BISHKEK (Satrapia) — According to data published by the National Statistics Committee of Kyrgyzstan, the number of foreigners visiting the country in 2018 exceeded 7&nbsp,mln, 1.5 times more than in 2017.

The majority of these people came from neighbouring Uzbekistan, accounting for 48% of the total number. Kazakhstan was second with 38%, Russia third (7%) and Tajikistan fourth (3%).

Of these, 1.4 mln people reported that tourism was the reason for their visit to Kyrgyzstan. The most popular holiday destination for foreigners is traditionally Lake Issyk-Kul: more than 900,000 people visited it last year.

According to preliminary estimates, the gross value added of tourism last year amounted to more than 27 bln soms, or 5% of GDP, at the same level as the previous year.

Hospitality and tourism services in 2018 were provided by 486 recreational facilities and tourism organizations. Of these, 187 are specialized accommodation establishments, 185 hotels, 64 travel agencies and tour operators, travel and excursion agencies, 9 natural parks and more than 40 other tourist sites.