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Kyrgyzstan

Explore in a sustainable way the most beautiful trails of the Tian Shan mountain range and experience the hospitality of the Kyrgyz nomads.

Uzbekistan

Unlock the secrets of the Silk Road and immerse yourself in its unique traditions and way of life of the ancient civilizations and rich culture of Uzbekistan.

Tajikistan

Disclose the gems of Tajikistan and explore the hidden corners of the Pamir and Fan mountains while respecting the fragile nature.

Turkmenistan

Create your own trip and uncover the authentic life of the Turkmen people and their rich history in the heart of the Great Silk Road.

Kazakhstan

Enjoy your unique tailor-made journey exploring the endless steppes and snowy peaks of Kazakhstan. Immerse yourself in the nomadic traditions.

China

In private group, unlock the secrets of ancients civilizations of China and immerse yourself in its unique traditions with a tailor-made program.

Nepal

Experience our hiking programs off the beaten track and discover the magic life of Nepal while supporting local sustainability initiatives.

Mongolia

Find your adventure in Mongolia and experience the rich nomadic culture and stunning landscapes, in immersion with local communities.

Pakistan

Discover in a sustainable way the heart of the Indus civilizations and the Karakoram mountains, in total immersion with local traditions and cultures.

Afghanistan

Explore safely the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Afghanistan, like never before with local communities and preserving the incredible nature.

News

All restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic have been lifted for all  arriving in Uzbekistan

According to the decision of the Republican Special Commission, from June 10, 2022, temporary restrictions related to the coronavirus will be lifted on entering Uzbekistan by air, border stations and border checkpoints.

In this regard, the rules requiring foreign tourists to provide a negative PCR test result for coronavirus, a rapid test for coronavirus antigens and a vaccination certificate or passport are canceled.

The commission took into account the dynamics of the spread of the coronavirus in Uzbekistan, the number of hospitalized and discharged patients, a positive development in the number of citizens quarantined, as well as the epidemiological situation in the country, WHO recommendations and the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage.

Kyrgyzstan to cancel PCR tests and vaccination certificates at border crossing on May 1

Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Edil Bayzalov held a regular meeting of the operational headquarters to combat the spread of coronavirus infection and eliminate its consequences.

As a result of the meeting, a decision was made on May 1 to abolish the mandatory requirement to have a negative PCR test or vaccination certificate when crossing the border of Kyrgyzstan.

The regional plenipotentiaries of the President have been instructed, together with the Ministry of Health, to continue the vaccination campaign.

At the next meeting, the Cabinet will consider the decision to cancel the emergency regime.

Places to visit

Culture

Culture in Afghanistan Afghanistan

The culture of Afghanistan has persisted for over three millennia, dating back at least to the time of the Achaemenid Empire in 550 BCE. It is mainly a tribal society with different regions of the country having their own subculture. Almost all Afghans follow Islamic traditions, celebrate the same holidays, dress the same, eat the same food, listen to the same music, and are multilingual to some extent. Persian culture and architecture is still present. Some Zoroastrian festivals are still celebrated like the New Year "Navruz".

The Tajiks are heavily concentrated in the northeast, but also form large communities elsewhere, such as in western Afghanistan. The Hazaras tend to be mainly concentrated in the central region, while the Uzbeks are mainly in the north. In the southern and eastern region, Pashtuns live in accordance with Pashtun culture and are generally bilingual in Pashto and Dari.

Afghanistan has been the main crossroads of Central Asia, South Asia and the Middle East, which has greatly influenced its culture.

Culture in Tajikistan Tajikistan

The tajik culture is rich thank to its rich historical past. The culture can be devided into different geographical areas. In one side, the old cities of the lowland, like Khujand, Kulob, Panjakent, Qurghonteppa, Khorugh and Istaravshan, but also Samarkand and Boukhara situated actually in Uzbekistan. On the other side, we can talk about the culture of the Pamir, divided between Pamiris and Kyrgyz people, and Yaghnobi people living in the Northern area of Tajikistan.

