Canyon Skazka, a fairy tale valley on the way to Issyk-kul

Canyon Skazka is proof that Kyrgyzstan's landscape is rich with diverse geographical landforms. It includes mountains, valleys, steppes, canyons and even deserts. Skazka, which means 'a fairytale' in Russian, is called so because locals were surprised to find this hidden gem on the way to the Kyrgyz pearl: the Issyk-kul Lake. Even locals started to enjoy this canyon as a tourist destination quite recently. But it is unpopulated not because it doesn't fascinate people, but because not many people know about it. So, I strongly recommend you to check out this Martian valley by yourself as colorful hills and bizarre shapes of the canyons are quite a spectacle!

Nature's masterpiece

Thousands of years of earth erosion created a contrast of shapes and colors of Skazka Canyon. It consists of different colorful clay, picturesque minerals and rocks. One can see the outlines of diverse sculptures created by nature itself. The most famous one is a "wall" that reminds of the ruins of the Great Chinese wall. This cosmic valley is located in the south of Issyk-kul Lake, not far from Tosor village. The entrance costs around 50 cents per person. In order to fully enjoy climbing and walking around the canyon, it is recommended to wear sporty shoes. Luckily, it almost never snows and rarely rains here. 

An Indie album cover worth seeing

The canyons are very cinematic. They remind us of the Star Wars or the Killer's "Human" music video settings, or of a desert where prophets get their prophecies and indie bands have their hazy, psychedelic dreams. Who knows, maybe you will also have your revelation here? Imagination runs wild, making one see mystical creatures and magical castles made of sand. The light is the main set designer, creating different atmospheric moods: heated and cosmic, foggy and post-apocalyptic, or cloudy and dreamy. Needless to mention that the sunsets here are especially beautiful, shedding their glow on the golden hills of the canyon. When you climb the top of the hills, you will be awarded by an astonishing view of the Issyk-kul lake. 

Skazka Canyon is a must-visit place for the lovers of exciting landscapes. Maybe one wouldn't choose to live in a deserted valley like this, perhaps it would even terrify some, while others will find it intriguing and creatively inspiring. It is wonderous what nature and time can do when they team up together. The canyon is a chef-d'oeuvre created by this duet, and it can be a fun trip for adventurous travelers of all ages. Let your inner child climb, and discover the secret lives of the hills.  So, on the way to the Issyk-kul Lake this summer, don't miss your turn. A fairy tale is just around the corner! 

Canyon Skazka, Tong

Tong, Kyrgyzstan