Ala Archa gorge

Ala Arch gorge is one of the beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan and one of favourites both for tourists and locals. It is located just 45 km from Bishkek city, and during one hour drive you will rise from 750 to 2100 meters above sea level. The name Ala-Archa means Bright Juniper. These trees grow everywhere. For Kyrgyz it is considered to be a sacred tree that they use almost in all their traditional rites. When a child is born it has a cradle made of juniper, when he is ill adults burn it nearby saying special praying, when the child grows up and ready to get married - again a woman with burning juniper will go inside his new yurt to protect it from bad spirits. And when the man dies his grave is to be made of this tree.

Ala Archa is a perfect place to have a remarkable day off. You can have a track (5 hours) to Ak Sai waterfall or just to have a walk along the mountain river that flows in the gorge.

 

Program:

9 a.m. You will be picked up by your tour guide an your hotel.

9.45 a.m.   The first thing we visit today is the Baitik Kanaev mausoleum which will be on the way. He used to be the ruler of Solto tribe  who captured Bishkek fortress. At that time it belonged to Uzbek people when Kyrgyz  had to pay high taxes. Baitik Kanaev made them go away and save Kyrgyz independence. Also you can learn about different rituals of burring people at different times.

10.30 a.m. Now we arrive in the gorge. Then you have an option whether you will have a track to the waterfall or you will walk along the gorge.

12.30 p.m. Picnic time

3.30 p.m.   It's time for you to go back to the hotel.