Kyrgyzstan currency facts for your next adventure
If you’re heading to the Kyrgyz Republic, it pays to get familiar with the Kyrgyzstan currency before you land in Bishkek.
The country’s official currency is the Kyrgyzstani som, a bright and culturally rich set of notes and coins that reflect the nation’s heritage.
Whether you’re browsing bazaars, paying for a cosy guesthouse, or hopping between mountain villages, knowing the currency in Kyrgyzstan will make your trip smoother.
Kyrgyzstan currency
The Kyrgyzstani som (currency code KGS) is the national currency of Kyrgyzstan and has been in circulation since May 1993. Before that, the country used the Soviet ruble.
Today, the Bank of the Kyrgyz, officially the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic, manages the currency of Kyrgyzstan, sets the official currency policies, and controls the exchange rate.
The som is subdivided into 100 tyiyn, a nod to the smaller units still technically in use. While tyiyn coins aren’t common in daily life, they remain legal tender.
The story behind the Kyrgyzstani som
The som was introduced shortly after Kyrgyzstan became independent from the Soviet Union.
At the time, controlling its own national currency was a major step toward economic stability.
The National Bank issued the first banknotes in 1, 5, and 20 som denominations.
Over the years, inflation and economic growth have led to new designs and larger denominations, including the 5000 som note, one of the highest-value bills in Central Asia.
Kyrgyzstan currency symbol and code
The Kyrgyzstan currency symbol “лв” is used less often than the word “сом” (som) on price tags and receipts.
The currency code KGS is what you’ll see in online currency converters and at foreign exchange counters.
If you’re comparing the Kyrgyzstan currency rate to other currencies, search for “KGS” alongside your preferred currency, for example, “KGS to GBP” if you want to see soms to British pounds.
Kyrgyzstan currency notes and coins
The Kyrgyz Republic currency banknotes currently in circulation include the 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 Som denominations, celebrating national heroes and landscapes like Lake Issyk-Kul.
Lower denominations of 20, 50 and the 50 100, 20,0 500 som range are most common for daily spending, while larger notes are used for hotels or big purchases.
Kyrgyzstan currency coins range from 1, 3 and 5 som to smaller units like the 50 tyiyn, with the som subdivided into 100 tyiyn.
Locals frequently use the 100 som note for markets, transport, and snacks, while credit cards are mainly limited to bigger shops and hotels.
Keeping some small cash on hand ensures smooth transactions wherever you travel.
Security features on the Kyrgyzstan currency
Like most national currencies, the som includes various security features to prevent counterfeiting.
Look for transparent windows, raised printing, watermarks, holograms, and colour-changing ink.
Higher-value notes, like the 5,000 som, often have extra layers of protection.
The National Bank regularly updates designs to keep pace with global anti-fraud standards.
Exchange rate today and why rates fluctuate
The Kyrgyzstan currency exchange rate changes daily, based on global market forces.
Factors like interest rates, economic growth, and foreign trade balances can all impact the exchange rate today.
Seasonal tourism in Bishkek and other regions can also influence currency exchange rates, with fluctuations during popular travel months like May and December.
If you’re checking rates, remember that the official currency exchange value set by the central banks may differ from what you get at kiosks or hotels.
How to exchange currency in Kyrgyzstan
It’s best to exchange your currency before you leave the UK, but currency exchange is easy to find in Bishkek.
Licensed exchange offices and banks offer better rates than most hotels, and you’ll get the most value by comparing a few options before you take out cash.
ATMs are widely available in larger cities, but in rural areas, cash is king. Always find a reputable service to avoid counterfeit notes.
If you’re already in the country, stick to well-known exchange points and double-check the note count before leaving the counter.
Kyrgyzstan currency to GBP
Travellers from the UK often want to know the Kyrgyzstan currency to GBP rate before they go.
You can quickly check this using any reliable currency converter, but the best way to lock in value is to order from Manor FX before you travel.
As of 2025, the Kyrgyzstan currency rate against the pound changes regularly, and exchange rates fluctuate. Buying early protects you from sudden drops.
Skip the hassle of converting foreign currency like USD after arrival, get your soms from Manor FX before you leave for the best deal and peace of mind.
Surprising facts about Kyrgyzstan currency
- The 50 tyiyn coin is still legal tender, though most people never see it.
- The Bank of the Kyrgyz often issues commemorative banknotes to mark major national anniversaries.
- Some designs feature the stunning Lake Issyk-Kul, a major symbol of Kyrgyz identity.
- The first som series in 1993 included a note worth just 1 som – now a coin.
- Collectors worldwide prize the larger denominations for their detailed art.
How to get your currency with Manor FX
Sorting your Kyrgyz currency before you travel saves time and hassle.
With Manor FX, you can find the current rates and order online.
Unlike airport kiosks or hotel desks, Manor FX offers competitive exchange rates, no hidden fees, and secure delivery to your door in just a few days. You can also click and collect from our Bureau.
You can order from the comfort of home, track your cash, and have peace of mind knowing your foreign currency is ready before you set foot in Kyrgyzstan.
Quick travel money tips for Kyrgyzstan
- Keep some small denominations handy for buses, taxis, and markets.
- In rural areas, always take enough Som in cash for your stay – ATMs may be scarce.
- Exchange leftover soms back to GBP when you return – we offer competitive exchange rates..
FAQs
What is the best currency to use in Kyrgyzstan?
The best currency to use in Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyzstani som, the official currency issued by the National Bank. While some foreign currency like USD is accepted in hotels or for larger purchases, most everyday transactions use soms, so having local cash in smaller denominations is essential.
Is Kyrgyzstan a rich or Poor country?
The Kyrgyz Republic is considered a lower-middle-income country, with economic growth influenced by agriculture, mining, and remittances. Exchange rates fluctuate alongside global markets, and interest rates can impact investment. While some popular tourist areas thrive, rural regions face challenges, making balanced development a key goal for the central banks and government.
Do they speak English in Kyrgyzstan?
English is not widely spoken in Kyrgyzstan, where Kyrgyz and Russian are the main languages. However, you may find English speakers in hotels, tourist services, and parts of Bishkek.