About 150 kilometres (93 miles) east of Bishkek is where you’ll find the Chon-Kemin valley. It covers 500 ha (1,234 acres) and is between 1,400 m (4,593 ft) and 2,800 m above sea level (9,186 ft).With its large river, lakes, glaciers, and immense forest, the park boasts one of Kyrgyzstan’s most magnificent vistas. Both nature lovers looking for a peaceful vacation and those of extreme activities who can go rafting or hiking will find it to be delightful.
Discover Chon-Kemin Valley
For hikers and those who love the outdoors, the Chon-Kemin Valley is a wild and beautiful location. This exceptional 500-hectare nature reserve spreads out with lovely reliefs and a river. Many species of animals and plants live in this distinctive ecosystem. There are particularly endangered endemic species like snow leopards, maral (the smallest cervid in Central Asia), and golden eagles. Very diverse plants, herbs, berries, and mushrooms can be found in the flora, which is equally stunning. The park offers a variety of sporting pursuits, including horseback riding through the forest and valley and hiking, fishing, and other pursuits. The more daring can now go rafting and get their fill of excitement.
The Park offers a variety of sporting pursuits, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding through the forest and valley. For the most daring, rafting is now an option to satisfy your adrenaline fix.
There are many routes in the park that will take you to gorges or one of the seven lakes while passing through a spruce forest. Passages higher than 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) provide an amazing panoramic perspective of the entire area.
You can see the Ala-Too mountain massif’s 4,700-meter (15,420-foot) peak and its never-ending snowfall. The park is open throughout the year. With hundreds of flowers in bloom in the spring, ideal hiking weather in the summer, tones of crimson in the fall, and flawlessly white snow in the winter, it is always beautiful.
Things to do in Chon-Kemin Valley
ANCIENT BURIAL MOUNDS
In the Chon-Kemin valley, you can explore ancient burial mounds that have significant historical value. These barrows, found near the village of Shabdan, date back to the 4th century BC, while others located near the valley’s mouth have origins ranging from the 6th to the 11th centuries AD.
CAMPING
For those who love camping, the Chon-Kemin valley is a top-notch destination. You have the option of pitching your own tent and experiencing the breathtaking starry nights or choosing to stay in a traditional Yurt tent.
FISHING
Fishing enthusiasts can delight in the Chon-Kemin river, known for its Amudarya trout. Fishing here requires some extra skill due to the rocky riverbed and thorny bushes along the banks, but the challenge is part of the excitement.
HIKING
If you’re into hiking, embark on a journey through the Chon-Kemin National Park, which reaches elevations as high as 9,000 feet. This scenic area offers a chance to encounter rare wildlife like Brown bears, Marals, and even the majestic Golden Eagle.
HORSE RIDING
Horseback riding is a beloved activity in Kyrgyzstan, often celebrated as a means to soar like a bird. In the Chon-Kemin valley’s picturesque landscape, both locals and tourists alike can enjoy the beauty of this activity.
RAFTING
For adventure seekers, rafting down the Chon-Kemin River is an exhilarating experience. The river features challenging 4-5 class rapids within stunning surroundings of green mountains and snow-capped peaks, promising an adrenaline-fueled ride
