Chunkurchak Ski Resort Guide
A Family Friendly Ski Resort in Kyrgyzstan near Bishkek
Chunkurchak | Family-Friendly Snow Fun Close to Bishkek
This is what Skiing in Chunkurchak Looks Like!
Want to ski in Chunkurchak and be on the slopes fast? This is Bishkek’s favorite ski spot and the closest place where you can swap city noise for snow, mountains, and a buzzing winter vibe. Just 30–40 km south of the city, you reach the resort in about an hour, making it perfect for a quick and easy ski day.
Chunkurchak Ski Resort sits in a beautiful mountain gorge and is especially family and beginner friendly. You ski on wide, gentle slopes that are ideal if you are learning or skiing with kids. With around 10 km of well-groomed runs and modern chairlifts, everything feels simple, safe, and well organized. You are here to enjoy skiing, not to struggle.
Because of its easy access and relaxed skiing, Chunkurchak can get very busy, especially on weekends. That crowd brings a great atmosphere, with families, friends, and locals all enjoying the snow together. If you want an easy, social, and fun ski experience close to Bishkek, Chunkurchak is a perfect choice.
Why Ski in Chunkurchak?
Chunkurchak’s is very cheap compared to other ski resorts in the Alps or North America. Considering the quality of lifts and grooming, that’s a bargain. Half-day and hourly passes are also available if you only want a short session.
Many locals appreciate that they can take an inexpensive taxi or drive out, rent equipment, ski for a few hours, and be back home by evening – all without breaking the bank. The resort is also active on social media, often posting updates on snow conditions and special family events (like New Year’s celebrations on the slopes, or maybe a visit from “Ayaz Ata” – Santa Claus – for the kids).
These little extras demonstrate how Chunkurchak has built a community around it. It’s more than a ski facility; it’s where urban Kyrgyz families connect with their country’s winter nature.In essence, Chunkurchak Ski Resort is all about accessible enjoyment.
It’s the first place a local child might learn to ski, and it leaves such a positive impression that even as they grow into expert skiers, they remember Chunkurchak fondly. For tourists, it’s a perfect introduction to skiing in Kyrgyzstan – low effort, high reward.
Chunkurchak Ski Season
| Year | Start Season | End Season |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 / 2016 | 20 Dec | 12 Feb |
| 2016 / 2017 | 25 Dec | Mid March |
| 2017 / 2018 | 29 Dec | 18 March |
| 2018 / 2019 | 23 Dec | 03 March |
| 2019 / 2020 | Late Dec | 15 March |
| 2020 / 2021 | 19 Dec | Mid March |
| 2021 / 2022 | 30 Dec | Mid March |
| 2022 / 2023 | Mid Dec | 08 March |
| 2023 / 2024 | 24 Dec | 17 March |
| 2024 / 2025 | 20 Dec | 09 March |
| 2025 / 2026 | 28 Dec | – |
You can see in the table when the ski season in Chunkurchak started and ended over the last ten years. As you can see, the dates change each year. There is no fixed ski season here — it all depends on the weather. This is good to know when you plan your trip.
The good news? For ten years in a row, Chunkurchak has always been open from late December until mid-March, except for one year when it had to close early on 12 February because there was too little snow. Still, in most years you can ski during this whole period. If you are in bad luck, Zil and Kashka-Suu are very near and these resorts have always been open until mid March.
Some years, Chunkurchak opens a bit earlier or stays open later. These early and late dates are great if you are already in the area and want a last-minute ski trip. Prices are lower, the slopes are calm, and you get a very relaxed ski day with lots of space.
How to Get to Chunkurchak
To get to Chunkurchak, you start by flying to Bishkek. From there, the resort is very close, about 45 km from Bishkek city. You can take a taxi for a direct and fast ride into the mountains. Shared rides also run from the city and cost less, but a taxi is the easiest.
If you stay in Bishkek you can get a full ski package to Chunkurchak (or Kashka-Suu) with a ski rent shop like Mounterra, a full package cost about 2800 Som ($32,-), which includes transport, rent of ski gear and the ski pass. In the same street are many other ski rental shops that offer similar packages.
The location of these ski rentals is perfect: It’s still in the city so you can always get a Yandex ride to and from your accommodation, but in a few minutes you’re out of the city on the road to Chunkurchak. The road to Chunkurchak is short but goes up into a wild, green (or snowy) valley. It feels like a small escape from the city, and you reach the ski area in about 40–50 minutes.
Find the best flights to Bishkek below!👇
Where to Stay?
Stay in Bishkek
If you stay in Bishkek, you enjoy low costs, big choice, and still reach Chunkurchak quickly. The drive is short, easy, and taxis are simple to arrange. Your hotel can help you book a ride or point you to cheaper ski rentals in the city.
