Kok-Moynok canyons

Kok-Moynok Canyons
Kok-Moynok Canyons
Country:	Kyrgyzstan
Location:	Issyk-Kul region
Coordinates:	42°30'17"N 75°49'24"E
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Kok-Moynok Kok-Moynok Canyons on the map of Kyrgyzstan

Canyons of Kok-Moynok – picturesque, unique canyons located in Kyrgyzstan, in the rural district of Ton in Issyk-Kul Region, about 170 km east of the capital city, Bishkek, or about 11 km west of the town of Balykchy. The canyons are part of the Boom Gorge. The name of the canyons comes from the nearby village of the same name.

Characteristics of the Canyons

• The canyons are eroded rock formations created by water over tens, possibly even hundreds, of thousands of years, leaving behind scenic patterns in the rocky landscape.
• The area includes dozens of canyons, each with different lengths, depths, and widths.
• The base of the canyons is located at an elevation of 1500 meters above sea level. The highest points of the canyons reach 1650-1700 meters, giving an average height difference of 150-200 meters.
• The soil in the canyons is rich in iron oxide, giving the canyons a characteristic orange hue.

How to Get There

You can reach the Kok-Moynok Canyons from Bishkek by car, following the road towards Issyk-Kul:

• After passing through most of the Boom Gorge, continue to the turn for Kochkorka-Naryn.
• Then turn onto the dirt road towards Kok-Moynok-Second village.
• Drive along the main road of the village for about 5 minutes, where you will reach a fork; keep to the left. Continue on the dirt road for another 4-7 kilometers.
• The canyons start just across from the “Ak-Zhol” cafe, located on the main Bishkek–Issyk-Kul highway.

Canyon Photos

• Kok-Moynok canyons Images
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Author’s Note

For many years traveling to Issyk-Kul and passing through the Boom Gorge, I never imagined that such a natural wonder existed just a few kilometers away. I highly recommend spending an extra 1.5-2 hours on your trip to Issyk-Kul to visit this amazing piece of nature.

Some canyons are quite narrow, and there is a risk of rock falls, so please be extremely cautious and attentive when visiting. Stick to the wider canyons for hiking.

For any questions, comments, or messages, feel free to reach out on the discussion page. I would especially appreciate your support in sharing this article with friends on social media.