News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today
Two Federations Will Promote Kyrgyzstan as the Best Destination for Tourism and Climbing
Tourism / Exclusive

Two Federations Will Promote Kyrgyzstan as the Best Destination for Tourism and Climbing

On October 31, 2025, the Federation of Mountaineering of Kyrgyzstan and the Federation of Sports Tourism of Kyrgyzstan signed an agreement on friendship and cooperation. This was reported by Vladimir Agafonov, president of the Federation of Sports Tourism. According to Agafonov, this event represents a significant step that opens new horizons in the development of mountain sports in the country and unites the resources and experience of the two leading federations.

03.11.2025, 09:31
Tourism / Incidents

The Main Internal Affairs Directorate of Chui Region is investigating reports of extortion at the school in the village of Kyzyl-Tuu.

The situation in one of the schools in the village of Kyzyl-Tuu has become the subject of an investigation by the Main Internal Affairs Directorate of the Chui Region after alarming reports of extortion appeared on social media on October 24. The press service of the Main Internal Affairs Directorate of the Chui Region reported that cases of bullying and extortion among students regularly occur at the secondary school in the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, located in the Sokuluk District.

25.10.2025, 14:44
Tourism

The Ministry of Finance proposes to introduce a tourist tax for foreigners

- The Ministry of Finance has initiated changes to the law "On Tourism," concerning the introduction of a tourist fee for foreign citizens staying in hotels, guesthouses, and hostels in Kyrgyzstan. This fee will be classified as a non-tax payment and will be collected from visitors to the country upon their entry, exit, and, in most cases, during registration at their places of accommodation.

24.10.2025, 19:34
The creation of a tourist cluster in southern Kyrgyzstan is being considered.
Tourism

The creation of a tourist cluster in southern Kyrgyzstan is being considered.

According to the Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce, a special tourist cluster will be developed as part of the Batken region development program. The possibility of connecting cities in Kyrgyzstan to some tourist routes in Uzbekistan is being considered, said the First Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce Choro Seyitov at a briefing at the Sputnik Kyrgyzstan press center.

09.05.2022, 11:20
Kyrgyzstan in the Top Three Among Russians
Tourism

Kyrgyzstan in the Top Three Among Russians

Kyrgyzstan in the Top Three September Leaders Among Russian Tourists Turkey ranked first among resort destinations and in demand for flights to all countries worldwide—regardless of the tourist component, industry experts note. — According to ticket booking data, Turkey leads among foreign destinations in September with a share of 24%. Compared to August, this figure increased by 42%, and the country rose to first place, — said Elena Shelekova, head of the press service of OneTwoTrip, to

15.09.2021, 10:30
Dynamic Development of the Tourism Sector in Kyrgyzstan
Tourism

Dynamic Development of the Tourism Sector in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyz Authorities Call on Business to Develop Ski Tourism The tourism sector in Kyrgyzstan is dynamically developing, with the share of tourism in the republic's economy reaching 4.3% in the first six months of 2019. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Altynai Omurbekova at a meeting of the interdepartmental commission today, November 5. According to her, Kyrgyzstan became the first country in the CIS to introduce a simplified visa regime for foreign citizens — residents of

28.11.2019, 19:06
Kyrgyzstan has entered the top ten most popular foreign destinations for Russian citizens.
Tourism

Kyrgyzstan has entered the top ten most popular foreign destinations for Russian citizens.

Kyrgyzstan recognized by Russians as one of the best countries for vacation This was reported by the OneTwoTrip service (a well-known online service for organizing travel, present in the markets of the Russian Federation, CIS countries, Europe, and the USA). According to OneTwoTrip's research, the first three places in the top ten most sought-after countries in this regard were taken by Armenia, Italy, and Turkey. Russians are also actively traveling to Germany, Spain, Kyrgyzstan,

24.11.2019, 23:11
The Tourism Forum gathered about 1500 delegates from 158 countries around the world, including Kyrgyzstan.
Tourism

The Tourism Forum gathered about 1500 delegates from 158 countries around the world, including Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan was cited as an example at the global tourism forum in Russia The prospects for developing cooperation were discussed during the high-level Forum on medical and wellness tourism in St. Petersburg. It became a key event of the 23rd session of the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which took place in this city at the Tauride Palace from September 9 to 13. Such sessions are the largest events for the global tourism industry; this one gathered about 1500

21.11.2019, 13:04
President Sooronbay Jeenbekov urged participants of the Kyrgyz-Turkish forum to invest in Kyrgyzstan.
Tourism

President Sooronbay Jeenbekov urged participants of the Kyrgyz-Turkish forum to invest in Kyrgyzstan.