Bishkek gives you full comfort after skiing: malls, cafés, shops, banks, and warm food spots everywhere. You can ski all day in Chunkurchak and come back to a clean room, good meals, and a lively city.
And the best part? From Bishkek you can also ski in Zil and Kashka-Suu with the same comfort. You can try a new resort each day if you like.
Look for a place to stay in Bishkek by clicking on the map below. 👇
Stay at Chunkurchak Ski Resort
If you stay near Chunkurchak, you start the day almost on the snow. No traffic, no stress — you walk out and reach the lifts in minutes. It is perfect if you want comfort and smooth ski mornings. Prices are a bit higher than in Bishkek and you have to book early to be sure it’s not full, but you get peace, views, and ski days with no rush. And on another day, you can also visit Zil or Kashka-Suu, since both are close enough for a short trip.
Check the list of hotels at the ski resort below.👇
Hotels at Chunkurchak:
Chie Too Grand Hotel
Chie Too Grand Hotel gives you warm rooms, clean space, and calm mountain views. You sleep well, eat well, and reach the slopes fast. It’s simple, cozy, and the perfect base if you want comfort close to the ski lifts.
Supra Chunkurchak
Just a few minutes down the road (5–10 minutes drive) you find Supara Chunkurchak, a high-rated spot with upscale yurts and cabins. You stay in a warm, luxury version of a traditional Kyrgyz home, with calm views and real mountain charm. It has one of the best local restaurants in the area, so many skiers stop here for a hot meal on the way back.
Ski Pass Prices for Chunkurchak Ski Base
| Ski Pass Type | Weekdays | Weekend |
|---|---|---|
| Day Pass | 1500 Som ($17,15) | 1800 Som ($20,60) |
| Children (≤12) | 1000 Som ($11,45) | 1300 Som ($14,90) |
| Half Day Adult | – | 1500 Som ($17,15) |
| Half Day Child | – | 1000 Som ($11,45) |
| 1 Hour | 500 Som ($5,70) | 500 Som ($5,70) |
| 2 Hours | 1000 Som ($11,45) | 1000 Som ($11,45) |
| 1 Ride | 400 Som ($4,60) | 400 Som ($4,60) |
| Excursion Child | 400 Som ($4,60) | 400 Som ($4,60) |
| Elec. Card | 300 Som ($3,45) | 300 Som ($3,45) |
When you ski at Chunkurchak Ski Base, the ski pass system is simple and flexible, with weekdays offering cheaper skiing. Prices are split between weekdays (Tuesday to Thursday) and weekends (Friday to Monday, including public holidays), with weekday passes giving the best value and a quieter feel on the slopes.
On weekdays, Chunkurchak mainly offers affordable full-day passes, along with 1-hour, 2-hour, and single-ride tickets, making it ideal if you want cheaper skiing without crowds. Weekends are busier and slightly more expensive, but they include half-day passes for adults and children, valid before 12:00 or after 13:00.
Children aged 3 to 11 benefit from reduced prices, and there is also a children’s excursion ticket for going up the mountain without a full ski day. If you only want to enjoy the views, a single lift ride is available.
The resort operates every day from 10:00 to 16:00. All ski passes require a reusable electronic card, bought once and used at the lift gates. Please note that tickets are non-refundable, so choose the option that best fits your day and ski time.
Transport and Ski Rent
Getting to the ski resort and renting gear is easy if you plan it right. From Bishkek, you can reach Chunkurchak by car in about 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Many guesthouses and hotels can help you arrange transport. Just ask your host, and they often know drivers who go there often.
If you want cheap ski rental, it is best to rent in Bishkek. A popular place is Mounterra, located on a street with several other ski shops. On this same street, you find more rental stores, so you can compare prices and choose what fits you best. Prices in the city are much lower than at the resort. These shops also offer full ski packages with transport to Chunkurchak and Kashka-Suu, which is very convenient if you do not want to organize everything yourself.
You can also rent skis and snowboards directly at Chunkurchak. This is easy, but it costs more, and choice can be limited on busy days. It works well if you arrive without gear, but it is not the cheapest option. Using Yandex Go is another option. Getting to the resort is usually easy, but the way back can be tricky. There are fewer cars in the afternoon, and you may need to wait or pay more. Because of this, having transport arranged in advance is often the safest choice.
Slopes and Terrain in Chunkurchak
Chunkurchak has wide, gentle slopes that are easy to ski. The lower part of the mountain is not steep, and the total height drop is about 370 meters. Most runs have a soft angle, so you never feel scared. This makes Chunkurchak a great place to learn skiing or snowboarding. You find many green and blue runs that are long, open, and forgiving. You can practice turns without stress and build trust fast. Some parts are almost flat, which is perfect for kids or if you are sliding on snow for the first time. If you have more skill, you can try a few red runs from the top. They are a bit steeper and fun to carve, but still easy compared to many resorts.
