ALeisure centreIndependent states
Ala-Archa National Park
A mountain park 35 km south of Bishkek whose glaciers, juniper woods and trails make it the capital's favourite getaway.
Founded in 1976, Ala-Archa covers more than 16,000 hectares. Its name means "variegated juniper" in Kyrgyz, after the junipers growing in its valleys.
The park lies among the snowy peaks and glaciers of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too range. In summer thousands come to hike, climb and picnic, and in winter there is skiing.
Ibex, snow leopards and many birds live here. Being so close to the city, Ala-Archa is where Bishkek residents most often spend their weekends.
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Updated: October 3, 2026