Country Guide • Kyrgyzstan

Flag of Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China. The majestic Tian Shan (Heavenly Mountains) range covering approximately 95% of the whole country.

Official NameThe Kyrgyz Republic
Area69,700km² (26,900mile²)
Population4,893,000
ContinentAsia
Population per mile²64
Capital CityBishkek
Religions75% Muslim, 20% Russian Orthodox
LanguageKyrgyz and Russian
GovernmentRepublic
CurrencySom
GDP$13.5 billion
GDP per Head$2,800
Natural ResourcesAbundant hydropower; significant deposits of gold and rare earth metals; locally exploitable coal, oil, and natural gas; other deposits of nepheline, mercury, bismuth, lead, and zinc
Land UseArable Land 7%
AgricultureCotton, potatoes, vegetables, grapes, fruits and berries, tobacco, livestock primarily sheep, goats and cattle
IndustryAgricultural Machinery, Building Materials, Electronic Equipment, Heavy Electrical Machinery, Hydroelectricity, Instruments, Machine Building, Metal Working, Mining, Motor Vehicle Assembly, Non Ferrous Metallurgy, Shoes and Furniture
TourismTransport throughout the country is poor at the best of times. the FCO advise against travel to the south and west of Osh and to the Ferghana Valley region. There are signs of a developing tourist awareness in some parts of the countryside, but it is best to check with your nearest embassy or consulate before venturing into any of these areas
Natural HazardsNone
Health RisksHepatitis A and E, diphtheria, undulant fever, altitude sickness, and tuberculosis. Don't drink the water even if locals say it's OK to drink use bottled at all times
ClimateKyrgyzstan has a continental climate. In general, the summers are hot and dry while the winters are cold. Average temperature ranges are from 2 to 4°C in January to 16 to 18°C in July but vary according to elevation. Average annual rainfall varies from 10 to 15 inches
TimeGMT/UTC+5 hours (GMT + 6 from second Sunday in April to Saturday before last Sunday in September)
National DaysAugust 31
VisasAlthough it is now possible for visitors from certain countries, including the UK, to obtain entry visas on arrival at Manas Airport, it is recommended that for ease of entry visitors get a visa before travelling to Kyrgyzstan. Local authorities have recently relaxed registration requirements, and those visiting for less than one month no longer need to register
British EmbassyEmbassy Details

Information Only

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