47 It’s Time To Visit Kyrgyzstan

10 Reasons Why You Must Discover this Magical Central Asian Country!

This wonderful country should be on everyone’s list of places to go. Indeed this central Asian nation is not greatly known about and that is why now the time to discover it!

Created after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Kyrgyzstan is stunningly beautiful, its unspoilt and there are few places anywhere to match its spectacular wilderness.

1. Experience Wilderness Like Never Before

Everywhere in the world is beautiful but Kyrgyzstan is probably the most geographically varied. Mountains cover 90% of the country and there are 3,000 lakes, hundreds of rivers and numerous glaciers, making this an ideal adventure and nature lover’s paradise. With enormous forests, vivid deserts, lush meadows, high-alpine lakes, and mountains reaching 7,000m, there are so many landscapes to choose from in Kyrgyzstan.

2. Which Activity To Choose?

A wide variety of activities are on offer from rock climbing, white-water rafting and mountain biking, to wildlife safaris, hiking, and of course horse riding, among others.

Khan Tengri Peak

6. No.1 For Horse-riding

Being a nomadic culture, horses are very important to Kyrgyzstan. Horses provide a means of transport, a source of subsistence, and a friend on long isolated rides. Horses are found all over the country from the countryside to backyards to even on the side of the road! So, if you have never ridden a horse before, now is the time to do it and in the best place on earth too. The Kyrgyz are very experienced horsemen.

3. Sleep In A Yurt

The yurt is the national symbol of Kyrgyzstan, so you must try sleeping in one at least once. These big strong durable tent structures are made from wood, felt and animal hides and are still integral to nomadic society. They are warm and cosy as many have a stove in them.

4. The Locals Are Very Warm And Friendly

As in almost all nomad cultures, when it comes to hospitality, guests are treated like royalty. The locals see hosting you as a privilege and in return it is an honour for you to be hosted. They are curious to find out about you your life and intrigued to learn about new people and places! Living as they do and where they do means the Kyrgyz people are resilient and strong willed because they have to be to survive. Few cultures can mix warmth and strength as well as the Kyrgyz.

5. Unique Nomadic Culture

Central Asia is vast and its history is full of nomadic tribes. The Kyrgyz are one with their horses, like one free spirit. It is second nature to them and you feel this out in the wilderness. Even with some modern conveniences, they remain descendants of the Mongols and Ghenghis Khan and so they can ride horses before they can walk. Tradition is everything.

Bishkek is one of the world’s smallest and most unknown international capitals. That makes it wonderful! It’s a gateway to the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Mountains and Ala Archa National Park, with glaciers and wildlife trails. The city’s arts scene encompasses the monumental State Museum of Fine Arts and the colonnaded Opera and Ballet Theatre.

The Victory monument, Bishkeke

It has everything you need to at the start and end of your trip, with good vibes, good food, and good beer.

8. The History Is Fascinating

Kyrgyzstan, like most of Central Asia, is one of the great crossroads of the world. Many of history’s great powers have passed through here, be it on the Silk Road or to conquer. From the Mongols, kingdoms of China, to the Soviets, all have played a part in Kyrgyz history and left their mark, making Kyrgyzstan a fascinating destination.

7. Bishkek The Capital

The Opera & Ballet Theatre, Bishkek

9. The Hot Springs Are Divine

There are lots of hot springs around Kyrgyzstan! In Bishkek, the Issyk Ata Springs are located just outside the city. Further away in the Ala-Too Mountains and Karakol, are the thermal springs of Altyn Arashan, but for a more wild experience try some primitive springs near Enylcheck that are less known about. Apart from being relaxing, the water is also believed to have healing properties thanks to an abundance of minerals. So don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!

10. Not Yet Discovered

Kyrgyzstan is not a popular international destination…yet! In 2019, it welcomed just 3.6 million tourists and many of these were from Russia or neighbouring Kazakhstan, very few from Europe. Tourism is still in its infancy, which means an authentic experience but also a lack of traditional tourist infrastructure.

Ala Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan