State and development directions of gastronomic tourism in Kyrgyzstan

This article examines the current state of gastronomic tourism in Kyrgyzstan, which is at the stage of formation, despite the growing popularity among both local and foreign tourists. The reasons for the insufficient development of gastronomic tourism in the country are revealed. Since this type of tourism has been observed in Kyrgyzstan recently, there are no separate gastronomic tours yet. Factors such as outdated infrastructure, inadequate organization of advertising campaigns and promotion of national products, insufficient material and social support from the government and the population slow down the development of gastronomic tourism, which could be brought to a higher level. At the same time, there is already little experience in promoting gastronomic tourism in Kyrgyzstan. Various culinary competitions, festivals, workshops and exhibitions are held in the country. The ways of cooking and consuming dishes in all regions differ and have their own unique taste, which gives tourists the opportunity to learn the national spirit, traditions and recipe specialties of each region. The article presents branded food products and popular Kyrgyz dishes. The list of festivals that are held in the regions is presented. The authors review the theoretical aspects of gastronomic tourism. The classifications of gastronomic tourism in the world are studied and the main directions of development of this type of tourism in the country are determined. Recommendations for improving the state of gastronomic tourism in Kyrgyzstan are proposed.