National Currency of Kyrgyzstan

The som, represented internationally by the code KGS, is the national currency of Kyrgyzstan. The decision to introduce the som was made by the Parliament on May 10, 1993, with the first issuance by the National Bank of Kyrgyzstan later that summer. Kyrgyzstan was the first country in the CIS, after Russia, to establish its own independent currency.

Today, the som is circulated in banknotes of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, and 5000 denominations, while coins are available in 1, 3, 5, and 10 som values. The som is divided into 100 tyiyn, although tyiyn are rarely used in practice. Occasionally, you might encounter a 50 tyiyn coin, but 1 som generally serves as the smallest commonly used unit.

Each banknote showcases notable figures and landmarks from Kyrgyzstan’s rich history. The 20 som bill honors the renowned musician Togolok Moldo and features Tash Rabat, a 15th-century caravanserai in Naryn. On the 50 som bill, you’ll find Kurmanjan Datka, a revered female leader of the Khanate of Kokand, along with the minaret and mausoleum of Uzgen. The 100 som note portrays musician Toktogul Satylganov and the Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Station, which bears his name. The 200 som bill highlights the poet Alykul Osmonov and a scenic view of Lake Issyk-Kul. The 500 som note commemorates manaschi Sayakbay Karalaev alongside the Manas Mausoleum in Talas. Yusuf Balasagun, a celebrated poet from the Karakhanid Empire, appears on the 1000 som note, sharing the space with Sulayman Too, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Osh. Finally, the 5000 som bill features the actor Suimenkul Chokmorov and Ala-Too Square in Bishkek.

Banks and currency exchange offices in Kyrgyzstan can easily exchange most major currencies, though travelers should ensure they bring crisp, newer bills for ease of exchange. Banks typically operate during business hours, from 9:00 or 9:30 AM to 17:00 or 17:30 PM, Monday through Friday. However, exchange offices may be open 24/7. For the best exchange rates in Bishkek, the busiest area is the intersection of Moskovskaya and Sovetskaya Streets, also known as Mossoviet.

Outside Bishkek, ATMs and exchange offices become less frequent, so it’s wise to carry sufficient cash when traveling to rural areas. Payments for larger transactions, such as hotel stays, guided treks, or tours, are often conducted in US Dollars or Euros rather than in som, especially in remote regions.