Barskoon Gorge & Waterfalls
Барскоон
A red-rock gorge cutting into the Tian Shan on the south shore, with multiple tiered waterfalls, a Gagarin memorial and the “Manas Bowl” waterfall.
Barskoon Gorge lies south of Barskoon village on the south shore of Issyk-Kul. The road leading to the Kumtor gold mine runs deep into the Terskey Ridge, flanked by red rock walls and spruce forests. The middle section of the gorge has several tiered waterfalls, including the “Manas Bowl” and the “Leopard's Tears.” From the roadside parking, it takes about 20 to 40 minutes on foot to reach the main falls. Nearby stands a memorial to Gagarin, who once recuperated here. It is possible to hire a car from Karakol or a yurt camp on the south shore for a half-day round trip. Mining trucks travel frequently, so give way when needed. Weather at higher altitudes changes quickly, so bring a jacket.
Opening hours
All day (summer)
Nearby sights
- Tamga-Tash
- Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon
- Kaji-Say
- Manjyly-Ata
- Bokonbaevo Eagle Hunting
- Bosteri
- Semenov Gorge (Semyonovka Gorge)
- Kyrchyn Gorge