On February 18, President Sadyr Japarov officially inaugurated a new gondola lift in the spectacular Ala-Archa State Nature Park — marking a significant milestone in the transformation of one of Kyrgyzstan’s most beloved natural landmarks.
Located just 40 kilometers south of Bishkek, Ala-Archa has long been a favorite destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers drawn to the dramatic landscapes of the Tien Shan mountains. Now, the newly launched 1-kilometer gondola line offers visitors an effortless ascent into alpine scenery once accessible only by demanding trekking routes. With the capacity to transport nearly 1,000 passengers per hour, the lift opens panoramic mountain vistas to a far wider audience — from families with children to international travelers seeking unforgettable views without strenuous climbs.
The gondola was constructed by the globally renowned Austrian company Doppelmayr, a leader in ropeway engineering responsible for world-class installations across Europe and Asia. The company is also currently developing cable car systems for the ambitious Ala-Too Resort ski complex in the Issyk-Kul Region — signaling Kyrgyzstan’s broader vision to elevate its mountain tourism infrastructure to international standards.
This project represents only the first phase of a much larger development plan. The second stage will extend the cableway from the park’s main checkpoint deeper into the valley, ultimately covering 12 kilometers and reaching some of the park’s most remote and breathtaking corners — areas previously accessible only to experienced mountaineers.
Beyond the gondola, Ala-Archa is undergoing a comprehensive upgrade. Modern cottages equipped with full amenities are already welcoming guests, while a state-of-the-art rodelbahn (mountain coaster) is under construction, promising year-round adventure. Plans also include a five-star hotel with a swimming pool, blending comfort with raw alpine beauty.
With ticket prices expected to be around 600 soms (approximately $7), this new attraction makes high-altitude adventure both accessible and affordable — inviting travelers to experience Kyrgyzstan’s mountains from an entirely new perspective.
