Alamedin Gorge — Teke-Tor Waterfall

Alamedin Gorge is the second most popular destination after Ala-Archa in the immediate surroundings of Bishkek. Unlike Ala-Archa, there is no national park here, so access to the gorge is completely free. The wide Alamedin valley has a gentle slope, which makes the main route along the river relatively easy and ideal for a first introduction to the mountains. The closest and most accessible destination is Teke-Tor Waterfall (also sometimes called the Alamedin Waterfall), located on a small left tributary of the Alamedin River.

One of the two main roads leading south from Bishkek (Shabdan Baatyr Street) will take you directly to the gorge. The route passes through the villages of Kok-Jar, Besh-Kungey, Tash-Moynok, and Koy-Tash, where the main road turns left toward Gornaya Maevka — you should continue straight ahead. The road is fully paved along its entire length. Unfortunately, there is no public transport to Alamedin Gorge, but many tour companies in Bishkek offer transfers and guided trips for those without a private car.

Due to the gentle gradient, the route through Alamedin Gorge is suitable for visitors with almost any level of physical fitness. Trekking poles can be useful when descending to the bridge over the Alamedin River and on the final section near the waterfall. Snowfall in the gorge is usually light, so it can also be visited in winter, although sturdy footwear with good grip is recommended. We advise arriving early in the morning whenever possible, as later in the day the sun disappears behind the steep western side of the valley and the landscape loses some of its color. The valley features many picturesque hills that are covered with fresh emerald-green grass in spring, offering excellent picnic spots. The nearest such place is located just beyond the bridge, on the left side of the trail.

The main trail runs along the left bank of the river (as you walk upstream, the river will be on your left for most of the way). Parking is located on the right bank, and to reach the left bank you need to turn right off the road onto a steep path leading down to the bridge across the Alamedin. After crossing the bridge, the trail is clearly visible and hard to lose. From here begins the ascent toward the waterfall. This is the most challenging section due to the relatively steep climb, but it is short. If desired, the route can be extended or made more challenging in several ways: continue deeper into the gorge, hike to the At-Jailoo pasture, or climb to Chichar Pass.