Where is Kyrgyzstan Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Kyrgyzstan located on the map? Kyrgyzstan is an independent nation located in Central Asia. Check out the following images to see location of Kyrgyzstan on maps.

Kyrgyzstan Location in World Map

Kyrgyzstan is located in Central Asia.

Location Information of Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country situated in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the south, and China to the east. Its geographical location places it in a region that has historically been a crossroads of various cultures and civilizations. The terrain is dominated by mountainous landscapes, with the Tian Shan mountain range running through much of the country.

Latitude and Longitude

Kyrgyzstan lies approximately between 39° and 43° N latitude and 69° and 80° E longitude. The country’s vast mountainous terrain creates both scenic beauty and challenges for its infrastructure and development. The central part of the country is generally higher in elevation, with some of the highest peaks exceeding 7,000 meters.

Capital City and Major Cities

The capital city of Kyrgyzstan is Bishkek, located in the north of the country near the border with Kazakhstan. Bishkek is the largest city in the country and serves as its political, economic, and cultural hub.

Bishkek (Capital City)

Bishkek is a relatively modern city, founded in 1878 as a Russian military outpost known as Pishpek. Today, it is home to over 1 million people, making it the most populous city in Kyrgyzstan. The city is known for its Soviet-era architecture, green spaces, and proximity to the mountains, which offer opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation.

Osh

Osh, the second-largest city, is located in the southern part of the country near the border with Uzbekistan. It has a population of around 300,000 and is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Osh is often considered the cultural and historical center of Kyrgyzstan, with a rich history dating back to antiquity. The city is known for its vibrant markets, ancient landmarks, and its importance as a regional trade hub.

Jalal-Abad

Jalal-Abad is another major city in the south of Kyrgyzstan, known for its agricultural output, especially in fruits like apples, apricots, and grapes. It is an important administrative and economic center in the region. The city is surrounded by fertile land and provides a scenic backdrop of the Fergana Valley.

Karakol

Karakol is located in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, in the Issyk-Kul region, and serves as a gateway to the popular Issyk-Kul Lake. It is known for its tourism industry, particularly for adventure tourism and winter sports, and is surrounded by rugged mountains that make it a prime destination for hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.

Time Zone

Kyrgyzstan operates on Kyrgyzstan Time (KGT), which is UTC +6:00. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains constant throughout the year. This time zone places Kyrgyzstan ahead of most countries in Central Asia, as well as a few hours ahead of Western Europe and the eastern coast of the United States.

Climate

Kyrgyzstan experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. Due to its high elevation and mountainous terrain, the climate can vary significantly across different regions.

Winter

In winter, temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the mountain regions, where temperatures can fall as low as -20°C (-4°F) or even lower. In Bishkek and other lowland areas, winters are cold but typically less severe, with average temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to -15°C (5°F). Snowfall is common, especially in the higher altitudes, making it a good time for winter sports enthusiasts.

Summer

Summers in Kyrgyzstan can be quite hot, particularly in the lowlands and valleys. Average temperatures in cities like Bishkek range from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F) during the summer months. However, the mountainous regions offer a cooler climate even during the summer, making them a popular escape from the heat.

Rainfall

Kyrgyzstan receives moderate rainfall, with the wettest months being from April to June. The mountainous regions experience more precipitation, often in the form of heavy rain or snowmelt during the spring and early summer months. In contrast, the lowland regions see less rainfall, contributing to the semi-arid conditions of certain areas.

Economic Status

Kyrgyzstan is considered a lower-middle-income country, with its economy primarily based on agriculture, mining, and remittances from its expatriate workers abroad. The economy has been growing steadily, though challenges such as political instability, a reliance on imports, and a lack of infrastructure remain.

Key Economic Sectors

Agriculture: The agricultural sector remains the backbone of Kyrgyzstan’s economy, contributing to around 25% of the GDP and employing a large portion of the population. Key crops include wheat, barley, corn, and fruits like apples and grapes. Livestock farming is also significant, with Kyrgyzstan being known for its sheep and goat farming.
Mining: Kyrgyzstan is rich in natural resources, particularly in minerals like gold, uranium, and coal. The country’s largest gold mine, Kumtor, is one of the largest in Central Asia and plays a major role in the national economy.
Remittances: Due to economic challenges and limited job opportunities, many Kyrgyz nationals work abroad, particularly in Russia, and send remittances back to their families. This flow of funds has become a key part of the country’s economic structure.
Services and Industry: The services sector, including tourism, retail, and banking, has grown in recent years, but industry remains less developed compared to agriculture and mining.

Tourist Attractions

Kyrgyzstan is a hidden gem for travelers, offering a wide range of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The country’s mountainous terrain, lakes, and historical landmarks make it an appealing destination for adventure seekers and cultural explorers alike.

Issyk-Kul Lake

Issyk-Kul is the second-largest saltwater lake in the world and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyrgyzstan. It is located in the northeastern part of the country and is surrounded by the towering Tian Shan mountains. The lake offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and water sports during the summer, while the surrounding areas are rich with scenic beauty and ancient archaeological sites.

Ala Archa National Park

Located just outside Bishkek, Ala Archa is a stunning national park offering breathtaking views, crystal-clear rivers, and challenging mountain hikes. It is a popular spot for trekking, picnicking, and mountaineering. The park’s landscape includes alpine meadows, waterfalls, and glaciers, making it an excellent destination for outdoor activities.

Tash-Rabat

Tash-Rabat is an ancient caravanserai located in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, near the border with China. It was a key stop along the Silk Road and is known for its well-preserved architecture and historical significance. The site offers insight into Kyrgyzstan’s ancient past and its role in regional trade routes.

Sulaiman-Too Mountain

Sulaiman-Too, located in the city of Osh, is a sacred mountain that has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. The mountain is dotted with ancient cave temples, inscriptions, and other historical sites. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its cultural and religious significance.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

As of the latest regulations, U.S. citizens wishing to visit Kyrgyzstan must obtain a visa. However, the country offers a visa-free regime for stays of up to 60 days for citizens of several countries, including the United States, for tourism and business purposes. For longer stays, U.S. citizens need to apply for an appropriate visa through the Kyrgyz embassies or consulates.

The visa application typically requires the following:

A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond the date of entry)
A completed visa application form
A passport-sized photo
Proof of accommodation in Kyrgyzstan
Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay

It is always advisable to check with the nearest Kyrgyz embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

From New York City to Bishkek: The flight distance is approximately 10,700 kilometers (6,650 miles). A direct flight would take around 13-14 hours, but due to the lack of direct flights, most itineraries require one or two stopovers, often in cities like Istanbul, Moscow, or Almaty.
From Los Angeles to Bishkek: The flight distance is approximately 11,300 kilometers (7,020 miles). Similarly to New York, travelers can expect a flight time of around 14-15 hours, though stopovers in European or Middle Eastern cities are common.

The distances highlight Kyrgyzstan’s relative remoteness from major U.S. cities, though it is well-connected by air to various international hubs.

Kyrgyzstan Facts

Size	199,900 km²
Residents	5.96 million
Languages	Kyrgyz, Russian
Capital	Bishkek (Biškek)
Longest river	Naryn (534 km)
Highest mountain	Dschengisch Tschokusu (7,439 m)
Currency	Som