Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

Browse the Kyrgyzstan Photo Gallery

Shopping

In Bishkek, Osh and Al-Medin bazaars are popular for food and handicrafts. There is also a shop in the Art Gallery that sells paintings and traditional Kyrgyz products. Particularly popular are embroidered Kyrgyz felt hats (kalpak), felt carpets and chess sets with traditional Kyrgyz figures.

Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0900-1700.

Currency

Kyrgyz Som (KGS; symbol лв) = 100 tyin. Notes are in denominations of лв1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1, and 50, 10 and 1 tyin.

Currency Exchange

Foreign currencies can be exchanged at commercial banks and at authorized bureau de change. The US Dollar is the easiest currency to exchange.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

Credit cards are accepted in some of the larger hotels in Bishkek and can also be used at banks to withdraw cash from the counter. ATMs exist but are hardly commonplace in Bishkek or Osh and even less so elsewhere.

Travelers Checks

There is limited acceptance of these, but some banks in Bishkek accept traveler's checks, with US Dollars probably the best option; commission charges are high. Cash is recommended.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts exceeding US$10,000 or equivalent must be declared.

Banking Hours

Usually Mon-Fri 0930-1730.

Exchange Rate