Kyrgyzstan / Кыргыз Республикасы / Кыргызская Республика – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is a stunning, almost entirely mountainous, landlocked country in central Asia. The Tian Shan mountains cover over 80% of the country. Almost 90% of the country sits more than 4,900ft (1,500m) above sea level. Its highest point, Victory Peak (Jengish Chokusu), lies in the far east of the country, on the border with China, at 24,406ft (7,439m) above sea level.
It’s further from the sea than any other country on earth, although the northern shore of lake Issyk-Kul, in the north east of the country, is sandy, and is widely used as a beach.
It has a very long, rich and interesting history. In former times it was a major trading and stopping point for those on the Silk Road. Its neighbours include China, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
The population of Kyrgyzstan is around seven million people (2024), about one in six of whom live in the capital, Bishkek. Apparently, based on DNA evidence, Bishkek is considered one of the possible origins of the Black Death between AD 1346 and 1353 – estimated to have killed 30 – 60% of the European population, as well as approximately 33% of the population of the Middle East.
A bit about the history of Kyrgyzstan
Early History and Nomadic Traditions
Kyrgyzstan has a long history dating back to ancient times. The region was traditionally inhabited by nomadic peoples, including the Kyrgyz, who are believed to have descended from ancient Turkic and Mongolic tribes. These nomadic groups lived in the vast steppes, herding livestock and maintaining a semi-nomadic lifestyle. The Kyrgyz people have a rich cultural tradition of oral storytelling, epic poetry and horsemanship.
Turkic and Mongol Empires
Throughout its history, Kyrgyzstan has been influenced by several major empires. In the 6th century, the region was part of the Turkic Khaganate. In the 13th century, it became part of the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan. The Mongol Empire’s expansion had a significant impact on the Kyrgyz people, as they were incorporated into the empire’s vast territorial network. After the decline of the Mongol Empire, the Kyrgyz region was divided into smaller khanates and came under the control of various regional powers.
Russian Empire and Soviet Rule
In the late 19th century, Kyrgyzstan was incorporated into the Russian Empire as part of the Russian expansion into central Asia. Following the Russian Revolution in 1917, the region became part of the Soviet Union in 1924, forming the Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic. Under Soviet rule, Kyrgyzstan underwent significant social, economic and political changes, including forced collectivisation, the establishment of state controlled agriculture, and the promotion of Soviet ideology. The Kyrgyz language and culture were suppressed, and many Kyrgyz people were subjected to the same policies that affected other central Asian ethnic groups.
Independence from the Soviet Union
With the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Kyrgyzstan declared its independence on August 31, 1991. The country faced many challenges in its early years, including establishing a new political system, building a functioning economy, and addressing ethnic tensions within the country. Kyrgyzstan chose a parliamentary republic model, and Askar Akayev, the first president of Kyrgyzstan, led the country through its early years of independence.
Political Instability and Revolutions
Kyrgyzstan experienced significant political instability after independence. In 2005, popular protests known as the ‘Tulip Revolution’ led to the overthrow of President Akayev, who had been in power since 1991. The revolution was sparked by widespread allegations of corruption, electoral fraud and abuse of power. Following Akayev’s resignation, Kurmanbek Bakiyev became president, but his government was also marred by corruption and mismanagement. In 2010, another popular uprising, known as the ‘April Revolution’, led to the overthrow of Bakiyev. The revolution resulted in the establishment of an interim government, which later led to the first parliamentary elections in the country.
Recent Political Developments
Kyrgyzstan has faced continued political turbulence, with frequent changes in government and ongoing protests. Despite its challenges, the country has remained one of the more democratic states in Central Asia. In 2017, Sooronbay Jeenbekov was elected president, and he worked to implement constitutional reforms and address corruption. However, in 2020, Jeenbekov was forced to resign following disputed parliamentary elections and mass protests. The political crisis led to a power vacuum, with Sadyr Japarov eventually emerging as the new president after securing a mandate in early 2021.
Economic and Social Challenges
Kyrgyzstan is one of the poorest countries in Central Asia, and its economy is heavily reliant on remittances from Kyrgyz migrant workers, mainly in Russia, as well as agriculture, particularly the production of cotton and tobacco. The country has faced significant challenges in diversifying its economy and improving its infrastructure. Additionally, Kyrgyzstan struggles with high levels of poverty, unemployment and corruption.
Geopolitical Significance
The country is an important player in regional geopolitics, especially given its proximity to China and its membership in organisations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Kyrgyzstan’s relationship with Russia is also significant, as it is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), which fosters economic integration with Russia and other former Soviet states. Despite its challenges, Kyrgyzstan has made strides in democratic development and regional cooperation, though political instability and economic hardships remain ongoing issues for the country.
Kyrgyzstan road trip
On our road trip through Kyrgyzstan we’ll continue to travel on the Pamir highway from Tajikistan to Osh in Kyrgyzstan. From there the route takes us to Jalal’Abad, across the mountains to Toktogul reservoir, and on to the capital, Bishkek. From there we head east following the border with Kazakhstan towards Lake Karakol and Karakol city itself.
Map of our road trip through Kyrgyzstan
Our travels through Kyrgyzstan take us through to Osh – Jalal’Abad – Toktogul reservoir – Bishkek – Karakol – Karkara Valley
What’s it like to drive in Kyrgyzstan?
They drive on the right hand side of the road in Kyrgyzstan. In the main, roads are very poor, with many being unsurfaced dirt tracks. Driving standards are also poor.
Do you require an international driving permit in Kyrgyzstan?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Kyrgyzstan?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Kyrgyzstan?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What currency do they use in Kyrgyzstan?
In Kyrgyzstan they use the Kyrgystani som. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is not widely accepted outside of the capital, Bishkek. Travellers cheques are not accepted at banks. There are lots of ATMs in cities and towns. Dollars can be accepted for some larger purchases.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Kyrgyzstan?
They speak Russian and Kyrgyz in Kyrgyzstan. English is not widely spoken outside of the capital.
What time zone is Kyrgyzstan in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Kyrgyzstan?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Kyrgyzstan.
What plug / socket type do they use in Kyrgyzstan?
In Kyrgyzstan they use plug / socket types C and E.
Health issues in Kyrgyzstan
Is it safe to drink water in Kyrgyzstan?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Kyrgyzstan. Bottled water is readily available throughout the country.
What vaccinations are required for Kyrgyzstan?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Kyrgyzstan.
Phones in Kyrgyzstan
What is the country calling code for Kyrgyzstan?
The country calling code for Kyrgyzstan is +996
What are the emergency phone numbers in Kyrgyzstan?
- The emergency number for police in Kyrgyzstan is: 112
- In Kyrgyzstan, the emergency number for ambulance is: 112
- The emergency number for fire in Kyrgyzstan is: 112
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!