The Basics
Country: Kyrgyzstan
Where is it?: Kyrgyzstan is in central Asia, west of China.
Why do people go here?: If you want to see true traditional Cental Asia, then this is the place to start.
What are the main entry points?: A few flights land in Bishkek although they are sometimes difficult to find. The best way to enter Kyrgyzstan is to fly into Kazakstan and then take a bus to Bishkek, which is the capital of Kyrgystan.
Currency used: Som
Country Code for Phones: 996
Religion: Muslim 75%, Russian Orthodox 20%, other 5%
Population: 5.4 million
Ethnic Groups: Kyrgyz 64.9%, Uzbek 13.8%, Russian 12.5%, Dungan 1.1%, Ukrainian 1%, Uygur 1%, other 5.7%
Government: Republic
Languages: Kyrgyz – official language, Russian – official language
Travel Information
Major Cities: Bishkek
Attractions: Lake Issyk-Kul, Ala-Archa Canyon
Accommodation: Asia Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: No Tourism Office
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Central Tian Shan
Health Issues: hepatitis, diphtheria, altitude sickness, tuberculosis
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Depending upon the elevation will determine the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan. In general, April through May at the lower elevations and September through October. Always check weather conditions before traveling in the mountains.
Specific Events/Holidays: Constitution Day: May 5, Victory Day May 9, Armed Forces Day May 29, Kyrgyzstan Independence Day August 31.
Getting Around: Buses are the main form of cheap transportation and althought the trips can be long and tiresome.
Good to know: Kyrgyzstan is one of the easier countries for travel in central Asia but don’t expect it to be that easy.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Kyrgyzstan is the Manas International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Kyrgyzstan travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
