Kyrgyzstan

Shymbulak, or Chimbulak, is an important ski base, located 25 km (15.5 miles) away from Almaty, in Kazakhstan. It’s nestled in the Medeo valley, in the Zaiilisky Alatau mountain range, 2,260 m (7,414 ft) above sea level.

Shymbulak is a popular ski base for its gentle and pleasant climate, with sunny days and perfect snow. It’s one of the best sports for winter sports in Central Asia.

Back in history

Almaty hosted the 7th Asian Winter Games in 2011. The Shymbulak station was also a candidate to host the Winter Olympic Games in 2014 and 2022, but it lost the competition.

Skiing in the Shymbulak domaine

The Shymbulak ski base is a dream destination for winter sports amateurs. Located at 2,260 m (7,414 ft) altitude, it has three lifts that take you up to Talgar, the highest point of the station located at 3,620 m (11,872). The first station, Intersection station, is at 2,260 m, the second, 20th Prop Station, is at 2,630 m and the third, Talgar pass Station, is at 3,200m.

If you’re a fan of snowboarding, you’ll find a slope dedicated to this sport.

The Shymbulak base is famous worldwide for its sunny climate all year long, and its light and dry snow, ideal for skiing. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll enjoy your stay in Shymbulak which offers slopes at all levels. On top of that, it is renovated each year and offers new trails, which are always a pleasure to discover during the winter season.

If you don’t have your own ski equipment, no worries: you can rent some in one of the many boutiques. You can also hire an instructor or join a group class.

How to get there?

The best way to get to Shymbulak is to take the bus 6 or 12 at the intersection of Dostyk and Abay streets in Almaty. It will take you to Medeo, from where you can take the Shymbulak Cable Car to the first station. The cable car costs 2,500T round way.