On site, becomes an expert on Kyrgyzstan
Population
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Originally, the Kyrgyz are a nomadic people who left the Altai region in southern Siberia, escaping oppression. Kyrgyz are ethnically Turkic, with a strong affinity to Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Uyghurs, Turkmen, Azerbaijanis and Turks. Years of domination by other cultures have made the Kyrgyz people who they are today. During the time of Jengis Khan, the population composition particularly changed, and there are even rumours that ethnic Kyrgyz once had blue eyes and blond hair. Nowadays, Kyrgyz are a largely Muslim population with strong Russian influence. During the Soviet era, many Russians immigrated to Kyrgyzstan and today a majority of the country speaks Russian alongside Kyrgyz.
Geography & Climate
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Kyrgyzstan is located deep within Central Asia, surrounded by its “big brother” Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China in the east. Sandwiched between the Tien Shan and Ala Tau mountain ranges, it’s no wonder that Kyrgyzstan is often referred to as “the Switzerland of Central Asia”. More than 90% of its country above 1000 metres. The highest mountains are in the far east and southern regions, the latter of which can only be accessed via the Too Ashuu mountain pass or by plane. In the east, an astonishing 7439 metres above sea level, Jengish Chokusu stands as the highest peak in the country. Most rivers flow into the gigantic Lake Issyk Kul.
Tourism
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In 2008, tourism took a big leap, lifting the visa requirement for many Western countries. Most tourists still come from surrounding countries, mostly from Kazakhstan, though its share is declining. Kyrgyzstan has everything to become a future tourism hotspot: amazing nature, vast mountain ranges, a gigantic lake with golden beaches, an ancient nomadic culture, delicious cuisine, wild rivers, petroglyphs, snow-capped peaks, huge glaciers and fertile valleys. Moreover, these stunning valleys are inhabited by an incredibly hospitable people. It is not uncommon to find yourself invited to have a cup of tea with some local fare. The people lived relaxed lives with great emphasis on the present, not being too worried about tomorrow. Kyrgyz are sometimes referred to as the Jamacians of Central Asia. Always up for a dance and always willing to chat.