As early as 874-1005 AD the Tajik civilization has reached its Golden Age in the reign of the Samanids. During this period, the territory has been the cradle of natural and social sciences development in the Central Asia.

Upholding to the rich culture of the past are the archaeological artifacts which have proven the artistry of ancient Tajiks. Art forms such as paintings, sculptures, and other structures which are believed to have originated in the 7th and 8th centuries were found in the ancient city of Penjikent. Other artifacts readily accessible are old mosques along with their grandiose wall paintings that depict ancestral architecture. It is also believed that many contemporary instruments have their origins in the Pamir, such as string instruments.

The Do's and Don'ts in Mongolia. Mongolian Customs & Etiquette.

Mongolia has many amazing traditions, customs and values that are unusual for people brought up and living in other countries. Mongolians themselves do not impose their rules of behavior on guests. But in order not to disappoint the hospitable people, going to Mongolia, it is worth getting acquainted not only with the sights of the country and outline what you should do, but also learn about what you should not do there at all.

 

 

Culture in Pakistan Pakistan

The discovery of the Mohenjo-Daro site is proof that the Indus civilizations were the basis of Indo-European cultures. Then influenced over time by different peoples and empires: Aryans, Persians, Ghaznavids, Seldjouks, Arabs, Rajputs, Mughals, etc.

We can also now differentiate the different cultures by the different geographical regions: Kashmir, the Hunza valley and Gilgit-Baltistan, the Chitral valley to the north, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwas, Sind and Punjab with its capital Lahore, center of Indus culture.

Blog

The snow leopard is the national symbol of Kyrgyzstan

Enigmatic and graceful, the snow leopard (or irbis) is a symbol of survival and beauty in the harsh conditions of the mountain peaks. This marvellous predator, with its snow-white fur and awe-inspiring grace, lives in one of the most inaccessible places on earth: the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia.

For the Kyrgyz, the Ak Ilbirs is a national icon and an amulet, even considered a sacred animal. "The snow leopard is the heritage of our fathers," said Atambayev. Its strength has also made it a symbol of heroism. Nearly 1,200 years ago, the leader of the tribal association that became the first Kyrgyz khanate was called Barsbek ("Lord Snow Leopard"). Atambayev urged his people to respect their ancestors: 'The snow leopard', he declared, 'is one of us'.

Toguz Korgool is a Kyrgyz folk game

The first records of this game were found in the Egyptian pyramids, about 7 thousand years old. Ancient Egyptian drawings show that the most avid players were African traders, who spent not a little free time playing the game while waiting for their cargoes or during long journeys. Thousands of years ago this game left the African continent and spread to Asia, the Caribbean, South America and Europe. The most characteristic element of mankala games is the acquisition of stones. In the Kyrgyz version of this game - toguz korgool, the player's goal is also to acquire as many korgools as possible.

"Ordo" - Kyrgyz national game

Ordo is one of the most widespread games of the Kyrgyz people, which has survived from ancient times to the present day. The word "ordo" itself means "Khan's stake, khan's palace". The game reproduces the battle for capturing the stake.

The game of ordo represented a kind of military map, with the help of which warriors were trained how to defeat the enemy. A circle drawn on the ground signified the territory of the state, and rivals worked out a battle plan. Knocking out the khan meant toppling the ruler from the throne.

The game is also based on the ability to conduct the correct internal policy, which is characterized by the observance of caution, being already inside the circle, i.e. in power.

Things you should know about a Kyrgyz wedding

Wedding rituals are part of the Kyrgyz culture, having a significant traditional component, which has absorbed many changes over the past decades. To this day, Kyrgyz weddings are accompanied by elements of ancient traditions, which, under the influence of time, are simplified and modified. Only the married couple and their families decide how the wedding will go. Sometimes the wedding is formal, when they decide to go to the registry office with close friends, sign and solemnly celebrate somewhere in the institution, but most often the wedding must be magnificent in the opinion of the older generation. Now we want to tell you about the most basic components of a Kyrgyz wedding nowadays.

