Kyrgyz Som (KGS; symbol лв) = 100 tyin. Notes are in denominations of лв1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1, and 50, 10 and 1 tyin.

Foreign currencies can be exchanged at commercial banks and at authorised bureaux de change. The US Dollar is the easiest currency to exchange.

Credit cards are accepted in some of the larger hotels in Bishkek and can also be used at banks to withdraw cash from the counter. ATMs exist but are hardly commonplace in Bishkek or Osh and even less so elsewhere.

There is limited acceptance of these, but some banks in Bishkek accept traveller's cheques, with US Dollars probably the best option; commission charges are high. Cash is recommended.

Usually Mon-Fri 0930-1730.