Barskoon, also called Barskon, is a small village situated on the south shore of Lake Issyk, in the Issyk-Kul province of Kirghizistan. This charming settlement is an ideal destination for a leisurely stay, blessed with impressive waterfalls and numerous hiking trails.

A glimpse into history

The scholar Mahumud al-Kashgari, also known as Barskhani, hailed from this region. During the eleventh century, he became a source of invaluable knowledge and insight into several medieval Turkic dialects.

Barskoon means "the tears of the snow leopard" in Kyrgyz. This region, home to numerous snow leopards, boasts two beautiful cascades from which this poetic name derives.

Barskoon was highly renowned during the Soviet era as a training and rehabilitation center for elite athletes, particularly cosmonauts.

Barskoon today

Today, the village of Barskoon represents a delightful waypoint on any journey through Kirghizistan. Its rich natural environment offers exceptional opportunities for hiking or horseback trekking. Ascending the surrounding mountains rewards you with expansive vistas across neighboring villages and sprawling plains.

Barskoon is equally celebrated for its cascading waterfalls. It is entirely possible to trek up and view them up close. The falls are spectacular when seen from above. One of them is notably the tallest waterfall in Kirghizistan, standing at 86 meters high. In winter, they frequently freeze solid, creating the impression that life itself has been suspended in time—an ideal playground for alpinists. During summer, the falls surge with tremendous force, showcasing their raw power in an awe-inspiring display.

To the east of the mountains lies a magnificent alpine cold desert called Sytyr. This location is genuinely ideal for trekking enthusiasts. That said, the route does present some challenges.

As you travel through the Barskoon valley, you cannot miss the imposing Soviet-era truck mounted on a plinth, nor the bust of Yuri Gagarin, who trained here before his journey into space. Further along, the snow-capped peaks of Hero Panfilov Peak, towering at 4,610 meters, and World Peace Council Peak, standing at 4,310 meters, create some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable.

Access to the area is possible by shared taxi. In fact, several operate regular routes from Barskoon to the roads leading to the Kumtor gold mine.