The Ala-Archa National Park has always been more than just a geographical point for the residents of Kyrgyzstan. It is a symbol of strength, a source of fresh air, and an important tourist attraction. Currently, the park is undergoing perhaps its most significant transformation. Deputy Director of the park, Kubanychbek Zhekshenbekov, shared how they managed to combine pristine nature with modern technologies in an interview with our publication.
- Mr. Kubanychbek, "Ala-Archa" has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. How did this transformation begin?
- Changes were inevitable, but we took a decisive step towards 2025 — the park became closed to cars. Now, entry is only permitted for electric vehicles. "Ala-Archa" has turned into a space for walking. You would know how the atmosphere has changed with the disappearance of engine noise and exhaust fumes. The very mountain silence has returned, for which people are willing to travel thousands of kilometers.
The economic side has also improved. Over the past three years, the park's income has increased almost fourfold — from 65.8 million to 262.7 million soms. These figures are not just statistics for us, but a real opportunity to develop and preserve nature without waiting for budget assistance.
- The cable car has become a symbol of a new era. What feelings does a person experience while ascending it?
- It offers a completely new perspective on the gorge. In early February, we opened the first kilometer of the cable car built by the Austrian company Doppelmayr. Now, in just a few minutes, one can ascend to an altitude of 2400 meters. We have 16 modern cabins, including VIP options, which offer stunning views of the mountains.
But this is just the beginning. Ahead is a grand project — a 23-kilometer cable car, as well as a 12-kilometer gondola line connecting the checkpoint with the future "Pyramid" hotel.
- What other international projects are planned in the gorge?
- We strive to adopt the best practices from global leaders. Soon we will have a German rodelbahn — high-speed sleds on rails that will allow you to race down the slope at 45 km/h. It will be an incredible experience! At the initiative of Kanybek Tumanbaev, we are finalizing negotiations with Chinese partners for the construction of a glass bridge. This will be a true gem and an attraction for tourists. We are already receiving guests from 126 countries, from the USA to Vietnam, and with the new facilities, "Ala-Archa" will take its place among the best resorts in the world.
- Where can those who want to greet the dawn in the mountains stay?
- Construction is actively ongoing. In the next two months, a five-star hotel with a variety of services, including a spa and restaurants, will open at the Tepchey height. For eco-style lovers, we have already built 20 cozy A-frame cabins at an altitude of 2500 meters.
We also remember our traditional hotels "Adygen" and "Ak-Bata." The demand for them is huge; on weekends, there are so many people that there is hardly room to move. On peak days, the park receives up to 10,000 visitors, and we strive to provide comfortable accommodation for everyone.
- Does such an influx of tourists raise concerns for the forest inhabitants?
- Surprisingly, the animals are adapting to the new conditions. Just recently, a herd of wild boars came right up to the road, and mountain goats regularly descend to the river to drink. We are expanding the protected area — last year we added another 200,000 hectares under protection. On April 4, we plan a large tree planting, which will be our contribution to the future of the park.
Bears, of course, also live here, but they are cautious and stay at higher altitudes. We teach tourists that we are guests here. If you encounter an animal, do not panic, do not make sudden movements, just let it pass.
- "Ala-Archa" has always been a place for climbers. Does this tradition continue to live on?
- Absolutely! This is the soul of our park. Every morning at five o'clock, when tourists are still asleep, groups of climbers set off to ascend Peak Korona or Mugalim. We have experienced guides who have preserved these traditions for many years.
- What does "Ala-Archa" mean to you today?
- It is a place where you can turn off your thoughts and simply enjoy life. I always tell our guests: come not only to see but also to feel the mountains. We have created comfortable conditions while preserving the silence and grandeur of nature.
