High Alpine Wilderness in Upper Jyrgalan
Located at 2,750m – 2,900m in the pristine upper basin of the Jyrgalan drainage, Jyrgalan Heights Yurt Lodge (JYHL) is designed for skiers and splitboarders who want to be based directly in the high-alpine zone above the main village.
Wake up surrounded by untouched 3,000m+ ridgelines. With zero ski tracks from the lower valley reaching this altitude, you have first tracks into deep alpine bowls, North-facing couloirs, and wide powder cirques right outside your yurt door.
Camp Infrastructure & Facilities
- 2 Client Yurts (Up to 8 Persons Each): The camp features 2 client sleeping yurts accommodating up to 8 persons each (total camp capacity of up to 16 guests). Handcrafted double-felt insulated authentic Kyrgyz yurts with cast-iron stoves to maintain cozy warmth during -25°C mountain nights.
- High-Altitude Banya (Sauna): Dedicated wood-fired sauna building offering daily evening sessions.
- Heated Gear Drying: Fast-drying racks inside the central dining yurt for boot liners, skins, and avalanche gear.
- Gas Generator Power: 220V charging stations for cameras, headlamps, avalanche transceivers, and GPS units.
- Expedition Dining: Fresh hot breakfasts, packed summit lunches, and 3-course homemade Kyrgyz-style dinners prepared by our camp chef.
Surrounding Slopes & Touring Routes
- Upper Cirque Laps: 800m to 1,300m vertical descents down steep north and north-west aspects.
- High-Altitude Ridge Traverses: Direct access to 3,400m+ panoramic peaks with views stretching towards Kazakhstan and the Central Tien-Shan.
- Deep Dry Cold Powder: Because of its 2,800m+ elevation, snow remains light, dry blower powder long after snowfall events.
Booking & Group Requirements
- Self-Guided Groups Welcome: Staying at the high-alpine yurt lodge is fully possible for self-guided groups, provided participants have a strong background in backcountry ski touring, high-altitude alpine travel, and companion rescue.
- Minimum Stay Policy: The minimum stay at a single location is 2 persons for 2 nights.