Tourist handbook before travelling
Kyrgyzstan (also Kyrgyzstan) is a country in the heart of Eurasia, 85th in the world by area and 117th by population. Kyrgyzstan borders Kazakhstan, China, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Kyrgyzstan is a multi-ethnic country, but the majority of the population is Kyrgyz. In addition to the Kyrgyz, there are a large number of Uzbeks, Russians, Dungans and Uigurs. Kyrgyzstan is a secular state, with Islam (80% of the population) and Christianity (10%) being prevalent among the religions practiced.
About the country
Kyrgyzstan is a country in Central Asia, famous for its majestic mountains, mirror-like lakes and hospitable people. Having visited Kyrgyzstan once, you will come back to it again and again in your memories, but most likely you will come back for new experiences.
Kyrgyzstan is unrivalled in the variety of tourist destinations and historical and natural attractions it offers. The Pamir Mountains and the «heavenly mountains» of Tien Shan are a favourite destination for mountain skiing enthusiasts, the pristine high-mountain lake of Issyk-Kul with its sandy beaches awaits sun-worshippers, and the relict walnut and pine forests are always ready to hide you from prying eyes.
Historically located at the crossroads of the Great Silk Road, Kyrgyzstan has absorbed all the flavour of Asia, from its nomadic culture to oriental culinary delights, from Buddhist temples and statues to ancient Orthodox cathedrals. You will never get bored with Kyrgyz yurts, kumys, golden eagle hunting, traditional horse races, the epic «Manas» and funny improvisations of Akyn poets. All this Kyrgyzstan combines with the technology of the 21st century and the untouched wilderness for which it is so famous. In other words, a real find for the tourist — that’s what Kyrgyzstan is all about!
Language
Kyrgyz is the country’s state language, and the role of Russian as an official language has also been legislated. Uzbek is also widely spoken in the southern part of Kyrgyzstan. English is to some extent present only in the capital city, but in tourist areas it is quite possible to explain oneself in English.
Geography and climate
Kyrgyzstan is bordered by China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan and is located in a place where the ancient Tien Shan and Pamir mountains, which cover almost 90% of the country, meet. Among these mountains, there are 3 peaks above 7,000 metres and the average altitude of the country is approximately 2,750 metres above sea level.
The country is rich in rushing rivers and mountain lakes, but the most famous lake is Issyk-Kul, one of the largest and deepest lakes on the planet. The highlight of Issyk-Kul is its location between two mountain systems, which allows you to admire the snowy peaks even in summer, sunbathing on the hot sand by the shore. The peculiarity of the lake is also its water — crystal clear, incredibly rich blue in colour and slightly salty in taste, which makes Issyk-Kul a full-fledged analogue of the sea.
Most parts of the country belong to areas with a moderate continental and continental climate, the remaining regions range from a polar climate in the high mountains of Tien Shan to a subtropical climate in the south-west of the country (Fergana Valley). The amount of precipitation also varies greatly from place to place. The average summer daytime temperature on the plains is 30-32 degrees, but in winter it stays around 0. In the mountainous areas the temperature is on average 5-10 degrees lower, i.e. 20-25 degrees in summer and -10 degrees in winter.
When is the best time to go to Kyrgyzstan?
The most popular season to travel to Kyrgyzstan is summer. At this time of year you can fully appreciate most of the attractions the country has to offer: for example, from May to October the weather allows you to go hiking in inaccessible mountainous areas with breathtaking views of natural beauty without any problems. This is an ideal time for trekking, hiking, cycling, river rafting, paragliding, horse riding and much more.
The summer season in Kyrgyzstan is also good for beach holidays on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul. You can alternate relaxing sunbathing by the water with diving, windsurfing, jet skiing and numerous attractions.
For lovers of downhill skiing and snowboarding, the winter period is also good. Nearby Bishkek and Karakol there are comfortable ski resorts, with courses of all levels of difficulty. And if you’re a freeride, backcountry skiing enthusiast, or just want a new experience, the vast expanses of the Kyrgyz mountains can give you a lot of amazing emotions.
