Hunting bird festival

The Hunting Bird Festival is one of the most captivating and dynamic events in Kyrgyzstan’s rich cultural calendar. Visitors can witness an array of majestic birds of prey, including eagles, kites, vultures, and falcons, up close.

Nestled 1,800 meters above sea level, Bokonbayevo village is a scenic settlement on the southern shore of the magnificent Issyk-Kul Lake, often referred to as the «Pearl of Kyrgyzstan» for its breathtaking beauty. Surrounded by the towering Terskey Ala-Too mountains and the serene shores of Issyk-Kul, Bokonbayevo draws visitors with its natural charm and deep-rooted traditions. The village is also renowned for its yurt camps and guesthouses, some located directly on the lakeshore. Additionally, it serves as an excellent base for trekking into the Terskey Ala-Too range or exploring nearby hot springs and waterfalls.

Each summer, Bokonbayevo hosts Kyrgyzstan’s largest festival dedicated to hunting birds. Skilled falconers showcase the art of hunting with various species of eagles, hawks, and falcons. In Kyrgyz culture, hunters favor training golden eagles, known as «God’s birds,» for their intelligence, power, and strength. These magnificent creatures are capable of hunting hares, foxes, lynxes, and even wolves!

Eagle hunting is an ancient Kyrgyz tradition, passed down from father to son through the generations. It is said that in olden times, a single eagle could sustain a small village. While this form of hunting is no longer essential for survival, the unique practice is gradually fading. Kyrgyzstan remains one of the few countries that preserves the customs of its nomadic heritage, and there are still dedicated hunters determined to keep this ancient art alive.

The bond between an eagle hunter, or berkutchi, and their eagle is profound, lasting nearly 20 years. Over this time, they form a strong connection that endures for life. The eagle is considered not just a hunting partner but a member of the family. The berkutchi spends extensive time caring for and training the bird, and after two decades, releases the eagle back into the wild.