population: 0.3 million

extension: 44,464 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Naryn and interested in visiting museums, one place you can check out is the Naryn Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the region. Another option is the Issyk-Kul State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve, which is located about 2 hours away by car and features exhibits on the history and culture of the Kyrgyz people.

If you are looking for other museums in the area, you might also want to visit the State Historical Museum in Bishkek or the Ala-Archa State Museum of Nature Reserve, both of which are located about 4-5 hours away from Naryn by car.

Food

Naryn is known for its delicious and unique local cuisine. Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to try in Naryn (Kyrgyzstan) include:

1. Beshbarmak: A traditional Kyrgyz dish made with boiled meat (usually lamb, beef or horse), served on top of homemade noodles and topped with onion sauce.

2. Kuurdak: A hearty dish made with fried meat (usually lamb or beef), potatoes, onions, and spices.

3. Oromo: Similar to dumplings, Oromo are stuffed with minced meat, onions, and spices, then boiled in water or broth.

4. Lagman: Thick handmade noodles served in a savory beef broth with vegetables and sometimes meat.

5. Shorpo: Soup made from mutton or beef bones, often served with potatoes, carrots, onions, and other vegetables.

6. Chuchuk: A type of sausage made from horse meat, seasoned with spices, and dried in the sun.

7. Kymyz: Fermented mare's milk, a traditional drink that is slightly sour and has a low alcohol content.

These dishes offer a taste of the rich cultural heritage of Kyrgyzstan and are definitely worth trying if you have the chance to visit Naryn or any other parts of the country.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Naryn and the surrounding area include:

1. Horseback riding: The Kyrgyz are known for their horsemanship, and horseback riding is a popular activity in Naryn. You can take a guided ride through the beautiful countryside and mountains.

2. Hiking: There are many scenic hiking trails around Naryn, including along the shores of Song-Kul Lake or in the nearby Tien Shan Mountains.

3. Visiting yurt camps: You can experience traditional Kyrgyz hospitality by visiting a yurt camp and learning about the nomadic way of life.

4. Participating in cultural events: Throughout the year, there are festivals and cultural events in Naryn, such as the At Chabysh horse race, which feature traditional music, dance, and food.

5. Exploring historical sites: Naryn has a rich history, and there are several ancient ruins and historical sites to explore, such as the Tash Rabat caravanserai or the Koshoy Korgon fortress.