KYRGYZSTAN
Vacations and Sightseeing

Basic information
Official language	Kyrgyz, Russian
Capital	Bisjkek
Area	199.900 km²
Population	6,704,915  (2021)
Currency	som  (KGS)
Web	.kg
Code.	KGZ
Tel.	+996

Vacations and Sightseeing

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, lies at an altitude of 750 metres above sea level. At the State Museum of History Lenin is still standing on his pedestal in the former Lenin Square. You will find two yurts, a small archaeology exhibition and Kyrgyz carpets, embroidery and other applied crafts. Highlights of the history section include a giant Koumis skin, photographs of Kyrgyz victims of Stalin-era purges in the 1930s and the exhumation of their mass grave in Chon Tash area of Bishkek. The Bazaar on Kievskaya Street is the largest market in Kyrgyzstan. It is a typical oriental bazaar, noisy and full of local colour. The Opera and Ballet Theatre is the cultural centre of Kyrgyzstan. The construction of the building started before World War II, but it was completed in 1955. The central department store ZUM carries a wide range of local crafts, including felt carpets, jewellery and clothing.

One of the most beautiful natural attractions in Kyrgyzstan is the Ala-Archa Canyon. It is both grand and rugged, not to mention accessible. Numerous hiking and walking trails lead to the canyon. Since the canyon is located within a nature park, there are many more attractions nearby, such as glaciers and mountain peaks. The ski station is an excellent starting point for a trip through the Ala-Archa Canyon and offers good skiing opportunities.

Issyk-Kul is also a major tourist attraction in Kyrgyzstan. It has an unrivalled atmosphere with a number of thermal springs and spas nearby. Some of the best hiking trails in Central Asia are in this area and start from the city of Karakol. Mountain animals such as wild cats, bears, wild boars and ibexes can be spotted.

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Sources

Elmar Landeninformatie

CIA - World Factbook

BBC - Country Profiles

Last updated March 2024
Copyright: Team The World of Info