A little bit about Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan: Full information

Kyrgyzstan, or the Kyrgyz Republic, is a stunning country in Central Asia known for its mountainous landscapes, rich culture, and nomadic traditions. The country is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and cultural tourists. Here is detailed information about Kyrgyzstan.

General information

• Official name: Kyrgyz Republic
• Capital: Bishkek
• Largest cities: Bishkek, Osh, Jalal-Abad, Karakol
• Area: 199,951 km²
• Population: About 6.7 million people (2024)
• Official languages: Kyrgyz (official), Russian (official)
• Currency: Kyrgyz som (KGS)
• Form of government: Presidential republic

Geography

Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country, where more than 90% of the territory is located at an altitude of over 1000 meters above sea level. The main geographical features are:

• Mountains: Kyrgyzstan is located in the Tien Shan mountain system, including peaks such as Pobeda Peak (7439 m) and Lenin Peak (7134 m).
• Lakes: Issyk-Kul, Son-Kul, Sary-Chelek are the main pearls of the country.
• Rivers: Naryn, Chu, Kara-Darya, Sary-Jaz.
• Natural zones: Mountain meadows (jailoo), steppes, forests and desert areas.

Climate

• Climate type: Sharply continental.
• Summer: Warm in the lowlands (+25°C to +40°C), cool in the mountains.
• Winter: Cold, especially in the mountains (up to -30°C).

History

Kyrgyzstan has an ancient and rich history.

• Ancient times: The territory was inhabited by nomadic tribes even in the prehistoric period.
• Kyrgyz Kaganate: In the 9th century, the Kyrgyz founded a powerful state.
• Silk Road: Kyrgyzstan was an important point on the trade route connecting East and West.
• Mongols: In the 13th century, the territory came under the rule of the Mongol Empire.
• Russian Empire: In the 19th century, Kyrgyzstan became part of the Russian Empire.
• Soviet period: In 1936 it became part of the USSR.
• Independence: Proclaimed in 1991.

Culture

Kyrgyzstan is famous for its rich culture, rooted in nomadic traditions.

• National clothing: Kalpak (men's headdress), elechek (women's headdress)
• Kitchen: Main dishes:
  • Beshbarmak (meat with noodles).
  • Lagman (noodles with meat and vegetables).
  • Samsa (filled pies).
  • Kumys (national drink made from mare's milk).
• Traditions: Nomadic life, horse racing, Nauryz and the Issyk-Kul Marathon.

Economy

Kyrgyzstan's economy is based on agriculture, mining and tourism.

• Main industries:
  • Agriculture: cattle breeding, cotton and tobacco growing.
  • Mining: gold, coal, antimony.
  • Tourism: Issyk-Kul, mountain trekking, cultural tours.
• Trade: Main partners are Russia, Kazakhstan, China, Uzbekistan.

Tourism

Kyrgyzstan is one of the best places for active recreation and cultural tourism.

Natural attractions

1. Lake Issyk-Kul:
   • The second largest high-mountain lake in the world.
   • Clean water, beaches, hot springs.
2. Lake Son-Kul:
   • Situated at an altitude of 3016 m.
   • Picturesque jailoos and the opportunity to stay in yurts.
3. Tien Shan Mountains:
   • Trekking, mountaineering and skiing.
4. Sary-Chelek National Park:
   • A nature reserve with unique lakes and forests.

Cultural attractions

1. Burana Tower:
   • An ancient tower from the 11th century, remaining from the city of Balasagun.
2. Osh market (Bishkek):
   • The largest market in the country.
3. Suleiman-Too (Osh):
   • Sacred Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Education and Science

• University: Kyrgyz National University, American University of Central Asia.
• Languages ​​of instruction: Kyrgyz, Russian, English.

Transport

• Aviation: International airports in Bishkek and Osh.
• Railways: Limited, used mainly for freight transport.
• Bus service: A popular form of transport within the country.

Interesting facts

1. Kyrgyzstan is called the "Switzerland of Central Asia" due to its mountainous terrain.
2. Kalpak is a traditional male headdress and is a symbol of Kyrgyz culture.
3. Issyk-Kul never freezes thanks to its geothermal springs.

Kyrgyzstan is a country that combines natural beauty, rich history and warm hospitality. Regardless of the purpose of your visit - whether it is a holiday in Issyk-Kul, trekking in the mountains or immersion in culture, Kyrgyzstan will not leave you indifferent.