Remember the regions
When the subject of tourism is discussed in Kyrgyzstan, it usually revolves around the subject of Lake Issyk Kul – the “Pearl of the Tien Shan”. This should not be surprising, because Issyk Kul has long been a center for tourism in the Republic. Long ago, in the days of the Soviet Union, many visitors felt privileged to obtain a “putyevka” – a voucher – for a holiday at one of the resorts or sanatoria on the shores of this mountain lake.
Actually, magnificent as Issyk Kul is, the country has many other attractions. For the tourist who is looking for sun, sand and “sea”, then Issyk Kul has much to offer. However, for those looking for more active holidays, or to experience something of the pristine natural environment, or the traditional culture of nomadic Kyrgyz, or traveling the Great Silk Road, then the rest of the country is also worth exploring – for example, some of the little known spots, “off the beaten track” such as Talas, Batken, Chatkal and Naryn. Sometimes, however, it is difficult to find facilities for tourists in these areas.
Whereas centres such as Issyk Kul and the capital Bishkek can attract large investment projects, (involving millions of dollars) these other regions can benefit from smaller, more modest development projects.
For example: The Celestial Mountains Company decided to open a small guesthouse in Naryn in 1998. What were the attractions of Naryn? First of all it was on the road to China, over the Torugart Pass – at that time the only land crossing between the two countries. The n there was the fact that it was then possible to become a subject of the Free Economic Zone (FEZ), with all the advantages that this entailed – this was a major factor in the decision and the benefits of being a subject of the FEZ has meant that the company has been able to reinvest more of the profits in developing and improving the facilities offered to guests.
It hasn’t all been smooth sailing, however. The first problem was finding a suitable property that could be adapted and converted into a small hotel. The second has been the constant uncertainty about the future of the FEZ.
Despite these problems, the guesthouse has prospered and become a well known and popular venue in the area, offering employment and contributing an extra and valued facility for the community, and also serves as a model for possible similar ventures in other regions in the country.
Originally published in “Investment Now” – the journal of the International Business Council.
Bishkek