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The Central Asia region - Uzbekistan,
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,
Tajikistan, and
Turkmenistan
- has, for many years, been off limits to the independent
traveller. But thanks to loosening bureaucracy in the new
autonomous states, these beautiful, mythic lands are now ripe
for exploration.
Central Asia enjoys a sunny climate with largely unspoilt
blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, and vast arid deserts.
The locals have managed to preserve their traditional nomadic
culture in a world that is fast becoming homogenous. So many
empires and kingdoms have swept through the region at different
times, it's no wonder that Central Asia is so rich in heritage.
Connected to the rest of the world by the ancient caravan
trails that weaved their way through the towns and oases,
Central Asia was the original site of the legendary Silk
Road - the main trading route between the East and West
from the second century B.C. to the sixteenth century A.D.
The first item to be transported was silk, from which the
route got its name, and later jewellery, glass, and iron were
to make the fabled journey.
The mountains of Central Asia have been dubbed 'The Roof of
the World', containing some of the highest and most beautiful
peaks on Earth. Since the routes are so remote, with varying
difficulties, you will often find themselves with the captivating
landscape all to yourself. Local guides can advise and head
treks; either arrange with a tour before you go or ask around
in the local villages for an escort. Other popular activities
include hiking, climbing, rafting, mountain biking,
and kayaking. Winter sports are excellent in Bishkek
(Kyrgyzstan) and Almaty (Kazakhstan).
Central Asia has a large collection of rare and endemic flora
and fauna amid its varying altitudes in the mountains, steppes,
and valleys. Among the rarest species of animals to be found
are wild ram, aurochs, lynx, bears, and snow leopards.
The Amu-Darya is Central Asia's greatest river, rising
from the great mountains in the East and emptying into what
remains of the Aral Sea. The broad, flat, fertile land of
the Ferghana Valley is in the heartland of Uzbekistan,
surrounded by the Tien Shan and Pamir mountain
ranges. Here the majority of settlements are found and the
focus of the region's silk production. The unfortunate Russian
industrialisation has turned much the natural beauty of the
area into ugly production zones for the vast cotton industry
but nevertheless you will find the locals friendly and hospitable
and the nearby mountains convenient for activities and treks.
Kazakhstan
The varied topography of Kazakhstan creates a contrasting
landscape, from the vast plains and deserts, filled with interminable
steppes, through to the inaccessible snow-capped peaks, there
are many sights and activities to keep most travellers in
awe of this beautiful country. Combined with its long, difficult
history of occupation and the legacy of war, Kazakhstan has
many lingering monuments and mausoleums that will entice and
intrigue.
Kyrgyzstan
Land-locked Kyrgyzstan is dominated by the great Tien
Shan Mountains. The country borders China, Kazakhstan,
Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Its raw, natural beauty emanates
from its imposing landscape, awesome mountains, glaciers,
and lakes. This is an isolated land that time forgot which
has escaped much of the modernisation that dominates the world
today. Get back to nature with the nomadic herdsmen and their
ancient culture. Lying on the old Silk Road, here you can
chase some of the ancient mystery and romance of the Arabian
Nights in the many mosques and madrassas.
Tajikistan
Mountains cover 93 percent of this breathtaking country,
with nearly half of the interior more than 10,000 feet above
sea level. Intersected gorges and canyons carry the overflow
from the mountain's rainfall from the great Tien Shan and
Pamir ranges. It is a land-locked country, hemmed in
by the Pamir and Alay mountain ranges.
Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan boasts pristine natural surroundings with outstanding
culture and arts which, combined with its hospitable and friendly
people, makes it an unforgettable alternative destination.
The most recent to attain its independence from the Soviet
regime, the native Turkomen are steadily regaining their heritage
and the country is beginning to open its doors to the wider
world.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan holds all the delights and mystery of the ancient
Silk Road, where you can lose yourself in an Arabian fantasy
in the many bazaars and teahouses. The shopping is second
to none: you can dig out some fantastic bargains of old silks,
porcelain, wooden furniture, jewellery, and carpets. The traditional
architecture in Uzbekistan is a big draw for visitors. It
incorporates spectacular Persian and Mogul influences and
is built with exotic and ornate tiles.
When to go
Central Asia enjoys a continental climate in the lowlands
of the Ferghana Valley in the south-west with a stark, winter-like
contrast in the high altitude Tien Shan Mountains.
Temperatures range from 30C in summer to a chilling -45C
in winter. Invariably, if you intend to see much of this fascinating
area, spring and autumn are the best times to visit as the
country breaks into a harmony of colour and vitality around
harvest time. You may also find transport restricted and many
flights cancelled in winter and trekking in the mountains
in spring can be treacherous with melting snow and increased
risk of avalanche. Always check with local guides or tourist
agencies for current safety advice.
