If you visit Kyrgyzstan, you must try the local cuisine. Kyrgyz cuisine is a mash-up of Russian, Central Asian, and nomadic foods. This is definitely one of the top Things about Kyrgyzstan You Should Know. It consists of a large amount of meat, bread, and sweets. Many people have commented on how similar Kyrgyz cookery is to that of the Caucasus. In addition to these foreign cuisines, Kyrgyzstan has some truly intriguing native foods that should not be missed. Manta, a Kyrgyz variant of dumplings, is incredibly delicious, especially with a dollop of yogurt on top. Look for shorpa, which is slow-cooked meat that literally melts off the bone.

You must also try Kyrgyzstan's most famous drink, kumis. It's fermented mare's milk that has turned semi-alcoholic, and while you won't be able to drink much of it, it's worth trying at least once. If you want to sample a unique delicacy in Kyrgyzstan, horse is widely consumed and, when appropriately prepared, is rather tasty.

Kyrgyzstan is a large country with many spectacular sites to visit. Many destinations can be visited simply by taking public transportation. Marshrutkas or minibusses connect practically every significant Kyrgyz settlement, while private taxis are available where they do not. These are reasonably priced, but not particularly so. This is definitely one of the top Things about Kyrgyzstan You Should Know.

However, if you truly want to immerse yourself in Kyrgyzstan, you must have your own set of wheels. You'll be able to visit as much of the country as you want without having to worry about schedules or hassles if you have the freedom to go where you want and when you want.

When driving in Kyrgyzstan, you'll need a 4x4, and anything less is a waste of time. Kyrgyzstan is a rugged country that necessitates the use of a robust vehicle to travel about. Iron Horse Nomads is the first and most likely finest spot to begin your search for a rental automobile in Kyrgyzstan.

If you decide to rent a car in Kyrgyzstan, you should also consider hiring a private driver. While the roads in Kyrgyzstan are generally adequate, they can deteriorate quickly, and the nicest areas are usually completely off-road. Both of these situations are best handled by an experienced, local driver. This is definitely one of the top Things about Kyrgyzstan You Should Know.

Drivers can also act as translators, which is highly essential in Kyrgyzstan because almost no one speaks English. They can also assist you plan accommodation, tours, and repair if your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, which would be disastrous if you were in the middle of nothing.

Hiring a private driver in Kyrgyzstan may be less expensive than hiring a car without one. Daily prices are roughly the same, and some drivers will pay for their own petrol. So, since you're paying the same price, why not just have someone else do the work?

Accommodation in Kyrgyzstan comes in different kinds and sizes, but none is more iconic than the Yurt. The yurt is a traditional nomadic home composed of felt and wooden timbers. It is one of the most essential features of Kyrgyz culture and a true representation of their nomadic origin. It would be a disgrace not to sleep in one of these when visiting.

Yurts are similar to huge tents, but they are much stronger and more spacious. They are also incredibly warm, especially when the stove inside is lit, and keep the cold out even in the middle of a snowstorm.

There are numerous yurt accommodations available in Kyrgyzstan. They are usually found around the country's most prominent tourist spots, such as Issyk Kul and Altyn Arashan. Song Kul, on the other hand, is by far the best spot to stay in a yurt. They're frequently right close to the lake, and the whole scenario has the air of a wandering paradise.

Camping is the most convenient way to sleep in Kyrgyzstan. There is just so much open space and so many wonderful campsites dispersed across the country — campers dream of this kind of circumstance. Surrounded by mountains, no one in sight, your faithful steed close, and a cup of camp coffee brewing; paradise.

Camping is also one of the cheapest methods to travel anyplace in the globe. Kyrgyzstan can be pricey if you factor in transportation and guides, and your pocketbook will need a break every now and then.

Southern Kyrgyzstan is an entirely distinct country from the northern portion. It is more traditional, dry, and not on the typical tourist circuit. This should be an enticing call to action for travelers. Southern Kyrgyzstan is a fantastic place to visit. Apart from having a greater history than the north, the food is obviously excellent, and there are some extremely interesting things to do here. This is definitely one of the top Things about Kyrgyzstan You Should Know.

