A typical Kyrgyz village nestled between Naryn and Tash Rabat, At-Bashy welcomes visitors each summer, typically in June, to celebrate a shyrdak festival. The shyrdak, or chyrdak, is a traditional Kyrgyz carpet handcrafted from felt.

Yet it is far more than a mere carpet. Adorning both floors and walls alike, the shyrdak is passed down through generations and holds profound symbolic meaning for Kyrgyz families. This felt carpet, embellished with traditional motifs, is presented to newlyweds by the bride's mother as a promise of happiness. Without the shyrdak, a dowry is incomplete, and a young woman cannot marry.

This magnificent colored carpet bears traditional Kyrgyz symbols—the beginning of mankind, the Marco Polo route, and family bonds among them. Each color carries its own meaning and significance.

Crafted entirely by hand, the shyrdak demands considerable labor and takes several months to complete. Typically, women join forces in groups to create a single shyrdak. This craftsmanship is recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The shyrdak festival at At-Bashy offers the chance to admire the country's finest carpets and, perhaps, acquire one as a keepsake. It is a true spectacle of color, set against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

For the occasion, locals pitch yurts where you can taste traditional dishes. Nomadic games, such as kok-boru, are also organized during the festival. Little known to outsiders, this festival serves as a wonderful gateway into nomadic culture and the life of modern Kyrgyz villages.