Cashless payments are more profitable: from June 13, train fares in Kyrgyzstan will be reduced

From June 13, 2025, new fixed fares for passenger trains within Kyrgyzstan will come into effect. The main change is that the cost of travel will now depend on the method of payment rather than the distance traveled. Cashless payment is more advantageous.

According to an order from the Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Kyrgyz Republic, fares have been standardized: regardless of the station where passengers board and alight, the ticket price will be the same for each destination. However, a key detail is the distinction between cash and non-cash payment methods.

This decision reflects the current state strategy to promote cashless payments and the digitization of everyday services. The measure is also aimed at reducing informal cash flows and increasing the transparency of financial flows in the passenger transport sector.

For example, the fare for a trip from Kaindy to Bishkek-2 station will now be:

• 40 KGS for cashless payments;
• 60 KGS for cash payments.

Similarly:

• Bishkek – Tokmok: 40 KGS for cashless payments, 60 KGS for cash payments;
• Bishkek – Rybachye Beach: 150 KGS for cashless payments, 180 KGS for cash payments.

Previously, there were different fares on these routes depending on the distance: from 20 to 56 KGS, which created confusion and an uneven load on the cash register system.

Fixed rates have also been set for luxury and VIP cars:

• Luxury car: 600 KGS in cash, 500 KGS by bank transfer;
• VIP car: 1,000 KGS in cash, 800 KGS by bank transfer;
• Entire VIP compartment: 7,200 KGS in cash, 6,000 KGS by bank transfer.