AnewZ Special | Kyrgyzstan: Where Nomadic Heritage Lives On

Kyrgyzstan is emerging as one of Central Asia’s most captivating destinations, offering visitors everything from the Tien Shan mountains and Lake Issyk-Kul to centuries-old nomadic traditions. AnewZ explores its landscapes, rich nomadic heritage and preparations for the World Nomad Games.

Known as the “Switzerland of Central Asia,” Kyrgyzstan is attracting visitors with its spectacular mountains, pristine lakes and rivers, as well as its enduring nomadic culture.

Salburun: preserving ancient nomadic traditions

A strong respect for nature lies at the heart of Kyrgyz culture. This connection is reflected in Salburun, an ancient tradition combining eagle hunting, horseback archery and hunting with dogs.

Once used for survival and protection, these practices are now preserved as traditional sports that celebrate Kyrgyz history and identity.

Eagle hunters continue to pass their skills from generation to generation, while competitions showcase the cultural importance of birds of prey and traditional hunting techniques.

A Kyrgyz hunter reacts while holding his tamed golden eagle during the traditional hunting festival of nomads "Salburun" in the village of Bokonbayevo in the Issyk-Kul region, Kyrgyzstan, 3 August 2024.
Reuters
World Nomad Games celebrate Kyrgyz heritage

The World Nomad Games provide a global platform for showcasing the traditions, sports and cultural heritage of nomadic peoples.

Kyrchyn Gorge, one of the event’s main venues, will be transformed into a centre of nomadic culture with traditional villages, craft markets and cultural demonstrations.

Kyrgyzstan will host the 2026 edition, bringing together athletes, cultural figures and visitors from around the world. 

Riders of Nomad Stunts group perform the Kyz Kuu (catch the girl) national riding game, where a girl whips a male contestant as she defends herself. 
Reuters
Issyk-Kul: a natural and cultural landmark

Beyond its traditions, Kyrgyzstan’s natural landscapes remain a major attraction. Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the world’s largest high-altitude lakes, is recognised for its unique environment and cultural significance.

The surrounding Central Tien Shan mountain region is considered by UNESCO one of the last harmonious cultural landscapes in Central Asia.

The lake’s shores are also home to the Rukh Ordo Cultural Centre, an open-air museum featuring five chapels dedicated to Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Catholicism and Orthodox Christianity. The centre promotes unity among communities.
 

Reuters
A general view shows the lake near the Petrov glacier, main water source for the Kumtor open pit gold mine at an altitude of about 4,000 metres above sea level, in the Tien Shan mountains, Kyrgyzstan, 28 May 2021.
Reuters

The country’s literary heritage is also celebrated through the works of renowned Kyrgyz writer Chingiz Aitmatov, whose books have been translated into dozens of languages worldwide.

Ala-Archa: Kyrgyzstan’s alpine treasure

For nature lovers, Ala-Archa National Park near Bishkek offers dramatic mountain scenery, hiking routes and protected ecosystems. The park protects diverse plant and animal species while showcasing one of Central Asia’s most impressive alpine landscapes.

Together, Kyrgyzstan’s traditions, hospitality and natural wonders highlight the enduring connection between nomadic culture and the environment.

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