Jeenbekov is confident that the opening of the "Sheraton" will positively impact tourism In Kyrgyzstan, the assets of investors and private property are reliably protected, and the state will provide full guarantees of protection. This was stated by President Sooronbay Jeenbekov at the Kyrgyz-Turkish forum. The head of state noted that a number of large projects aimed at enhancing economic potential will be implemented in Kyrgyzstan.

21.11.2019, 12:56
Tourists will be able to stay for free in 64 countries around the world.
Tourism

Tourists will be able to stay for free in 64 countries around the world.

Hotels in different countries will host tourists for free From November 18 to 24, hotels in various countries will participate in the World Barter Week promotion, during which hundreds of hotels around the world will offer guests accommodation "in exchange." This is reported by "Maestro – News." Tourists will be able to stay at their chosen hotel without any payment, but in return, they will have to provide useful skills, goods, or services: these can include foreign

05.11.2019, 14:46
Kyrgyzstan Included in the Top 10 Countries to Travel to in 2019 According to Lonely Planet Publishing
Tourism

Kyrgyzstan Included in the Top 10 Countries to Travel to in 2019 According to Lonely Planet Publishing

The authoritative international publisher Lonely Planet has included Kyrgyzstan in the list of the ten best countries for travel in 2019. The ranking is based on the opinions of the editors of the reputable publisher, international researchers, and other individuals. Lonely Planet is a publishing house founded in 1972. It is one of the first official publishers specializing in the release of travel guides for budget travelers. Its headquarters is located in Australia.

12.08.2019, 17:57
International Conference on Tourism in Kyrgyzstan
Tourism

International Conference on Tourism in Kyrgyzstan

AUCA Forum and Grenoble Alpes University within the framework of the USAID project – “Building the Future Together.” An international conference titled “Developing Sustainable Tourism in Kyrgyzstan: Challenges and Opportunities” was held at the American University of Central Asia (AUCA). This forum, which gathered many foreign guests, was organized by AUCA in collaboration with Grenoble Alpes University as part of the USAID project – “Building the Future Together.” In their speeches,

01.07.2019, 12:09
Information for Kyrgyzstanis flying to South Korea
Tourism

Information for Kyrgyzstanis flying to South Korea

Kyrgyz citizens flying to South Korea are prohibited from bringing meat and dairy products The Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency of South Korea has imposed a ban on the import of certain types of products into Korea since June 1, 2019. According to the Embassy of South Korea in Kyrgyzstan, the ban has been introduced as part of measures aimed at preventing the emergence of African swine fever and avian influenza in Korea.

30.06.2019, 12:08
The share of tourism in Kyrgyzstan is 5% compared to developed countries.
Tourism

The share of tourism in Kyrgyzstan is 5% compared to developed countries.

The share of tourism in developed countries reaches 13%, while in Kyrgyzstan it is 5% The Prime Minister stated that tourist facilities should be created in every village of Kyrgyzstan as much as possible. Prime Minister Mukhammedkaly Abylgaziev held a meeting on the concept of developing the activities of the state enterprise "Kyrgyz Tourism".

21.06.2019, 10:32
The Russian show "Let's Go, Let's Eat" with John Warren has arrived in Kyrgyzstan.
Tourism

The Russian show "Let's Go, Let's Eat" with John Warren has arrived in Kyrgyzstan.

The Russian show 'Let's Go, Let's Eat' has reached Kyrgyzstan The famous Russian travel television program titled 'Let's Go, Let's Eat' has arrived in Kyrgyzstan, where one of the episodes of the show was filmed in May. The show 'Let's Go, Let's Eat' is produced for the federal Russian TV channel NTV, and it is hosted by John Warren, who is of American descent. He arrived in Kyrgyzstan on May 13 and has since been sharing his

22.05.2019, 14:49
The Ministry of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic is asking citizens for 10 million soms.
Tourism

The Ministry of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic is asking citizens for 10 million soms.

