Skiing
Kyrgyzstan’s mountain-saturated landscape makes it an ideal location for skiing and snowboarding in the wintertime.
Kyrgyzstan’s mountain-saturated landscape makes it an ideal location for skiing and snowboarding in the wintertime. The Tien Shan Mountain Range meanders majestically through the country, providing both calm and challenging slopes. More skiers and snowboarders are coming to Kyrgyzstan for winter sports because of its unrestricted atmosphere and opportunities to enjoy different kinds of skiing/snowboarding. Options available:
Heli-skiing & Heli-snowboarding
Ride via helicopter to a staggeringly high peak and get dropped off at the top on your skis or snowboard for an adrenaline-filled ride down the mountainside. Heli-skiing and snowboarding have become much more popular in Kyrgyzstan because of the wealth of prime peaks/mountains available in the country for this kind of activity. Heli-skiing and heli-snowboarding in Kyrgyzstan are generally available between December and April depending on the location of the drop. Elevations range from 3,000-4,500 meters.
Popular destinations: Suusamyr Valley, Talas mountains, Ak-Sai Glacier, & Karakol
Freeriding/Backcountry/Off-Piste
Freeriding is also an option for skiers and snowboarders. If you want to escape the confines of the conventional ski resort slopes, Kyrgyzstan has a lot of good opportunities available for off-piste skiing.
Also, the scenery surrounding Kygyzstan’s freeride bases is spectacular. Kyrgyzstan is known as “a land of celestial mountains” because the high mountain peaks are often topped with white, puffy cumulous clouds while still being sunny, creating a paradise-like atmosphere to bask in while freeriding down the mountainsides.
Popular destinations: Suusamyr Valley, Karakol, Jyrgalan, & Arslanbob
Ski Resorts
If you’re looking for a relaxing place to hang out and ski/snowboard, Kyrgyzstan currently has over a dozen ski resorts with well-developed infrastructure, modern equipment, and surprisingly affordable prices. Sizes and accommodations vary, but in general, ski bases have a relaxing atmosphere in Kyrgyzstan and don’t feel overcrowded. They’re a great place and relax and enjoy skiing and snowboarding at your own pace.
Learn more about -> Ski Resorts in Kyrgyzstan