Kyrgyzstan

The only English-language guide dedicated solely to Kyrgyzstan

Described as 'the Switzerland of central Asia' and regarded by many as the most beautiful nation in the world, Kyrgyzstan remains one of the world's best-kept travel secrets. Lying deep within central Asia, this intriguing country offers gloriously unspoiled mountainscapes, dreamlike rock formations, Silk Road monuments and a semi-nomadic culture that feels worlds away from everyday life. This thoroughly updated fifth edition extends detailed coverage of everything this easily accessible country has to offer, from trekking and mountaineering to horse riding, historical sites, festivals and authentic Kyrgyz culture.

Adventure awaits at every turn. Gallop on horseback through alpine meadows surrounding the stunning Lake Song-Köl; trek through mountain valleys south of Karakol; admire 5,000-year-old petroglyphs at Saimaluu-Tash; or simply relax on the shores of vast Lake Issyk-Kul, with towering mountains as your backdrop. Spot rare wildlife including snow leopards and Siberian ibex, explore leafy Bishkek's Soviet-era monuments, visit the charming Uzbek village of Arslanbob with its world-famous walnut forests, or watch thrilling Central Asian equestrian sports. For the less adventurous, there's kumys to taste, bazaars to explore, and yurt camps to enjoy.

This fifth edition includes expanded coverage of community-based tourism operators offering competitively priced accommodation and activities, new skiing and snowboarding options for year-round visits, details on whitewater rafting and paragliding, border crossing advice, and greater detail on remote areas including Köl-Suu Lake and Batken province. With in-depth historical background, practical health and safety information, comprehensive accommodation options from budget to luxury, cultural insights, and personal recommendations on the best yurt camps and chaikhanas, Bradt's Kyrgyzstan is the ideal companion for a successful trip.