The first encounter with Kyrgyzstan often begins at Manas Airport, where a taxi into Bishkek city centre costs around 1,000 som. Those arriving on a tight budget may prefer this fixed fare, though sharing a ride can cut the expense further. A SIM card purchased from a mobile shop runs about 270 som, but a recent trip account warns that registration requires a separate visit to the operator’s office. Buying the SIM directly from the operator avoids that extra step.
City buses charge only 20 som per ride, and most shops accept credit cards—yet cash remains essential for transport. Locals typically pay via QR codes, which visiting tourists cannot use. For anyone planning to leave the capital, the first leg is a marshrutka (minibus) from the New