Route: Bishkek → north shore of Issyk-Kul → Karakol → ski resort → hot springs → Bishkek
When snow covers the Tian Shan, Karakol turns into Kyrgyzstan's winter sports centre. The ski resort lies in a forested valley above the town, with runs through Tian Shan spruce, lifts up to high altitude and – compared with Alpine resorts – very few people. It suits confident skiers and snowboarders as well as beginners who want to take lessons.
This short break combines two days on the slopes with a visit to hot mineral springs near Karakol, where you can relax in warm water surrounded by snowy mountains. On the way you see Issyk-Kul in winter: the lake does not freeze, and its dark blue water between white ridges is a sight many summer visitors never see. Ski passes and equipment are paid locally, so you only pay for what you use.
Morning pick-up in Bishkek and a scenic drive of about 6–7 hours along the north shore of Issyk-Kul, with stops for lunch and photos of the winter lake. Check-in at your guesthouse in Karakol, dinner and a briefing about the ski resort.
Transfer to the ski resort after breakfast. Rent equipment if needed, buy your ski pass and spend the day on the slopes – with an instructor if you wish. Return to Karakol in the late afternoon, dinner at the guesthouse.
Morning on the slopes. In the afternoon a short tour of Karakol with the wooden Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Dungan mosque, followed by a relaxing visit to the hot mineral springs near the town. Dinner and last night in Karakol.
Breakfast and return drive to Bishkek along the lake (about 6–7 hours with stops). Drop-off at your hotel or at Manas airport for an evening flight.
Prices per person in USD. The final price is confirmed with your booking. Child (2–11 years): −15%.
The cancellation terms for this tour are confirmed in writing together with your booking, before you pay anything.
Read our cancellation & refund policyYes, there are easier slopes and local instructors. Let us know your level in the request and we can help arrange lessons.
Ski pass and rental prices are set by the resort and change each season, and many guests only ski part of the day or bring their own equipment. Paying locally means you only pay for what you actually use.
Yes. Non-skiers can enjoy winter walks, the hot springs and sightseeing around Karakol. Tell us in your request and we will suggest a programme.
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A compact but demanding mountain trip: acclimatisation in Ala-Archa, then the classic trek over the Ala-Kul pass to the Altyn-Arashan hot springs.
Ala-Archa National Park, Chuy region (about 40 km from Bishkek)
A guided day in the mountains just an hour from Bishkek: spruce forests, a glacier river and the Ak-Sai waterfall trail, with lunch in the park.
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