Suusamyr Valley

The Suusamyr Valley is a highly easy on the eye, expansive high-altitude plateau set in the heart of the Kyrgyz Tian Shan, ranging in elevation from 2,000 to 3,200 meters. Located south of the towering Kyrgyz Ala-Too range, this relatively isolated valley is accessed primarily through dramatic, winding mountain passes such as the Töö-Ashuu Pass. During the summer, the valley fully transforms into one of the country's most celebrated "jailoos" (summer alpine pastures); its lush, bustling green meadows are dotted with thousands of grazing horses, sheep, and the traditional white yurts of Kyrgyz nomads. Suusamyr is nationally famous for producing exceptional kymyz, a traditional fermented mare's milk beverage that is crafted here with unrivaled quality. The tranquil Suusamyr River meanders gently down the middle of the broad plains, sustaining the rich vegetation. When the long, harsh winter arrives, the entire valley is blanketed in deep, pristine powder snow, turning it into a premier global destination for heliskiing, backcountry freeride, and extreme winter sports.

Nearby cities

Tokmok

A significant industrial city in the Chuy Valley, which was once an important stop on the ancient Silk Road.

Kara-Balta

An important industrial city west of Bishkek, known for its uranium processing and food industry.

Kant

A city in the Chuy Valley near Bishkek, which today hosts an important Russian military airbase.

Kemin

A city on the eastern edge of the Chuy Valley, serving as the gateway to the spectacular Boom Gorge.

Kaindy

The administrative capital of the Panfilov District, known for its sugar factory.

Shopokov

A small city west of Bishkek, supported by agriculture and light industry.

Chunkurchak

A scenic high-altitude valley near Bishkek, known for its alpine beauty, ski resorts, and adventure sports.

Orlovka

An industrial city in the east of the Chuy Valley, strongly influenced by Soviet metallurgy.

History & landmarks

Ata-Beyit Memorial Complex

A poignant cemetery and memorial complex south of Bishkek dedicated to the victims of Stalinist purges.

Burana Tower

A 25-meter-high minaret from the 11th century, surviving as a remnant of the ancient city of Balasagun in the Chuy Valley.

Nature

Chu River

The Chu River is the lifeline of the fertile valley of the same name in the north of the country.

More places

Kara-Balta Mining Plant

A significant industrial complex for processing uranium ore.

Ala Archa Gorge

A picturesque alpine valley in the national park near Bishkek, known for its juniper forests, waterfalls, and glaciers.

Ala Archa National Park

Located near the capital, Ala Archa National Park captivates with its deep gorges and towering mountain peaks.

Chuy Valley

A fertile depression in northern Kyrgyzstan, home to the capital Bishkek and much of the country's agriculture.

Chui Valley Farmlands

The broad and fertile Chui Valley is the breadbasket of Kyrgyzstan.

Kant Cement Plant

A major manufacturer of building materials in the Chuy Valley.

Chon-Kemin National Park

The green Chon-Kemin Valley is an oasis of tranquility and famous for its dense coniferous forests.

Chong-Kemin Valley

A long and wild mountain valley protected as a national park, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna.