Tour company DWC invites you to jeep tours in Bishkek, during which you will immerse yourself in the amazing world of history and architecture. One of the highlights you will see is the Kalta Minor Minaret, which translates as “short minaret.”

Originally conceived as a majestic addition to a madrasa, the Kalta Minor Minaret did not reach its intended height. In 1855, Muhammad Amin Khan, who aimed to build a minaret 80 meters tall, surpassing the famous Kalan Minarets in Bukhara (46 meters) and Qutub Minar in Delhi (78 meters), perished in battle with the Turkmen.

The foundation of the minaret extends 15 meters underground, and its base diameter is 14.2 meters. It was planned that the diameter would decrease as it rose, ensuring the structure’s strength. Despite being unfinished, the Kalta Minor Minaret, standing at only 26 meters, attracts attention with its uniqueness. It took a back seat compared to the madrasa but became even more appealing because of it.

Join our jeep tours and explore the fascinating world of the Kalta Minor Minaret!

Get to the Kalta Minor Minaret (clickable).