MONEY

The Kyrgyz National Currency is the Som. There are some historical notes about the Som in the Country Information section of this pack.

The Kyrgyz economy is basically cash based.

The US dollar is the most widely used currency in Kyrgyzstasn other than the local som and the rate as of since about October 2000 is about 46—48 soms = $1. There are exchanges in all cities and many or all towns. The general advice is to bring US dollars if possible (new notes, post-1995 if possible; clean; un-torn; unmarked — with no blemished — writing/stamps etc.; and also note that usually you get a lower rate of exchange for $1, $5, $10 and $20 notes so although some may be useful don«t bring too many of these).

You can also sometimes change other currencies (such as Pounds Sterling) in Bishkek and traveller’s cheques in those currencies can also be cashed in banks but the range of places to do so is much less. It is not yet clear how the introduction of the Euro will affect the situation — but they are accepted in many exchange offices in Bishkek.

Cash advances on major credit cards (VISA/MasterCard) are available in several banks in Bishkek — with a commission of about 4%. (You can pay us for accommodation and hotel services by credit card at the Silk Road Lodge.)

Also, several banks now operate Western Union Money Transfer services.

Please do NOT carry large sums of money with you as street crime does exist here.