Backcountry Skiing in Kazakhstan: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia, but only a tiny sliver running of the country across its southern border has any mountains to ski – the Tian Shan.

The Tian Shan are best reserved for intermediate and advanced backcountry skiers due to the steepness of the slopes and the relative isolation of the peaks.

Among the most popular spots in the country is the Shymbulak ski resort, which boasts a number of off-piste options, including heading up to the summit of Shymbulak mountain (3,450 meters/11,319 feet), Talgar Pass and Bogdanovich Glacier.

Ketmen Ridge, in the remote easternmost reaches of the country, is another popular destination. The area can only be reached on skis and horseback and provides plenty of great, isolated runs as well as scenic mountain vistas.

Stunning scenery

Boasting thick evergreen forests, pristine mountain lakes, enormous and rugged mountain peaks and even some snow-capped sand dunes, Kazakhstan has plenty to explore. Even though the mountains make up a small portion of the enormous country, their natural beauty is immense and a major region to come and explore them.

Get off the beaten path

When it comes to backcountry skiing adventures, Kazakhstan is a bit of a hidden gem. Its general lack of popularity however, makes it an even better destination for those who wish to get off the beaten path and immerse themselves in the immaculate wilderness without having to share the slopes with too many other skiers. Enjoy some solitude in the spectacular wilderness.

Head to Khan Tengri

Rising to 7,010 meters (22,998 feet) in elevation and sitting on the country's eastenrmost border with China and Kyrgyzstan, Khan Tengri is the highest peak in the country. Heading on a ski touring expedition to its slopes ensures plenty of incredible runs as well as even better views out over the surroundings. The peak takes three weeks to climb but simply skiing it does not require as much time.

Average daily temperatures in the mountainous region of Kazakhstan hover between 0 ºC and -5 ºC (32 ºF and 23 ºF). These decrease as you gain elevation. The beginning of the winter is also a drier time of year, with an average of 30 to 40 millimeters (1.2 to 1.6 inches) of snow falling each month.

Any outdoor adventure trip to Kazakhstan will begin with a flight into Almaty International Airport (ALA). Most guides will meet you here and arrange transport to the start of the trip.

Kazakh, Russian

+7

Tenge (KZT)

January to April