The rest of the year is also very interesting. In spring, for example, koumiss treatment is very popular and is often combined with accommodation in a yurt on a jailoo, far away from civilisation. Historical sites, ancient settlements and gastronomic tours are available all year round, and a large number of geothermal springs, health resorts and well-known health centres throughout the CIS are waiting for visitors to improve their health regardless of the season.
What do I need to enter Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is as unbureaucratic a country as possible for tourists to visit. It has completely abolished the registration of foreign nationals arriving for up to 60 and in some cases up to 90 days. Visa regimes with 62 countries in Europe, Asia and America have also been abolished. Residents of EAEU countries (Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus and Armenia) can visit Kyrgyzstan with their internal passports. A full list of visa-free countries can be found here.
Getting to Kyrgyzstan is relatively easy, despite the seeming remoteness of the country. There are regular direct flights to Bishkek from almost all airports in major Russian cities (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk), as well as from airports in Istanbul (the most popular option for Europeans), Dubai, Urumqi, Delhi and cities in Central Asia. The average ticket price is rarely more than 20,000 soms ($236); an average ticket costs 10,000-12,000 soms ($100-150).
Besides air travel, you can also go to Kyrgyzstan by train. Long-distance trains come to Bishkek from many Russian cities, including Moscow. It is, of course, also possible to enter Kyrgyzstan by car through the Kazakh, Uzbek, Tajik and Chinese borders.
As everywhere else, the COVID-19 pandemic has made its adjustments, and when entering Kyrgyzstan they are as follows: to enter the country, foreign nationals and stateless persons must present the results of a PCR test carried out within the last 72 hours from selection before arrival in the country or a document (certificate) certifying receipt of the COVID-19 coronavirus infection vaccine. This requirement does not apply to children under 5 years of age (inclusive).
Check possible additional requirements and the list of countries allowed for entry at the following link to the website of the Kyrgyz Ministry of Foreign Affairs
What can I do in Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is an ideal holiday destination if you are partial to natural beauty.
Kyrgyzstan is still popular among residents of the CIS countries as a resort and wellness holiday destination thanks to the warm and gentle shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, rightfully considered the Central Asian sea. The large size of the lake, the clearest water without jellyfish and algae, warm climate, amazing natural conditions (the lake is surrounded by mountains on all sides and is 1,700 metres above sea level) make it one of the best options for recreation.
Besides classic beach lovers, Kyrgyzstan also attracts mountain lovers, mountain climbers, rock climbers, hikers, bikers, auto-tourists and others. The vastness of the Kyrgyz mountains is so great that one can travel deep into the mountain ranges and gorges for literally months without encountering people on the way.
Kyrgyzstan is also interesting for its ancient nomadic culture. It is one of the few countries in the world where the people have preserved their traditional way of life. All the flavour of nomadism: yurts, vast herds of sheep and horses, coloured felt with ethnic patterns, amazing Asian cuisine are preserved in Kyrgyzstan as it all existed for centuries.
How to travel in Kyrgyzstan?
Travel within the country, due to its small size, can be quite quick, convenient and budget-friendly, especially when it comes to popular tourist destinations. The main mode of transport in Kyrgyzstan is by road. All cities and large villages of the country are connected by intercity routes in the form of shuttle buses, with prices ranging from 200 to 1,500 soms per person, depending on the distance.
Private carriage is well developed and you can find a taxi in almost any village to take you wherever you want to go.
Besides cars, there is Bishkek-Balykchy railway, which connects Chui and Issyk-Kul oblasts, but it works only in summer. The average ticket price is 69 KGS.
Kyrgyzstan also has domestic flights, which connect the southern and northern parts of the country, separated from each other by high mountains. The average ticket price for a Bishkek-Osh flight is 2000-3500 soms.
