Nomad's Land

10/06/2025

🧭 Issyk Kul: A Timeless Crossroads of the Silk Road 🏺🌊

Long before it became a beloved destination for nature lovers and adventurers, the Issyk Kul region was a vital hub on the legendary Silk Road. Traders, pilgrims, and explorers passed through these valleys and shores, linking East and West across a network of cultures and empires.

Archaeological discoveries around the lake reveal Bronze Age settlements, stone petroglyphs, and mysterious burial mounds (kurgans) that whisper of ancient civilizations. Beneath the lake’s surface lie the remains of long-lost towns and temples—some believe sunken cities rest below the waves, preserving traces of forgotten lives.

From Zoroastrians to Buddhists and early Christians, this region welcomed a mosaic of beliefs and ideas. It wasn’t just a stop on the road—it was a meeting point of worlds.

📸 Take a closer look at these timeless landscapes and imagine the caravans that once moved through the same paths. The spirit of the Silk Road is still alive here, written in stone, water, and memory.

29/05/2025

Air Astana has launched regular flights on Almaty — Osh — Almaty route

Starting today, May 28, Air Astana has launched regular flights on Almaty — Osh — Almaty route. The press service of Airports of Kyrgyzstan JSC reported.

22/05/2025

“The Kyrgyz Nomad Trail allows visitors to reach a much wider range of locations and communities around Kyrgyzstan and alleviate some of the pressure from the few and very popular places being visited today”

By summer's end, more than 600 miles will be added to the Kyrgyz Nomad Trail, granting hikers access to lesser-known parts of the country.

15/05/2025

The majestic Gissar Mountains near the Khoja Obi Garm sanatorium in Tajikistan, perched at about 1960 meters. This Soviet-era and Sarob spa is nestled in a stunning river gorge, offering breathtaking views and unique radon-infused hot springs known for their healing properties. The rugged peaks and serene natural surroundings make it a perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure alike.

13/05/2025

Discover the legendary Iskanderkul Lake, just a scenic one-day trip from Dushanbe! This stunning turquoise gem in Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains is steeped in myths of Alexander the Great and his horse Bucephalus. Watch the lake’s colors shift from deep sapphire to brilliant azure as you explore its breathtaking surroundings, including the nearby “Fan Niagara” waterfall. Adventure, history, and natural beauty all in one unforgettable day!

13/05/2025

The Fortress of Hissar in Tajikistan is a historically significant and ancient site, dating back around 2,500 to 3,000 years, with origins possibly as early as 1000 BC and strong ties to the Achaemenid Empire under Cyrus the Great around 550 BC

05/05/2025

Too-Ashuu Pass — An Unforgettable Journey Between Sky and Peaks
The Too-Ashuu Pass, rising over 3,585 meters above sea level, is more than just a mountain crossing — it's one of Kyrgyzstan’s most scenic and iconic routes. Connecting the lush Chui Valley with the vast alpine Suusamyr Valley, it cuts through the Kyrgyz Ala-Too range with the help of an impressive 3-kilometer tunnel located at over 3,100 meters in altitude, linking the north and south of the country.

But Too-Ashuu is known not just for its infrastructure — it’s the raw, breathtaking beauty that captivates travelers and adventurers alike. Surrounded by steep cliffs, snow-capped peaks, and vibrant green pastures, the winding road is a feast for the eyes. You can hike across the pass in about three hours, from one tunnel entrance to the other. Along the way, you’ll spot ancient petroglyphs of ibex and, on the northern side, discover two hidden alpine lakes — Suluu Toer.

In summer, the landscape comes to life with wildflowers and sweeping mountain views. From June, hikers can explore the trails under clear blue skies. In winter, the road is blanketed in snow and ice, turning the journey into a challenging yet awe-inspiring adventure for experienced drivers and winter travelers.

Too-Ashuu is more than a transportation route — it’s a gateway to the soul of Kyrgyzstan’s mountains. Here, you can feel the power of nature, the spirit of freedom, and the nomadic heritage that defines this land.

19/04/2025

🌿🐎 Explore Kyrgyzstan on Horseback – All Year Round! 🏔️✨

Join us on a 3-day horseback riding adventure through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Issyk-Kul region!

Starting in the artisan village of Svetlaya Polyana (Bright Glade), where master komuz makers work with wild apricot wood, you’ll ride into the serene Siuttu Bulak Valley (Milky Spring), continue to the iconic red cliffs of Jeti Oguz, and finish in the rugged wilderness of Chong Kyzyl Suu Gorge.

🌞 This program runs all year round and was specially designed in collaboration with the “Kyzyl Djar” Tourism Association of Jeti Oguz to help train the next generation of local guides and horsemen. Your journey supports sustainable community tourism and the future stewards of this land.

