Ala Archa gorge
Ala Arch gorge is one of the most beautiful park in Kyrgyzstan and one of the favorites both for tourists and locals. It is took place just 45 km from Bishkek city. But what is interesting about it is 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 most of their traditional rituals and rites. A new born child is put into a cradle that is usually made of juniper tree, any new property like car, or house is always smoked by juniper bush smoke as if though to scare away the bad spirits.
To spend a beautiful day off Ala Archa is just the perfect place. You can have a track which takes you 5 hours to Ak Sai waterfall or just to have a walk along the mountain river that flows in the gorge.
Program:
9 a.m. As soon as you finish with 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 said 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 flee and saved Kyrgyz independence. Also you can learn about different rituals of putting people into the graves at different times.
10.30 a.m. Arrival in the gorge. Then you may either have a track to the waterfall or to walk along the gorge.
12.30 p.m. Picnic time
3.30 p.m. You are taken back to the hotel.