Ala Arch gorge is one of the beautiful national parks in Kyrgyzstan and one of the favorites both for tourists and locals. It is situated just 45 km from Bishkek city. But what is interesting is that that during the trip you will rise from 750 meters to 1800 meters above sea level. The name Ala-Archa stands for Bright Juniper. These trees grow everywhere. For Kyrgyz it is considered to be a sacred tree that they use almost in all their traditional rituals and rites. A new born child is put into a cradle that has been made of juniper tree, any new property like car, or house is always preliminary smoked by juniper bush smoke as if though to scare away the bad spirits, and the grave is also made of juniper.
To spend a beautiful day off Ala Archa is just the right place. You can have a track (5 hours) to Ak Sai waterfall or just to have a nice walk along the mountain river that flows in the gorge.
Program:
9 a.m. After your breakfast you are picked up by your tour guide.
9.45 a.m. The first place we are suppose to visit today is the Baitik Kanaev mausoleum which will be on the way. He is known to be the ruler of Solto tribe who had succeeded to conquer Bishkek fortress. At that time it belonged to Uzbek people when Kyrgyz were obliged to pay high taxes. Baitik Kanaev made them go away and save Kyrgyz independence. Also you can learn about different rituals of burring people at different times.
10.30 a.m. Now we arrive in the gorge. Then you have an option whether you will have a track to the waterfall or you will walk along the gorge.
12.30 p.m. Picnic time
3.30 p.m. It's time for you to go back to the hotel.