United Nation Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific Transport and Tourism Division

Kyrgyzstan

Bishkek (AH5) Bishkek is the capital and industrial centre. A relaxed city of wide streets and handsome houses, it is a jumping-off point for the Tian Shan Mountains and Lake Issyk-Kul, and for the overland crossing into China via the Torugart Pass. The 4,800-metre snowcapped ramparts of the Kyrgyz Alatau range loom over the city.

Lake Issyk-Kul (AH61) Folded between the peaks of the Küngey Alatau and the Terskey Alatau ranges, the huge Lake Issyk-Kul sits 1,600 metres above sea level. The world’s second-largest alpine lake, 170 kilometres long and 70 kilometres across, it is famous for its magnificent scenery and unique scientific interest.