The steepest slope is only about 19°, so nothing feels extreme. You can ski the whole resort in one day and feel better with every run. All lifts and pistes are clearly named and color-coded, so you always know where to go. In total, the slopes are about 10 km long. By linking runs, you can ski more than 3 km in one go without stopping. Off-piste skiing is very limited and not the focus here. This resort is about safe, groomed skiing. Every morning, you get smooth, fresh snow on the pistes. The soft terrain means fewer icy or bumpy spots. Chunkurchak is made for learning, easy cruising, and family fun. You can ski together with your kids, watch beginners improve fast, and just enjoy the day on the snow.
Lifts and Facilities
Chunkurchak may be small, but the lift system is very good. You get five modern chairlifts, which is a lot for a resort this size. There is a mix of 2-, 3-, and 4-seat lifts that cover all slopes. The lifts are fast, smooth, and built to international standards. Because there are many lifts, you rarely wait in line, even on busy days. All lifts have clear names and colors, which makes it easy to find your way and is fun for kids. For small children, there is also a short magic carpet at the base area. It gives beginners a safe and calm place to learn.
At the bottom of the mountain, you find everything you need. There is a rental shop with skis, snowboards, and boots, plus a ski school where you can book lessons on the spot. A first-aid service is always nearby, and free parking is right next to the slopes. Clean, warm toilets are a big plus, especially for families. When you need a break, you can eat and drink at the base cafés and restaurant. You get hot meals, snacks, and kid-friendly food at fair prices. There is even a small indoor play area for children. Since there is no public transport, you need a car or a shuttle, and good winter tires are a smart idea.
Experience and Highlights
The vibe at Chunkurchak is incredibly welcoming. On weekends it feels like half of Bishkek’s young families have gathered here to enjoy the snow. You’ll see kids in puffy snowsuits wobbling on skis, proud parents taking photos, and groups of friends doing laps and laughing all the way down. The resort staff are friendly and used to introducing newcomers to snow sports – expect lots of encouragement and maybe even a high-five from a lift operator when your child successfully rides the lift alone for the first time.
There’s often upbeat music playing softly at the base, adding to the cheerful atmosphere. One of the understated highlights is simply the beauty of the Chunkurchak Gorge: the resort is within a national nature reserve, so the surrounding hills are unspoiled and peppered with rock formations. Skiing there, especially on weekdays when it’s quieter, you might spot an eagle soaring above or see footprints of a fox in the snow. The air is notably fresh and pine-scented – a wonderful change from city smog in winter.
Chunkurchak Ski Resort – Key Facts:
- Distance from Bishkek: ~40 km south of the city (1 to 1.5 hours by car, depending on road conditions). Located in Chunkurchak Gorge, a national biosphere reserve.
- Total Slope Length: About 10 km of trails. Predominantly easy (green) and intermediate (blue) slopes; a few advanced-intermediate sections. Excellent terrain for beginners and families.
- Elevation: Base ~2,060 m; top ~2,440 m. Vertical drop ~370 m. Surrounding peaks rise to ~2,500 m. Typically good snow cover from late December to March.
- Lifts: 5 modern chairlifts (capacity: 2-seat, 3-seat, and 4-seat chairs) covering different parts of the hill, plus a 100 m magic carpet for kids. Lifts operate 10:00–16:00; the resort is usually open daily in winter (December–March), though operations depend on snowfall.
- Ski Pass Cost: 1500 KGS per day on weekdays, 1800 KGS on weekends for adults (roughly $17–$21). Cheaper half-day and kids’ passes available. Rentals around 1200 KGS/day for skis or snowboard.
- Facilities: Ski school and instructors (many English-speaking) on-site; equipment rental shop; first aid station; free parking lot. Base area has a café (fast food, snacks) and a restaurant with indoor seating. Notably, heated restrooms and a children’s indoor play corner are available (a rarity in some regional resorts).
- Family Perks: Special children’s lift and gentle kids’ slope; tubing/sledding area; periodic family events (snow games, holiday celebrations). Safe, beginner-friendly environment – ideal for first-time skiers.
- Nearby Attractions: The Chunkurchak Gorge is beautiful for winter hiking or snowshoeing (if you have extra time). En route to the resort, the Supara ethnocomplex offers traditional Kyrgyz meals and lodging in luxury yurts – a great add-on to the ski trip.
- Note: Due to the shorter season and lower elevation, it’s best to check snow conditions. In early or late winter, some lower slopes might have thin cover, but the resort does its best with grooming and occasionally using snowmaking on critical areas (there are reports of a few snow cannons on site).
