Kyrgyzstan

Flag of Kyrgyzstan featuring a “tündük”, the traditional yurt roof opening structure, within a sun

The Land of the Yurts & Nomadic Spirit

Nestled within the towering Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan is often called the heart of the Celestial Mountains. Against this breathtaking backdrop, white felt yurts dot the landscape, standing as symbols of hospitality and a living nomadic heritage. Horses are also at the centre of Kyrgyz culture and cuisine, a true spirit of nomadic Central Asia.

Кыргызстанb / Kyrgyzstan

Local Names

Kyrgyz, Russian

Official Languages

Bishkek

Capital

Kyrgyz Som

Currency

The Country Archives

A WEEK IN KYRGYZSTAN: GETTING AROUND ISSYK-KUL

Circumnavigating the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan, Issyk-Kul, a journey from the capital city past green pastures, surreal parks, petroglyphs, up mountains, across broken bridges, ending up glamping in a yurt while practicing nomadic archery, horse riding and experiencing birds of prey in action.

Matt Vincelli