Overview
Bishkek's Soviet-built hippodrome hosts traditional Kyrgyz horse games — including the spectacular kok-boru (mounted goat polo) — alongside flat racing and equestrian festivals.
Highlights
- Kok-boru: Teams of horsemen compete to drag a goat carcass into a goal.
- At-chabysh: Long-distance horse racing across open steppe.
- Nooruz festival: The March equinox celebrations feature the biggest horse-game tournaments.
History
Built in the 1960s; kok-boru was revived as a national sport after Kyrgyz independence in 1991.
Visitor Tips
- Event schedule: Check locally; major events on national holidays.
- Duration: 2–3 hours during events.