Osh is the capital of the South and one of the oldest cities in the world. It serves as the starting point for not only the epic Pamir Highway but also ascents of Peak Lenin and excursions into the isolated Pamir-Alai Mountains. The Pamir-Alai Mountains and the neighboring Batken region are among the most unspoiled and unexplored areas of Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan is most likely the best spot on the planet to ride a horse. They are an important part of Kyrgyz culture, are everywhere, and are extremely well trained. Anyone, regardless of previous expertise, may ride a horse here; they only need to feel at ease among the horses.

Local horsemen regularly organize long-distance rides for tourists. These are multi-day excursions, except instead of walking, you'll be riding a horse much of the time. These hikes frequently follow common Kyrgyz migration routes, and you can even join a seasonal ride back to the valleys from the jailoos (high pastures).

If you plan to go on a horseback ride in Kyrgyzstan, don't underestimate how tired you'll be. Riding a horse all day can be painful on your hips, thighs, and ass, and it's not always comfortable. Don't take on more than you can handle and don't ride for too long.

Central Asia's weather can be harsh. It can snow at any time of year — it snowed on us four times in JUNE – and the heat in the lowlands can be intolerable. When it comes to weather in Kyrgyzstan, you never know what to expect, so it's best to be prepared. This is definitely one of the top Things about Kyrgyzstan You Should Know.

When planning a vacation to Kyrgyzstan, make sure to bring the necessary equipment. Bring a warm jacket, layers, and excellent boots, as well as the regular mountain equipment.

At the same time, don't forget to bring a swimsuit — Kyrgyzstan has a number of fantastic hot springs that are great to relax in after a hard climb. Swimming is also feasible at Issyk Kul, however, it is still quite chilly in the summer.

Kyrgyzstan has four seasons: a brief and rainy spring (April-May), a hot and dry summer (June-September), a short and beautiful autumn (October-November), and a lengthy and cold winter (December-February) (December-March). However, the seasons and climate of Kyrgyzstan can vary greatly depending on where you go.

Southern Kyrgyzstan, for example, is often warmer than the north, and fall lasts a little longer. The mountains have their own climate as well. If you plan on doing a lot of trekking, July-September is the best season to visit Kyrgyzstan. June and October are potentially acceptable depending on the time of year. Other than that, the Issyk Kul region and Osh are lovely in the spring and fall.

You can visit Kyrgyzstan in the winter, and there are still lots of things to do. Karakol has a ski resort, and cross-country skiing is becoming increasingly popular, particularly around Song Kul. Naryn, on the other hand, is one of the coldest spots in the globe during the winter.

Kyrgyz is Kyrgyzstan's official language, yet Russian is likely to be more widely spoken. Kyrgyz is a Turkic language that is related to other regional languages such as Kazakh but not to Turkish. Although becoming fluent in the language would be difficult, it would be worthwhile to learn a few phrases; the locals will appreciate this and be more receptive.

To begin, you should be familiar with the Kyrgyz word rahmat, which means "thank you." Because of the former Soviet influence, Russian is Kyrgyzstan's unofficial language, and it is widely used for business and by foreigners. If you know a little Russian, it will come in handy when you visit Kyrgyzstan.

It should be noted that English is not widely spoken in Kyrgyzstan, which could be the most frustrating aspect of visiting the country. Consider hiring a local guide or attending an organized trip if you are concerned about interacting well with the locals.

Festivals in Kyrgyzstan represent the Kyrgyz people's rich history and nomadic customs and traditions. Sporting activities, races, and demonstrations, as well as homemade products, cuisine, and performances, are all part of a festival. Festivals are now an excellent method to preserve traditions and bring people together from all over the world, not only in Kyrgyzstan. Arts and crafts, gastronomy, folklore, felt, bird hunting, and horse games are among the most popular events. Many Kyrgyz festivities take place in jailoos (summer pastures), with yurts displaying traditional foods and selling crafts. Festivals in Kyrgyzstan are excellent venues to learn about and experience Kyrgyz traditions and customs.

Kochu is one of the most famous festivals in Kyrgyzstan. You can learn about the Kyrgyz people's rich history, traditions, and customs during the Kochu Festival, which honors the rites conducted by nomadic Kyrgyz tribes during their yearly autumn migration. There will be sports and sporting activities, enormous birds of prey hunting exhibitions, dance and music performances, and friendly families who will welcome you inside their yurts (traditional homes) for some home-cooked meals.