In just over a decade the event has expanded from 20 participating countries and 10 sports to about 100 countries competing in 43 different events.

For Kyrgyzstan, the Games are a powerful tool for building a modern national identity. Gulshat Rozyyeva, a research scholar at the Australian National University, called the Games “a major identity booster” for the young nation.

The festival also fuels the economy. Tour operators such as Intrepid Travel report a 900 percent rise in bookings to Kyrgyzstan this year, and hotels and local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors.

Australian archer Daniya Aziz says the Games offer a chance to disconnect from a technology‑heavy world. She explained that the physical, outdoor nature of the cultural sports helps her step away from social media and screens.

Aziz was drawn to horseback archery because it combines a demanding sport with a deep connection to the horse. She said the experience of shooting while riding creates a unique bond between archer and animal.

Beyond sport, the Games serve as a diplomatic platform, hosting delegates from several countries and showcasing Kyrgyzstan’s heritage to the world.