Introducing Kyzyl
The most memorable attractions in Kyzyl are ephemeral - meeting shamans, hearing throat-singing or watching a wrestling competition. Tuva's capital may grandly claim to be the 'centre of Asia', but architecturally it's mostly disappointing Soviet-era concrete. Fortunately, the central area's streets are pleasantly tree lined. From the riverside are quietly picturesque views across to a tiny Buddhist shrine on the unpopulated north bank. Behind that the steppe is backed by a horizon of arid, low mountains.
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The town was founded in 1914 as Belotsarsk (White Tsarville). Whether to be pedantic or humorously ironic, the Soviet regime changed the name to Kyzyl, a Tuvan word which simply means 'red'.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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RE: Tuva update
by yblanter 30 August 2011
The construction of Kuragino - Kyzyl railroad (it actually will start east of Abakan) has not even started, I do not see any way it could…
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RE: Tuva update
by Chicagobest 30 August 2011
Thank you yblanter, as always. Another question. Is the Abakan-Kyzyl, Tuva railway opening in 2012 and if so, when? One online railway…
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Altai to Tuva via the Tuva Track
by muddy99 22 August 2011
I thought I'd share this update regarding the wild Tuva Track that links Russia's Altai & Tuva republics as there's scant info around.…
Hotels & Hostels
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Camp Ai
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Hotel Mongulek
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