Suusamyr Valley

Suusamyr Valley is one of Kyrgyzstan's largest and most beautiful high-altitude plateaus, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains. In summer, the valley transforms into a sea of lush pastures where hundreds of nomad yurts are set up. It is considered the heartland of Kyrgyz horse breeding and is famous for the quality of its Kumis (fermented mare's milk), which is offered fresh along almost every roadside. The region has handy conditions for outdoor activities such as paragliding, horse riding, and multi-day hikes into the side valleys. The Suusamyr River is also a popular destination for rafting enthusiasts. The drive into the valley through the Too-Ashu Pass tunnel at 3,100 meters is an adventure in itself, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Visitors can stay in yurt camps and get to know the simple but warm life of the shepherds. The cuisine is characterized by fresh dairy products, kaimak (cream), and hearty meat dishes. The best time to visit is from June to August when the climate is pleasantly warm and the flowers are in bloom on the meadows. Suusamyr Valley is the excellent place to immerse oneself in the infinite expanse and tranquility of the Kyrgyz mountains.

Nearby cities

Jalal-Abad

One of the largest cities in the south of the country, known for its hot springs and mineral waters.

Tash-Kumyr

An industrial city on the Naryn River, known for its coal mining and hydroelectric power plants.

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Toktogul

A city north of the huge Toktogul Reservoir, surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges.

Kochkor-Ata

A city in the Jalal-Abad Region whose economy is traditionally dominated by oil and gas extraction.

Kerben

A small town in the Aksy District, located in a picturesque mountainous landscape in the west of the country.

Kazarman

A highly isolated mining settlement in inner Kyrgyzstan, often cut off from the rest of the country in winter.

Sary-Chelek Lake

A stunning high-altitude lake within a UNESCO biosphere reserve, famous for its crystal-clear waters and dense walnut forests.

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Mailuu-Suu

A former Soviet closed city, famous for its uranium mining during the Cold War.

History & landmarks

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Saimaluu-Tash

One of the world's largest petroglyph fields, located high in the mountains, featuring thousands of ancient rock carvings.

Saimaluu Tash

A remote mountain site hosting over 10,000 petroglyphs from the Bronze and Iron Ages.

Nature

Sary-Chelek Lake

Hidden in the mountains lies the deep blue Sary-Chelek Lake, framed by wild fruit and walnut forests.

Chatkal River

The wild Chatkal River has carved deep, breathtaking gorges into the mountains of the western Tien Shan.

More places

Kambar-Ata-2 Hydroelectric Power Station

A modern hydroelectric project to increase Kyrgyzstan's energy capacity.

Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Station

The largest hydroelectric power station in the country, located on the Naryn River.

Saimaluu-Tash State Nature Park

This park is world-famous for its tens of thousands of rock carvings (petroglyphs) scattered high in the mountains.

Arslanbob Walnut Forest

The massive walnut forests of Arslanbob are a unique natural heritage, stretching across gentle hills.

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Dashman State Nature Reserve

The reserve is famous for its ancient and extensive walnut forests, which are considered the largest in the world.

Makmal Gold Mine

A significant gold mining complex in the Jalal-Abad Region.

Kurpsai Hydroelectric Power Station

A large hydroelectric power station on the Naryn River in Kyrgyzstan.

Mailuu-Suu Lightbulb Factory

One of the largest lightbulb factories in Central Asia.