Konorchek Canyons
Конорчек
A group of red sandstone canyons near Boom Gorge, known as the “Grand Canyon of Kyrgyzstan,” where a day hike winds between towering ochre cliffs.
The Konorchek Canyons lie about 120 km east of Bishkek, near Boom Gorge on the road to Issyk-Kul. Red sandstone and clay, shaped by wind and rain, have formed layers of spires, cliffs and narrow passages in ochre tones, earning the area the name “Grand Canyon of Kyrgyzstan.” The classic hike starts near the railway bridge by the road and follows a dry riverbed into the canyon, taking about 4 to 6 hours round trip. You can go deep into the “castle” area, surrounded by towering cliffs, where the scenery is breathtaking. Most visitors come on hiking tours or charter cars from Bishkek. Note: There is no water or shade inside the canyon, so bring plenty of drinking water. After rain, rocks may fall from the cliffs, so do not linger in the canyon too late.
Opening hours
Daytime hiking
Nearby sights
- Burana Tower
- Kegeti Gorge & Waterfall
- Issyk-Ata Hot Springs
- Chunkurchak Gorge
- Ata-Beyit Memorial Complex
- Bishkek Central Mosque (Imam Sarakhsi)
- Victory Square
- Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre