Jayma Bazaar

Even though it has been centuries since the era of the historic Silk Road, there are still countless ways to feel as though you're in the heart of the vibrant trading network. Jaym Bazaar in Osh is one of these places, where you're likely to get lost amongst all the action. The market buildings have been modernised, but it still has the spirit of the Silk Road. From spices to clothes and house appliances you can find anything you want. The bazaar is also a great place to see different groups mixing and coming together with one interest: the exchange of wares.

You can’t tell by looking at it today, but Jayma Bazaar has been around for over 2000 years. With modernisation came disadvantages and benefits. While you can find anything, including cheap factory-manufactured merchandise and modern smartphones in one place, the traditional producers and handicraft workshops were pushed away. However, if you look for it you can still find traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts amongst the imported products. The bazaar is also a great place to try local flavours such as lepyoshka, a typical Kyrgyz rounded bread.

Even though the place no longer bears the ancient looks or the typical shops, visitors can still feel the trading atmosphere that Osh struggles to maintain. It is interesting to point out that for over 2000 years Jayma Bazaar has survived as an important part of the city. This is something easily noticeable upon entering the bazaar, packed with shoppers at any time of the day. The bazaar is easily accessible and sits right alongside the Ak Buura River. At least one hour is recommended to see most of this attraction.