New Ski Resort Development May Become Asia's Largest
Ala-Too Resort, a vast new ski development in Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul region, is set to open its first slopes in December 2026, marking a major step in Central Asia’s emergence as a winter sports destination.
Construction work is underway at Ala-Too Resort, a vast new ski development in Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul region. The resort is set to open its first slopes in December 2026, marking a major step in Central Asia’s emergence as a winter sports destination.
Located near Karakol and Lake Issyk-Kul, the resort’s initial phase will launch on the Jyrgalan peak, featuring newly built Doppelmayr gondolas, ski runs, and accommodation.
The multi-phase project spans three mountain zones and will eventually offer 250km of trails and 4km of lift infrastructure. A four-lane highway and helicopter access from Karakol Airport are also under construction to support the resort’s ambitious goal of attracting up to two million visitors annually.
Ala-Too’s design blends modern ski facilities with Kyrgyz cultural elements, including an ethnovillage and wellness centres. The resort will operate for up to seven months a year, using a mix of natural and artificial snow, and aims to meet international environmental standards.
