Cholpon-Ata Hippodrome Guide
Cholpon-Ata Hippodrome: Witness the Thrill of Kyrgyz Horse Games Guide
The Cholpon-Ata Hippodrome, located in the resort town of Cholpon-Ata on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, is a premier venue for experiencing traditional Kyrgyz horse games and equestrian competitions. This impressive stadium provides a captivating glimpse into the nomadic heritage and sporting traditions of Kyrgyzstan. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in witnessing the skill, athleticism, and cultural significance of these ancient games. The hippodrome was built to host the World Nomad Games, a multi-sport event showcasing traditional nomadic sports from around the world. These games, held biennially, have significantly boosted the hippodrome's profile and cemented its role as a center for Kyrgyz equestrian culture. The games feature events like Kok Boru (a team sport involving a goat carcass), Kyz Kuumai (a chase game between a man and a woman on horseback), and Er Enish (horse wrestling), all of which have deep roots in Kyrgyz history and nomadic traditions. Visitors to the Cholpon-Ata Hippodrome can attend various equestrian events and competitions throughout the year, particularly during the summer months. The World Nomad Games are a major highlight, but smaller local tournaments and festivals also take place. Even when there are no scheduled events, the hippodrome itself is worth a visit to appreciate its architecture and imagine the excitement of the games. While Cholpon-Ata doesn't have a unique culinary tradition tied directly to the hippodrome, you can find many restaurants in the town offering traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, such as Beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and plov (rice pilaf).
Transportation
Cholpon-Ata is accessible by marshrutka (minibus) from Bishkek and other major towns around Lake Issyk-Kul. Once in Cholpon-Ata, you can take a taxi or walk to the hippodrome, depending on its location relative to your accommodation.