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With about 75,000 people (two-thirds Uzbek ethnics), this modest agricultural community not far north of the Uzbekistan border was once a popular resort area because of its well known mineral and mud springs.  

Uzbek culture is very strong in this area. Though Kyrgyz citizens, the traditions and religious orientation of the Uzbek ethnic is clearly defined in a variety of ways.  Clothing styles, including the head cover by women, the rich colors of their garments and furniture are examples of their distinctive ethnic mark in the area.  Language differences, too, play a role of ethnic identity.

The making of sumalak is a labor intensive job.  These Uzbek women will spend the entire night turning the wheat-base liquid that will eventually become a paste. The men will feed the fire with wood, cut from trees in nearby forests that are being depleted slowly.  The entire process is a family oriented event.

The Uzbek family lives in a largely self-contained walled housing unit.  Within the wall one may find several buildings which are occupied by the extended family. In the middle a vegetable plot feeds the family. In the rear there may be a stable with animals, including sheep, goats and cattle. For extra income several families build or convert one of the units into a bed and breakfast for tourists. Most visitors tend to be Europeans.

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