Looking for a completely new way to experience Asia? Dominated by the Tian Shan mountains, Krygyzstan will more than test the intrepid traveller inside you. Whether you’re heli-skiing the virgin snowy peaks (a new trip for 2010), camping in a traditional yurt eating spicy meat Beshbarmak or Ashlam-foo noodles with locals, this is country where you can really get off the beaten track. See Lake Son Kyul, 3,500 metres above sea level and discover ancient petroglyphs hidden in cliff-top caves. Admire the alpine beauty of Ala Archa national park and valley, ride Kyrgyz horses along the ravines and lakes of the silk route, meeting local shepherds and eagle-hunters along the way.
Watch the game of ulak, where horse-backed teams (of unlimited numbers) whip each other in the hope of winning a goat’s head, and feel the temperature of warm summer days plunge as the sun sets to leave an eerie red light over the snow-capped peaks. Warm up with a shot or two of Kyrgyz vodka (one of the many nuances of the predominantly Muslim country) around a horse dung fire, or, for a more luxurious experience, enjoy the 5 star luxury of Bishkek’s Hyatt Regency with pool and mountain views.
