Ala-Archa — Ak-Say Waterfall

The route to the Ak-Say Waterfall is one of the most popular easy-to-moderate hikes in Ala-Archa National Park. It can be completed in a single day by people of almost any fitness level, even without a very early start. The trail follows the valley of the Ak-Say River, a right tributary of the Ala-Archa, and is wonderfully scenic. Along the way, you can also stop by the Sharkyratma Waterfall (“sharkyratma” in Kyrgyz literally means “waterfall”), located slightly off the main route. The Ak-Say Valley is also the starting point for more “serious” routes: to the Ratsek Hut, the glacier and Mount Uchitel (“Teacher”), Mount Komsomolets, and many others. But the Ak-Say Waterfall is, on its own, a worthy destination for a short hike. The trail is accessible year-round: the snow-free season lasts roughly from May to October, but keep in mind that by late summer and autumn the stream forming the waterfall may carry much less water.

You can reach the park entrance by private car or by bus No. 1, which regularly departs from T. Usubaliev Square (behind the Historical Museum building). Inside the park, electric buses operate 24/7 and will take you for free to the start of the walking section of the route and bring you back at any time of day or night. If you happen to be travelling by an electric car, you may also drive into the park yourself and leave your vehicle at the parking lot at the terminal electric-bus stop (the “second barrier gate,” beyond which only service and construction vehicles are allowed to enter).

Although the Ak-Say Waterfall route is considered fairly easy, take it seriously. Wear comfortable shoes, bring drinking water, a proper snack, and clothing for possible rain (mountain weather is unpredictable; afternoon rain is common even when Bishkek has bright sunshine). Trekking poles may be helpful on some sections. If you start late or are unsure about your pace, take a flashlight: it will make the descent much easier if you miscalculate time. Remember that at an altitude of 2000–2500 meters it may be significantly colder (by 10–15°C) than in the valley. Protect yourself from the sun even in cool weather—the mountain sun is much stronger than at lower elevations.

As of summer 2025, active construction is underway in the lower section of the trail: a road to the Tepshi Syrty plateau and a lift are being built. You may follow this new road (shown on the map) or use the “old” forest path that goes directly from the parking area to the “Broken Heart.” It is likely that by summer 2026 the lift will be completed, which will roughly halve the elevation gain and shorten the route by about one third. During construction, some trail or road sections may be closed—follow warning signs and barriers.

If you decide to visit Sharkyratma, there are two routes (both dotted lines are clearly shown on the map): a longer and gentler one starting near the “Broken Heart,” and a shorter, steeper one that follows the Sharkyratma riverbed at a right angle to the main trail. Unlike the main Ak-Say Waterfall, reaching the very base of Sharkyratma is difficult due to the terrain, but you can enjoy a view of it from about 200 meters away.