"Karakol" Ski Base — Attraction in Issyk-Kul Region

It isn't really catered around English speaking tourist, most of the operators don't speak English but would try to use a translator app on their phones. Anyways, the stunning views you could see lies at the peak of the chair lift number 2. But it only operates from 12pm till 2.30pm (not sure) for those who wish to only enjoy the view. After the time, they would not allow anyone without gears to use the lift. Additionally, if you wish to travel down the lift don't bring any snow gear with you. As in, don't bring your snowboards if you wish to use the lift down, there is a storing space at the entrance of lift number 2. They will not allow you to do so, therefore your only option is to ski down from the peak, which there's no posted signage (heads up), if you brought your gear along. Anyways...

I have spent the week there. Prices are set between 900 soms (half day) and 1200 soms (full day, running from 9am till 4pm).

I have been very disappointed with how little care is given to the ski slopes (gravel, rocks, lack of snow, black ice, lack of indications when skiing particularly at the panorama viewpoint). A real effort shall be given to maintain them properly. It would prevent incidents like I saw (ppl crashing). I wouldn't advise this location for beginners, as slopes are already tough (except one), and their maintenance lack make them even worse. I did not feel, myself, safe riding them.

The place can/could be awesome, I am sure those points can be improved. I sincerely hope this review will be taken into account.

But definitely this ski resort is not...

One of the BEST & CHEAPEST place in the world for skiing. We rented out the ski gears and accessories in Karakul. I guess it is expensive here. If you pay 900 Som you can Ski the entire day and access the cable car as well.. Timings is from 9am to 4pm. It was our first experience skiing in real snow. My lil one thoroughly enjoyed the skiing, in the beginning was reluctant as she got the grip she started enjoying it and did not want to go back :D. It was wonderful, however we reached here post 2pm, and didi not find much time. Cable car till the top is amazing. OMG the view is so fascinating, christmas trees everywhere, snow covered mountain tops... awwww, just cannot express! Breathtaking ,unbearable cold, we visited in the...