A souvenir is better when you understand the hands behind it
What travelers should know before packing or buying souvenirs in Kyrgyzstan: cultural objects, wildlife products, medicines, cash, drones and items that may require permits.
Before you pack it or buy it
Customs rules in Kyrgyzstan are not only about obvious prohibited items. Cultural objects, old textiles, archaeological material, wildlife products, medicines, drones, cash and precious metals can all raise questions at the border. When in doubt, verify before purchase or departure; a market seller is not a customs authority.
Kyrgyz felt carpets — kiyiz and shyrdak — are made from warm felt and are richly decorated with ornament. A shyrdak is made with an appliqué mosaic technique, joining cut felt pieces with multicolored threads. Ala-kiyiz is made by pressing and rolling different-colored wool into a loose felt base. In the first case, the lines are clean; in the second, they are softer and more diffuse. This movement of color gives ala-kiyiz its softer, watercolor-like effect.
Mats and screens are often complete compositions, created by braiding each chiy grass stalk with multicolored wool. On hand-operated looms, women weave thick ornamental braids known as boo. They also embroider with wool and gold thread on leather, felt, chamois and broadcloth.