What to buy in Kyrgyzstan
What to Buy in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan does not have that many products suitable for souvenirs to choose from but the ones there are worth a glance. When it comes to souvenir, bringing a yurt or a large wool carpet is not the easiest choice with the airline baggage limitations and costs (yurts are also very expensive!).
Fortunately there are also smaller products like handmade felt and wool products and many consumables like honey, chocolate or beverages to bring home from Kyrgyzstan. It is best to buy the souvenirs in the Kyrgyz villages or remote towns or in Bishkek, but no recommended in the Manas airport as the prices there are very very high. All our Kyrgyzstan Tours and Central Asia Tours offer you the opportunity to purchase souvenirs.
Kyrgyz Felt Souvenirs
Felt is the primary art form in Kyrgyzstan and has passed along the generations for ages having its roots back in the nomadic lifestyle. In the nomadic culture felt was a necessity as Kyrgyz people lived in the yurts covered by felt, worn warm clothes made from it and had several household items that were made from the felt as well.
Felt products are still very popular in Kyrgyzstan even now and active produced also for the locals meaning that you are not buying just something made four tourist but something that is part of the local culture. Particularly felt items like hats, toys, shoes and bags are popular and proper sized items to take back home as a souvenir. The most known Kyrgyz felt product is the white felt hat called kalpak.
Kyrgyz Wool Rug (Shyrdak)
One of the most authentic souvenirs to bring home from Kyrgyzstan is an embroidered shyrdak (traditional felt rug). They are commonly very large made for the big rooms of the Kyrgyz houses but in the bazaars you can also find smaller ones that you can fit inside your suitcase. Remember to haggle when buying these from a bazar!
A shyrdak is a stunning and culturally rich souvenir to bring home from Kyrgyzstan. These handcrafted rugs are not only beautiful but also deeply rooted in Kyrgyz nomadic traditions. Made from natural wool, shyrdaks are known for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and durability, making them both a practical and decorative keepsake.
Each shyrdak tells a story, with its patterns often symbolizing themes of nature, family, and harmony. Traditional designs incorporate geometric shapes and motifs inspired by mountains, animals, and the nomadic lifestyle. The creation process is meticulous, involving dyeing, cutting, and layering felt to form contrasting patterns. Artisans then stitch the pieces together with precision, making each rug a unique masterpiece. This process is typically carried out by women in rural communities, ensuring the craft’s authenticity and cultural significance.
Whether you hang it on a wall or used as a centerpiece in your living space, a shyrdak adds warmth and character while serving as a constant reminder of Kyrgyzstan’s rich cultural legacy. It’s a gift of artistry, tradition, and storytelling, making it a truly memorable souvenir. If you want to order a custom made shyrdak before your trip, contact us!
Kyrgyz Mountain Honey
Kyrgyz honey is well-known for its organic production. in Kyrgyzstan honey is mostly produced in the alpine meadows, on the high mountain slopes and at the foot of the Tian-Shan Mountains.
Mountain honey contains the wealth of motley grass, fruit trees, mountain flowers and berries growing on the territory of the Kyrgyz Republic. You can find several different types of honey depending on the region and other aspects and each of them differs by taste, color and even structure. Make sure to try the different types when in Bazars, before the purchase.
Chocolate "Kyrgyzstan"
Kyrgyzstan chocolate brand offers various tastes of the chocolate. Kurut taste is be the most well known one. It is made of natural cocoa, which explains it’s the locally high price of 120 som.
The package has several traditional Kyrgyz symbols and a unique Kyrgyz kurut taste. You can find it in supermarkets of Bishkek and almost every shop in the smaller cities and countryside as well.
Batken Dried Apricots
Batken apricots are famous all around Kyrgyzstan and another must-taste food while visiting the country. Batken region is located south of the Fergana Valley, which is known as the most fertile part of Central Asia.
Batken is known as “the land of apricots” and their quality is famous not only among the Kyrgyz but also abroad, though contested by the Istravshan region in the Tajik Fergana valley, neighboring the region.
