Astrophotographer Soumyadeep Mukherjee has found a hidden gem in Kyrgyzstan. Last June, while leading a workshop in the country, he was struck by its potential, despite its minimal presence in the realm of astrophotography. Eager to showcase the country’s photographic allure, Mukherjee embarked on capturing stunning images across Kyrgyzstan’s diverse landscapes, uncovering what he considers to be a well-kept secret in the field of astrophotography.
“Kyrgyzstan, undoubtedly, has some of the best natural landscapes in the world,” Mukherjee tells My Modern Met. “The barren lands, mountains, grasslands, canyons, it seemed like a package of landscapes. It gave us almost all the varieties one could ask for.” With its sparse population density, the country offers expansive dark skies, which, combined with its remarkable landscapes, create an ideal setting for astrophotography.
Mukherjee’s intrigue deepened as he noted the scarcity of photographic content from Kyrgyzstan. “When I searched the internet for some sample images, I was able to find only a few,” he recalled. “A country that has so much potential for astrophotography has remained comparatively less explored.” This observation only fueled his curiosity and excitement about the country’s underutilized photographic potential.
To Mukherjee, Kyrgyzstan represents a comprehensive experience in terms of landscapes. “While we were traveling through the highways, on one side, we could see yellow-orange rough mountains and on the other side, vast grasslands,” he shares. “This was an experience I would never forget.” His expertise allowed him to transform even the simplest elements—such as traditional yurts and a Yuri Gagarin statue—into captivating subjects against the backdrop of the starry sky.
Mukherjee advocates for Kyrgyzstan as a must-visit destination for those passionate about astrophotography and adventurous travel. “If you love astrophotography and also like to travel and explore unforgettable landscapes, Kyrgyzstan should be on your bucket list,” Mukherjee advises. “Kyrgyzstan has a very low population density which makes the country a heaven for finding dark skies. There are ample Bortle 1 and 2 regions around the country.”
For those considering a trip to Kyrgyzstan, Mukherjee suggests spending a minimum of seven to ten days, ideally in June or July, to fully experience and appreciate its expansive beauty. “I hope that people start taking interest in visiting this country (along with other countries of central Asia) and explore its beauty,” he concludes.
