Kyrgyzstan
Semi-nomadic herders with their yurt in central Kyrgyzstan (photo: Natasha von Geldern)
Kyrgyzstan is well off the beaten track for most tourists but offers a great deal for the adventurous traveller. With 93 per cent of this central Asian country being over 1,000m the scenery, combined with the kind and welcoming people, make this an unforgettable place to visit.
Wander the leafy avenues of the capital, Bishkek, before going horse-trekking in the mountains and lakes of central Kyrgyzstan or go hiking in the majestic Tian Shan mountains.
An essential feature of any holiday in Kyrgyzstan must be a stay with the semi-nomadic herdspeople in a yurt. A well-run community-based tourism scheme makes it possible to stay with local families and know that you are benefiting the people.
Kyrgyzstan Essential Information
Capital - Bishkek
Other major towns - Osh, Karakol, Naryn, Sary Tash
Time Zone - GMT +6
Languages - Official languages are Kyrgyz (written in modified Cyrillic script) and Russian
Kyrgyzstan currency - Kyrgyzstan uses the Som and £1 buys around 73 Som. For up-to-date exchange rates see: www.xe.com/ucc. There are a few ATMs in Bishkek but outside the capital it is essentially a cash-only economy.