Being a majority Muslim population, traditional Islamic festivals
are astutely observed. Probably the biggest of these is Navrus,
the spring festival of renewal which takes place on the vernal
equinox, approximately mid- to late March when, for two days,
traditional games, music and drama are practised. Good places
to experience Navrus are Samarkand (Uzbekistan) and
Hissar Fort near Dushanbe (Tajikistan).
Ramadan is also observed, however not with so much
gusto as other Islamic states, as the people of Central Asia
remain closer to their nomadic roots. Travellers should still
find food with relative ease at this time. Independence
Day is celebrated in each country, dates vary from late
August to late September for each country, marking the end
of the oppressive Soviet regime. Each country has its own
national holiday on this day and it is celebrated with great
reverence as a symbol of hope.
The Nukus' Pakhta-Bairam harvest festival is held
in Karakol (Kazakhstan) in December, where you can
catch a rare game of ylaq oyyny - Central Asia's answer
to polo. Players hit a goat carcass around the field and other
'animal loving' activities take place like wrestling and ram
and cock fighting.
Dress
Women should be aware of dressing appropriately in Central
Asia as skimpy clothes or shorts may attract attention from
the local men and you will need to cover your head and remove
shoes when entering a mosque. Avoid displaying symbols of
wealth, such as jewellery, as you may become a target for
crime.
Travel
Bus and train travel is somewhat behind the western standards
you may be used to; services are infrequent and overcrowded.
Be early and re-confirm the timetable in advance of your journey.
Language
There are many languages being spoken in these countries
of Central Asia, some of the main official ones are Kyrgyz,
Tajik, Turkmen, and Uzbek. Russian is also widely
spoken as the business language and to bridge the linguistic
gap between different nationalities.
People
Central Asia has a cosmopolitan mix of ethnic groups including
Kyrgyz, Uzbek, Tajik, Kazakh, Turkmen, and Russian. The main
religion here is Islam, although practitioners tend
not to be as strict as those in the Middle Eastern.
Kazakhstan people
Native Kazakhs are a mix of Turkic and Mongol nomadic tribes
who migrated to the region around the thirteenth century.
Russia then conquered Central Asia in the eighteenth century
and the area was split up into Soviet Republics in the 1930s.
Kyrgyzstan people
In Kyrgyzstan, social status was traditionally reflected
by the costumes people wore. Woman's dress changed throughout
the different periods of her life, shekelo is the traditional
veil of the bride, and later in life she will wear an elechek.
This is a tall hat spooled from a stripe of white canvas or
cotton, the length is defined by their social status and wealth.
The elechek is then used as a sheet after death. The men wear
a type of ornate waistcoat called a chyptama, their
trousers are made from rawhide, as the Kyrgyz are traditionally
good with fur.
Turkmenistan people
The native Turkomen descend from the nomadic tribes heralding
from the Altai Mountains. They settled in the region in the
fifteenth century and still maintain much of their tradition,
particularly in their dress. Clothing for Turkomen consists
of huge hats made of sheepskin, long coats, and boots.
Cash
You'll find the countries of Central Asia cheap by Western
standards, however, as a foreigner you will unavoidably pay
more for goods and services than the locals. Expect to spend
between US$20 to 40 per day on a budget, more if you wish
to stay in moderate hotels and eat in decent restaurants.
Tipping is contrary to Islamic principals, so you may offend
by offering money for services. In some restaurants a service
charge is added to the bill.
Credit cards have yet to emerge in any way in Central Asia:
you will only find a few top-end restaurants and hotels accepting
the major cards. Instead, rely on cash in small denominations
for purchases - US Dollars are easiest to change and larger
towns have exchange bureaus.
Central Asia is the perfect place to haggle for traditional
Asian carpets and crafts. The bazaars and markets are bustling
and lively, with plenty of opportunity to peruse some of the
most beautiful wears in the region. The traditional Oriental
bazaars offer the best bargains, and silk is still a local
speciality, decently priced if you look around. As with anywhere,
you need to be on your guard for pick-pockets and bag-slashers,
and don't expect to get any use from your credit cards - payment
is accepted in cash only.
Kazakhstan cash
Generally, Kazakhstan is the most expensive country, although
travelling with a friend and shopping for your food in bazaars
will keep costs down. Imported luxuries like chocolate bars
and beer will blow your budget, as will car hire and taxis.
The currency of Kazakhstan is the Tenge, equal to 100
Tyins. The banking system is more advanced here, and you'll
find it increasingly easy to find places accepting credit
cards and places to change currency and travellers cheques.
Kyrgyzstan cash
The Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS) was the first official currency
to be introduced in the new Central Asian states in 1993.
The shaky start to the Krygyzstani state has lingered, with
an unstable economy and primitive banking structure. Be aware
that throughout Central Asia, new, crisp notes are generally
all that is accepted, and larger notes are hard to break.