Money and prices in Kyrgyzstan
The national currency in Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyz som, which is the only means of payment in the country. Cash is in circulation. Exchange offices are widely available in Bishkek and major regional cities. Credit cards, VISA, MasterCard and PayPal are accepted in hotels, restaurants and most banks in Bishkek.
Dollar/Som exchange rate as at 27 January 2022: 1$ = 84.80 soms.
Currently, KGS is represented by four denominations of coins (1, 3, 5 and 10 KGS) and eight denominations of banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000.
Kyrgyzstan is a fairly inexpensive country for tourists, especially when compared to popular tourist destinations. It is worth noting that prices may vary depending on the region and season.
Thus, an average price for a night in a hostel or hotel will range from 400 to 2000 soms (330-1700 RUB), depending on location and comfort level. The average price of a meal in a café for one person ranges from 200 to 400 KGS (170-330 RUB). Public transport in town will cost 11 soms for a bus or trolleybus ride and 15 soms for a minibus ride, and 30-1000 soms for an intercity ride.
Mobile communications and the internet
All populated areas of Kyrgyzstan are covered by GSM networks of mobile operators, of which there are three in the country. However, it is worth knowing that due to the large number of mountains and in remote areas there may be no connectivity. Mobile internet is well developed; major cities offer 3G and 4G internet access, with fairly inexpensive unlimited rates starting at 50 KGS per week.
Conventional internet is also quite well developed. Many establishments in major cities have free Wi-Fi.
Security
Based on an analysis of existing risks, trends, country context, Kyrgyzstan is considered to be a safe country for foreign visitors/tourists, and security risks in Kyrgyzstan are defined as low.
Petty crime is no more common in large cities than in any other country. Pickpocketing in public places and on public transport is possible, so visitors are advised to use common sense and basic precautions. Extra caution on the road, especially in major cities and district centres, is also helpful. This applies to pedestrians as well as motorists. You should also be careful when out walking at night — avoid «tipsy» groups and choose well-lit, safe routes.
Kyrgyzstan is a fairly safe and tourist-friendly country. However, like everywhere else, there are some things you need to know to feel as comfortable and safe as possible.
In the Kyrgyz Republic, 112 is a single emergency number:
fire brigade;
emergency response;
police;
emergency medical care;
the emergency service of the gas network;
The 112 number is available free of charge from both fixed and mobile phones, including public payphones.
Road safety
A significant number of tourists visiting Kyrgyzstan invariably note that the level of driving in the country is quite low. Traffic rules are often violated, pedestrians cross the road in inappropriate places, and drivers, in turn, may ignore pedestrians and cyclists. So when you come to Kyrgyzstan it is important to remember that rules are no substitute for common sense. Always keep your eyes on the road, and be as careful as you can behind the wheel of a car.
When cycling, try to ride closer to the roadside, and dismount when crossing intersections and pedestrian crossings.
Pickpocket thieves and fraudsters
Stealing is not a particular problem in Kyrgyzstan, nor is fraud. However, in public places — public transport, bazaars, etc. — Valuables should be kept with you and under supervision. This applies to your wallet, mobile phone and other gadgets as well as your luggage bags, backpacks, etc. If you are travelling in Kyrgyzstan on a bicycle, try not to leave it unattended, even with the lock on. It is also unsafe to leave valuables in a locked car in a visible place if you leave the car in crowded places.
It is difficult to encounter any fraud in everyday life in Kyrgyzstan. The most insecure places in this regard are private currency exchange offices, so carefully count your money when exchanging currency in such places, or better just avoid them and exchange money in a bank.
Walking at night
In large cities, walking at night can be a good pastime. However, it is best to beware of poorly lit areas, as well as drunken companies, which, alas, may be encountered on the streets.
Ordering a taxi
On the streets of Kyrgyz cities at any time of the day or night, you can find many cars of taxi drivers looking for clients. However, quite often they work for themselves and are not controlled by anyone, so for the sake of greater safety it is better to use taxi services than to get into the first car you see on the street.
