Things to do in  Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan’s nickname—the Switzerland of Central Asia—doesn’t do this wonder justice. Over 90 percent of the terrain comprises hilly peaks, including the snowcapped Tian Shan range. Alpine lakes and high-altitude pastures or jailou provide nourishment to roving herds of horses. Look for the felted yurts: Kyrgyzstan is one of the last countries to practice nomadic pastoralism. Cities are scarce beyond Bishkek, the capital, and Osh, near the Uzbek border. What draws travelers here is the pristine natural setting—that, and Kyrgyz hospitality.