Main Passes in the Chui Valley
Shamsi Pass is located in the Chui region and stretches from Shamsi to Kochkor. In the upper zone of the Shamsi gorge, 60 km south of the city of Tokmak, lies the Shamsi Pass. Its height is 3570 m. It serves as a link between the Kochkor and Chui valleys.
Tuu-Ashu Pass (height 3586) is located in the Chui region and stretches from Karabalta to Susamyr. Tuu-Ashu is the pass connecting the Chui valley with the southern regions of Kyrgyzstan. It is located 135 km from Bishkek. It is always cold there, and the wind blows; snow is constantly present on the peaks. There is a ski base beyond the pass, and a little further begins the Suusamyr Valley.
Kubiki Pass (height 3907) is located in the Chui region and stretches from the Boom Gorge to Kochkor.
Ala-Bel Pass (height 3184) is located in the Chui region on the border with Talas and stretches from Susamyr to Toktogul. The Ala-Bel Pass is a connector between the Suusamyr Valley and the Chychkan Gorge. It is part of the strategic route Bishkek – Osh, so it is open year-round. In the off-season and when avalanches occasionally close it, it rarely lasts longer than one or two days. Snow only melts in July.
