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What is Kalpak? Meaning of Kalpak

What is kalpak.

Traveling throughout Central Asia, it’s easy to have your heart and soul captured by the other-worldly scenery and rich, ever-welcoming culture. But – right there among the vast steppes and celestial mountains — is an often-overlooked wonder. A wonder that says so much about the people of Kyrgyzstan. Its name? The Kalpak – or Ak Kalpak — a hat for men of all ages. The Kalpak is worn in Kyrgyzstan as an element of everyday wardrobe or festive attire. “Ak” – in the Kyrgyz language means “white”, and also “pure”, and “Kalpak“ means “cap”, or literally “Felt Hat”. The hat is made of white sheep’s felt and decorated with national ornaments each with its own specific and deep symbolism.

A Kyrgyz living in Tajik Pamirs, wearing proudly his Ak Kalpak every day

History of Kalpak

Some historical accounts help a lot in tracing the history of Kyrgyz people and the use of Kalpak. One of these sources is Baburname, the famous memoirs of Central Asian ruling dynasties. This is an important source as it is also one of the first written documents portraying Kyrgyz people wearing a Kalpak. Baburname is a well-known book written in the sixteenth century by Babur, a ruler of India and Inner Asia. The medieval miniatures clearly show how his surrounding circle was wearing such head attire.

Man in Ak Kalpak depicted on miniature from time of Mughal Empire

On one of these miniatures from Zafarnama, „the capture of the fortress of the Knights of St. John in the city of Smyrna“ portrays the defense of city walls by soldiers in white hats. This serves as evidence that Kyrgyz were also taking part in the expeditions of Tamerlane and Babur, the grand rulers of Central Asia.

Kyrgyz fighting in Ak Kalpaks for expeditions of Tamerlane (Timur) and Babur

This picture depicts a reception in honor of one of many victories of Timur in Asia Minor, where, apparently, the most notable people are gathered. We can see that among the guests there is also a person in white kalpak.

Reception in honor of Timur’s victories

However, Kalpak was sometimes changed acquiring various forms and ornamented with precious stones and intricate embroidery. Today, different Central Asian countries have their own distinct versions of this extraordinary hat. In the ancient Kyrgyz national epic “Manas”, Kyrgyz people are characterized as “people wearing white kalpak whose apex is white as the top of the Tien-Shan Mountains and the base is dark, as the foot of the mountains”. Some Kalpaks have special use as in the example of Bakai Kalpak. The name comes from epic Manas, where Bakai is a wise man and therefore only wise old people wear those this kind of Kalpak with high sides.

Depiction of an elderly wise man wearing Bakai Kalpak

Symbolism of Kalpak in Central Asia

The Kalpak is not only filled with history, it is also replete with symbolism. From the materials that are used to its design to its intricate stitching, everything has its meaning. The shape of the hat looks like a snow-capped mountain with four sides of the same size made from white felt. These sides represent the four elements: air, water, fire, and earth. There are lines stitched on the top part of the hat. These stitches have intersections, which represent sun and life. There is also a yarn tassel on the right part of the crossing which represents posterity and prosperity. (Given that combination, it is little wonder the yarn tassle also symbolizes happiness.) Lastly, a Kalpak is often decorated with various designs that are indicative of the personality of the owner, as well as the heritage of Kyrgyzstan.

Man wearing an Ak Kalpak

Importance of Kalpak

When you see a Kalpak for the first time, you might think it is nothing but an accessory. In reality, however, it has a much deeper meaning. It is still worn proudly on important events, such as weddings, family holidays, and funerals. It is also given by hosts to their valued visitors during festivities. If during your stay, you are presented a gift of an Ak Kalpak, it truly represents the deep sincerity and hospitality of the Kyrgyz people. In addition, when public officials ascend to a new post, they are given an Ak Kalpak by the national government. This ancient ceremony acts as a modern reminder to the new official to provide honest and wise service to the people of Kyrgyzstan.

Given its cultural importance, a Kalpak must be treated with respect at all times. For instance, a Kalpak should never be thrown on the floor or placed next to a dirty shoe. The reverence for the Kalpak is even embedded in the Kyrgyz language. For instance, according to one Kyrgyz saying, “If you lose your kalpak, you lose your head.” Another Kyrgyz saying contends “Wear a kalpak, and you won’t get sick. It is warm in winter, cool in summer.” (In fact, felt has an extraordinary ability to retain heat in the winter and maintain the normal temperature of the head in the summer by safeguarding against sunstroke and heat exhaustion.) Kyrgyz ancestors knew about these qualities, knew how to adopt to the harsh weather conditions of the continental climate, and have preserved this knowledge to the present day.

Bus stop in form of Ak Kalpak

On March 5th of each year, Kyrgyzstan celebrates an official national holiday called “Kalpak Day”. The whole country dances, sings, and feasts. Men proudly wear the Kalpak the whole day. In fact, every March 5th it seems as if a joyful white river has spilled over the city. Foreign guests of the mountainous Republic are especially fond of that day because it undeniably reflects the good-natured and generous national spirit of the Kyrgyz people. Indeed, a gift of an ak Kalpak is to be cherished (and not simply because it is unlike any souvenir from any other part of the world). With the wondrous Kalpak, it is easy to tell friends and family about the culture and traditions of Kyrgyz people.

Here’s a bit of science about Kalpak: Kyrgyz researchers estimate that a Kalpak absorbs 33% of moisture by volume, so your head will always remain dry and warm. A Kalpak requires 230 grams of Merino wool and only one-fifth of the stitching of a modern hat. Thus, a Kalpak is efficient to make, practical, and made with love!

