Sheker Village
Sheker Village
Sheker Village, located in the heart of the Kara-Buurinsky district in the Talas region, is a tranquil and inviting destination rich in history and culture. Renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and warm community spirit, Sheker offers visitors a chance to experience a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary life.
Sheker Village is strategically located at the crossroads of history and nature. To the south, it shares its border with Kok-Sai village; to the north, it neighbors Amanbaevo village; and to the west, it connects to Kazakhstan, making it an accessible and significant settlement in the region. The village serves as the administrative hub of the Sheker aul district, providing a focal point for local governance and community activities.
Sheker holds a special place in the hearts of Kyrgyz people as the birthplace and childhood home of Chingiz Aitmatov, one of the most celebrated writers in Kyrgyzstan. Aitmatov’s literary works, which reflect the essence of Kyrgyz life and values, have gained global recognition, making Sheker a destination of interest for literature enthusiasts.
Sheker a birthplace of Chingiz Aitmatov
Sheker Village is the setting for many of Aitmatov’s works and numerous places significant to the writer and his admirers: the Kurkureu River, where his grandfather’s mill once stood; the lake above the village and the cave of Ismail, a character from the story “Face to Face”; the spring where young Chingiz used to cry when he was not accepted into the pioneers as the son of an enemy of the people; the mill from the story “Jamila”; the school where the writer once studied, which became the prototype for Duishen’s school in the story “The First Teacher.”
Sheker Sights
Sheker is more than just a village; it is a gateway to understanding Kyrgyz culture and history. From its connection to literary giants to its stunning natural surroundings and welcoming community. Sheker offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking an authentic journey into Kyrgyzstan’s heartland.
Chingiz Aitmatov Museum
The museum is located in the old house where the great writer spent his childhood and youth. It was opened in 1978 in honor of the writer’s fiftieth anniversary and has since become a local landmark. Chingiz wrote his first works here. The museum displays over 1000 exhibits, including original manuscripts and articles, the writer’s favorite books, clothing, furniture, household items, and numerous photographs of the writer and his family.
Ismail's Cave
The cave is located in the centre of the cemetery, where Ismail, the hero of the story “Face to Face,” hid. It is not exactly a cave but a mound with numerous underground passages that were active during the time of the Karakhanids. It is believed that deep within this mound lies an ancient city. It is said that various sounds, noises, and rustlings can often be heard from the depths of the cave as if there is life a thousand kilometres underground. However, since this cave is listed as a UNESCO heritage site, excavations are prohibited here.
Sculpture Park
Sheker Village has a sculpture park featuring characters from the works of the great writer. These sculptures are located on the southern side of the village among willows, apple trees, and birches. Not far from where the sculptures are located, there is a small lake. Previously, the sculptures were installed in a museum opened in honor of Chingiz Aitmatov‘s 50th anniversary. However, the sculptures were relocated to the historical site where they are now. The author of the sculptures is Turgunbay Sadykov. He created the sculptures in 1992.
How to Get Sheker Village
The distance between Talas city and Sheker Village is 90 km. You can get there by taxi or car. Traveling by car at an average speed of 70 km/h, you can reach your destination in approximately one hour.
Destinations near Sheker Village
Page updated 15.12.2024
