Thanks to the transparency and the extraordinary beauty of Issyk Kul Lake, it is called The Pearl of Kyrgyzstan. Its altitude is 1600 meters above sea level; lake has impressive dimensions: 180 km in length, 70 km in width, and a depth of up to 700 meters. In Kyrgyz, Issyk-Kul means a hot lake. The main part of it does not freeze in winter. Its water is slightly salty.
Issyk-Kul Lake is surrounded by massive mountain ranges. Masses of air are saturated with moisture above the lake and gradually are transferred by eastward winds to the town of Karakol, where high mountains prevent their further advancement. Therefore, in the eastern part of the lake there are in several times more rainfalls than in the west.
The proximity of a large lake creates a warm microclimate without strong winds and extremely low temperatures, which contributes to a deep snowpack. However, winter temperatures in this area can reach 25 degrees below zero on Celsius. Big cyclones are either rare or short. The number of sunny days prevails over the bad weather. The climate, combined with mountainous terrain, creates ideal conditions for ski sports here.
The program is designed for confident off-piste skiers. The ski area is very extensive, steep slopes are between 20 and 35 degrees. A difference in elevation is up to 1300 meters. For ascents and descents we offer a variety of ski area with different relief. Most of the route runs along the wooded slopes, so we remind of the need of protective helmet. There is possibility walking parts during which the skis (snowboard) are carried on a backpack. Karakol snow is usually very deep. For comfortable riding is recommended to use the skis with a waist of at least 100 mm. We drive by car from the town to ski area.
To conduct a ski touring guides choose one of Terskey Ala-Too gorges. Variants of ups as the number of downs are being chosen by guides based on the qualification of the group. All trips are one day long.
The levels of routs difficulty are different. We have a lot to offer both to experienced free riders and to those who just began to explore the intact slopes.
Automobile 400 km, 6-7 hours
Altitude 600-1700 m
Pick up at the airport "Manas" in Bishkek. Transfer to Karakol on a comfortable car. Lunch in a cafe on the way. Upon arrival accommodation in guesthouse. Meeting with guides, review of the snow conditions and a short lecture on avalanche safety. Dinner.
Automobile up to 120 km
Walking 10-20 km
Altitude 1700-3700 m
Breakfast in the guesthouse. After the breakfast departure to the ski area: the trip takes about an hour (10 to 60 km). There would be brief introduction to the area. Ascents and descents take approximately 4-6 hours. Lunch on the slopes (fruit, sandwiches, hot tea) taken from the guesthouse. After coming back at the guesthouse - shower, dinner in a cafe or a guest house.
By the request of the participants you can get one day off - take a tour around the city of Karakol, see the sights, go to hot springs.
Automobile 400 km, 6-7 hours
Altitude 1700-8000 m
Breakfast at the guesthouse. After the breakfast drive from Karakol to Bishkek (6-7 hours). Lunch in the cafe. Accommodation in the hotel. Dinner.
Automobile 30 km, 1hour
Transfer to the Airport.
You should have insurance coverage for 30,000 US Dollars. The insurance should cover injured transportation.
Guides decide on the Avalanche risk levels and choose the route of ascent and descent.
Some ski-touring and avalanche equipment is available for rent.
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