This guide unearths the treasures of Bishkek. It gives detailed cultural and historical insights on all points of interests, and includes practical easy-to-follow maps and walking tours.

Most guidebooks skip over Bishkek or only give the most rudimentary of overviews. This is a shame, as Bishkek has a lot to offer if you just scratch the surface. The reality is that Bishkek is a wonderfully green and leafy city, with a permanently snow-capped backdrop of the Ala-Too mountain range. With a strong Soviet flavour, and many buildings from that era lending an unforgettable atmosphere, the ravages of globalisation have passed the city by.

As in the time of the Silk Road, Kyrgyzstan and the Central Asian region again lie at a global crossroads. There is no better time to get reacquainted and to experience Bishkek, one of its biggest cities; its unique blend of culture, history, religion, language and peoples will live with you forever, and this guide will help you get the most out of your visit.