Eco Projects

Partners

KATO

Nomad's Land is member of the Kyrgyz Association of Tour Operators (KATO). 

КАТО is a non-profit organization that defends the corporate interests of its members and the rights of its clients.

The Association’s most important goal is the creation of a civilized tourism market and assistance in the tourism industry development at the national level.

Mission

  • Creation of a favorable environment for the tourism industry, which is based on globally used principles and standards and will contribute to further economic growth and prosperity in the regions.
  • Assistance in protection of environment and animals, territories that have historical, cult, cultural and and environmental significance through the development of responsible recreation, ecological tourism, travel and tourism.

Boule de Neige Association

A Union for the enjoyment of winter sports and the development of young people.

In a harmonious blend of winter sports enthusiasm and social awareness, Nomad's Land is proud to collaborate with the Swiss Association "Boule de Neige." Born from the shared passion for mountain adventures in Central Asia, "Boule de Neige" has become a conduit for fostering lasting connections between Swiss mountain enthusiasts and communities in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Samuel Maret, a key figure with deep roots in Kyrgyzstan, has been instrumental in cultivating these connections, linking Swiss schools, sports clubs, and winter sports aficionados with their counterparts in Central Asia. The focus on shared interests like snowboarding, skiing, and other winter activities has created a bridge between these communities.

At Nomad's Land, we recognize the importance of intertwining environmental responsibility with our love for exploration and adventure. To support this shared vision, we offer travelers the opportunity to not only compensate for the carbon footprint of their journey but also contribute to "Boule de Neige's" meaningful projects. A donation of 25 CHF can offset around 2 tons of CO2 (flight included) emitted during your travel, aligning your alpine adventures with a commitment to sustainability.

Embark on a journey with Nomad's Land, where every step taken in the pristine snow is a stride towards environmental conservation and community upliftment. Join hands with "Boule de Neige" and us as we carve the path for a winter wonderland that embraces both joyous recreation, children's happiness and conscientious stewardship.

Babushka Adoption Foundation

Adopt a Babushka, Offset Your Carbon, Change Lives"

In an era where responsible tourism is crucial, Nomad's Land is extending its commitment beyond environmental sustainability to social responsibility. Partnering with the Kyrgyz Foundation "Babushka Adoption," we aim to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the elderly in Kyrgyzstan, where 57% of seniors live in poverty.

Since 2004, our collaboration with "Babushka Adoption" goes beyond financial support. During challenging times, such as the recent pandemic, we actively participated in distributing food and necessities to provide relief to the elderly in need. We believe in restoring dignity to the lives of these individuals who have contributed so much to their communities.

As part of our innovative approach, we offer our clients the opportunity to not only compensate for the carbon footprint of their travels but also contribute to this noble cause. When travelers choose to adopt a elderly for 180 Euros per year, they not only offset around 2 to 2.5 tonnes (including flight) of CO2 generated during their journey, but they also support the adoption of a babushka or dedushka.

This initiative reflects Nomad's Land's belief that sustainable travel should not only minimize environmental impact but also create positive social change. Adopt a Babushka, Offset Your Carbon, and join us in making a lasting difference in the lives of Kyrgyzstan's elderly.

Destination Jeti Oguz

We are pleased to announce our partnership with the new Jeti Oguz District Tourism Association which is now locating to its new offices situated in the heart of Kyzyl Suu village, which serves as the capital of Jeti Oguz District - an expansive area spanning almost 14,500 square kilometers. This region boasts immense tourism potential, with attractions ranging from the Issyk Kul lake (the second largest mountain lake in the world) situated at an elevation of 1600 meters, to the Ak-Shirak highlands located at the Chinese border, which stands at a height of over 5000 meters. The primary objective of the new association is to unite all stakeholders in the tourism industry to assess the region's potential and devise strategies for the sustainable development of tourism in the district.

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