Ascent to Pik Uchitel

The first day of the ascent starts from the Ala Archa Hotel, which is located at 2,200 m above sea level. At the entrance to the Ala Archa National Park, you pay 80 KGS (approximately 1 euro). at the Racek cottage at an altitude of 3,400 m above sea level it takes 3–4 hours. The route itself is not physically or orientationally demanding and, in addition, it is possible to replenish drinking water supplies during the entire route. Cottage Racek provides accommodation in a cottage, which costs about 500 KGS, the second option is to stay in your own tent for which you pay about 200 KGS. It is possible to buy food and gas bombs in the cottage and there is a spring near the cottage.

The valley through which it ascends and descends from the Racek cottage. Orientation in the terrain is easy, during the whole trip there is a beautiful view of the untouched surrounding nature

The ascent to Pik Uchitel begins in the early morning, approximately at 4:00. The most challenging part is the beginning of the ascent, when behind the second hut at a large boulder it is necessary to turn sharply to the left and start a steep climb, then the orientation in the terrain is easy. The whole way to the top is along the rubble, which is released from under the feet and very often you take 2 steps up and slide 3 steps back. The ascent itself is also problem-free, under the peak there is a short section, which is covered with a continuous layer of snow all year round, as well as the top, which you can reach after about 4–6 hours. The descent down is much faster and takes about 2–3 hours. It is necessary to have a sufficient supply of water at the ascent, because it is not possible to replenish water during the journey.

During the whole ascent there is a view not only of the surrounding peaks but also of the glacier, which is located behind the hut Racek, and if you have more free time, it is possible to make a one-day hike to this glacier.

At a leisurely pace, you descend from the Racek hut to the Ala Archa hotel, in about 2–3 hours. You can get from the hotel either by ordering a taxi there, the second option is to walk another 12 km on the asphalt road to the entrance to the national park, where you can find a much cheaper transport option such as marshes or you can hitchhike to Bishkek.

Evening view of the surrounding peaks from the cottage Racek