Shymbulak Ski Resort
Central Asia's Premier Year-Round Mountain Destination
Shymbulak (formerly Chimbulak) is Central Asia's premier ski resort, located high in the Tian Shan mountains at altitudes ranging from 2,200 to 3,200 meters. Just 25 kilometers from Almaty city center, this world-class resort offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding in winter, along with hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides in summer.
With modern infrastructure including high-speed gondolas and chairlifts, professional ski schools, and international-standard slopes, Shymbulak has hosted numerous international competitions including Asian Winter Games events. The resort provides stunning alpine scenery year-round, making it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers visiting Kazakhstan.
Location
Ski Runs & Terrain
Beginner Slopes
Gentle, well-groomed runs perfect for first-time skiers and snowboarders. Professional ski school with English-speaking instructors. Equipment rental available on-site. Training area at the base station with magic carpet lift.
Intermediate Runs
Varied terrain with red slopes offering more challenge. Excellent for improving technique and building confidence. Well-maintained grooming ensures smooth carving. Access via Talgar Pass chairlift.
Advanced & Expert Terrain
Challenging black runs and off-piste opportunities for experienced skiers. Steep gradients, mogul fields, and powder zones. The top station at 3,200m provides access to expert-only terrain with breathtaking views.
Freeride & Backcountry
Extensive off-piste terrain for freeriders and backcountry enthusiasts. Hire a certified guide for safety. Avalanche safety equipment required. Access to pristine powder bowls and couloirs.
Year-Round Activities
Skiing & Snowboarding
World-class winter sports from December to April. Modern lift system, groomed runs, powder zones, and terrain parks. Equipment rental and professional instruction available.
Summer Hiking
Explore alpine trails with spectacular mountain views. Take the gondola up and hike down, or trek to nearby peaks. Wildflower meadows bloom June through August.
Mountain Biking
Downhill and cross-country mountain biking trails. Bike rentals available. Gondola allows uphill transport for downhill runs. Technical terrain for experienced riders.
Scenic Gondola Rides
Take the gondola for breathtaking panoramic views of the Tian Shan mountains and Almaty valley. Perfect for non-skiers and photographers. Year-round operation weather permitting.
Mountain Dining
Multiple restaurants and cafes at various elevations. Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine or international dishes with stunning mountain views. Cozy apres-ski atmosphere.
Alpine Accommodation
Stay at the Shymbulak Hotel or luxury Esentai Hotel on-site. Wake up to mountain views and ski-in/ski-out access. Full resort amenities including spa and restaurants.
Practical Information
Getting There
- From Almaty: 25km, approximately 45 minutes drive
- Via Medeu: Must stop at Medeu station, then take gondola to Shymbulak
- Taxi: Yandex or inDriver apps (~3,000-5,000 KZT one way)
- Bus: Take bus 12 to Medeu, then gondola
- Gondola: Modern cable cars connect Medeu to Shymbulak (scenic 20-min ride)
Ski Season & Conditions
- Season: Early December to early April
- Best months: January-March for consistent snow
- Snow depth: 1-3 meters typical mid-season
- Sunny days: 300+ days of sunshine annually
- Temperature: -5°C to -15°C typical winter day
- Runs: 20+ kilometers of marked ski runs
Lift Tickets & Rentals
- Day pass: ~7,000-10,000 KZT (prices vary by season)
- Multi-day passes: Available with discounts
- Equipment rental: Full sets from 8,000 KZT/day
- Ski school: Group and private lessons available
- Online booking: Recommended to avoid queues
- Gondola only: Available for non-skiers
Tips & Safety
- Book accommodation early during peak season (Jan-Feb)
- Arrive early to avoid gondola queues (before 9am)
- High altitude: take it easy first day, stay hydrated
- Sun protection essential: strong UV at high altitude
- Check avalanche conditions before backcountry skiing
- Equipment can be rented on-site or in Almaty
- Bring warm layers even on sunny days
