Country guide - Kyrgyzstan  

 
 

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

Official Name: The Kyrgyz Republic
Area: 69,700 Sq Km (26,900 Sq Miles)
Population: 4,893,000
Continent: Asia
Density per square mile: 64
Capital City: Bishkek
Religions: 75% Muslim, 20% Russian Orthodox

Language: Kyrgyz and Russian
Government: Republic.

Currency: Som
GDP: $13.5 billion
GDP Per Head: $2,800

Natural Resources: abundant 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 Use: Arable Land 7%
Agriculture: Cotton, potatoes, vegetables, grapes, fruits and berries, tobacco, livestock primarily sheep, goats & cattle.
Industry: Agricultural Machinery, Building Materials, Electronic Equipment, Heavy Electrical Machinery, Hydroelectricity, Instruments, Machine Building, Metal Working, Mining, Motor Vehicle Assembly, Non Ferrous Metallurgy, Shoes & Furniture.

Tourism: Transport 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 Hazards: None
Health Risks: Hepatitis A & 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.

Climate: Kyrgyzstan 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 degrees Celsius in January to 16 to 18 degrees Celsius in July but vary according to elevation. Average annual rainfall varies from 10 to 15 inches.

Time: GMT/UTC + 5 hours (GMT + 6 from second Sunday in April to Saturday before last Sunday in September).
National Days: August 31

Visas: Although 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 Embassy Details

 

The contents above, from www.best-backpackers-insurance.co.uk is for information purposes only and we have tried to ensure that the information is as accurate as possible. We cannot accept any responsibility for any inconvenience, loss or injury as a result of the information above. You should always check and verify any critical information like visas, health and safety and customs with the relevant authorities before you travel since information can change at any time.