Currency
Kyrgyz Som (KGS) = 100 tyin. Notes are in denominations of KGS1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1, and 50, 10 and 1 tyin.
Currency exchange
Foreign currencies can be exchanged at commercial banks and at authorised bureaux de change. The US Dollar is the easiest currency to exchange.
Credit & debit cards
Credit cards are accepted in some of the larger hotels in Bishkek and can also be used at banks to withdraw cash from the counter. Check with your credit or debit card company for merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Travellers cheques
There is limited acceptance of these, but some banks in Bishkek accept travellers cheques, with US Dollars probably the best option; commission charges are high. Cash is recommended.
Currency restrictions
There are no restrictions on the import or export of foreign currency, provided declared on arrival. The import and export of local currency is unlimited for Kyrgyz residents only.
Exchange rate indicators
The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Som against Sterling and the US Dollar.
| Date | May '04 | Aug '04 | Nov '04 | Feb '05 | | £1.00= | 78.30 | 76.84 | 78.45 | 77.05 | | $1.00= | 43.84 | 41.71 | 41.43 | 41.24 |
Banking hours
Usually Mon-Fri 0930-1730.
|