Abstract <p>The article considers the main areas for development of mountain tourism in Kyrgyzstan based on a comprehensive study of tourism potential. An integrated study of the country’s outdoor recreation resources associated with high-montane zones is conducted. These resources include mountains, glaciers, mineral waters, therapeutic muds, lake beaches, etc. In the context of global trends in the development of the tourism market, three promising areas of mountain tourism in Kyrgyzstan are identified: resort and recreation, travel along the Silk Road, and mountain adventure tourism, the key role in the development of which is played by mountaineering. It is shown that the tourism and recreation potential of the republic is primarily associated with high-montane territories. It is concluded that the steps towards realizing this potential include creating an international mountaineering center, expanding and modernizing the tourism infrastructure, and enhancing control in the field of environmental protection. Achieving these goals requires significant investments; some of them can be attracted via foreign investors. Implementation of these measures is expected to contribute to sustainable development of the republic and improve the population’s quality of life.</p>