Ministry of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic asks for money from citizens — 10 million soms needed. The ministry promises to report on every som spent. The Ministry of Culture, Information and Tourism has launched a fundraising campaign among concerned Kyrgyz citizens (crowdfunding) — more than 10 million soms are needed, the ministry's press service reported.

16.05.2019, 19:00
Tourism in Kyrgyzstan is set to be brought under control.
Tourism

Tourism in Kyrgyzstan is set to be brought under control.

An Expert Supported the Government's Idea to Create a New Agency The decision to create a tourism agency in Kyrgyzstan is a good one; it should have been done a long time ago. This opinion was shared by the former head of the Department of Tourism, tourism marketing expert Maksat Chakiev. - In our country, tourism is adrift, this sector is practically not controlled at all, - he is convinced. - For some time, this was good - it made it easier for businesses to develop. But now we need a

13.09.2018, 06:00
Problems of Tourism in Kyrgyzstan
Tourism

Problems of Tourism in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan's tourism has great potential, but the problems are even greater To improve the situation, it is necessary to change the attitude of the local population towards tourists in the regions, as well as to develop tourist infrastructure, officials believe. From 2012 to 2017, the share of tourism in Kyrgyzstan's economy grew by only 0.3% — from 4.7% to 5%. This was stated by Prime Minister Mukhammedkaly Abulgaziev today, June 6, at a government meeting, according to the press

07.07.2018, 01:33
Lake Issyk-Kul in the Lists of the Best Resorts of the CIS for Summer Recreation
Tourism

Lake Issyk-Kul in the Lists of the Best Resorts of the CIS for Summer Recreation

Top Five Resorts in the CIS The analytical agency "TurStat" has compiled a ranking of CIS resorts popular for summer vacations in 2018. The list of the best destinations was published on the agency's official website. The top five resorts include the Burabay (Borovoe) resort in Kazakhstan, Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan, Lake Naroch in Belarus, the beaches of Bilgah in Baku on the Caspian Sea in Azerbaijan, and Lake Sevan in Armenia.

04.07.2018, 14:36
The Absence of Helicopters Hits Tour Operators
Tourism

The Absence of Helicopters Hits Tour Operators

Kyrgyzstan may cancel climbing tours Tour operators used helicopters belonging to the country's General Staff for rescue operations. However, in April it became known that helicopters would not be provided. About five thousand high-altitude tours booked for 2018 by Kyrgyz tour operators may be canceled due to the government's lack of rescue helicopters, reported Elena Kalashnikova, a representative of the Kyrgyz Association of Tour Operators.

04.07.2018, 13:35
Development and Promotion of Tourism in the Kyrgyz Republic
Tourism

Development and Promotion of Tourism in the Kyrgyz Republic

Action Plan for the Preparation and Conduct of the Summer Tourist Season of 2018 Deputy Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of the Kyrgyz Republic Azamat Jamankulov, speaking at the IX Tourism Forum "Development and Promotion of Tourism in the Kyrgyz Republic," noted that the draft Action Plan for the Preparation and Conduct of the Summer Tourist Season of 2018 was discussed at the meeting of the Interagency Commission for the Coordination of Tourism Development Issues.

28.05.2018, 19:08
"Welcoming Batken Through the Eyes of Bishkek Residents"
Tourism

"Welcoming Batken Through the Eyes of Bishkek Residents"

Juicy Kyrgyz Language and Purple Mosque Traveling through Kyrgyzstan is essential to understand how people live in different regions. This will save us from fabricated stereotypes about the south and north. By learning more about each other, perhaps we can put an end to tribalism and contribute to strengthening peace and stability in our country. The south of Kyrgyzstan is impossible to imagine without sunshine and warmth, but due to quite unfortunate circumstances, both times I managed to

24.04.2018, 13:28
Kyrgyzstan Wants to Open Flights to the Emirates from Bishkek and Osh
Tourism

Kyrgyzstan Wants to Open Flights to the Emirates from Bishkek and Osh

Currently, there is only one direct flight to the United Arab Emirates on the route Bishkek — Dubai Kyrgyzstan is negotiating with Air Arabia to open flights from Sharjah to Bishkek and Sharjah to Osh this summer, reports the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic. On Wednesday, a meeting took place in the emirate of Sharjah (UAE) between the Consul General of the Kyrgyz Republic in Dubai, Aibek Mamatbekov, and the Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce

