The Bash-Kaindy or Shaar Waterfall

The Bash-Kaindy, also known as the Shaar Waterfall, is a mesmerizing gem of nature located in the Bash-Kaindy Gorge, close to the village bearing the same name, not far from the settlement of At-Bashi in the Naryn region. This awe-inspiring waterfall stands at a staggering height of 220 meters, and when including its cascades, it reaches up to 400 meters, nestled at an altitude of 3,200 meters above sea level. As one of the top five largest waterfalls in Central Asia, the Shaar Waterfall is an impressive spectacle that deserves a place on every traveler’s itinerary.

Kyrgyzstan is a country known for its many waterfalls, each one a unique masterpiece of nature. These waterfalls can be found in almost every gorge, but the true king of the central Tien Shan is undoubtedly Bash-Kaindy—meaning «Crown of the Birch.» The alternate name «Shaar» translates to «Falling.» Many mistakenly believe that the tallest waterfall in Kyrgyzstan is in Arstanbap, but its height is around 80 meters. Bash-Kaindy, however, towers over it at more than four times its height (320 meters). You’ll find this hidden treasure in the At-Bashi district, in the village of Bash-Kaindy. The ideal time to visit is summer when the waterfall is visible from a distance, around 50 km before reaching At-Bashi on the Naryn-Torugart road. The waterfall is approximately 20 km from the village of Bash-Kaindy.

Despite its grandeur, the Bash-Kaindy Waterfall remains relatively unknown. From where you can park your car (even a regular sedan), it’s about a half-day hike on foot through the gorge to reach the stone basin where the waterfall cascades. The name «Bash-Kaindy» is derived from the Kyrgyz words «bash,» meaning «beginning» or «head,» and «kaiyng,» meaning «birch,» which translates to «Beginning of the Birch.» The gorge itself is incredibly picturesque, with its stunning mountain ranges draped in a thick carpet of coniferous forest. The gentle, overlapping peaks of the mountains, bathed in a delicate haze, create an enchanting and inviting landscape. Even on the hottest days, the air remains cool and refreshing, filled with the soothing scent of the spruces and the Asian juniper (archa), making this gorge a natural haven for relaxation. It’s truly a botanical sanctuary, boasting a rich flora with over 270 plant species, including relics and endemics. Many of these plants are listed in Kyrgyzstan’s Red Book of protected species.

Reaching the waterfall involves crossing streams and rivers that flow down from the mountains. During times of high water, these crossings can be challenging, particularly in spring when some of the makeshift log bridges that tourists used the previous summer may have been swept away. Therefore, it’s advisable to bring safety ropes and have a guide accompany you, as the gorge has multiple side trails that can easily lead to disorientation. However, every bit of effort is well rewarded by the breathtaking sight and the exhilarating energy of the untamed power of water.

The waterfall itself reaches an impressive height of around 400 meters, consisting of several cascading levels, and is fully visible only from a distance of about two kilometers. The thunderous roar of the falling water near the lower cascade drowns out any attempts at conversation. Even shouting to the person next to you is futile, as the sheer force and sound of the water dominate all. But in moments like these, words seem unnecessary, for it’s almost impossible to articulate such profound experiences verbally. The time for words will come later, once you’ve fully absorbed the magic of this encounter.

The Bash-Kaindy Waterfall casts an irresistible spell. It’s not just the aesthetic beauty of the unfamiliar scene or the distinctive sounds—from the thunderous roar of tons of water crashing down to the gentle murmuring of smaller streams. You can stand by the waterfall for hours, completely still, utterly captivated by the sight of the water soaring through the air.

Few people are aware of the balneoelectric effect of waterfalls—hydroaeroionization. When water strikes stone, it creates tiny particles of a water-air mixture that carry an electrical charge—hydroaeroions. These negatively charged particles, combined with the phytoncides of blooming alpine meadows or medicinal herbs, have healing properties and can help treat hypertension and bronchial asthma. A hiking tour to the waterfall takes a full day, but many choose to spend two days on this journey, camping overnight by the waterfall, allowing themselves to be immersed in this natural wonder. It’s an experience well worth the time.