Barskoon Gorge: An Invitation to the Heart of Celestial Tian Shan

Barskoon Gorge is not merely a waypoint, but a unique gateway into the majestic Terskey Ala-Too mountain range, located on the picturesque southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. This region offers an ideal combination of pristine nature and captivating high-mountain landscapes that should undoubtedly be the first point of your introduction to Kyrgyzstan. The gorge, stretching for tens of kilometers, serves as a true calling card for the region, actively engaging tourists in a world of adventure. Our goal is to inspire you to visit this place, which will forever remain in your memory.

Barskoon gorge

The landscape of Barskoon Gorge is characterized by striking variation. In the lower parts of the gorge, travelers are greeted by endless steppe grasses and dense, cool Tian Shan spruce forests that cover the steep slopes, creating a perfect atmosphere for hiking and camping. As you delve deeper into the gorge, these forests gradually give way to juniper groves, preceding the entry into the high-altitude zone. Barskoon is famous for its magnificent cascade waterfalls, each with its own poetic name and legend. The most famous is “The Snow Leopard’s Tears” (Slezy Barsa), a true symbol of the gorge, as well as “Manas’s Bowl“ (Chasha Manasa), named after the legendary national hero. At an altitude of over three thousand meters, the road leads to the high-altitude Syrt Arabel Plateau, a landscape often compared to Tibet. Stunning views of glacial lakes and the snowy peaks of the Terskey Ala-Too open up here, including the majestic Panfilov Heroes Peak (4610 m).

A unique touch is the monument to Yuri Gagarin, installed in the middle section of the gorge. The first cosmonaut on the planet visited this area in 1964 for rest and rehabilitation, which underscores the exceptional air purity and favorable high-altitude climate of the region.

Barskoon Gorge is ideal for a two-day active tour. On the first day, it is recommended to focus on trekking to the waterfalls and exploring the sites at the base, including the Gagarin monument, with an overnight stay in a yurta camp or guesthouse in nearby villages. The second day should be fully dedicated to the high mountains, taking an off-road trip to the Syrt Arabel Plateau via the Barskoon Pass to see the glacial lakes and alpine pastures. It is important to remember that ascending the plateau requires appropriate transportation and readiness for sharp temperature changes and high altitude sickness. In summer, horseback riding flourishes here, allowing for a slow, deep immersion into the nomadic culture, making your journey through Kyrgyzstan truly unforgettable.