Central Asia Tourism news
New QazETA Rules for Travelers Entering Kazakhstan
New QazETA Rules for Travelers Entering Kazakhstan Kazakhstan is moving to a new digital system for international travelers. The QazETA portal will replace traditional paper migration cards and allow visa-free visitors to submit their travel information electronically before entering the country. Travelers can complete the process through the official QazETA website
Tezjet lost license
On July 7, 2026, a Tez Jet MD-83 operating a Bishkek–Osh flight suffered a landing gear failure during takeoff, causing the aircraft to tilt onto one wing. Fortunately, there were no fatalities reported. Kyrgyz authorities immediately grounded the airline while investigating the accident. During an unscheduled inspection, regulators said they
Kyrgyzstan Opens Seasonal Alternative North–South Highway Linking Balykchy, Kazarman and Jalal-Abad
Kyrgyzstan Opens Alternative North–South Highway for Summer Traffic Kyrgyzstan has officially opened the alternative North–South highway connecting Balykchy, Kazarman, and Jalal-Abad (Manas) for seasonal traffic from 1 June to November 2026. The 433-kilometer route is one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects and significantly reduces travel time between northern and
Kyrgyzstan bans electronic cigarettes and vaping products
Kyrgyzstan bans electronic cigarettes and vaping products The purpose of this Law is to ensure the protection of the health and well-being of citizens from the use of electronic cigarettes with nicotine-containing liquid. The law prohibits the import, circulation and use of electronic cigarettes in the territory of the Kyrgyz
Kel-Suu Lake Disappears Again: No Water Seen in Late May 2026
Kel-Suu Lake Disappears Again Kel-Suu Lake in Kyrgyzstan’s remote Naryn region is currently reported to have no visible water as of May 25, 2026, with recent traveler updates describing the site as a dry, empty basin. Instead of the famous turquoise alpine lake, visitors are finding a vast open valley
Ring Railroad opened in Fergana valley
Ring railroad opened in Uzbek Fergana Valley A ring railroad connecting Margilan, Kokand, Namangan and Andijan in the Uzbek part of Fergana Valley has been opened. This regional train connection greatly improves the travel options between the major cities of Fergana Valley. From Kokand, there is a further connection to