Konorchak Canyons

The Konorchek Canyons, located about 125 kilometers (77 miles) from Bishkek on the route to Issyk-Kul, offer a breathtaking glimpse into Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty. To reach them, travelers cross the Chu River via the Red Bridge and navigate through a stony labyrinth, eventually arriving at this extraordinary geological wonder.

Stretching for nearly 200 kilometers (125 miles), the vast expanse of the Konorchek Canyons is nearly impossible to fully explore in one trip, but visitors can spend a few days immersing themselves in the remarkable scenery. Many of the canyons bear evocative names like Grand Canyon, Bobsleigh, and Skyscraper, hinting at their unique formations. This landscape, shaped over 1.5 to 2 million years ago, was once a plateau that has since been carved by wind and water into a network of towering pillars and intricate ravines. Some of these pillars soar to heights of 400-500 meters (1,312 to 1,640 feet), offering awe-inspiring views. The presence of whitish clay in the area indicates that Lake Issyk-Kul once extended this far, though it has since receded.

One of the canyon’s most intriguing features is a dry waterfall, a remnant of a cascade that once flowed through the area. According to local legend, this ancient waterfall still releases a mysterious black slush once a year. Another key attraction is the extinct Segizkan Shokhy volcano, dating back 2.5 to 3 million years. Visitors can still see the volcanic slopes strewn with ancient lava remnants and fossilized seashells, a reminder of the region’s dynamic geological past.

During the summer, the canyons can become hot, dry, and dusty, with winter temperatures staying relatively mild compared to other parts of Kyrgyzstan. However, winters have been gradually becoming colder, despite the area’s historically low precipitation levels. Between 1980 and 2000, snowfall was recorded only twice, yet the vegetation in the region has thrived, growing surprisingly large in such arid conditions.

The Konorchek Canyons are steeped in legend, with local folklore warning that any horse wandering into the canyons will never return alive. Yet despite such tales, the canyons remain a beloved destination for many Kyrgyz locals, often cited as one of their favorite natural retreats.