Ski Tour In Ak- Shirak

Ski Touring in Kyrgyzstan

Ak-Shirak Range, Tien Shan

The Ak-Shirak Range is part of the Central Tien Shan mountains, located to the south of the eastern bank of Issyk-Kul Lake, between the lake shore and the border with China. The climate of the area is typical of the Central Tien Shan but slightly milder. Annual precipitation is around 700 mm. The highest level of precipitation occurs in spring and early summer, while the lowest is in winter. The average winter temperature is -16°C, while in spring and autumn it is around -7°C. However, on some days, spring temperatures can drop to -15°C or even -20°C.

The highest altitude in the Ak-Shirak Range is 5,126 m. Glaciation is significant, and glaciers often descend from the passes and mountain peaks. The elevation difference is about 700 m, and in the eastern part, it reaches up to 1,000 m. The largest glacier in the Ak-Shirak Range is the Petrov Glacier, which is 14 km long and flows north in the central part of the northern slope. The 10 km-long Jaman-Su Glacier is located in the eastern part of the range. The Karasai Severny Glacier is 10 km long, and the Kaindy Glacier is 8 km long; both are situated in the western part.

There are about 130 glaciers in the range, covering a total area of 450 square kilometers. Most glaciers are located above 3,700 m. The area is not widely explored by skiers or climbers and offers great potential for ski mountaineering and first ascents.

The northern, western, and southern parts of the range can be accessed by car from the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. From Bishkek, the route goes through Tamga, and after the village of Barskaun, the journey continues south for 200–250 km on a gravel road using off-road vehicles. The southern region lies in a border area, and a special permit is required. Part of the Ak-Shirak Range is within a gold mining territory, and depending on the itinerary, a special permit from the mining company may also be required.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival

International flights will bring the group members to Kyrgyzstan’s capital airport early in the morning. A representative of our company will meet them and arrange a transfer to a three-star hotel in Bishkek. Participants can rest and check their equipment. Upon request, a city tour can be arranged to explore the main sights of the capital, assist with purchasing necessary supplies, and enjoy a delicious dinner of local cuisine.

Day 2: Bishkek – Tamga

After breakfast, transfer to Tamga village, located on the way to the Ak-Shirak Range. The journey takes about 4–5 hours, covering approximately 300 kilometers. During the drive, you can enjoy the magnificent snowy landscapes of Kyrgyzstan and discuss skiing plans for the coming days. Upon arrival, accommodation will be in a guest house near the shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Cozy rooms, home-cooked meals, and a warm atmosphere will make your stay memorable.

Day 3: Tamga – Ak-Shirak

Continue the journey to the Ak-Shirak Range. All group members will travel to the base camp location. The drive takes approximately 4–5 hours, covering 200–250 kilometers southward. The exact base camp location will be selected upon arrival. You can rest or do light acclimatization through walking or short ski tours.

Important: All participants must have a border permit, as the ski area is located in a border zone.

The camp area is remote, so transportation is possible only by truck or off-road vehicles.

Day 4–9: Ski touring, exploration of new routes

These days are dedicated to acclimatization, ski touring, and exploring new routes. The itinerary should be planned. Participants choose routes based on group fitness, skiing experience, and weather conditions. Personal ski equipment is required.

Important: The north-western slopes of the Ak-Shirak Range are located within the Kumtor gold mining area, which is restricted and closed to tourists. The program will not include this area.

Day 10: Ak-Shirak – Tamga

After breakfast, return to Tamga village. Accommodation will be arranged in a family-run guest house. Participants can relax, enjoy traditional cuisine, and share their experiences from the trip.

Day 11: Tamga – Bishkek

After breakfast, transfer to Bishkek. Accommodation will be arranged in a three-star hotel. After some rest, you can explore the city, buy souvenirs, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 12: Departure

Early morning breakfast followed by a transfer to the airport for your departure flight back home.

Notes:

If the group prefers to send ski gear to Bishkek in advance, ITMC Company will arrange customs clearance.

For complete information and answers to your questions, you can contact us via email.

Services Included in the Price:

All land transportation according to the program

Airport – Bishkek – Airport transfers and city sightseeing by minibus

Bishkek – Ak-Shirak Base Camp – Bishkek by 4WD vehicle (UAZ)

Note: The vehicle remains at the base camp and can be used for movement between nearby gorges.

Twin accommodation in hotels and guest houses as mentioned

Bishkek: 3-star hotel

Tamga: Guest house with shared facilities

Cook services

Meals:

Breakfasts in the hotel in Bishkek

Breakfasts and dinners in the guest house in Tamga

Full board in the mountains

Bottled water en route

Camping and kitchen equipment, including camping furniture

Mess tent (dining tent)

Border permit arrangements

Note: Prices are based on a minimum group size of 4 people.