Bishkek, June 16, 2026 /Kabar/. Every year, many travelers visit Kyrgyzstan. Its colorful landscapes captivate visitors with their indescribable beauty. One such place is the Kol-Ukok pasture, a destination for which tourists from all over the world travel thousands of kilometers.
Today, Kol-Ukok is one of the most popular tourist destinations among foreign visitors, but just 30 years ago, only shepherds came here. Back then, reaching Kol-Ukok was a real challenge. There were no cars. The only route connecting the shepherds to the village was a narrow single-track horse trail.
Nurzhan Arykova – entrepreneur:
“We used to reach this lake on horseback. The journey with ten horses took 3–4 days. There were times when the horses got spooked and fell into the lake.”
At that time, no one imagined that this place’s future would be tied to tourism. The locals could only dream of such a thing. But tourism gradually made its way to this area and changed the lives of the local people.
Toktosun Kerimkulov – tour guide:
“I work as a tour guide and accompany tourists, taking them to the lake and back on horseback.”
What makes the Kol-Ukok pasture truly unique is the picturesque lake, nestled among the mountains at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level?
The crystal-clear water, towering peaks, and the vast open landscapes attract visitors from around the world. Tourists who come to Kol-Ukok are not seeking comfort or luxury. They are drawn by the beauty of the wilderness and the profound sense of peace that surrounds.
Cholponai Aralbayeva – entrepreneur:
“We often have visitors from Europe. We introduce them to Kyrgyz traditions and values. They come here to truly relax and unwind, since there is no internet, no cell service, and no noise—just fresh air, nature, and peace.”
Tourists visiting Kol-Ukok are not limited to enjoying its natural beauty. They are also eager to discover Kyrgyz culture, traditional crafts, and centuries-old customs.
Gulzhamal Kasmalieva – local resident, entrepreneur:
“I first demonstrated the process of making a shyrdak to a guest from Switzerland. Foreigners find it very interesting to watch, and sometimes even participate in the process of making shyrdaks. They also buy felt products, despite their cost.”
Saadagul Sadykova was one of the first to open her home to foreigners and set up a guesthouse.
Saadagul Sadykova – entrepreneur:
“One day, I decided to invite foreign guests into my home. Just like us, they slept on the floor, cooked, and ate with our family. They watched us milk the cows. They helped herd the sheep and fully immersed themselves in our way of life.”
Mirbek Busurmankulov – entrepreneur:
“Those who encounter foreign visitors along the way are always very friendly. They come out of their yurts to greet them, offer them tea, and simply enjoy a conversation. This is what attracts tourists—our simplicity, authenticity, and hospitality.”
According to experts, the driving force behind Kyrgyzstan’s development will not be luxury services, but the exotic charm of nomadic life—wild nature, traditional yurts, horseback riding, kumis, and tea from a samovar.
Eduard Kubatov – Director of the State Agency for Tourism Development:
“In 2025, more than 10 million tourists visited Kyrgyzstan. According to our forecasts, the number of tourists should reach 12 million in the near future. Tourists often come to Kyrgyzstan for its mountains. Our goal is to encourage them to return. If a tourist does not return for a second visit, they are considered a ‘lost’ tourist.”
The number of tourists visiting Kyrgyzstan continues to grow. But with that growth comes greater responsibility. After all, a visitor who arrives today will share their impressions about Kyrgyzstan tomorrow.
Tourism in Kyrgyzstan has changed the lives of hundreds of families. For some, it is a business, but for dozens, it is an opportunity to feed their families, provide their children with an education, pursue a new passion, and introduce the world to Kyrgyz culture, art and traditions.