8-Day Guided Ski Touring in Jyrgalan, Kyrgyzstan

About program

Ski Touring in Jyrgalan, Kyrgyzstan — 8-Day Backcountry Program

Discover the hidden backcountry gem of Jyrgalan, a remote mountain village in eastern Kyrgyzstan. Nestled in the heart of the Tien Shan mountains, Jyrgalan offers some of the most reliable powder and diverse terrain in Central Asia — without the crowds.

This 8-day fully guided ski touring program is designed for adventurous skiers and splitboarders seeking untracked snow, cultural immersion, and the raw beauty of Kyrgyz winter wilderness.

Location:

Jyrgalan village based 70km East from Karakol, Eastern part of Terskey Alatau mountain ridge, on 2250 meters above the sea level surrounded by mountains up to 3500 meters. This is relatively new ski destination and not that touristy yet. Which gives a good opportunity to explore the area off the beaten treks and crowds of people. Kyrgyzstan is pretty accessible and open for foreign travelers. It’s VISA-free for most of the countries. You can easily get there both from airport of Almaty and Bishkek. We provide transfers from both cities. It’s usually takes 5-6 hours by picturesque roads from both airports.

Terrain Overview: Snowpack, Aspect, and Line Options

The terrain around Jyrgalan spans a wide variety of touring and freeride skiing objectives, making it one of the most versatile destinations for guided ski missions in Central Asia. Most touring zones lie between 2,200 and 3,200 meters, offering a reliable mid-winter snowpack with consistently cold temperatures that preserve quality powder, especially on north to northeast aspects. Tree zones near the village allow for protected skiing in stormy weather, while alpine bowls, glacial cirques, and open ridgelines above offer technical descents and longer vertical drops.

Slope angles range from 25° to 40°, with natural features like pillows, couloirs, and wide faces accessible in good stability windows. This variety of options ensures both progression and safety, whether you're aiming for steep freeride lines or efficient touring loops with multiple laps. Many zones are skin-access only, but optional snowcat support unlocks remote ridges with minimal approach time, ideal for strong groups chasing vertical and terrain variety.

Season:

Mid-December to late March
Best snow conditions typically from January to early March

Trip Highlights

• Explore high-alpine bowls, open ridgelines, and forested powder runs

• Stay in a cozy guesthouse run by locals in a former Soviet mining village

• Experience true Kyrgyz hospitality and traditional meals

• Small group size (max 6 per guide)

• Fully supported and logistically smooth — just focus on the skiing

Why Jyrgalan?

• Fewer crowds than Karakol or Suusamyr

• Deep, cold powder preserved by northern aspects

• Locally run tourism initiative = direct community support

• Authentic Kyrgyz experience beyond typical resorts

Ready to Earn Your Turns in the Tien Shan?

Jyrgalan isn’t just a place on the map — it’s an experience that brings you closer to nature, challenge, and yourself. Whether you're chasing untouched powder, discovering new terrain under the guidance of experienced mountain professionals, or simply immersing in Kyrgyz village life after a big day in the backcountry — this trip will leave a lasting mark. Join us for eight unforgettable days of freeride skiing, cultural connection, and high mountain adventure. The snow is deep, the lines are wild, and the moment is now. Let’s ride!