This was reported to Turmush by local resident Bakyt Asakeev, who organizes tours for foreign guests.
According to local legends, one of these caves, known as "Khan-Salyk," hides valuable treasures: diamonds and gold items.
Bakyt Asakeev explained that the Kyrgyz, being a nomadic people, did not transport their wealth to new locations due to the dangers along the way. Therefore, their khans and bai-manaps hid treasures in the mountains and caves. The "Khan-Salyk" cave is located at an altitude of 2700-2800 meters above sea level, in the area of the wintering grounds of Sary-Bel, in the It-Ölgön rock. To access the cave and descend back, the Kyrgyz used lariats and animal bones with meat, driving them into crevices to create steps. When the young men hid the jewels, they recited prayers at the entrance, thereby closing access to the treasures for outsiders. It is said that near the caves one can find the Muslim holy scripture,” he shared.
Bakyt also noted that in 1985-1986, a Russian climber visited the "Khan-Salyk" cave on the peak of Zhel-Tegirmen and discovered an ancient book there — a Quran, bound in a thick leather cover.
“I saw this book with my own eyes. It was clearly created a long time ago, but the climber did not report whether he saw the treasures,” he added.
