Shymbulak Ski Resort is a popular and well-known ski destination located in Kazakhstan, near the city of Almaty. It is one of the premier ski resorts in Central Asia and offers a range of winter sports and outdoor activities. 

Shymbulak Ski Resort – Central Asia’s Premier Mountain Getaway

Skiing and Snowboarding: Shymbulak is known for its excellent ski and snowboard facilities. The resort offers a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners to advanced. There are multiple chairlifts and cable cars to transport visitors to different areas of the resort.
Snow Season: The ski season at Shymbulak typically runs from late November to early April, depending on snow conditions. The resort's high elevation ensures good snow coverage during the winter months.
Facilities: Shymbulak Ski Resort provides amenities such as equipment rentals, ski schools, and mountain restaurants where visitors can enjoy local and international cuisine.
Views: One of the highlights of Shymbulak is the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic peak of Talgar. Many visitors come not only for the winter sports but also for the breathtaking scenery.
Accessibility: Shymbulak is easily accessible from Almaty by car or cable car. The Medeu to Shymbulak Gondola lift connects the Medeu Ice Skating Rink (Medeo) to Shymbulak, making it a convenient way to reach the resort.

Shymbulak Ski Resort is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, offering a combination of excellent skiing, beautiful mountain scenery, and modern amenities. It has become a notable attraction in the region and a significant part of Almaty's winter tourism industry.

🏔️ Shymbulak Ski Resort – A Year-Round Alpine Experience in Almaty

Nestled in the majestic Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, just 25 km southeast of Almaty, Shymbulak Ski Resort stands as Central Asia’s largest and most renowned ski destination. At elevations ranging from 2,260 to 3,200 meters, Shymbulak offers a blend of thrilling winter sports, summer adventures, and panoramic vistas, making it a must-visit for both adrenaline seekers and leisure travelers.

🎿 Winter Sports & Skiing Highlights

Ski Season: Mid-November to mid-April, with average winter temperatures around −7°C (19°F) and a snow base of approximately 1.6 meters. 

Terrain: Eight slopes catering to all skill levels, featuring gradients from 12° to 45°, and the longest run stretching 3,163 meters. 

Vertical Drop: Approximately 920 meters across 12 km of ski runs. 

Night Skiing: Recognized by Guinness World Records in 2023 for the highest night ski slope at 3,200 meters. 

Facilities: Ski and snowboard rentals (6,000–10,000 KZT), ski school with lessons in Kazakh, Russian, and English. 

🚠 Access & Transportation

Cable Car: A 4.5 km gondola connects the Medeu Sports Complex to Shymbulak, ascending 1,000 meters in about 15 minutes. 

Public Transport: Bus #12 runs from Almaty city center to Medeu; from there, take the cable car to the resort. 

Eco-Friendly Options: Private vehicles are restricted; visitors can use eco-buses or eco-taxis from Medeu to Shymbulak. 

🏨 Accommodations & Amenities

Lodging: Two hotels, including one at the mountain slope, and traditional Kazakh yurts for a unique stay.

Dining: Seven dining establishments offering a range of cuisines. 

Other Facilities: Spa center, boutiques, ski shop, equipment repair services, and a children’s playroom with supervised activities.

🌞 Summer Activities & Year-Round Attractions

Shymbulak transforms into an adventure hub during the warmer months:

Outdoor Adventures: Mountain biking, paragliding, hiking, and rope park challenges. 

Alpine Park: Experience mountaineering activities in a controlled environment, including bridge crossings and peak ascents. 

Chimba Truck Taxi: Evening rides in a snow-grooming snowcat, offering a unique perspective of the slopes. 

Gorilla Zipline: An exhilarating zipline experience connecting Shymbulak and Medeu. 

📍 Visitor Information

Address: 558/1 Kerey-Zhanibek Khandar St., Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Operating Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 

Website: shymbulak.com