The capital’s main public market, in the west of the city, isn’t particularly historic or architecturally distinctive like you find in, say, Istanbul or Marrakesh. But it does provide a colorful look into daily life as locals come daily - or nearly so - to shop for meat, fish, produce, baked goods, cheeses, nuts, spices, and sweets. Of interest to the visitor, there are also eateries to savor Kyrgyz cuisine as well as a section devoted to clothes, household products, and - of special interest to visitors - local products such as Kyrgyz brandy, jewelry, and especially felt products like hats, bags, and shirdaks (nomad rugs). Just - as in many such markets around the world - watch your wallet!

neiljs