Kyrgyz Cognac
Kyrgyz cognac is an excellent souvenir to bring home from Kyrgyzstan, offering a unique blend of local craftsmanship and cultural significance. Kyrgyz cognac is often crafted with regional ingredients, giving it a distinct flavor that captures the essence of the country. Popular brands such as Kyrgyz Konyak, Shoro Cognac, and Issyk-Kul Cognac are widely recognized for their quality and affordability, making them ideal gifts or keepsakes.
Whether you’re drawn to the unique flavors or the cultural value, this local spirit offers a memorable way to share your Kyrgyzstan experience with friends and family.
Kyrgyz cognac not only serves as a tasteful reminder of your journey but also highlights the country’s growing reputation for fine spirits. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, it’s a gift that is sure to impress.
Kalpak
The kalpak, a traditional Kyrgyz hat, is one of the most iconic and meaningful souvenirs you can bring home from Kyrgyzstan. Made from white felt, this distinctive hat symbolizes Kyrgyz heritage, pride, and the connection to the country’s nomadic roots. The kalpak’s lightweight and durable design makes it both a practical item and a cultural artifact, ideal for anyone looking to take home a piece of Kyrgyzstan’s history.
The kalpak’s design is steeped in symbolism. Its tall, pointed shape represents the peaks of Kyrgyzstan’s majestic mountains, while the black embroidery often found on the edges signifies wisdom and life. Traditionally worn by Kyrgyz men, the kalpak is increasingly celebrated as a unisex cultural item, and its versatility has contributed to its modern-day popularity. It is used in traditional ceremonies, national holidays, and even as an everyday accessory by those wishing to honor their heritage.
You can find kalpaks in local bazaars like Bishkek’s Osh Bazaar, where artisans sell a variety of styles, ranging from classic designs to more elaborately embroidered versions. For a higher-end option or a gift, some kalpaks are adorned with intricate patterns or custom stitching. Beyond its aesthetic value, buying a kalpak supports local craftspeople and the preservation of Kyrgyz traditions.
Whether you wear it as a cultural statement or display it as a decorative piece, the kalpak is a meaningful and authentic souvenir that captures the essence of Kyrgyzstan. It’s more than just a hat; it’s a symbol of identity and a conversation starter, allowing you to share the story of your travels with others.
Kyrgyz Style Jewelry
Kyrgyz-style jewelry makes for an exceptional souvenir from Kyrgyzstan, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and artisanal craftsmanship. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, these unique pieces often feature intricate designs inspired by nomadic life, natural landscapes, and ancient symbols. Materials like silver, semi-precious stones, leather, and felt are commonly used, creating jewelry that feels both authentic and timeless. Whether you’re seeking an elegant statement piece or a subtle accessory, Kyrgyz jewelry offers a meaningful way to take a piece of the country’s culture with you.
One of the defining features of Kyrgyz jewelry is the use of traditional motifs, such as the tumar, a triangular pendant believed to protect the wearer from harm, or swirling patterns that symbolize unity and eternity. These designs are often paired with vibrant stones like turquoise, coral, or jade, which are not only beautiful but also carry symbolic meanings in Kyrgyz culture. Jewelry items such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings are handcrafted by skilled artisans, ensuring each piece is unique and imbued with a sense of history.
Shopping for Kyrgyz jewelry is a cultural experience in itself. You can find local bazaars like Bishkek’s Osh Bazaar or in specialty craft stores across the country. Many artisans also sell directly, offering a chance to learn about the history and meaning behind their work. Opting for locally made jewelry supports traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices, making it a purchase you can feel good about.
For those looking for more contemporary styles, Kyrgyz designers have started blending traditional elements with modern aesthetics. These pieces maintain the spirit of Kyrgyz culture while appealing to current fashion trends, making them versatile accessories for any wardrobe. Whether you choose a bold traditional necklace or a minimalist modern ring, Kyrgyz-style jewelry serves as a unique and personal reminder of your visit to this fascinating country.
Read more about the Kyrgyz hand made products from our handicrafts page.
Check Kyrgyz sights and destinations to find the Kyrgyz products
Page updated 13.12.2024
