A group of Azerbaijani journalists explored the breathtaking tourism and cultural attractions of Kyrgyzstan's Issyk-Kul Region during the second day of a media tour aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in tourism, culture, and information exchange.

The program began in the village of Kara-Oy, where the media delegation visited one of the region's popular wellness destinations, renowned for its natural hot mineral springs, The Caspian Post reports via Report.

The journalists then traveled to the spectacular Kyrchyn Gorge, one of Issyk-Kul's most picturesque locations and the iconic venue of the World Nomad Games. There, they toured the tent city built for athletes and visitors during the international event and learned about the history of Kyrgyzstan's globally recognized ethnocultural festival.

Guests were also treated to a vibrant cultural program showcasing Kyrgyz traditions, music, and nomadic heritage.

One of the highlights of the visit was a presentation of Salbuurun, Kyrgyzstan's traditional hunting art that combines falconry with hunting alongside the country's famous Taigan sighthounds. The delegation also watched demonstrations of traditional horseback games and eagle hunting.

Almazbek Akunov, President of the Salbuurun Federation, said the organization's mission is to preserve and promote Salbuurun as a vital part of Kyrgyz cultural heritage while passing the tradition on to younger generations. He noted that the sport has also attracted interest in Azerbaijan, with Azerbaijani athletes visiting Kyrgyzstan to learn about Salbuurun and exchange experience.

The media tour was organized on the instruction of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov by presidential press secretary Askat Alagozov as part of broader efforts to deepen Kyrgyz-Azerbaijani cooperation in the media, cultural, and humanitarian spheres.