You can buy an Ak Kalpak in any souvenir shop in Kyrgyzstan

Why are we – Central Asia travel specialists- called Kalpak Travel?

Kalpak is a symbol of respect for the majestic mountains, the hospitable culture, and the ancient nomadic history of Kyrgyzstan. By calling ourselves Kalpak Travel, we wish to show our deep respect and admiration for all the traditions, culture, history, and natural beauty of Central Asia.

Travel with us through Central Asia to explore the stunning diversity of national and regional cultures, including deeply meaningful artifacts, of which the Kyrgyz Ak Kalpak is just one of many examples.

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Luca Lässer

Photojournalist and film maker focused on projects that explore indigenous cosmologies and the human ecology side of the environmental movement.

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Kalpak Travel

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Kalpak Travel is based in Switzerland and specialized on tours to Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan. We are THE experts for traveling in the Central Asian region and we can offer you a truly unique and culturally immersive experience. All offered tours have been pre-tested by us and are led by the best local guides we could find in Central Asia. We are a small company and passionate to offer the best experience for you.

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22-Day Summer Journey Through Central Asia

Join Kalpak Travel for an unforgettable 22-day tour across Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Discover a blend of modern cities and ancient towns set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. From the innovative architecture of Ashgabat to the...

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Would you like to meet Kyrgyz nomads or discover the enchanting beauty of the cities dotting the Ancient Silk Road in Central Asia? Drive along the ‘Roof of the World’ on the Pamir Highway or trek along the rugged Fann Mountain Ranges to explore traditional villages, turquoise lakes, and much more. As travel specialists on Central Asia, delivering such once-in-a-lifetime experiences to our valued guests from around the world forms our core business since 2016. We know Central Asia inside-out and maintain meaningful partnerships with the best local tour operators, guides, and service providers the region has to offer. This enables us to offer you authentic and interesting tour packages, ensuring your safety at all times whilst enabling local communities to benefit from tourism in a sustainable way. Feel free to contact us with any questions, we’d be happy to hear from you.

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Kalpak travel reviews, what people are saying about kalpak travel.

We loved our tour of Uzbekistan! From the start of the process Luca was very helpful and provided lots of information, then when we had to reschedule twice because of the pandemic he moved the booking on and kept the price the same. As we got closer to actually going we had lots of questions which Luca answered very comprehensively. The organisation of the tour was excellent and our guide Umid was exceptional. Uzbekistan was a long time coming because of the pandemic but it fully lived up to our expectations and Kalpak was a big part of that. Would recommend highly.

We booked an 8 day Best of Uzbekistan trip and added 3 nights so we could fly direct from the UK. Luca was absolutely brilliant with suggestions for places to go and sites to visit to make best use of the time, he arranged drivers, guides, meals and hotels and they were all excellent. We visited Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, Shakrisabz and Tashkent, each very different from one another but all really interesting, welcoming and as photographers offered great shots. In Samarkand we had dinner in a local property and a plov cooking demonstration, great fun and as the lone vegetarian, I can put my hand on my heart and say I had an excellent meal!

Nothing is ever too much for Luca to make sure your trip runs like clockwork. He prepares the itinerary meticulously and adjusts to your specific preferences. He will answer emails or whatsapp immediately, no matter the day or time (does the man ever sleep ?!). I covered Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan in 33 days and saw the very best of Central Asia. Luca organized the complex logistics of this trip, with comfortable rides (cars, trains, planes) and local guides at every location. Luca and his team are not only super professional, they are also easy and friendly to work with. Simply could not be better ! There's only 1 option when you visit "The Stans" : talk to KALPAK.

My trip with Kalpak to Central was phenomenal. It far exceeded my expectations. Everything was top quality including the accommodations, food, sights, itinerary and outstanding guides in each country. It was an excellent quality tour for the money. Great quality value. I would highly recommend the trip to anyone considering going. Central Asia is the best kept secret that one doesn’t hear much about.

Sten-Enok, Norway

I got a tip to visit the webpage for Kalpak and have not regretted since. They arrange trips to Central Asia and do it really well. They are professional, respond to inquiries instantly, are very flexible and know the region well. I was in contact with Luca for a combination of mountain biking and trekking in the Fann mountains in Tajikistan. My experience is solely positive; truly professional and passionate about the region.

Mind you, Kalpak uses local resources and is responsible tourism. I really recommend Kalpak Travel! They make astonishing trips to Central Asia and are professional, serious and responsible.

Spencer, Australia

We had a fabulous 13-day tour of Central Asia - Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan - in May/June. Luca, the owner of Kalpak Travel, has been very reliable and committed to giving excellent service. He was constantly keeping in touch during our trip to ensure that everything was running smoothly.

The guides in each city spoke excellent English and were extremely informative on all aspects of Central Asia. In Almaty, we were invited to have dinner at our tour guide's home. The food was fabulous and we had a wonderful evening….

We were very lucky to have Kalpak Travel as our tour company which exceeded our expectations with flying colours. We highly recommend Kalpak Travel if you are planning a hassle-free tour of Central Asia.

Rebecca, USA

We had a wonderful 3.5 week trip through the 5 Stans. I feel like I've seen the highlights in case I don't get the opportunity to return, but I most certainly DO want to return and see more. These are the warmest and most welcoming people I have every encountered.

My regret is that Kalpak does not arrange trips for other parts of the world, as I truly enjoyed every minute of working with them, and would love to do so again. SUPERLATIVE service.

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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