Why visit
Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Kyrgyzstan at a glance
Country center
41.0°, 75.0°
Coast
Landlocked
Country area
199,951 km²
77,201 mi²
Country population
6.7 million
34/km²
Subregion
Central Asia
Currency
Kyrgyzstani som (с)
KGS
Dial
+996
Languages
Kyrgyz, Russian
Demonym
Kirghiz
Internet
.kg
UN
Member state
ISO code
KG / KGZ
Where in the world
41.0° · 75.0°
Kyrgyzstan
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Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Kyrgyzstan is roughly 90% mountainous: the Tian Shan ("Celestial Mountains") cover most of the country.
- Lake Issyk-Kul is the world's second-largest alpine lake and never freezes despite altitude of 1,600 m.
- Traditional nomadic sports like Kok-boru (goat-head polo) are a national obsession.
Bordering Kyrgyzstan
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Bishkek
What currency is used in Bishkek?
Bishkek uses the Kyrgyzstani som (с), ISO code KGS.
What languages are spoken in Kyrgyzstan?
The primary languages are Kyrgyz and Russian.
What is the international calling code for Kyrgyzstan?
The calling code is +996.
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