Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan and a major trading stop along the ancient Silk Road, is set at the foot of Central Asia's Tian Shan Mountains range, 800 meters above sea level. It is the gateway to the Kyrgyz Ala-Too range, which stretches 454 kilometres from the west of Issyk-Kul Lake to the city of Taraz in southern Kazakhstan. The Ala Archa National Park, with its glaciers and wildlife trails, lies around 40 kilometers south of Bishkek.
Bishkek is known for its historical buildings such as the State Philharmonic Hall, National History Museum, (due to reopen in 2018 after a complete renovation) and Victory Square. The modern monuments depicting traditional Kyrgyz culture are the Monument of Independence, the Monument of Manas and the other statues of the heroes from the Kyrgyz famous epic poem Manas.
The city has a flourishing arts and cultural scene served venues such as the State Museum of Fine Arts, the State Opera & Ballet Theater and the Museum of Graphic Arts.
Bishkek is also famous for being one of the greenest cities in Central Asia, with more trees per head than any other city and countless parks, providing welcome relief during the hot summers.
Other important landmarks include Erkindik Boulevard, Frunze Military Museum, Oak Park and Osh Bazaar, one of the city’s biggest markets.
