Just 150 kilometers from Bishkek lies Chon-Kemin: a valley of spruce forests, alpine meadows, mountain rivers, and snow-capped peaks. Some visitors come for a day trip, while others stay overnight in a yurt. Here's what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
Where It Is and What Makes It Special
The Chon-Kemin Valley stretches for more than 100 kilometers from west to east between the Kungey Ala-Too Range to the south and the Zailiyskiy Ala-Too Range to the north, across the Chuy and Issyk Kul regions. The valley floor ranges from 1340 to 3300 meters above sea level.
The 116-kilometer-long Chon-Kemin River flows through the valley. It originates from glaciers at an altitude of around 3000 meters and joins the Chu River at the entrance to Boom Gorge. The valley is home to Chon-Kemin State Nature Park, established in 1997. The park is inhabited by snow leopards, Turkestan lynx, Tien Shan bears, red deer, argali sheep, golden eagles, and black storks, some of which are listed in the Red Book of endangered species.
The landscape changes as the elevation increases: steppe near the entrance, dense spruce forests further in, alpine meadows higher up, and glaciers visible on the horizon.
Things to Do
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is one of the most popular ways to explore the valley. Routes pass through meadows, along the river, and across forest trails. Tours range from a few hours to a full day.
Trekking
There are hiking routes for every level, from short walks along the river to multi-day treks leading to glaciers. Visitors can choose a route according to their experience and interests.
Rafting
The Chon-Kemin River is suitable for rafting, with sections ranging from calm water to challenging rapids. The best seasons are April and May, as well as September and October, when water levels are most favorable.
Yurts and Local Cuisine
Guesthouses and yurt camps serve home-cooked meals. Boorsok, deep-fried dough traditionally served hot with tea, is one of the region's signature culinary experiences. Some hosts also offer workshops on preparing traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
Where to Stay
Alakush, @alakush_chon_kemin
An ethno-complex with yurts and the "Telegey" restaurant in the Karool–Dobo area. Suitable for both lunch stops and overnight stays with an introduction to nomadic traditions.
Ashu Guest House, @ashu_guest_house
A guesthouse in the valley offering traditional cuisine, horseback tours, and a swimming pool. A good option for travelers planning to stay overnight.
Horse Tours: Horse Tour KG, @horse_tour_kg
Offers individual and group horseback tours to Chon-Kemin from Bishkek, with programs of varying lengths.
How to Get There
By car, the journey from Bishkek takes around two and a half hours. The turnoff to the valley is located near the entrance to Boom Gorge. The first part of the road is paved, but a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for deeper sections of the valley.
By public transport, marshrutkas traveling from Bishkek to Balykchy can drop passengers at the turnoff. From there, visitors can continue by taxi or hitchhiking. Entrance to the national park is subject to a fee.
Along the Way: Kok-Moynok Canyons
The route from Bishkek to Chon-Kemin passes through Boom Gorge. Near the turnoff toward Naryn are the Kok Moynok Canyons. Known for their red and orange sandstone formations, narrow passages, and panoramic views, the canyons make an easy addition to a Chon-Kemin trip, either on the way there or back. Visiting them adds approximately one and a half hours to the journey.
How to Plan Your Trip
One-Day Trip: Leave Bishkek in the morning, enjoy a horseback ride or trekking route, have lunch at a guesthouse, and, if time permits, stop at the Kok-Moynok Canyons on the way. Return to the city in the evening.
Overnight Stay: Follow the same route but spend the night in a yurt or guesthouse. The following morning can be dedicated to a relaxed walk, swimming in the river, or fishing.
The best time to visit is from May to September. In spring, the valley turns green, roads are already accessible, and there are fewer visitors than during the summer months. Summer brings warmer temperatures in the lower areas, while high-altitude routes remain comfortable for hiking.
Tours, itineraries, and pricing information are available at too.kg/chon-kemin