Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is a Mountainous, Cultural and Hospitality Country

A place that should be on the top of the list of the destinations to visit is the country of Kyrgyzstan, commonly known as the Switzerland of Central Asia. It is a wonderful country that delivers the most exquisite scenery and cultural heritage along with a kind and friendly environment. Centrally located in Central Asia and landlocked, this country is characterized by very high mountains, sparkling lakes and nomadic culture. Having a belt of several millennia and connected with the culture of hospitality, Kyrgyzstan is a perfect place to take a curious view of the past and current state of Central Asia.

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Geographical Location

Kyrgyzstan is found in Central Asia wedged in between Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. It covers a size of about 199,951 square kilometers and it is mostly mountainous. Because of its central geographical position, many cultures meet and mix in Kyrgyzstan thus it has a unique cultural and historical self-identity. The country is famous because of its beautiful nature that includes the magnificent Tien Shan mountain chains and the huge and beautiful Issyk-Kul Lake.

Discover Kyrgyzstan’s hidden gems and travel tips on this informative travel website.

Natural Feature / landforms

Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous state; the great majority of its area (approximately, 90 per cent) is covered by mountains, and so it is an abode of nature lovers and people indulged in adventure. The Tien Shan Mountains that spill across the eastern section of the country are some of the most impressive mountains found across the globe. The country is also host to the beautiful Issyk-Kul Lake which is one of the biggest lakes in the world at high altitude hence the lake offers a chance to water sports, relaxations and hiking around the lake’s beautiful landscape.

Kyrgyzstan is yet a country that is rich with rivers, forests, and grasslands that have undergone significant roles in facilitating the nomadic ways of the people. Kyrgyzstan has an ideal outdoor landscape that is ideal in trekking, horseback riding and camping.

History of the Ancient world and Medieval Times

Kyrgyzstan is one of the oldest countries as its long history traces back to the era of the ancient Silk Road when the area played an important connecting road role to traders and pilgrims between China, Middle East, and Europe. It is assumed that the Kyrgyz people migrated to the region during the period around the 9th century CE and created their own nomadic cultures as also their institutions. The Kyrgyzstan region had been affected by other empires such as the Persian Empire, the Mongol Empire and the Russian Empire over the centuries.

It turned into an important cultural and trade hub where such cities as Osh, Bishkek (previously referred to as Pishpek) became prominent centers of trading and culture. In the 13th-century Mongols invaded the region and the Kyrgyz people were assimilated into the greater Turkic-speaking nomadic tribes around the region.

The Soviet Era

In the early 20th century, Kyrgyzstan was incorporated by the Russian Empire and subsequently the Soviet Union. The world under the reign of the Soviet Union converted Kyrgyzstan into a different country and Soviet leaders undertook prompting modernization programs that included collectivization and building of infrastructures. Nevertheless, the time of the Soviet rule resulted in the oppression of the Kyrgyz language and culture, since the USSR established the control of the Russian language over it and the peoples as well tried to assimilate some of the ethnic groups.

In 1936, Kyrgyzstan was formally transformed into Kyrgyz Soviet Socialist Republic and was a constituent of the Soviet Union until 1991, it is referred to as Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan and Modern Kyrgyzstan Independence

Kyrgyzstan had also declared its independence with the Soviet Union on August 31, 1991 after the collapse of the USSR. Early years of independence were characterized by political instability, economic difficulties and increasing ethnic tensions. But since then, Kyrgyzstan has achieved much in terms of reforms focusing on encouraging democracy, economic growth and regional intergroup integration.

Kyrgyzstan has been faced with the challenges that surround governance and political corruption, as well as instability in different regions; however, the country is a representation of resilience, as the sphere of tourism is developed, and the global influence is growing.

Ethnic and religious diversity

Kyrgyzstan is a multi-ethnic nation, as there are more than 80 ethnic groups. Kyrgyz make up the larger part of the population then Uzbeks, Russian and smaller groups of Kazakhs, Tajik, etc. Kyrgyz people greatly identify with their nomadic past which has been exhibited in their customs, language and societal systems.

The major religion that prevails is Islam and the estimated size of the population that is composed of Sunni Muslims is considered to be the majority in Kyrgyzstan, however, there is a rather large contingent of Shia Muslims. One can also find pockets of the Russian Orthodox Christians and other religious minorities. The cultural history of Kyrgyzstan is a cross between the Turkic, Russian, Persian and Islamic cultures and the traditions focused on hospitality and respect of the seniors and attachment to the families.

Traditions and cultural practices

Kyrgyz are famous as the deep-rooted nomadic tribe whose way of living has impacted on the uppermost facets of their everyday routine, including the food, and art. Horseback riding plays an important role in the Kyrgyz culture, and today such traditional equestrian games as kok-boru (a game on horseback with a goat carcass) are still performed. Another ancient Kyrgyz art form is felt-making, and fine felt carpets (which may be full of pattern) are the usual furnishings of households.

The other important element of Kyrgyzstan culture is its music. Folk music is performed on traditional Kyrgyz instruments e.g. the komuz (three-stringed lute) and storytelling is achieved with the help of akyns (traditional poets and singers).

Religious Festivals

Two most significant religious holidays in Kyrgyzstan are Eid al-Fitrs and Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Fitr is the event when the sacred time of fasting, Ramadan, is over and is celebrated by public prayers, feast and charity. Eid al-Adha is a holiday in memory of the readiness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, accompanied by slaughtering of animals and family celebration.

