©Yuval Yellin
The Kyrgyz Nomad Trail (KNT), already the longest hiking trail in Central Asia, is embarking on an ambitious expansion, adding 1 000 kilometres through the rugged Osh and Batken districts of southwest Kyrgyzstan. Trail creator Yuval Yellin announced that this exciting new section will be ready to welcome hikers by summer 2025.
First launched in 2024, the KNT originally spanned 2 000 kilometres across Kyrgyzstan, connecting its westernmost and easternmost points through the breathtaking Tian Shan Mountain Range. The KNT-Southwest extension will now link five of Kyrgyzstan’s seven regions, inviting hikers to explore even more of the country’s diverse landscapes while fostering sustainable tourism and economic growth in remote mountain communities.
Charting the new route was no small feat. Over the summer, Yellin and long-distance hikers Gili Reches and Theo Brand embarked on a long expedition, navigating towering peaks, roaring rivers and remote valleys. Along the way, they were welcomed by local families who shared stories of their nomadic heritage. Combining on-the-ground exploration with topographic mapping, the team carefully designed a route to showcase the Osh and Batken districts’ stunning natural beauty and rich cultural traditions.
This new section connects with the original trail in the historic Arpa Valley near Torugart Pass, a region historically tied to the Silk Road. The link not only extends the trail but also deepens its cultural significance, bridging modern exploration with ancient trade routes.
The expansion underscores the KNT’s mission to promote sustainable tourism, preserve cultural heritage and empower local communities. Local residents are directly involved in marking the trail, maintaining paths and hosting travelers—ensuring the benefits of tourism reach even the most remote villages. The new route forms a "Green Corridor", fostering cultural exchange and creating economic opportunities for those living along the trail.
Looking ahead, Yellin envisions uniting all seven regions of Kyrgyzstan under the KNT umbrella. “In the coming years, we aim to chart new routes connecting the Chuy and Talas regions, creating a single trail that links the entire country,” he said.
As the Kyrgyz Nomad Trail grows, its vision remains clear: to connect people with nature and culture through meaningful, responsible tourism. By empowering communities and preserving Kyrgyzstan’s mountain heritage, the KNT is paving the way for a sustainable future in Central Asia—one step at a time.
Story written by Yuval Yellin with contributions from Marc Foggin of Plateau Perspectives, a Mountain Partnership member
