Kyrgyzstan Winter Tours (3 Days): Mountains, Skiing, Chong-Kemin, and Burana. New Year Holiday Ideas.

Choose your ideal 3-day winter getaway in Kyrgyzstan! Two ready-made itineraries: “Adrenaline” (skiing, Chunkurchak) or “Authentic” (Chong-Kemin and horse riding). A practical guide to logistics and accommodation.

Introduction: Your Choice of Winter Adventure

Kyrgyzstan during the winter holidays is a snowy, quiet, and incredibly hospitable destination. In a short time (3 days), you can manage to get maximum impressions without wasting time on long transfers.

As experts in winter tourism in the Tian Shan, we have prepared two logistically sound and distinctly different options for how you can spend those unforgettable 72 hours, starting from Bishkek.

OPTION 1: ⛷️ ADRENALINE AND WINTER MOUNTAINS (SKIING & SNOWBOARDING)

This itinerary is perfect for those seeking an active holiday, who love skiing/snowboarding, and appreciate modern infrastructure.

• Day 1: Bishkek & Ala-Archa. Immediately after arriving at Manas International Airport (FRU), we will head south to the Ala-Archa National Park. You will take an easy trek to stretch your legs and breathe the pristine mountain air among the snow-covered fir trees. In the evening, you will return to Bishkek to experience national cuisine.
• Day 2: Ski Resorts (Chunkurchak / Kashkulak). A full day will be dedicated to skiing or snowboarding! We will choose the resort based on your skill level and preferences:
  • “Chunkurchak“ — for those who value modern chair lifts, wide slopes, and comfort. Ideal for beginners and families.
  • “Kashkulak” — for fans of the newest infrastructure and, if desired, night skiing (thanks to powerful lighting).
• Day 3: Icy Waterfall and Echoes of the Great Silk Road – Kegety Gorge and Burana Tower
  • Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to the scenic Kegety Gorge through the mountain ridge.
  • Day: We will drive along a beautiful mountain road, enjoying views of the frozen river and snowy slopes. We’ll take an easy walk to the frozen Kegety mountain waterfall – a fantastic sight where the water has turned into an icy work of art (depending on weather conditions). Next, we head to the Chuy Valley to the next historical point.
  • Afternoon: Arrival at the Burana Tower – an 11th-century minaret, all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun, the former capital of the Karakhanid Khaganate and an important stop on the Great Silk Road. Subtle Historical Fact: The tower was originally about 45 meters high, but an earthquake in the 15th century destroyed its upper part, leaving us with the current 25 meters. Here you can walk among the ruins of the ancient city and view the collection of balbals (stone figures).
  • Evening: Return to Bishkek.

Our Tip: By choosing modern resorts, you get maximum comfort and adrenaline, plus the opportunity to visit the Supara ethnocomplex near Chunkurchak.

OPTION 2: 🐎 CULTURE AND AUTHENTIC CHONG-KEMIN

This itinerary is suitable for those seeking an authentic experience, who want to see historical monuments of the Silk Road, and enjoy rural tranquility and horseback riding.

• Day 1: Arrival and Ala-Archa. Meet-up at the airport and check-in/rest. Then, a transfer to the Ala-Archa National Park for a short walk. Return to Bishkek for the night.
• Day 2: The Ancient Nomads’ Road and Chong-Kemin Valley. Our route heads east. We will stop at the Burana Tower (11th century) — a remnant of an ancient city, standing majestically amid the snowy plains. Next, we will travel along the scenic mountain road through the Kegety Gorge with its frozen waterfalls. By evening, we will arrive at the high-altitude Chong-Kemin Valley for accommodation in a cozy guest house and a traditional dinner.
• Day 3: Nomadic Life and Departure. In the morning, you will have a unique experience: horseback riding through the snow-covered Chong-Kemin Valley. After lunch at the guest house, there will be a comfortable transfer back to Bishkek, and then to the airport for your departure.

Our Tip: This itinerary offers a full immersion into the culture and allows you to stay away from the city, which is especially valued during the holidays.

Practical Information (Useful for the Guest)

• Season: December — February. This is the ideal time for skiing and authentic winter travel. Daytime temperatures in Bishkek are around 0C (32°F), dropping to around -10C (14°F) in the mountains.
• Logistics: All transfers along the routes are fully organized by us using comfortable and safe vehicles.
• Accommodation: In Bishkek, 3-4 star hotels. In Chong-Kemin, we use reliable family-run guest houses offering a warm welcome and delicious home-cooked food.
• Gear: Essential items include three-layer clothing (thermals, fleece, down jacket), warm boots with good traction, a hat, and gloves.

Ready to Choose Your Winter Adventure?

No matter which option you choose, Kyrgyzstan will give you a unique blend of mountain romance and Eastern hospitality. Contact us to book your perfect 3-day tour!