🌸 What to expect:
🐴 Expert local guides & trained horses
🏡 Homestay or yurt accommodation
🌲 Stunning valleys, alpine meadows & cultural encounters
📍 Incredible views on the Issyk Kul Lake

✨ Ride with purpose. Explore with heart. Support the communities that call this land home.

📩 Message us to join or learn more!

Exploring Forests and Red Rocks on Horseback, All Year Round

18/04/2025

🛖 The Path to the Summer Pastures Begins...

In just a few days, the first Kyrgyz nomad families will leave their winter farms behind, loading their belongings onto pack animals, gathering their herds, and beginning the slow journey up into the high mountains.

The migration happens in one or two steps, depending on the weather, the grass, and the rhythm of the land. The destination? The lush summer pastures near Song Kul Lake, where grass grows thick and sweet under the sun, and life in the yurt begins again.

Once settled, the real work starts: milking the cows, mares, every morning and evening. From this milk, they make ayran (fresh yogurt), thick cream, and the prized fermented mare’s milk known as koumiz—a drink full of strength and tradition. Small, dried cheese balls called kurut are shaped by hand and left to dry under the sky. Every product is made with care, using knowledge passed down through generations.

Life is hard here, shaped by wind, weather, and time. But there’s a deep peace in the rhythm of it all. Around the yurts, there’s a profound silence—not empty, but full. Full of meaning. Full of life.

And yet, it’s never truly silent. You’ll always hear something: the distant bleating of sheep, the gentle grunt of a yak, the crackle of a fire, or the soft whinny of a horse greeting the dawn.

This is the heartbeat of the Kyrgyz highlands.
This is the beginning of summer.

📸 Swipe to step into the world of the nomads...

17/04/2025

🌍 Support the actions of the Boule de Neige association in Central Asia! ❄️

Our partner, the Swiss association "Boule de Neige", has been active for years in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan, developing winter sports and offering new opportunities to local youth. By collecting and sending equipment (skis, snowboards, clothing, ski lifts, etc.), Boule de Neige enables many children and young people to discover the mountains, train, and dream of a better future.

Their presence on the ground, especially through Samuel Maret, who lives in Bishkek, fosters regular exchanges with local clubs and schools, and also allows Swiss and French instructors to share their experience with local athletes and to train national ski trainers.

🎿 Today, Boule de Neige needs your help!⛷
The association is seeking funds to transport a full truck of equipment from Switzerland to Kyrgyzstan. Every donation counts to make this project a reality and support the youth of Central Asia.

👉 To learn more about their work and to make a donation, visit www.boule-de-neige.org

Bank details for donations can be found directly on their website.

Thank you all for your generosity and for supporting this wonderful human and solidarity adventure!

16/04/2025

🌿🧺 Discover the Kyzyl Suu Bazaar! 🐎🥔

Open every day in the center of Kyzyl Suu village—right in front of the bus station—this lively bazaar is where local life comes alive. Farmers from across the region gather here to sell fresh produce, from crisp potatoes to sweet apricots, as well as locally sourced meat and delicious dairy products, including cheese from the Kyzyl Suu factory and homemade specialties from nearby households. 🧀🍑🥩

Whether you're heading out on a multi-day trek or a horseback riding adventure into the majestic Teskei Alatoo range, this market is the perfect place to stock up on local flavors and connect with the people who call this valley home.

Did you know? Legendary Swiss explorer Ella Maillart passed through this very bazaar in 1923 before embarking on her journey across the Teskei and Ak-Shyyrak ranges. A timeless stop for explorers—then and now.

🧭 Come for the supplies, stay for the atmosphere!

01/04/2025

In Kyrgyzstan, a land of horse riders and equestrian traditions, women have gradually been pushed to the margins of the equestrian world. Yet, some of them continue to uphold essential practices, while others challenge the rules. Nora, in her yurt, prepares kumiss, a fermented mare’s milk that requires meticulous work, passed down through generations. Aizada keeps the Kyz Kumai tradition alive, a race where women have always had their place. Tolganay and Janylai, young shepherdesses, gather their sheep on horseback and participate in Kokpar, a game traditionally reserved for men. Sezim, an archer from Bishkek, trains young girls in hopes of reviving a forgotten tradition. Through their stories and actions, this documentary explores the diverse roles of women in Kyrgyzstan's equestrian heritage and celebrates those who, in their own way, refuse to be left out.

In Kyrgyzstan, a land of horse riders and equestrian traditions, women have gradually been pushed to the margins of the equestrian world. Yet, some of them c...