Kyrgyzstan (officially the Kyrgyz Republic) is a country in the very heart of Central Asia. Most of the country is covered by scenic mountains and ranges, as the entire territory lies within two mountain systems. The northeastern part belongs to the Tien Shan, while the southwestern part lies within the Pamir-Alay system.
Kyrgyzstan does not share a border with Russia but borders Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China.
The capital of the country is Bishkek, the largest city with a population of over one million. The second-largest city is Osh, often referred to as the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan, with a population of around half a million.
The Kyrgyz Republic has a population of over 7 million people. The main religion is Sunni Islam, while the government is a secular unitary presidential republic.
Kyrgyzstan is very popular among tourists from Europe and North America. However, in the CIS countries, especially in Russia, many people are still unaware of this wonderful travel destination. The country has two official languages: Kyrgyz and Russian. In almost every region of the Kyrgyz Republic, you can easily communicate in Russian.
The official currency in Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyz som. The average exchange rate to the Russian ruble is approximately 1 to 1, but it is recommended to check the current rates on bank or exchange office websites before your trip, as there can be significant fluctuations.
As with any trip, it’s best not to exchange money at the airport due to unfavorable rates. You can easily exchange money at any bank or exchange office in the city.
Interestingly, in Bishkek you can also exchange cryptocurrency for dollars or soms at special exchange points.
Russian citizens can enter Kyrgyzstan using only their internal passport, without needing a foreign passport, and may stay without registration for up to 30 days. No visa is required.
Thanks to this visa-free regime, the Kyrgyz Republic is one of the most accessible and convenient destinations for Russian tourists. In practice, we often see Russian tourists fly to Bishkek for a weekend to take one-day tours or swim in Issyk-Kul.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the availability of familiar services in Kyrgyzstan. In most major cities, you can use Yandex Go for ordering taxis. The average taxi ride in Bishkek costs 200–300 soms. There are also many food delivery services available. For navigation, 2GIS is commonly used, though Yandex Maps also work well.
The fastest and most convenient way is by plane. For example, a flight from Moscow to Bishkek takes just 4 hours, with ticket prices ranging from 10,000 to 18,000 rubles depending on the season.
Of course, you can also drive your own car, but it’s quite a long journey. Since Kyrgyzstan does not share a border with Russia, you’ll have to drive through Kazakhstan. From Moscow, the road distance is about 3,700 km.
Most tourist routes in Kyrgyzstan start from Bishkek. Below is a short list of places you can visit in and around Bishkek in just one day.
Ala-Too Square – the main square and cultural heart of the capital. National holidays, fairs, and music events are held here.
Osh Bazaar – the most colorful market in the capital, where you can find traditional souvenirs, aromatic spices, dried fruits, and handcrafted goods.
Panfilov Park – a green area in the city center surrounded by century-old trees. A perfect place for a walk before lunch or in the evening to relax in the shade.
The State Historical Museum – a museum with exhibits showcasing nomadic culture, ethnography, and the history of Kyrgyzstan.
The White House and Parliament building – an example of modern architecture that contrasts beautifully with the city's traditional eastern atmosphere.
Dordoi Market – one of the largest wholesale and retail markets in Central Asia. You’ll find everything here: from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs.
National Ala-Archa Park – just 40 minutes from downtown Bishkek, you’ll find yourself in a scenic alpine valley with glaciers and winding mountain trails.
Burana Tower – one of the oldest monuments along the Silk Road, located near Tokmok. A hallmark of many sightseeing tours.
In two days, we'll ascend to 3500-meter peaks, sit by the campfire in the heart of the Tien Shan range by Lake Son-Kul, and have an amazing time
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Visit two pearls of Kyrgyzstan in 1 day on a car tour
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Experience all the beauty of Kyrgyzstan's nature behind the wheel of a comfortable and daring BMW F650GS tour enduro. These impressions are worth any money and will never be forgotten.
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Visit the Valley of the Seven Bulls, see Issyk-Kul and relax in the thermal springs
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Forgotten Rivers and Mountain Peaks: A Journey Along the Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul is a three-day tour that immerses you in the unique natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan.
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This route combines the picturesque mountain canyons of Kok-Moinok, Lake Issyk-Kul, the taste of national cuisine and a trip along one of the most beautiful roads in the country – the Boom Gorge.
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