12.04.2018, 17:54
The "Least Attractive" Destination for Tourists in 2017 Became Kyrgyzstan
Tourism

The "Least Attractive" Destination for Tourists in 2017 Became Kyrgyzstan

21st from the bottom: Kyrgyzstan ranked 115th in the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index for 2017 was presented by the World Economic Forum. The overall score for a country is based on various indicators, such as tourism infrastructure and communication technologies, cultural resources, and business travel... Traditionally, Western countries are recognized as the leaders in the ranking, while the positions of CIS countries are close to the

07.04.2018, 13:27
A Bicycle Ring Route Around Issyk-Kul is Planned
News / Tourism

A Bicycle Ring Route Around Issyk-Kul is Planned

Bicycle paths are planned to be built along the Issyk-Kul coast Ring road around Issyk-Kul. What else did Isakov discuss with the Premier of China As part of the reconstruction of roads along the Issyk-Kul coast, bicycle paths are planned to be built. This was reported by the information support department of the government apparatus.

13.12.2017, 12:03
The first museum shop will open in Osh.
News / Tourism

The first museum shop will open in Osh.

On December 12, a specialized shop will open at the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex "Sulaiman-Too" in the city of Osh. In it, residents and tourists of the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan will be able to purchase souvenir products as gifts or keepsakes. The shelves will feature souvenir products and artistic items made by local artisans, telling the story of the museum's collection, exhibits, art, history, and culture of Kyrgyzstan.

19.11.2017, 01:01
Nearly two million tourists visited Kyrgyzstan since the beginning of the year.
News / Tourism

Nearly two million tourists visited Kyrgyzstan since the beginning of the year.

Almost two million tourists visited Kyrgyzstan since the beginning of the year. As stated by the director of the Tourism Department, Azamat Jamankulov, in the first half of 2017, Kyrgyzstan was visited by 1.97 million tourists — this is 349 thousand more than last year. The budget received 38.8 million soms, while in the same period of 2016, 31 million were collected.

16.11.2017, 07:00
Kyrgyzstan Invites Tourists from Uzbekistan to Issyk-Kul
News / Tourism

Kyrgyzstan Invites Tourists from Uzbekistan to Issyk-Kul

The Director of the Tourism Department of the Kyrgyz Republic, Azamat Zhamankulov, spoke at a press conference about the development of relations between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan in the tourism sector. Today, there is a direct flight from Tashkent to Tamchi. According to Zhamankulov, the issue of opening direct charter flights from Uzbekistan during the winter season is being worked on.

15.11.2017, 17:54
National Geographic Traveler included Kyrgyzstan in the top twenty travel destinations of 2016.
Tourism

National Geographic Traveler included Kyrgyzstan in the top twenty travel destinations of 2016.

Kyrgyzstan has been included in the top twenty tourist destinations of 2016 by National Geographic Traveler. According to the website travel.ru, in Kyrgyzstan, home to the famous high-altitude Issyk-Kul Lake, the editors of National Geographic Traveler recommend seeing the stone sculptures of Balbals near the city of Tokmok, visiting the Osh Bazaar in Bishkek, trekking and horseback expeditions in the Tian Shan mountains, and enjoying the relict forests, radon springs, and alpine pastures. It

16.03.2016, 10:27
Financial Times: Kyrgyzstan Ranks Among the Top 7 Countries to Travel to in 2016
Tourism

Financial Times: Kyrgyzstan Ranks Among the Top 7 Countries to Travel to in 2016

The international business newspaper Financial Times recommended its readers to visit Kyrgyzstan in 2016, which is well-suited with its nomadic culture and beautiful landscapes of mountains, lakes, and forests. The seven key countries also included Sri Lanka, Peru, Greenland, Brazil, Cuba, and South Africa, and the list was formed based on the opinions of leaders in the tourism industry.

02.01.2016, 15:57
International flight passengers are now required to pay airports in Kyrgyzstan $15.
Tourism

International flight passengers are now required to pay airports in Kyrgyzstan $15.

