Talas is a well-known small city with approximately 230,000 inhabitants, located in the northwestern region of Kyrgyzstan. The Talas Valley is cut off from other Kyrgyz regions by a mountain range, offering a remarkable natural landscape.

A Touch of History

Talas was the birthplace of the legendary hero Manas. The Talas Valley is also known as the site of the 751 battle between the forces of the Abbasid Caliphate and the Tuegesh Kahanat against the Tang Chinese army. The battle took place on the banks of the Talas River.

The city of Talas, which was merely a village in 1877 called Dmitrievskoye, was established by Russian and Ukrainian immigrants. Initially, it comprised around 100 settler homes, whose inhabitants were primarily engaged in agriculture. The most remarkable structure was a brick church built in the 1920s.

Talas Today

Talas is regarded as the birthplace of cultural tourism. The city offers visitors a deeper understanding of the region and the country's history. Talas is rich in sacred sites such as the Kumbez-Manas Mausoleum (14th century), dedicated to the legendary Kyrgyz hero Manas, revered throughout the nation. The museum dedicated to the history of the people, located behind a hill once used as a sentinel post, is an essential visit for all those wishing to learn more about Kyrgyz culture. The museum also reveals secrets about local heroes, medieval architecture and history.

Talas is also a unique destination for those who love sports and outdoor adventure. Trekking is particularly popular in certain areas of this region. Nearby, you'll find Besh-Tash National Park. Within this park, you can explore nature and discover its distinctive flora and fauna.

The Talas region is remarkably natural and features nearly 70 small alpine lakes and waterfalls that are delightful to discover during excursions.

Make your way to the western bus station in Bishkek. From there, take a shared taxi to Talas. Renting a car with a driver is another convenient option.

Climate

The highest average monthly temperature is observed in July, ranging between 15 and 25°C, while the lowest average temperature in January falls between −14 and −6°C.