April 12, 2021 · 1 min read
The Ala-Archa gorge has a mountaineering camp with the same name which is 45 km to the south of Bishkek. The gorge lies at an altitude of 2100 metres above sea level.
Etymologically, the gorge means "colourful juniper" in the local Kyrgyz language derived from the juniper bushes growing on the slope line of the Ala-Archa gorge.
Situated on the high regions of the Kyrgyz Ridge midst the Tien Shan Mountains, the gorge is occupied by glaciers all over. Considered to be the highest in the region the gorge is the most attractive mountaineering point in Kyrgyzstan.
A small hut at an altitude of 3400 metres above sea level, Light House is a renowned stop on your mountaineering camp's way up to the Ak Sai glacier. One of the most convenient base camps in the area, it warms and relaxes campers after ascents. You can stay in the hut to spend your night.
The Light House gives a majestic view of the gorge and the mountains in the backdrop.
The Tian Shan Mountains are covered with thick layers of snow in winters. The snow keeps up till the hottest summer days. This means that the regular hiking takes a bit more preparation and precaution. The Ala Archa valley trails are the easiest among all hiking trails. The gorge has a gradual slope.
The Ala Archa Gorge in Kyrgyzstan has a diverse fauna. The most ferocious of the predators is the snow leotard or ilbirs as the locals call them. The animal stands unchallenged in the Red Book of Kyrgyzstan for being the diamond set in the pearl of the mountain ranges.
The narrowest part of the gorges in clefts is home to the hidden nests of a very rare bird, the Happiness Bird.
The Ala Archa gorge is a known destination for skiing, hiking and mountaineering. The gorge includes trips to more than 20 glaciers. From Subalpine ranges to high-mountains covered with eternal snows and glaciers, the beautiful fir and birch forests, Kyrgyzstan never fails to delight its visitors. Call us or visit our website to book your tour to Kyrgyzstan.