Starting from 2016, international flight passengers will be required to pay a fee of $15 to the airports of Bishkek and Osh. This government order was signed by the Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Temir Sariev. It is noted that the initiative to raise the additional fees from $10 to $15 came from the OJSC "Manas International Airport" (MIA), whose employees developed the draft resolution and then presented it for public discussion. According to the airport management, the increase in

15.12.2015, 13:36
Kyrgyzstan Wants to Replace Turkey and Egypt for Russian Tourists
Tourism

Kyrgyzstan Wants to Replace Turkey and Egypt for Russian Tourists

The Tourism Department of the Ministry of Culture of Kyrgyzstan has sent several official letters to its colleagues in Russia, describing the tourist advantages of vacationing in Kyrgyzstan and the potential for its development. – Given the current situation, labor collectives and ordinary citizens can vacation in our country. At the same time, we are suggesting that the owners and managers of our sanatoriums and resorts lower prices, as there are currently few vacationers,” explained Deputy

10.12.2015, 12:30
Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan agreed on the construction of the Almaty – Cholpon-Ata highway.
Tourism

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan agreed on the construction of the Almaty – Cholpon-Ata highway.

The Prime Ministers of Kazakhstan, Karim Massimov, and Kyrgyzstan, Temir Sariev, discussed issues related to the construction of the Almaty – Cholpon-Ata highway during their meeting in Cholpon-Ata, which will directly connect the southern capital of Kazakhstan with the Kyrgyz jewel – Lake Issyk-Kul. – Currently, there is a direct flight from Almaty to Tamchy, but that is not enough, – said Temir Sariev. – It is necessary to build a high-speed road from Almaty to Cholpon-Ata. The road will

08.10.2015, 20:35
A New Train for Tourists Will Run from Tashkent to Lake Issyk-Kul
Tourism

A New Train for Tourists Will Run from Tashkent to Lake Issyk-Kul

Starting August 16, Uzbekistan will launch a tourist train running on the route "Tashkent - Balykchy". According to "Uzbekistan Railways", the train will depart from Tashkent on August 16, 23, and 30 at 13:27. - The arrival time in Balykchy will be on August 17, 24, and 31 at 12:44. In the opposite direction, the train will leave on August 18, 25, and September 1 at 02:55. The arrival time in Tashkent the next day will be at 07:43, - report Uzbek railway workers.

08.10.2015, 19:55
Issyk-Kul Ranked Among the Top Five Most Visited Resorts in the Near Abroad for Russians
Tourism

Issyk-Kul Ranked Among the Top Five Most Visited Resorts in the Near Abroad for Russians

Cholpon-Ata has entered the top five most visited resorts of the near abroad among Russians. The ranking was compiled by the online service Oktogo.ru based on hotel booking data for stays from August 1 to 31 of this year. The creators of the ranking note that they only considered tourists traveling independently, without the assistance of travel agencies. According to the website, the most popular vacation spot among Russians in the near abroad is Batumi (Georgia). Following are (Abkhazia),

08.10.2015, 19:40
House on Wheels
Tourism

House on Wheels

When traveling to distant cities and countries, people prefer different modes of transportation. Some travel by planes, trains, or cars, while others… in their own house on wheels. It is in such motorhomes that a group of tourists from Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands reached Central Asia, particularly Kyrgyzstan. Kristina Molotnikova, who accompanies the groups, told us about the features of this type of tourism. - A house on wheels is like a small apartment that you can travel in.

08.10.2015, 19:05
The construction of the "Almaty – Cholpon-Ata" road will be completed by the beginning of 2017.
Tourism

The construction of the "Almaty – Cholpon-Ata" road will be completed by the beginning of 2017.

The length of the new highway 'Almaty – Issyk-Kul' will be 280 kilometers. These figures are provided in the agreement between the governments of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan regarding the construction of the new road. The project states that the route will pass through the village of Mikhailovka in Kazakhstan, then through the Kyrgyz cities of Kemin and Balykchy to Cholpon-Ata. To implement this project, it will be necessary to lay 48 kilometers of new road. The Kazakh side will also

08.10.2015, 17:45
Tourism Season – 2015: What Does Kyrgyzstan Expect?
Tourism

Tourism Season – 2015: What Does Kyrgyzstan Expect?

Countries that earn income from the tourism industry are concerned about a sharp decline in interest from foreign tourists due to the global crisis. Experts confirm this downward trend. Kyrgyzstan, on the other hand, remains optimistic. Quite the opposite: industry specialists hope that in 2015, the republic will be visited by many more foreigners than the previous year.

21.08.2015, 22:32