When I describe Kyrgyzstan as the land of nature and beauty, I truly meant it. Of all the countries I visited throughout my 2 years of solo backpacking, I can easily say that Kyrgyzstan is my favorite. Going to Kyrgyzstan wasn’t part of my itinerary and I didn’t know the existence of this country until when I was in Turkey, looking at the google map for my next destination.  When I told my friends that I am going to Kyrgyzstan, most responses were “where is that”. I believe most people have hardly heard of this country, let alone able to spell it.

Kyrgyzstan is a country filled with endless mountains and crystal clear, turquoise alpine lakes. A true paradise for nature lovers and photographers. When I first arrived at the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, it is already surrounded by crazy high mountains. Having live in Singapore for over 20+ years with no more than 15m above sea level, I really had a hard time adjusting to the high altitudes. When driving through the country, an altitude of 3,000m is fairly common and with some peaks over 5,000m. My body finally get used to it after two weeks. 

To sum up, Kyrgyzstan is divided into 2 parts, the north and shore of Issyk Kul. The north shore is great for doing water sports and activities such as Jet Ski, boat riding and swimming. At night, restaurants and resorts provide many entertainment options.  If your goal is to do recreational activities and chill at the beach, then the north side is perfect for you. On the other hand, any places below the south of Issk Kul is full of exotic and beautiful landscapes, not to mention a true experience of nomadic lifestyle. I heard from many experience local guide that most beautiful landscape are located in the Karakol and Naryn region.

Transport in Kyrgyzstan can be tedious. Firstly, it nearly impossible to travel using 2 wheel vehicles as most of the terrains/roads are fill with large borders and rocks. Traveling from one destination to another can take a very long time and it’s highly recommended not to drive by yourself unless you have knowledge of car maintenance/repairs.  I had a longest car ride of my life from Karakol to Osh that took over 18 hours! Secondly, many of the exotic and beautiful landscapes, which are mostly near the border of China requires permit to get to. Lastly, some places are off road in which experience guide and drivers are required. I once encountered a military camp where the Kyrgyz soldiers are making life difficult for tourists. Fortunately, our Russian driver came prepared, giving them multiple packets of cigarette and bottles of vodka. 

People in Kyrgyzstan are one of the friendliest people I meet. Language barrier can be a problem because most Kyrgyz do not speak English but they are very patience and helpful. I once encountered a local inviting me to his home for some tea and snacks when I was walking along the streets of Bokonbayevo.  Two common types of accommodation in Kyrgyzstan are Yurt and guesthouse. Many nomads live in a yurt which is pretty common throughout the central Asia. Personally, I prefer to live in a yurt than a hostel or guesthouse because I get to connect more with the locals. 

What I truly love about this country is those beautiful landscapes, endless opportunity for awesome landscape photography. Looking back at those past photos I had taken, it transport me back to those moments when I was physically there, The feeling of peacefulness in the open air, standing alone in a 4,000 m cliff and looking over the mountains and valleys. I had stayed a total of 3 months in Kyrgyzstan and still think it isn’t enough. Now that I have the knowledge of the transport and connection from the locals, I will definitely return back. I strongly recommend people to visit the country ASAP before the country is filled with crowd of tourist!