Tajikistan cash
The Rubl is used in Tajikistan and the limited banking
service means you may have difficulty changing money. If you
find a good rate, consider changing enough for your trip in
one go.
Turkmenistan cash
Turkmenistan is one of the cheapest of the Central Asian
countries, as the economy has struggled to prosper after independence.
The currency used is the Turkmen Manat (TMM); expect
this to be the only method of payment here.
Uzbekistan cash
The official currency in Uzbekistan is the Sum. Cheap
accommodation is hard to find here, and your best bet may
be an overpriced tourist hotel.
For up to date currency information, check the Currency
Converter.
Food and drink
The diet of Central Asia makes the most of local produce.
Filling, nourishing ingredients are used to prepare food that
provides the eater with energy and strength in an unforgiving
landscape.
Their diet depends on their livestock, and consists mainly
of meat and dairy products. Any of their domestic animals
can be milked including sheep, goats, yaks, and camels. The
milk is then used to make butter, yoghurt (ayran) and dried
round sour curds called qurut. These are stored and
eaten when fresh milk isn't available during winter, droughts,
and severe weather. Qurut is also a popular 'trail food',
prepared in advance and taken by shepherds and soldiers on
trips away from their home camp.
Koumiss is another fermented mare's milk product.
This wholesome sour drink is very popular amongst Central
Asians. It is not considered alcoholic, and is given to babies
as young as one year's old. Koumiss is also used in medicinal
and ritual purposes; soldiers and their horses are blessed
with it before going to battle to bid them a safe return.
The most common meats in Central Asia are mutton
or horsemeat, which is often boiled in a big cauldron. Only
large, well-fed cattle are slaughtered, as the nomad's lifestyle
requires high-fat, high-energy food. There is a special technique
to slaughtering the animals, as the meat needs to be divided
according to muscle structure. It is then served in ritual
order, a tradition still regarded highly, especially among
the elder generation.
A staple drink throughout Central Asia is milky, spiced chai
or tea, served in many teahouses or chai-khanas. A sight that
will certainly become familiar is the many robed men, passing
time and drinking tea during the long afternoons. It is customary
to remove your shoes when sitting down in the chai-khana.
Kyrgyzstan food
Nomadic in nature, the Kyrgyz have developed a food culture
to compliment their lifestyles. The constant movement and
exposure to the elements means they need nourishing and calorific
food, and this is reflected in their recipes and ingredients.
Typical food includes lots of meat and flour like Besh-barmak
(boiled meat with noodles and bouillon), Boorsoks (pieces
of dough fried in oil), Chuchuk (fat salami made of
mutton), Shorpo (a traditional Kyrgyz soup), and Chak-Chak
(a sweet dish of fried dough with honey).
A common drink in Kyrgyzstan is Kumys, a nutritional
drink made from fermented mare's milk, a variety of which
is found throughout Central Asia. Another Kyrgyz favourite
is Maksym - made from barley, wheat, or corn.
Tajikistan food
Tajik fare is dependent on availability due to economic depression.
Vegetables often replace meat and dishes include chickpea
samosas and porridge. Soups made from beans, milk, and herbs
are common. When meat is available, usually mutton, it is
often made into tushbera (steamed dumplings) and served
with vinegar or butter. Other specialities are tuhum barak,
a ravioli-like egg dish doused with sesame seed oil, and chakka,
a curd mixed with herbs, served with a delicious flat bread.
Uzbekistan food
Uzbeki food is similar to the rest of Central Asia. Plov
is an everyday staple - a dish consisting of mutton chunks,
carrot, and rice - and shashlyk - skewered chunks of mutton
barbecued over charcoal and served with raw onion. There is
a big variety of breads available in Uzbekistan and Uzbeks
pride themselves on its good quality. A popular one is an
un-leavened bread called lipioshka which you can often buy
on street corners, along with samsa (samosas). Another Uzbek
favourite is manty (dumplings stuffed with meat) and shorpa
(a soup made from meat and vegetables).
During the summer and autumn months, fresh fruit is widely
available, including grapes, pomegranates, and apricots. In
winter, dried versions are sold. The most popular fruit is
always the melon, with the honeydew and watermelon varieties
most widespread.
Visas
You will need visas to visit all countries in Central Asia,
available from the relevant country's embassy or consulate.
Some countries require a letter of invitation, or itinerary
to gain entry. These are mandatory, so check before travelling
if you want to see more than their exciting airports on you
trip.
Health
Health risks include hepatitis, diphtheria, cholera, typhoid
and a slight risk of malaria in some areas. Check with
your doctor before you travel for necessary vaccinations.
Altitude sickness is also possible if you are trekking in
some of the higher peaks so take adequate precautions and
suitable clothing.
In Kyrgyzstan, be aware of water-borne diseases and make
the effort to boil your water before drinking, cleaning your
teeth, and making ice. Faulty irrigation practices and contaminated
streams mean water can be dangerous so care should be taken.
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