Alcohol and soft drugs
Kyrgyzstan is a country with a fairly large amount of alcohol consumed per person. It is not uncommon to see drunken companies in the streets, villages, etc. However, the country has quite clear rules on alcohol consumption. By law, you are not allowed to be drunk in public places. It is also forbidden to drink alcohol in public places, except in bars, cafes, and restaurants.
The drug problem should be mentioned separately. Cannabis, opium poppy (!), ephedra and some other plants that can be classified as narcotic drugs or raw materials for their production grow freely and in large quantities in the wild on the territory of Kyrgyzstan. Often you can find cannabis bushes even in large cities, including Bishkek. However, possession of narcotic substances is a criminal offence in Kyrgyzstan, so by picking and taking these plants with you, you are breaking the law. It is therefore best to refrain from such interactions, even for the purpose of taking photographs or anything else.
Appearance
Kyrgyzstan is a rather traditional country, with a large number of religious people, and therefore very different from the local norms of behaviour and unusual appearance can attract undue attention, which can also have negative consequences. Keep this in mind.
How to be a responsible tourist?
One of the aims of our project is to develop sustainable tourism in Kyrgyzstan.
Try not to harm nature and the places where you travel. Leave no litter behind and respect the nature and architecture of the places you visit. Use biodegradable shampoos, soaps, laundry detergents and sunscreen when travelling in remote areas. If possible, take other people’s rubbish with you.
Try to use the services of local people, buy local products and souvenirs. By investing in the local economy, you support people’s livelihoods, culture and self-reliance.
Respect the culture and traditions of local people.
Disseminate this information and get it out to as many people as possible.
Customs regime
Adults are allowed to bring in 2 litres of alcoholic drinks and 200 cigarettes.
Sporting and hunting weapons may be imported by foreign nationals into the territory of Kyrgyzstan with mandatory declaration. It is also necessary to have an invitation from a legal entity holding a hunting licence, a contract for hunting with the said legal entity or an invitation to participate in sporting events and an appropriate permit from the internal affairs bodies of the KR. Said weapons must be taken out of the country within the time period specified in the contract or invitation.
Foreign currency valued in excess of USD 3,000 is subject to a written declaration. It is subject to a written declaration.
Permitted for importation:
Photo, audio, video and office equipment, household appliances and electrical appliances — 1 item of each item per person.
Medicines — 500 g per person.
Printed publications, videos, CDs, films — 10 of each item per person.
Carpets — 2 pieces.
Foreign nationals are prohibited from bringing into the territory of Kyrgyzstan and using on the territory of Kyrgyzstan all types, types and models of weapons, even for the purposes of personal security, protection of life and health of other citizens, their property, escorting cargo and for other purposes, unless provided for in international treaties of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Forbidden souvenirs
Cultural property that may not be exported (transferred) from the Kyrgyz Republic
The following items of historical, scientific, artistic or other cultural value may not be exported (sent) from the Kyrgyz Republic
1. Cultural property, irrespective of the time of its creation, protected by the state and entered in protection lists and registers according to the procedure established by the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic.
2. Cultural property of artistic, historical and other cultural value and classified under the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic as especially valuable objects of cultural heritage of the peoples of the Kyrgyz Republic, regardless of the form of ownership and time of their creation.
3. Cultural property permanently stored in state and municipal museums, archives, libraries and other state depositories of cultural property of the Kyrgyz Republic.
4. Values associated with historical events and the development of society and the state, as well as those related to the life and work of eminent persons.
5. Parts and fragments of architectural, historical, artistic monuments and monuments of monumental art.
6. Objects and fragments thereof resulting from archaeological excavations (authorized and unauthorized) or archaeological discoveries and finds.
7. Icons and religious objects made before the mid-nineteenth century and of significant historical or artistic value.
8. Unique pieces from all eras, made of gold, platinum, natural gems (diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, pearl, alexandrite), over 50 years old.
Shopping, banking and museum opening hours
Grocery shops are usually open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 24 hours, grocery shops from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Banks are open from 9 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. from Monday to Friday, with Saturdays and Sundays off.