itself.
Bishkek – City of Culture
The capital Bishkek is the economic and cultural center of the country. It developed out of trade via the Silk Road and was initially only a station for passing caravans. Today, the city is mainly characterized by Soviet buildings. This begins in the central square, Ala-Too Square, and continues to do so. The time of the Soviet Union is also omnipresent in the State Museum of History. The city’s attractions are manageable. The Osh Bazaar is still worth a visit. It is considered the largest market in Central Asia and thus enjoys some notoriety. From food to clothing to electrical appliances, the traders there offer all kinds of things. The capital’s nightlife is said to be the liveliest in all of Central Asia and most bars don’t close until around midnight.
Issykkul – The Warm Lake
Issykkul is the largest of Kyrgyzstan’s 2000 lakes and also the second highest lake in the world. Despite icy temperatures in winter, the surface of the lake never freezes. The causes of this are not yet fully understood. With a depth of up to 668 meters, the lake was formerly used for Soviet submarine tests. The seaside resort of Cholponata is located on the shallow beach of the lake and offers an impressive view over the lake to the mountains beyond. The hotels date back to Soviet times, but are now being renovated to meet the demands of visitors. Not far away, the archaeological site with its rock carvings is also an attraction. There you can see over 2000 illustrations of animals and hunting scenes.
Ala-Archa National Park – home of the snow leopard
The 194 km² national park, which bears the name “multi-coloured juniper”, is located about 40 km south of the capital. The area has been under protection since 1976. The national park is home to about 800 plant and 170 animal species. Among them are Siberian ibex, wolves, lynxes and the shy snow leopard. The park is open to visitors all year round and is easily accessible from the capital. The landscape is wonderful for hiking and is also a worthwhile destination for mountaineers. Horseback riding tours through the park can also be arranged, and camping is also allowed in parts of the area. However, dogs are not allowed to be taken along.
Sary-Chelek – The most beautiful part of Kyrgyzstan
Lake Sary-Chelek and its surroundings are a biosphere reserve recognized by UNESCO. This is sometimes referred to as “the most beautiful sight in Kyrgyzstan”. The reserve covers 24,000 hectares and is home to many plant and animal species. Several lakes and forests are located in this area and travelers can take advantage of the offer of a trekking tour or explore the area on their own.
Skazka – Like from a fairy tale
In fact, Skazka means nothing more than fairy tales. Bizarre rock formations made of red sandstone. Colorful mountains and in between parts of the Great Wall of China. An obscure work of nature. This stretch of landscape lies near the Issykkul. The widely branched canyon stretches over 5 km and offers a sight that you would expect to see in the USA .
Specialties in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyz cuisine is dominated by meat. The typical flatbread is also an important part of every dish. Horse milk is also a special part of the kitchen. It is said to have a particularly strengthening effect. Among other things, it is also processed into yoghurt and cheese, with the salty Kurut balls enjoying particular popularity among the locals. The national dish Laghman is a noodle soup traditionally prepared with mutton and vegetables. Undeniably, it has its roots in China and is also known in most surrounding countries. Although Kyrgyz cuisine has all kinds of surprises in store for travelers, it also offers dishes that are common in Europe in a similar form. There are also many international – but especially Chinese and Korean – restaurants in the cities. Tea enjoys a long tradition in Kyrgyzstan and is still served with preference and abundant hospitality. Another important drink is: fermented mare’s milk. -Quite unusual for foreign tongues.
Holidays in Kyrgyzstan: The best tips
Journey
- Airports:
- Manas International Airport (FRU): About 25 km north of Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.
- Visas: Citizens of many countries, including the EU, can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free. Check the current regulations before you travel.
Best time to visit
- Spring (April to June): Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes.
- Summer (July to September): Ideal time for mountain hikes and other outdoor activities.
- Autumn (October to November): Mild temperatures and colourful autumn landscapes.
- Winter (December to February): Good for winter sports, but very cold in the mountains.
Activities and sights
- Issyk-Kul Lake: One of the largest mountain lakes in the world, ideal for swimming, sailing and hiking.
- Bishkek: The capital offers numerous parks, museums and a lively nightlife.
- Ala-Archa National Park: Popular for hiking, climbing and trekking.
- Osh: One of the oldest cities in Central Asia, known for its bazaar and the sacred Suleiman Mountain.
- Tash-Rabat: A historic caravanserai from the 15th century.
- Yurt Camps: Experience the traditional Kyrgyz way of life at a yurt camp.
Important telephone numbers
- Police: 102
- Fire brigade: 101
- Ambulance service: 103
- General emergency: 112
- German Embassy in Bishkek: +996 312 65 00 00
German Doctors
- SOS International Clinic: Erkindik Boulevard 73/1, Bishkek, +996 312 66 34 92
- Euro Clinic: Manas Avenue 16, Bishkek, +996 312 31 23 23
Important words with translation
- Hello – Салам (Salam)
- Thank You – Рахмат (Rakhmat)
- Please – Сураныч (Suranich)
- Yes – Ооба (Ooba)
- No – Жок (Jok)
- Sorry – Кечиресиз (Kechiresiz)
- Where is…? – Кайда…? (Kaidya…?)
- How much does it cost…? – Канча турат…? (Kancha turat…?)
- Emergency – Кырсык (Kyrsyk)
- Doctor – Дарыгер (Daryger)
- Hospital – Оорукана (Oorukana)
Holidays
- New Year’s Day: January 1
- International Women’s Day: March 8
- Navruz (New Year’s Day): March 21
- Labour Day: 1 May
- Victory Day: May 9
- Independence Day: August 31
- Constitution Day: 5 May
- Islamic holidays: variable (depending on the Islamic calendar), e.g. Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha
Opening hours
- Shops: Usually Monday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Supermarkets: Usually daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Restaurants: Lunch from 12:00 to 15:00, dinner from 18:00 to 22:00.
- Banks: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Airport
- Manas International Airport (FRU): The country’s main airport, located about 25 km north of Bishkek.
NUDISM
- Not common: There are no official nudist beaches or facilities in Kyrgyzstan. Nudism is not practiced and could be considered offensive.
Post / Stamps
- Post offices: In all major cities and towns. Main post office in Bishkek. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Stamps: Available at the post office and in some kiosks.
- Costs for letters and postcards to Germany: Standard letter up to 20g: approx. 40 KGS; Postcard: approx. 30 KGS
Safety
- Crime: Kyrgyzstan is considered relatively safe. Observe common precautions as in any tourist region, especially in busy areas and at night.
- Emergency number: 112
Current
- Voltage: 220 Volts
- Sockets: Type C and F (as in Germany)
Tip
- Restaurants: Tipping is not mandatory, but is welcome if the service is good (5-10%).
- Taxis: Round up the amount
- Hotels: 50-100 KGS per day for cleaning staff
Customs
- Allowances: Personal belongings are duty-free.
- Alcohol: Maximum 2 liters of spirits or wine.
- Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
- Other items: Value up to $1,000 duty-free.
