LocationsAdventure Tourism as a Driver of Regional Development in Kyrgyzstan
October 2, 2025
In Kulun-Ata
Tourism in Kyrgyzstan is more than just a journey into a world of majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and ancient traditions. Today, it is becoming a driver of inclusive growth, women's empowerment, and sustainable development.
In his address on the occasion of the approval of the National Development Programme 2030, President Sadyr Japarov emphasized "agriculture and tourism" as one of the key development vectors, thus officially including tourism in the country's medium-term strategic agenda.
Pamir Nomad Yurt Camp in Sary-Mogol
UNDP provides comprehensive support to the tourism industry
The regional project "Aid for Trade in Central Asia," funded by the Government of Finland, demonstrates that a systems approach to tourism development can transform local economies, strengthen communities, and pave the way for a greener and more resilient future.
UNDP's comprehensive support includes key roles for knowledge sharing, mentoring, and expanding business networks. This comprehensive approach has yielded tangible results. Over the course of several years, the revenues of 42 local micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) increased from 70.4 million to 180.2 million soms—a 156% increase, representing a breakthrough for remote regions where small businesses often form the backbone of the economy. Exports of tourism goods and services nearly quadrupled, reaching 42.9 million soms, while the flow of foreign tourists grew from 14,880 to over 36,000, providing a sustainable source of income for remote communities.
Jiidegul Alimbek kyzy, the owner of Goodnight Hotel in Jalal-Abad and the project participant
People are at the center of these transformations. UNDP focuses on human capital and creates opportunities for people. Forty-four entrepreneurs participated in the project, and almost half of them received grant support. Women play a leading role: they accounted for half of the grant recipients and filled almost 80% of the newly created jobs. More than 110 specialists—guides, drivers, artisans, and tour company managers—were trained. Many have implemented eco-friendly solutions, including renewable energy sources and waste management systems.
The project covered the entire country, taking into account the specifics of each region. In Bishkek and the Chui region, the focus was on developing an organizational center and supporting associations. In Issyk-Kul, efforts are focused on strengthening infrastructure and developing ethnocultural trade. A regional tourism base has been established in Jalal-Abad, and a southern cluster is being formed in Osh, combining cultural routes and hotel services. Thus, each region has the opportunity to showcase its uniqueness—from high-altitude treks to vibrant ethno-programmes.
17 seventeen sustainable development practices have been implemented, including renewable energy and modern waste management systems. More than 20 tour operators from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan have developed joint cross-border tourism products. National and regional dialogues on adventure tourism development led to the creation of the associations "Destination Jalal-Abad," "Destination Osh," and "Destination Karakol."
An old mill in Karakol that became a heart of tourism in the city
UNDP will continue to implement the National Tourism Development Programme, supporting the government, tourism organizations, and local communities to attract tourists and strengthen infrastructure. This work aims to create modern services and conditions for a comfortable stay for visitors, develop the professional skills of industry specialists, and promote ethnocultural and eco-friendly tourism products.
This approach not only helps increase incomes for local communities but also creates a sustainable tourism ecosystem where regions can independently develop their capabilities and contribute to the country's sustainable development.
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