Ski Touring in Kyrgyzstan

Untouched powder in the heart of the Tien Shan.

Far from crowded ski resorts and tracked-out terrain lies Jyrgalan Valley – one of Central Asia's most exciting destinations for ski touring.

Surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of the Tien Shan, we'll spend a week exploring long powder descents, remote valleys and endless terrain. Together with our Swedish IFMGA Mountain Guide and experienced local guides, we'll search for the best snow conditions each day while experiencing the warmth and hospitality Kyrgyzstan is famous for.

This expedition is designed for experienced ski tourers looking for something beyond the Alps.

 

Expedition highlights

• 
  Ski touring in one of the world's most underrated backcountry destinations
  


• 
  Swedish IFMGA Mountain Guide throughout the expedition
  


• 
  Experienced local guide with extensive terrain knowledge
  


• 
  Small group
  


• 
  Daily ski touring in untouched terrain
  


• 
  Snowmobile access to remote valleys
  


• 
  Avalanche safety refresher
  


• 
  Traditional Kyrgyz hospitality
  


• 
  Comfortable guesthouse accommodation
  


• 
  Airport transfers and all local transportation included

 Program

Day 1

Arrival in Bishkek.

Meet the guides before driving across Kyrgyzstan towards Jyrgalan Valley. The journey follows the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake before reaching our mountain guesthouse where we'll spend the coming week.   

Day 2

After breakfast we begin with an avalanche safety refresher and equipment check before heading out for our first ski tour.

Today's objective is to get familiar with the snowpack, terrain and local conditions while allowing everyone to settle into the rhythm of the expedition. 

Days 3–6

Every day we choose objectives based on weather, avalanche conditions and the group's ambitions.

Most days involve 1000–1400 vertical metres of climbing, with opportunities for multiple descents.

Some days we'll access more remote valleys using snowmobiles before continuing on skis into untouched terrain.

Expect long powder runs, beautiful forests, open alpine bowls and spectacular views across the Tien Shan. 

 

Day 7

One final ski tour before returning to Bishkek.

We'll celebrate the expedition with a farewell dinner in the city.

 

Day 8

Departure.

 

Who is this expedition for?

This trip is suitable for experienced ski tourers who:

• 
  are comfortable skiing black pistes in all snow conditions
  


• 
  have previous ski touring experience
  


• 
  can climb 1000–1400 vertical metres per day
  


• 
  are looking for an adventurous week beyond the traditional European destinations

 

Included

• 
  Swedish IFMGA Mountain Guide
  


• 
  Experienced local mountain guide
  


• 
  Airport transfers
  


• 
  All transportation during the expedition
  


• 
  Accommodation (7 nights)
  


• 
  Breakfast, lunches and dinners in the mountains
  


• 
  Avalanche safety training
  


• 
  Snowmobile access where required
  


• 
  Group safety equipment
  


• 
  Farewell dinner 

 

Not included

• 
  Flights to Bishkek
  


• 
  Personal ski equipment
  


• 
  Travel insurance
  


• 
  Alcohol and personal expenses
  


• 
  Tips for local staff