Special Days and National Holidays

Kyrgyzstan has some national holidays like the Independence Day of August 31 and the Day of the People Constitution of May 5th. The holidays are aimed at symbolizing sovereignty, democracy, and national identity of the country.

The most popular festivals celebrated in Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asia countries are the Nooruz festival to celebrate the start of a new year as per the Persian calendar. It entails conventional music, dancing, partying and giving of gifts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Kyrgyzstan has an agricultural economy as most of the farmers practice farming. The nation is also famous in the production of grains, fruits, vegetables as well as livestock such as sheep and cattle among others. Kyrgyzstan also possesses natural resources such as gold, coal and precious metals whose export is significant.

Valuable mineral resources such as copper and uranium can also be found in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and the country is in the process of developing its mineral resources.

Tourism Industry

The tourist industry is one more key part of the Kyrgyz economy which gained more significance in recent years. Kyrgyzstan has a lot to offer to the tourists who visit the country to see and experience the impressive sceneries of the country such as the Issyk-Kul lake, the Tien Shan mountains and the steppes as well as learning its rich cultural history. Tourists can trek, ride horses and even participate in winter sports, whereas the historical spots of the country, such as old cities of the Silk Road can be used as a glimpse of the past.

The ecotourism industry is also developing in Kyrgyzstan and attempts to organize sustainable tourism and protect unique ecosystems are made.

Natural Wonders

Kyrgyzstan features some of the most beautiful natural attractions like Issyk-Kul-Lake, second in the world with regard to salt water lakes and is located amidst mountains that are very high. People like to relax at the lake, they like to swim and they also fish. The mountains are composed of Tien Shan mountains which offer a lot of hiking, trekking and mountaineering experiences with mountains such as Jengish Chokusu offering panoramic views.

Other natural features are Ala Archa national park which has beautiful landscapes and the Song-Kol Lake a high-altitude lake that has been a favorite tourist summer spot as well as a destination by Kyrgyz Nomads.

Cultural and historical monuments

Kyrgyzstan has several venues of culture and history. Osh is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia; it is famous for its active bazaars and sacred Suleiman-Too Mountain. Coming near Bishkek there is the Burana Tower, a historical heritage monument of the 11 th century reminding visitors that Kyrgyzstan was also a part of the ancient Silk Road.

Its capital, Bishkek, is a modern city with a Soviet architecture where people have parks and museums that narrate the history and culture of Kyrgyzstan.

Healthcare System

The health sector of Kyrgyzstan is largely a state enterprise, and the healthcare system must be developed with respect to infrastructure, equipment, and access even more in rural regions. The government has strived to reshape the medical system and the targeted areas are enriching the access to health care provision, as well as amplifying funds deployed into the healthcare research and infrastructure.

Education System

Education in Kyrgyzstan is both compulsory to the ninth grade and free. The nation has progressed in advancing literacy levels and there are numerous universities and other educational establishments, which provide higher education, such as the American University of Central Asia in Bishkek. Nevertheless, similar to the problem of healthcare, the education system presents issues regarding its affordability and accessibility, especially rural locations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

The transportation system of Kyrgyzstan is in the growing phase, and there is a growing road system that links the countryside and towns. The terrain is mountainous and therefore road construction has been cumbersome in the country though there is an ongoing project on the enhancement of infrastructure. The primary transportation hub of Kyrgyzstan is considered to be the Bishkek city which offers an international airport by which connections are made to the major cities across the globe.

Urban Development

The capital, Bishkek, has been the center of major development over the recent years, new residential sectors, commercial properties, and cultural centers are being constructed. Nonetheless, other issues like urban sprawling and poor transportation systems are still there.

Traveling best days Ideal Seasons

During April to June and September to October Kyrgyzstan enjoys good weather, which is ideal, especially during spring and autumn seasons. The summer is hot, especially in low-lying regions and the winter is cold and favorable to those who may want to participate in winter activities.

Events and festivals It was necessary to spend tens of thousands of pounds to organise a special event. Take the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It cost the city tens of thousands of pounds to run.

A visit to Kyrgyzstan coinciding with the Nooruz festival or Independence Day represents an excellent idea to get exposed to the festival-related cultural revelries and traditions of Kyrgyzstan.

Conclusion: 

Kyrgyzstan is a nation which is full of natural beauty, cultural heritage and historical value. Despite its setbacks in the aspects of political stability, economic growth and infrastructure, the inertia that is shown by its people and their close attachment to their land and customs is a positive sign of the things to come. Kyrgyzstan with its remarkable nature and hospitality is becoming a place to discover adventure, history as well as a unique experience in different cultures.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I visit Kyrgyzstan?

Visitors are recommended to visit it in the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is very mild with most of the time suitable to go outdoors.

What are the best things to do in Kyrgyzstan?

Its major tourist destinations are Issyk-Kul Lake, Song-Kol Lake, the Tien Shan Mountains, the Burana Tower and Osh city.

Which languages are used in Kyrgyzstan?

The official languages of Kyrgyzstan are Kyrgyz and Russian, also being widely spread in the country.

What is the key industry in Kyrgyzstan?

The main industries of Kyrgyzstan are agriculture, mining and tourism, specializing in gold production and in ecotourism.

Is Kyrgyzstan safe to tourists?

Kyrgyzstan can be regarded as safe for tourists, but, as in all countries, visitors have to care about their safety and to monitor the situation around.

What are the cultural celebrations I must attend in Kyrgyzstan?

You were to go through the Nooruz (Kyrgyz Independence Day) and the local festivals of nomads on which traditions of the country were emphasized.