Understand

Issyk Kul, a captivating water body with a slightly saline composition, has suffered the consequences of over-fishing over the years, leading to a decline in its fisheries. As a result, many of the smoked fish sold in surrounding cities now originate from other alpine lakes. Unfortunately, unregulated tourism has also left its mark on Issyk Kul, with numerous poorly constructed and unfinished resorts tarnishing its north shore. However, despite these challenges, there are still plenty of hidden gems along the shores of Issyk Kul that showcase its true natural beauty. A mountain pass road currently under construction, connecting Issyk Kul to Almaty, Kazakhstan, is expected to attract even more tourists in the coming years. Nonetheless, it is imperative that the government implements responsible development practices to preserve the lake's pristine allure and prevent further depletion of its natural splendor.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Kyrgyzstan's national dish is called "Plov," also known as "Osh." It is a hearty traditional rice pilaf made with marinated beef, chickpeas, and various vegetables such as carrots, onions, and garlic. The ingredients are cooked together in a large pot until the rice is tender and fully absorbed the flavors of the other components. Plov is often served with additional meat on the side.

Another popular dish in Kyrgyzstan is "Kumis." This alcoholic beverage is made by fermenting horse milk and is typically consumed during special occasions or festivals. Kumis has a slightly sour taste and can vary in alcohol content depending on how long it has been fermented.

A favorite snack among Kyrgyz people is "Et Uch", which translates to "raw meat salad." This dish consists of finely minced raw beef seasoned with spices such as garlic, onion, and pepper. The meat mixture is then accompanied by diced onions, tomatoes, and peppers, which provide a vibrant medley of colors and textures alongside the meat. Et Uch is traditionally eaten with a type of flatbread called "non."

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing