Kyrgyz Leader Breaks Ground on Central Asia’s Largest Ski and Eco-Tourism Resort

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov has officially inaugurated the construction of the expansive “Ala-Too Resort” ski cluster in the Ak-Suu district of Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul region.

Spanning the areas of Jyrgalan, Boz-Uchuk, and Ak-Bulak, the project aims to become Central Asia’s largest year-round ski and eco-tourism destination, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

Plans include about 250 kilometers of ski trails, installation of modern cable cars covering 4 kilometers, as well as the development of an ethno village, wellness centers, hotels, and 4,000 parking spaces.

Japarov revealed that the first phase - the ski zone in Jyrgalan - is slated to open in 2026. To improve access, a new four-lane road from Karakol will be constructed, alongside helicopter connections to the local airport. The resort is expected to welcome up to 2 million tourists annually and generate approximately 5,000 permanent jobs.

The president underscored that the project will comply with international environmental standards and operate for up to seven months each year.

At the ceremony, Japarov handed over state land ownership certificates for hotel and tourism infrastructure development.

He also noted that between July 15 and 18, 49 land plots were auctioned for the new tourist town in Jyrgalan, with 14 ownerships finalized. Japarov highlighted the importance of many winners being Kyrgyz citizens, reflecting strong confidence in the country’s future.